What are pitched roof windows?
A roof window is a skylight made for a pitched roof: it sits in the plane of the tiles or slates, with a flashing kit that weathers it into the roof covering, and it usually opens — centre-pivot for easy cleaning, or top-hung for a wider view.
Roof windows are the quickest way to bring light into a loft, a vaulted ceiling or a top-floor landing. Most can be fitted from inside the roof with only a few rows of tiles lifted.
We fit roof windows from the major manufacturers into existing roofs, new roofs and loft conversions, with the right flashing for your tile or slate profile.
- Typical sizes
- Around 550 × 780 mm to 1340 × 1600 mm
- Opening
- Centre-pivot or top-hung
- Roof pitch
- Generally about 15–90° (check the manufacturer)
- Glazing
- Double or triple, laminated inner options
- Fitting time
- Usually one day per window
- Typical lead time
- 1–3 weeks from order
Why choose pitched roof windows?
- Daylight and ventilation in a pitched roof
- Fits between rafters in most roofs
- Centre-pivot opening for easy cleaning from inside
- Flashings to suit tiles or slates
- Blinds and electric opening available
- Usually fitted in a day
What options are there?
- Centre-pivot or top-hung
- Manual, electric or solar-powered opening
- Flashings for tiles, slates or recessed fitting
- Double or triple glazing
- Integral blinds and shutters
- Combination and stacked windows
What should you check before you order?
- Rafters may need trimming for wider windows
- Insulation collars and vapour control must be detailed
- Front-facing roof windows can need permission in conservation areas
- Escape-window rules can apply to loft rooms
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 pitched roof windows cost?
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large top-hung or electric window | £2,155 – £3,355 | £1,795 – £2,795 |
| Standard centre-pivot window Typical | £1,435 – £2,155 | £1,195 – £1,795 |
| Small roof window | £1,075 – £1,555 | £895 – £1,295 |
Guide prices per window, supplied and fitted into an existing roof, excluding internal lining and scaffold. Your fixed price follows a free survey for new installations.
Pitched roof windows: common questions
Can a roof window be fitted from inside?
In most cases, yes — only the tiles around the opening are lifted, and much of the work is done from inside the loft.
Do I need planning permission for a roof window?
Often not, under householder permitted development, provided it does not project too far above the roof plane and conditions are met. Listed buildings, flats and some conservation areas are different. Our planning guide covers each nation.
Centre-pivot or top-hung?
Centre-pivot windows are easy to clean and suit most rooms. Top-hung windows open out from the top for an unobstructed view and suit lower roof pitches near eye level.
Can roof windows be electric?
Yes — electric and solar-powered models open by remote and many include rain sensors.
Will it need building regulations approval?
Fitting a new roof window usually involves cutting rafters and changing the thermal envelope, so building control approval (or, in England and Wales, a competent-person route) is normally needed. We tell you which applies.
Can you replace an old roof window?
Yes — replacement into the same opening is usually quicker than a new install, often a few hours per window.
