How we approach roof lanterns in Clifton
We handle roof lanterns across Bristol, including Clifton. In short: hipped glass lanterns that lift the ceiling of orangeries and extensions. The survey checks structure, weathering and orientation, so the quote reflects your actual roof.
Barn and chapel conversions in the South West often need bespoke or shaped rooflights to suit the original structure. Typical uses for roof lanterns include orangeries, kitchen-diners and single-storey extensions.
From Clifton to Redland, Bristol and Westbury-on-Trym, the same survey-first process applies: measure, specify, fix the price, then fit.
Options we can specify in Clifton
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Opening vents with electric control
- Internal and external colours
- LED lighting in the plaster box
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- Adds visual height to a single-storey room
- Light from every angle across the day
What to check first
- Larger lanterns may need a steel or timber ring beam
- Some designs project above the roof enough to affect planning on certain houses
Planning and building rules for Clifton
In England a rooflight on a house is usually permitted development under Class C if it projects no more than 150 mm beyond the roof slope and sits no higher than the ridge. A rooflight on a side-facing slope must be obscure-glazed, and fixed shut unless the opening part is more than 1.7 m above the floor.
Under Approved Document L, a rooflight added to an English home must achieve at least 2.2 W/m²K (horizontal plane), and a roof window 1.4 W/m²K or Window Energy Rating Band B. In an extension, glazing including rooflights is normally limited to 25% of the new floor area plus any windows or doors the extension covers, unless a whole-house calculation shows otherwise.
Read the planning permission guide before you commit to a design.
What do roof lanterns cost in Clifton?
Prices below are shown including and excluding VAT. In Clifton, as elsewhere, making good inside and access equipment are the main variables.
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large or bespoke aluminium lantern | £5,995 – £10,795 | £4,995 – £8,995 |
| Mid-size aluminium lantern (2 × 3 m) Typical | £3,955 – £5,995 | £3,295 – £4,995 |
| Small lantern (1 × 2 m) | £2,995 – £3,955 | £2,495 – £3,295 |
The process, step by step
- Send the details. Postcode, rough size and a photo of the roof and room.
- Free site visit. For new installs we survey free, measure and confirm the roof detail.
- Written price. You receive a fixed price listing the unit, the work and the lead time.
- Fitting and handover. We install, clean down and leave product and warranty documents.
Neighbouring towns
Other services in Clifton
Questions about roof lanterns in Clifton
Can a lantern go on an existing extension?
Yes, if the flat roof structure can be opened up and trimmed. We check joists and the roof build-up at survey.
Do roof lanterns get hot?
They can in summer if clear glass is used on a south-facing roof. Solar-control glass and an opening vent make a big difference.
Aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium gives slimmer bars and a longer life; uPVC costs less. We fit both.
Do I need to be at home for the survey in Clifton?
Yes — someone needs to let us into the room below and, where possible, show us how the roof is reached.
How do I book a survey in Clifton?
Send your postcode and, if you can, a photo of the roof and the room. We offer a survey date when we reply.
