During a loft conversion, installing a roof window is a great way to add some natural light to a dark and dingey room. Natural light opens up the room and adds more usable space to your property.
While it can seem costly to install a roof window, simply having a roof window can increase the value of your property when it comes to selling.
In this guide we will break down how to choose the right window for your project, the costs involved with installing your roof window and any additional information you need to install a roof window.
The main installation cost is the price of the window itself. So, before you get a quote for your installation, it’s important you understand what type of window you need, how big you want it and what brand is best for your needs.
First, you should consider what type of window suits your project and preferences. Take a look at our guide to roof windows to make sure you understand what your options are and their benefits.
Typical roof windows, such as top hung and centre pivot, cost around £250 however can range from £80 to over £1000, depending on size, glazing options and frame materials. You can also pay extra for additional features like electric windows.
Skylights are a cheaper option costing between £70 and £130. However, skylights are not recommended for habited spaces, such as bedrooms, due to their low thermal performance.
Sun Tunnels are used to transport light via a reflective tube from your roof to a room below. This option tends to cost £250-£300 but can save you money down the line in your electricity bill.
For those with complex needs, combination windows integrate two styles of window to suit any shape or size of roof. However, due to their complexity, combination windows cost upwards of £350.
The final type of roof window are balcony windows. Due to their impressive looks, unique style and large size, this option will cost around £1600 for the window alone. They also generally take longer to install, meaning higher labour costs.
While the type of roof window you want can greatly affect the price of your installation, it’s also important to consider the brand. With so many on the market it can be difficult to know which is best for your needs.
Velux is a well-known roof window brand, while they are not the cheapest on the market, they are definitely not the most expensive. Velux windows are well known for their extensive range and high quality.
At a similar price point to Velux are Dakea roof windows. Made with titan glass, these high-quality windows have excellent thermal performance, saving you money on your energy bill.
Another great option for those looking at mid-range roof windows is Liteleader. Available in PVC, painted or pine finish frames, they are lightweight and durable for easy operation.
For those on a tighter budget, Aurora are cheaper than alternative brands and they pride themselves on their environmentally friendly, long-lasting roof windows, suitable for sloped roofs.
Finally, if you prefer a sleeker look, Luxlite have a revolutionary design that removes a chunky internal frame for a modern finish. While these are more costly, they have a unique design and the highest energy performance on the market.
A great way to reduce your installation costs is to do the project yourself. If you feel confident installing a roof window on your own, we have a helpful series of “How To” guides you can use to make sure you’re on the right track.
However, if you are not used to DIY, you may not have the right skills and tools to correctly install your roof window. It’s important to choose a trusted contractor and shop around to ensure you are getting the best deal without sacrificing quality.
The cost of hiring a contractor can vary depending on the size and complexity of your roof window installation. To install a regular sized top hung or centre pivot roof window, it will typically cost between £150 and £300. Larger, more complex windows that take longer to install will have higher labour costs.
Another factor to consider when installing your roof window is whether you need planning permission. While most roof window installations don’t need planning permission, but there are restrictions that require planning permission, adding extra costs to your installation. Find out more about roof window planning permission here.
If you have any questions about the cost of installing a roof window or need help deciding on the right window for you, get in touch with our friendly team today.