What are sliding rooflights?
A sliding rooflight is a glazed box or flat lid that slides horizontally on rails, opening a clear hole in the roof for walk-out access from a staircase below. Box versions add glazed sides so you can step up and out without a hatch overhead.
Where a staircase rises to a roof terrace, a sliding unit gives full headroom and a clear opening that a hinged hatch cannot. Closed, it reads as a large rooflight from inside.
These are heavy, motorised units. Survey, structure, the stair head and the electrics are all agreed before the order is placed.
- Typical openings
- About 900 × 1500 mm to 1200 × 3000 mm
- Operation
- Electric slide on rails
- Glazing
- Double or triple, laminated
- Access
- Walk-out from a stair below
- Fitting time
- 2–3 days plus electrics
- Typical lead time
- 6–10 weeks from order
Why choose sliding rooflights?
- Full-width, walk-out access to a roof terrace
- Daylight down the stair when closed
- Electric operation with safety stops
- Glazed box sides keep the headroom open
- Lockable from inside
- Replaces a dormer or stair enclosure on some roofs
What options are there?
- Box (glazed sides) or flat sliding lid
- Electric drive with safety edge
- Rain sensor
- Double or triple glazing
- Anthracite, black or RAL frames
- Integrated balustrade on some ranges
What should you check before you order?
- Needs space on the roof for the lid to slide clear
- The stair opening and headroom must meet Building Regulations
- Weight and point loads need a structural check
- Electric units need a dedicated supply and commissioning
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 sliding rooflights cost?
| Option | Guide price inc VAT | Ex VAT |
|---|---|---|
| Large box slider with electric drive | £11,995 – £20,395 | £9,995 – £16,995 |
| Standard box slider Typical | £8,995 – £13,195 | £7,495 – £10,995 |
| Flat sliding lid | £7,195 – £9,595 | £5,995 – £7,995 |
Guide prices per unit, supplied and fitted. Your fixed price follows a free survey for new installations.
Sliding rooflights: common questions
Is a sliding rooflight better than an access hatch?
For daily use, usually yes — you walk out under open sky instead of climbing through a hinged hatch. A hatch costs less and suits occasional access.
Does it need planning permission?
A box unit that projects above the roof plane can need planning permission, especially on the front of a house or in a conservation area. We check before you order.
What if it is raining?
Fitted with a rain sensor, an electric unit closes automatically. Most also have a manual override for power cuts.
How heavy is it?
Box sliders weigh hundreds of kilograms, so delivery may need a crane or lifting gear, and the structure must be checked.
Can children open it?
Controls can be key-switched or placed out of reach. We will set the controls up to suit the household.
Is it lockable?
Yes. Units lock from inside and the drive holds the lid closed.
