What are ridge & pitched glass roofs?
A ridge rooflight is a dual-pitched glazed roof — two slopes meeting at a ridge — running along the length of a side return, link or extension. Unlike a lantern it does not sit on a separate kerb box; it often forms the roof itself.
Side-return extensions on terraced houses are the classic use: the glass roof keeps the light that the side passage used to give the back rooms.
Ridge glazing is made to measure. Wall abutments, gutters and the junction with the existing house are where the design work goes.
- Typical spans
- Up to about 4 m wide, length to suit
- Pitch
- Typically 15–25° depending on system
- Glazing
- Double or triple, solar-control options
- Frame
- Aluminium glazing bars
- Fitting time
- 2–4 days
- Typical lead time
- 4–6 weeks from order
Why choose ridge & pitched glass roofs?
- Maximum daylight for side returns
- Forms the roof as well as the window
- Slim aluminium glazing bars
- Solar-control glass for south-facing slopes
- Opening vents available
- Works with exposed brick and period detail
What options are there?
- Dual-pitch or mono-pitch
- Aluminium systems in standard and RAL colours
- Solar-control, self-cleaning or tinted glass
- Opening vents and electric actuators
- Integrated gutters and box gutters
- Fixed or retractable shading
What should you check before you order?
- Junctions with existing walls need lead or flashing detail
- Party-wall agreements may apply on terraced houses
- Overheating is a real risk on south-facing glass roofs
- Large glass roofs affect the energy calculation for the extension
Planning and building-regulation rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Our planning guide and building regulations guide set out each nation's position.
How much do ridge & pitched glass roofs cost?
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Long run with vents and solar glass | £9,595 – £15,595 | £7,995 – £12,995 |
| Typical side return (about 2 × 5 m) Typical | £5,995 – £9,595 | £4,995 – £7,995 |
| Short ridge rooflight | £4,795 – £5,995 | £3,995 – £4,995 |
Guide prices per roof, supplied and fitted (typical side return). Your fixed price follows a free survey for new installations.
Ridge & pitched glass roofs: common questions
Is a glass roof too hot for a kitchen?
Without care, it can be. Solar-control glass, an opening vent at the top and a blind make a south-facing glass roof comfortable.
Do I need a party wall agreement?
If the work affects a party wall or boundary, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 may apply in England and Wales. We flag this at survey so you can serve notice in time.
How long does a ridge roof take to fit?
Typically two to four days once the walls and supports are ready, depending on length and access.
Can it have opening vents?
Yes, top-hung vents with electric actuators are common, often with a rain sensor.
Will it be noisy in the rain?
Glass is quieter than polycarbonate. Triple glazing or laminated glass reduces rain noise further.
Can it be partly solid?
Yes — part-glazed, part-insulated roofs balance light and heat.
