How we approach roof lanterns in Bow
We handle roof lanterns across Greater London, including Bow. 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.
Party walls are a fact of life in London terraces, and rooflights close to a shared wall need detailing that keeps the neighbour's side dry too. Typical uses for roof lanterns include rooms that need height as well as light.
Jobs in Bow 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.
What you can choose
- Solar-control or self-cleaning glass
- Rectangular, square or bespoke sizes
- LED lighting in the plaster box
- Internal and external colours
- Aluminium or uPVC systems
- Classic look that suits period and modern homes
- Can include opening vents
Things we check at survey
- Larger lanterns may need a steel or timber ring beam
- Needs a strong, level kerb or upstand
Consents for roof lanterns in Bow
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.
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.
Read the planning permission guide before you commit to a design.
Roof lanterns prices in Bow
Prices below are shown including and excluding VAT. In Bow, 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 |
How the job runs
- 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.
- Fit and make good. We fit, seal, test and finish the reveal, then hand over the paperwork.
Nearby towns
Other services in Bow
Roof lanterns in Bow: questions
Aluminium or uPVC?
Aluminium gives slimmer bars and a longer life; uPVC costs less. We fit both.
Do they leak?
Modern lanterns are sealed systems. Leaks usually trace back to the kerb or roof membrane detail, which we form and check ourselves.
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.
Is the survey in Bow free?
Yes for new installations. Repair visits are charged, and we tell you the price before we book.
How do I book a survey in Bow?
Send your postcode and, if you can, a photo of the roof and the room. We offer a survey date when we reply.
