How Much Are Roof Lanterns? UK Prices & Installation Costs Explained
If you’re planning a kitchen extension, renovating an orangery or looking to bring more natural light into your home, you’ve probably found yourself asking one important question:
How much does a roof lantern actually cost?
It’s a perfectly reasonable question. After all, a roof lantern isn’t something most homeowners buy regularly, and understanding the costs before committing to a project makes good financial sense.
The good news is that roof lanterns are available at a range of price points, with options to suit different properties, designs and budgets.
At GFD Homes, we offer roof lanterns from established manufacturers including Korniche and Atlas, allowing homeowners to compare styles, sizes and glazing options before choosing the right product.
In this guide, we’ll explain what roof lanterns cost in the UK, what affects the price, how installation changes your budget and what you should consider before requesting a quote.
How Much Does a Roof Lantern Cost in the UK?
The price of a roof lantern depends on its size, manufacturer, frame material, glazing specification and design.
For example, GFD Homes has advertised the following supply-only product prices:
| Roof lantern | Example size | Advertised product price |
|---|---|---|
| Korniche aluminium roof lantern | 1000mm × 1000mm | From £896 |
| Atlas contemporary aluminium roof lantern | 1000mm × 1500mm | £936 |
| Atlas contemporary aluminium roof lantern | 1000mm × 2000mm | £1,051 |
| Atlas contemporary aluminium roof lantern | 1500mm × 1750mm | £1,157 |
Prices are examples from GFD Homes product listings, including VAT. They may change and exclude delivery and installation. Check the live product configurator for current prices and availability.
These examples demonstrate why it’s difficult to give one universal answer to the question of roof lantern cost.
Two roof lanterns might look similar in photographs but differ in size, glazing, frame design and specification.
That’s why comparing products on price alone doesn’t always tell the full story.
Want to see how much your preferred design costs? Explore our Korniche aluminium roof lanterns or Atlas contemporary roof lanterns and compare the available options.
What Affects the Price of a Roof Lantern?
Several factors determine how much you’ll pay.
Understanding them can help you decide where to spend your budget and where you might be able to make savings.
1. Roof Lantern Size
Generally, larger roof lanterns cost more than smaller versions of the same product.
That’s because they require more glazing and framing materials, and larger structures may involve additional manufacturing and handling requirements.
For example, a compact roof lantern above a kitchen island will usually cost less than a large rectangular lantern spanning much of an extension.
However, size isn’t simply about choosing the biggest product you can afford.
The ideal roof lantern should suit the proportions of your room, provide useful daylight and work with the available roof structure.
An oversized lantern isn’t necessarily better.
Before ordering, it’s worth discussing the dimensions with your builder or installer to ensure the proposed opening and upstand are suitable.
For more advice, read our guide to choosing roof lantern sizes.
2. Frame Material
Roof lanterns are available in different frame materials, with aluminium and uPVC among the options homeowners may encounter.
Aluminium is particularly popular for contemporary extensions.
Its strength allows manufacturers to create relatively slim profiles, helping maximise the glazed area while maintaining the necessary structural performance.
Modern aluminium systems can also incorporate thermal breaks to help reduce heat transfer.
uPVC systems may offer a lower-cost alternative in some circumstances, although the appearance, dimensions and available configurations will differ between manufacturers.
When comparing prices, consider the complete system rather than the frame material alone.
A cheaper product isn’t necessarily better value if it doesn’t deliver the appearance or performance you’re looking for.
3. Roof Lantern Design
The shape and design of your roof lantern can also influence the price.
Common options include rectangular, square, pyramid and traditional-style lanterns.
Some designs use additional framing components or more complex glazing arrangements.
Others prioritise clean lines and a minimalist appearance.
The design you choose should complement your home.
For example, a contemporary aluminium lantern can look particularly attractive in a modern kitchen extension, while a more traditional design may suit an orangery or period-style property.
If you’re still exploring the options, our complete guide to the different types of roof lanterns explains the advantages of each design.
4. Glazing Specification
Glazing is one of the most important considerations when buying a roof lantern.
It affects thermal performance, solar gain, appearance and comfort.
Depending on the manufacturer and system, you may be able to choose between different glazing specifications.
These can include solar-control glass, specialist coatings and other performance options.
For example, solar-control glazing can help reduce the amount of solar energy entering a room.
This may be particularly useful in a south-facing extension where overheating is a concern.
Self-cleaning glass coatings are another option offered on some systems.
These can help reduce the accumulation of dirt, although they don’t eliminate the need for occasional cleaning.
Before choosing an upgrade, think about how the room will be used.
A large glazed extension that receives strong afternoon sunshine may have different requirements from a smaller, shaded kitchen.
The cheapest glazing option won’t necessarily deliver the best long-term value.
5. Colour and Finish
Roof lantern frames are available in a variety of colours.
Popular choices include white, grey and black, although the exact options depend on the manufacturer.
A dark aluminium frame can create a striking contrast against a light ceiling, while white may provide a softer appearance.
Some systems offer different internal and external finishes.
Colour choices don’t always affect the price, but specialist finishes or non-standard options may carry additional charges.
If you’re coordinating your roof lantern with bifold doors, sliding doors or windows, it’s worth checking the available finishes before ordering.
6. Manufacturer and Product Range
Not all roof lanterns are built to the same specification.
Different manufacturers use different framing systems, glazing arrangements and construction methods.
At GFD Homes, our roof lantern offering includes Korniche and Atlas.
Both provide options for homeowners looking to introduce natural light into their properties.
When comparing their prices, look beyond the brand name.
Check the actual dimensions, frame appearance, glazing specification, colour options and installation requirements.
The best product for your home is the one that meets your needs at a price you’re comfortable paying.
How Much Does It Cost to Install a Roof Lantern?
The cost of installing a roof lantern is separate from the purchase price unless your quotation explicitly includes installation.
This distinction is important because the work required can vary considerably between properties.
For example, installing a roof lantern in a newly constructed extension may be more straightforward than altering an existing roof.
A new extension can be designed around the selected lantern from the outset.
By contrast, adding a lantern to an existing roof may require structural alterations, changes to the roof covering and additional making-good work.
What Can Be Included in Installation Costs?
Depending on the project, installation costs may include:
- Preparing or creating the roof opening.
- Structural alterations or additional support.
- Constructing the supporting upstand.
- Installing the roof lantern.
- Weatherproofing the connection between the lantern and roof.
- Internal finishing and making good.
- Access equipment where required.
- Removing and disposing of existing materials.
Not every installation will require all these elements.
A builder constructing a new extension may already have included some of the work within the wider project quotation.
This is why we recommend obtaining an itemised installation quote rather than relying on a generic national average.
Important: A supply-only roof lantern price should never be treated as the total cost of the completed project.
Roof Lantern Installation: New Extension vs Existing Roof
Where you’re installing the lantern can make a substantial difference to the overall budget.
Installing a Roof Lantern in a New Extension
If you’re planning a new kitchen or dining extension, you have an opportunity to incorporate the roof lantern into the design from the beginning.
Your architect, designer or builder can account for the required opening, structural support and upstand.
This can make planning and coordination easier.
It also gives you time to consider the lantern’s position.
For example, placing it above a kitchen island may create an attractive focal point, while positioning it centrally over a dining area can help distribute daylight across the room.
Installing a Roof Lantern in an Existing Flat Roof
Retrofitting a roof lantern into an existing roof may involve more work.
Before installation, a suitably qualified professional should assess whether the roof can accommodate the proposed opening and lantern.
Structural alterations may be required.
The condition and construction of the existing roof covering will also influence the work involved.
For these reasons, it’s particularly important to establish installation costs before ordering your roof lantern.
Is a Korniche Roof Lantern More Expensive Than Atlas?
Not necessarily.
The price depends on which products and specifications you’re comparing.
For example, a small Korniche lantern may cost less than a larger Atlas lantern, while the opposite may be true for other configurations.
The fairest comparison uses equivalent dimensions and considers the full specification.
At GFD Homes, you can explore both ranges:
Korniche aluminium roof lanterns
Atlas contemporary aluminium roof lanterns
When comparing your options, consider:
- Available dimensions.
- Frame design and visible sightlines.
- Glazing specifications.
- Colour options.
- Installation requirements.
- Manufacturer warranties.
- Final product price.
A small difference in price may be worthwhile if one product better suits your home’s appearance or performance requirements.
Are Roof Lanterns Worth the Money?
For many homeowners, the appeal of a roof lantern goes beyond its appearance.
A well-positioned lantern can introduce daylight into parts of a room that conventional windows struggle to reach.
This is particularly useful in extensions where the original external wall has been removed or where the room extends some distance from the garden-facing glazing.
Roof lanterns can also create a greater sense of height and openness.
A relatively ordinary flat-roof extension can become a more distinctive living space.
However, whether the investment is worthwhile depends on your priorities.
If your main objective is simply to introduce daylight at the lowest possible cost, a flat rooflight may also deserve consideration.
If you want a prominent architectural feature, a roof lantern could be the more appealing option.
Do Roof Lanterns Add Value to Your Home?
A thoughtfully designed roof lantern may make a property more attractive to prospective buyers.
Bright, welcoming kitchens and living spaces can be desirable features.
However, it’s impossible to guarantee that a roof lantern will increase your property’s value by a particular percentage.
The effect depends on the wider property, the quality of the installation, local market conditions and buyer preferences.
We recommend choosing a roof lantern primarily because it improves your home and how you use it, rather than relying on a promised financial return.
Can You Save Money When Buying a Roof Lantern?
There are several sensible ways to manage your budget without automatically choosing the cheapest product.
Choose the Right Size
Bigger isn’t always better.
A carefully positioned roof lantern can provide an excellent amount of daylight without covering an unnecessarily large roof area.
Compare Equivalent Specifications
Make sure you’re comparing like with like.
Two products with different dimensions, glazing or frame designs aren’t directly comparable simply because they’re both described as aluminium roof lanterns.
Plan the Installation Early
If you’re building an extension, select the intended roof lantern before the roof structure is finalised.
This can help avoid unnecessary changes later.
Consider Long-Term Performance
An upgrade that improves comfort may be worthwhile, particularly where solar gain or thermal performance is a concern.
Obtain Accurate Product Prices
Rather than relying on broad estimates, use the GFD Homes product configurator to explore the options available for your project.
This will give you a more meaningful starting point for your budget.
What Should You Check Before Ordering?
Before placing an order, make sure you’ve considered the following.
Measurements: Confirm the dimensions required by the manufacturer and whether they refer to the roof opening, upstand or another measurement.
Structural suitability: Ensure the roof and supporting structure are appropriate for the proposed installation.
Glazing: Choose a specification that suits the room’s orientation and intended use.
Colour: Check that the frame finish complements your property.
Delivery: Confirm the delivery charge, access requirements and expected lead time.
Installation: Establish who will install the lantern and what work is included.
Planning and Building Regulations: Check whether permissions or approvals are required for your particular project.
Warranty: Understand the applicable product warranty and any installation-related guarantees.
Taking time to confirm these details can help prevent costly misunderstandings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roof Lantern Costs
How much is a small roof lantern?
Small roof lanterns can be more affordable than larger designs, but the price depends on the manufacturer and specification. For example, GFD Homes has advertised a 1000mm × 1000mm Korniche aluminium roof lantern from £896 including VAT, excluding delivery and installation.
How much does a 2-metre roof lantern cost?
The price depends on the full dimensions and selected product. As one example, GFD Homes has advertised an Atlas contemporary aluminium roof lantern measuring 1000mm × 2000mm for £1,051 including VAT, excluding delivery and installation. Check the live configurator for current pricing.
Are aluminium roof lanterns expensive?
Aluminium roof lanterns are available across a range of price points. Although some systems cost more than alternatives, their appearance, durability and available specifications may make them attractive to homeowners.
Do roof lanterns cost more than rooflights?
Not always. Prices vary according to size, design, glazing and manufacturer. A large, highly specified flat rooflight may cost more than a smaller roof lantern, so compare equivalent products.
Does the price include installation?
Not necessarily. Many advertised roof lantern prices are supply-only. Always check whether delivery, installation and any building work are included.
Do roof lanterns increase heating bills?
Adding roof glazing can affect heat loss and solar gain, but the actual impact depends on the glazing specification, size, orientation and wider building. A roof lantern should be assessed as part of the room’s overall thermal design.
Do you need planning permission for a roof lantern?
Some installations may fall within permitted development rights, but this depends on the property and project. Building Regulations may also apply. Check the relevant requirements before proceeding.
Can you install a roof lantern yourself?
Roof lantern installation involves structural, glazing and weatherproofing considerations. Professional installation is generally advisable, particularly where the roof opening or supporting structure needs altering.
How long do roof lanterns last?
Longevity depends on the product, installation, exposure and maintenance. Check the manufacturer’s warranty and care instructions rather than assuming every roof lantern has the same lifespan.
Get an Accurate Roof Lantern Price from GFD Homes
A roof lantern can be a fantastic addition to your home, introducing natural daylight and creating a beautiful feature in a kitchen, extension or living space.
But the right choice isn’t simply about finding the lowest advertised price.
It’s about choosing the right size, design and specification for your property.
At GFD Homes, we make it easier to explore your options and compare products from established manufacturers.
Whether you’re considering a contemporary Atlas design or a Korniche aluminium roof lantern, you can browse the available configurations and obtain a price for your preferred product.
Ready to find out how much your roof lantern will cost?
Explore our Korniche roof lantern range or Atlas contemporary roof lanterns and start planning your project today.
