Rooflights are a simple way to add sunlight to rooms that otherwise get little to no natural light. But more than that, they offer opportunities for additional flow of fresh air, and through double and triple glazing, they provide insulation to keep the cold air out, or in, as the season requires. In key areas such as kitchens and stairwells, flat roof skylights can also provide emergency ventilation of smoke to help clear the air for the fire brigade to access the area.

The simplest of these are plateau skylights. These low profile rooflights can be the most cost effective, and they can be the most secure. They also help maintain the original outline of the building. An additional possibility with plateau skylights is the option to have walk-on skylights. These allow for a rooftop deckspace to entertain guests or to simply enjoy the fresh air, while still allowing for the infusion of natural light to the rooms below it.

For the possibility of additional transmission of light, pyramid and lantern flat roof skylights can also add a bit of visual interest to the rooftop. Pyramid sklights are square or rectangular in shape with four triangular window panels that meet at one point. Lantern skylights are rectangular with triangular panels on the short ends and trapezoidal panels on the side. The longer, trapezoidal panels also allow for the installation of an additional vent for the flow of fresh air into the room.

One thing to consider before making your final decision on skylights is that these products are usually made to order and can not be returned. Your location in relation to the coast may also affect the kind of skylights that are appropriate for your building. Always discuss all necessary details with the vendor. Additionally, the security requirements of your property may limit your options to plateau skylights.

You may also want to consider the added expense of electronic versus manual openings for your skylights, if your room needs the additional venting for fresh air. Electronic openings may come with a remote control for serious convenience, but the added expense may not be worth that convenience.

Finally, a lot of us consider ourselves do-it-yourselfers who like the satisfaction of having completed a difficult job around the home. However, even though your flat roof skylight will come with complete instructions for installation, it is probably a good idea to weigh your skills against the value of bragging rights to have completed such a complex task. Familiarity with the axiom of ‘measure twice, cut once’ may not be enough to save your project—along with your roof and your wallet. If you want to install skylights in your home, it’s a good idea to hire a professional installer or at least work along with one. The value of adding the skylight to your home, along with the inherent value of showing it off to your guests, can only be hurt by the ego of the too intrepid craftsman who has greater ambition than skill.