How we approach roof lanterns in Christchurch
For Christchurch homes and buildings we offer roof lanterns: hipped glass lanterns that lift the ceiling of orangeries and extensions. We measure first, specify to the opening and confirm any planning or building-control points before quoting.
Western coasts take wind-driven rain, so we pay close attention to upstand height and flashing laps on exposed roofs. Typical uses for roof lanterns include rooms that need height as well as light.
Jobs in Christchurch are planned around access: whether the roof can be reached from the garden, whether a hoist or crane is needed, and where we can park. We check this when we measure.
Options we can specify in Christchurch
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Opening vents with electric control
- Solar-control or self-cleaning glass
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- Internal and external colours
- Adds visual height to a single-storey room
- Double or triple glazed with solar-control options
Before you order: points to check
- Larger lanterns may need a steel or timber ring beam
- Some designs project above the roof enough to affect planning on certain houses
Consents for roof lanterns in Christchurch
English householder permitted development (Class C) normally covers rooflights that stand no more than 0.15 m proud of the roof plane and stay below the highest part of the roof. Listed buildings need listed building consent, flats have no householder permitted development rights, and an Article 4 direction can remove the rights in some conservation areas.
For English homes the energy rules ask for rooflights of 2.2 W/m²K or better and roof windows of 1.4 W/m²K (or WER Band B); most modern double glazed units meet both. Replacing a rooflight or roof window can be self-certified by an installer registered with an authorised competent person scheme; otherwise building control approval is needed.
See our building regulations guide for U-values, glazing limits and self-certification.
What do roof lanterns cost in Christchurch?
Prices below are shown including and excluding VAT. In Christchurch, 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 |
What happens next
- 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.
- Agree the quote. You approve the specification and price before anything is ordered.
- Fit and make good. We fit, seal, test and finish the reveal, then hand over the paperwork.
Neighbouring towns
Related work in Christchurch
Roof lanterns in Christchurch: questions
Aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium gives slimmer bars and a longer life; uPVC costs less. We fit both.
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.
Roof lantern or flat rooflight?
A lantern adds height and sky from all sides; a flat rooflight is lower-profile and cleaner from outside. Our guide compares them in detail.
Can you work alongside my builder in Christchurch?
Yes. On new extensions we fit once the opening and upstand are ready and coordinate dates with your builder.
Do you fit roof lanterns in Christchurch?
Yes. We survey and fit roof lanterns in Christchurch and across Dorset. Send your postcode and we will offer a survey date when we reply.
