Larne · County Antrim
Roof Lanterns in Larne
We cover Larne and the rest of County Antrim for roof lantern supply and fitting, from small skylights over landings to large lanterns for open-plan kitchens.
- BT40
- Guide from £1,095
Larne: roof lanterns
Glass for lanterns usually comes with a self-cleaning outer coating that helps rain wash away dirt, and a choice of clear, neutral or blue-tinted solar-control glass. Solar-control glass limits heat build-up under a south-facing lantern, while clear low-E glass suits shaded or north-facing rooms.
Old polycarbonate or single glazed roof lanterns can be replaced with double glazed aluminium lanterns on the existing upstand, if the upstand is sound, level and the right size. Upstands that are rotten, uninsulated or out of level should be rebuilt first, which the survey identifies.
A roof lantern is assembled from an aluminium ridge, hip bars and glazing bars that hold sealed glass units on each pitch. It sits on an upstand built around the roof opening. The upstand should be level, weathered into the roof covering and insulated, because a poor upstand causes most leaks and cold spots.
Roof lanterns are not designed to be walked on, so never stand or lean on the glass or bars. Cleaning and inspection should be done from safe access at the edge of the roof. Keep leaves and debris away from the upstand and roof outlets so water drains freely.
What a typical job includes
- Made-to-measure aluminium roof lantern or framed skylight
- Fixing, glazing and sealing onto the prepared upstand
- Removal and disposal of an old lantern or skylight
- Survey of the roof, opening, upstand and drainage
Larne at a glance
- Postcodes covered
- BT40 and the surrounding area, including Carrickfergus, Ballyclare and Newtownabbey
- Coast
- Larne is about 1 km from the coast or a tidal estuary, so salt air and wind-driven rain are worth planning for. Coastal lanterns face salt deposits on the glass and frames and strong uplift from wind on exposed roofs. Marine-grade coatings, stainless fixings and secure fixing to a well-built upstand matter, and salt film may need rinsing more often than self-cleaning glass manages alone.
- Daylight and sun
- In Larne the midwinter sun reaches about 12° above the horizon at noon, with roughly 6.9 hours of daylight, rising to about 59° and 17.1 hours in midsummer. Overhead glazing receives far more light than a wall window of the same size, especially when the sun is high in summer. South-facing lanterns may need solar-control glass, while low winter sun and north-facing rooms benefit from clear, high light-transmission low-E glass.
- Access and setting
- Rural roofs collect more leaves, moss and bird debris, so lanterns need clear upstand drainage and regular checks. Exposed sites see higher wind loads and driving rain, and older outbuildings may need the roof structure strengthening before a lantern is added.
- Rules in Northern Ireland
- Technical Booklet V covers safety glazing in Northern Ireland, including glass in and around doors and low-level glazing where people could walk into it.
Guide prices in Larne
| Typical job | Guide price inc VAT |
|---|---|
| Lantern 1500 × 1000 mm, fitted to a kerb | £1,395 – £1,795 |
| Lantern 2000 × 1000 mm | £1,695 – £2,095 |
| Lantern 3000 × 1500 mm | £2,795 – £3,695 |
| Flat glass rooflight 1000 × 1000 mm | £1,095 – £1,395 |
Get a guide price for your size
Replacement windows on houses in Northern Ireland are often permitted development, but conservation areas and listed buildings can need consent. Check with the council's planning office.
What you can choose
Square or octagonal lantern
A pyramid or eight-sided design that suits square rooms, orangeries and spaces where a central focal point is wanted.
Solar-control glass
Neutral or blue-tinted coatings that reduce heat build-up under south or west-facing lanterns while keeping daylight levels high.
Frame colours
Powder-coated aluminium in grey, black, white or other RAL colours, often dual colour to suit the roof and the room.
Roof Lanterns in Larne: questions
Will a roof lantern make my room too hot?
A roof lantern can add heat on sunny days, especially facing south or west, because overhead glass receives sun for much of the day. Solar-control glass, opening vents and blinds help keep the room comfortable. The glass is chosen at survey based on the lantern's size and orientation and how the room is used.
Does fitting a roof lantern need building regulations approval?
A new roof lantern or skylight generally needs building regulations approval, because the roof structure is cut and must be supported, and the unit must meet energy standards. Fire performance also matters near a boundary. Replacing a lantern on an existing sound upstand is simpler, and we explain which route applies at survey.
How long does it take to fit a roof lantern?
Fitting a roof lantern on a prepared upstand usually takes a day or less for a typical size, longer for large or complex shapes. The lantern is made to order first, and the lead time depends on its size, shape and colour. Building or rebuilding an upstand is separate roofing work that comes before fitting.
What guarantee comes with a roof lantern?
Manufacturer guarantees apply to the frame, coating and sealed units, and the terms are confirmed in writing. The upstand and roof covering may be covered separately, depending on who builds them. Guarantee terms for the installation are set out in writing with your quote, so you know exactly what is covered before going ahead.
Do you cover Larne for roof lanterns?
Yes. We can quote for roof lanterns across Larne and the surrounding County Antrim area, including postcode districts BT40, and nearby Carrickfergus, Ballyclare and Newtownabbey. Start with your postcode on the quote form and a glazier will arrange a free survey before giving you a written quote.
Get a written quote in Larne
Free survey for new glazing, clear guide prices and one point of contact for every glazing job.