Advice on things to consider when choosing your conservation rooflight.
Choosing the best rooflights for your home. Get expert advice on materials, glazing options, and authentic conservation designs.
What is a Conservation Rooflight?
You need conservation rooflights for your project. But what exactly are they?
Conservation rooflights have historical significance and are sought after for both period and modern properties. Rooflights have been crucial in transforming spaces by introducing natural light, especially during the Victorian era, exemplified by the Crystal Palace.
Victorian rooflights were slim, single-glazed, and flush with the roof, made from cast iron. Today, authentic conservation rooflights maintain this minimalist design using steel for strength and a low profile. They often include real wood linings for a warm, neat appearance.
Materials and Glazing
Authentic conservation rooflights feature slim, clean lines. Steel provides strength and a slim profile. Stella rooflights use marine-grade 316 stainless steel for durability. Internally, they use real wood linings like American ash.
Double glazing is preferred today for thermal efficiency, with options like self-clean and solar control elements. Triple glazing, though offering better thermal performance, often compromises appearance due to increased thickness.
Glazing Bars and Design
Conservation rooflights often require glazing bars for a Victorian look. Genuine glazing bars add strength and divide the glazing, unlike modern replicas that use glued-on bars which can attract dirt and mould.
Top-hung profiles offer an authentic Victorian appearance and maximize space below. Smaller top-hung rooflights use brass ironmongery, while center pivot designs often use modern plastic handles.
Suitability and Selection
Not all conservation rooflights are suitable for all projects. Listed buildings and conservation areas have stricter criteria. Few companies design and manufacture genuine conservation rooflights in the UK. Beware of products with stuck-on glazing bars.
Additional Considerations
To reduce energy consumption, rooflights should maximise natural light. Check the finished viewable area, as bulky frames reduce light. Stella focuses on quality and attention to detail, using the finest materials, including marine-grade stainless steel, marine-grade paint, and real wood finishes.
Choosing the right conservation rooflight involves careful consideration. Stella offers high-quality, authentic conservation rooflights designed to enhance any project.
