Conservation rooflights have become increasingly popular in recent years, as they offer a way to bring natural light into buildings while maintaining their historic character. However, when it comes to installing conservation rooflights in historic buildings, there are specific building regulations that must be considered. In this article, learn about UK building regulations for rooflights in historic buildings, while preserving architectural integrity.
Conservation Roof lights and Planning Permission
The first thing to consider when installing conservation rooflights in a historic building is whether or not you need planning permission. In some cases, planning permission may not be required if the rooflights are not visible from the street and do not alter the external appearance of the building. However, it is always best to check with your local planning authority before proceeding with any installation work.
Conservation rooflights and UK Building Regulations
Once you have established whether or not you need planning permission, the next step is to ensure that the rooflights meet the requirements of UK building regulations. The regulations that are relevant to rooflights include Part B (Fire Safety), Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), and Part K (Protection from Falling, Collision and Impact).
Part B (Fire Safety) requires that rooflights be designed and installed in such a way as to prevent the spread of fire. This means that they must be constructed from materials that are fire-resistant, and that they must be installed in such a way as to maintain the integrity of the roof. If the building is listed, then it is important to consult with the local conservation officer to ensure that any proposed works are sympathetic to the building’s historic fabric.
Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power) requires that rooflights meet certain thermal performance standards. This means that they must be designed to prevent heat loss and to reduce the need for artificial lighting during the day. If the building is listed, it may be necessary to use specialist conservation rooflights which are designed to replicate the historic appearance of the original rooflights.
Part K (Protection from Falling, Collision and Impact) requires that rooflights be designed and installed in such a way as to prevent people from falling through them or being injured by them. This means that they must be strong enough to withstand the weight of a person, and that they must be designed to prevent people from slipping or tripping on them.
Conservation Roof Windows and Conservation Officers
It is also important to consider the impact that the installation of conservation rooflights may have on the building’s historic fabric. If the building is listed, then it is important to consult with the local conservation officer to ensure that any proposed works are sympathetic to the building’s historic fabric. This may involve using specialist conservation rooflights which are designed to replicate the historic appearance of the original rooflights.
Conclusion
If you are considering installing conservation rooflights in a historic building, it is important to ensure that you comply with UK building regulations. This will involve considering the requirements of Part B (Fire Safety), Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), and Part K (Protection from Falling, Collision and Impact). If the building is listed, then it is important to consult with the local conservation officer to ensure that any proposed works are sympathetic to the building’s historic fabric. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your conservation rooflights are installed in a way that is safe, energy-efficient, and sympathetic to the historic character of the building.
A Stella Rooflight will more often than not satisfy the Conservation Officer and exceeds the requirements for the latest UK Building Regulations. As all Stella conservation rooflights are bespoke made, we can offer flexibility in the design to encompass any specific requirement that you might need, such as a specific size or shape rooflight, a fixed or opening rooflight design, genuine conservation rooflight glazing bars, and a wide choice of high specification rooflight glazing.
