New Forest Living Mar - Apr 2020

Roof Lanterns and Skylights
Compared to windows of the same surface area, skylights and
roof lanterns can increase light in a room by up to five times.
They are particularly good in extensions and for channelling
light to darker corners of the home and adding opportunities
for ventilation. These additions are no longer considered just a
luxury and can be used in a wide variety of scenarios:
• In a loft extension, tucked beneath sloped rooflines, the
presence of skylights may spell the difference between a
bright, friendly space and a murky cave.
• In a home built between closely adjoining neighbouring
houses where overlooking might be an issue, skylights may be
the best solution for introducing good natural light into rooms.
• In a single storey house build or extension, built with an open
floor plan, skylight shafts can bring much needed natural light
into the centre of large spaces.
Many of the issues experienced in the past of rooms
overheating or being hard to clean have been mediated with
a tranche of new technology, including glass panels with heat
regulatory and storage abilities and self-cleaning glass.
SINGLE STOREY EXTENSION?
In a single storey house build or extension, built with an
open floor plan, skylight shafts can bring much needed
natural light into the centre of large spaces.
Energy Efficiency
Our homes are one of the biggest energy wasters out there and
traditionally windows are the biggest energy leakage point, so
with any renovation, it can really pay to invest in glass tech to
ensure the best temperature regulation - creating huge savings
down the line. We all know that double glazing is much more
efficient than single, but newer technologies like triple glazing
are making windows nearly as efficient at energy retention as
the walls they are installed within.
As well as the glass, it is important to do you research into
frames and opt for the most airtight models.
With great green credentials, triple glazed units have the
added benefits of better thermal comfort, noise reduction and
a reduced risk of condensation between panes – so for the
self-builder or home improver looking for a premium finish with
added benefits, it’s a natural choice.
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