Fixed vs Opening Rooflights: Which One Should You Choose for Your Home?
If you're planning to brighten up your home with a roof light, you're probably asking: Should I choose a fixed or opening model? It's one of the most common questions homeowners ask—with good reason. Your decision affects more than light; it impacts airflow, energy use, maintenance, and building compliance.
In this guide, we'll help you choose the best roof light type for your space. We compare fixed vs. opening roof lights across different room types, explain the pros and cons, and include expert insights, homeowner stories, and a comparison table to make your decision easier.
Table of Contents
What's the Difference Between Fixed and Opening Rooflights?
A fixed roof light is a non-opening unit designed purely for light. An opening roof light includes a hinged mechanism (manual or electric) for airflow, regulation, and ventilation.
Both serve different needs, and the right one depends on your room, roof pitch, usage, and even UK building regulations.
Comparison Table: Fixed vs Opening Rooflights
| Feature | Fixed Rooflights | Opening Rooflights |
|---|---|---|
| Opens for airflow | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (manual or electric options) |
| Best for | Kitchens, stairwells, lounges | Lofts, bedrooms, and bathrooms |
| Cost (avg.) | Lower (£1,000–£1,900 installed) | Higher (£1,500–£3,000+ installed) |
| Maintenance | Minimal | Requires checks on hinges/motors |
| Security | High (no access) | Moderate (ensure locking) |
| Regulatory use | Light only | Can meet Part F ventilation regs |
| Fire escape compliant | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (if correctly sized and positioned) |
Fixed units are great for areas where you don’t need ventilation — think over a kitchen island or landing. Opening rooflights, on the other hand, are often essential for compliance in habitable rooms.
Best Rooflight Types by Room
✅ Kitchen
Best for: Frameless fixed rooflights
Adds light without the need for ventilation (if an extractor fan is present)
Choose solar-control glazing to avoid overheating
✅ Bathroom
Best for: Opening rooflight (manual or electric)
Prevents condensation and mould
Use frosted or opaque glazing for privacy
✅ Bedroom or Loft Conversion
Best for: Opening rooflight (complies with escape regulations)
Must be large enough to allow egress
Often required under Part B (Fire Safety)
✅ Lounge or Living Room
Best for: Fixed frameless rooflights (especially in extensions)
Create dramatic, clean-lined skylight views
Combine with side windows for airflow if needed
In our kitchen extension, the frameless rooflight from Skylights.co.uk became the standout feature. It’s all glass, super clean, and took our flat roof to another level.
Real Use Case Examples
🏡 Gareth's Kitchen in Bristol
"We installed a 1200x2400 frameless fixed unit from Skylights.co.uk. It's above our breakfast bar and gets compliments all the time. We didn't need ventilation thanks to the ceiling extractor."
🏡 Nina's Loft in Chelmsford
"Our attic conversion needed an escape window. We used two manually opening rooflights. They met the regs and gave us breeze in summer."
🏡 Marcus's Bathroom in Sheffield
"We replaced a fixed skylight with an electric opening unit. No more condensation problems, and it opens automatically when humidity rises."
Should You Choose Fixed or Opening Rooflights?
Choose Fixed Rooflights if:
You only want natural light (no ventilation)
You're fitting into a flat roof extension
Your room already has extractor fans or other ventilation
You prefer a minimal, frameless look
Choose Opening Rooflights if:
You need ventilation (e.g. bathrooms, bedrooms)
You're installing in a habitable room (loft or bedroom)
Building regulations require egress (fire escape)
Your roof is pitched and suitable for opening models
In my work with flat roof installations, frameless fixed skylights are always the preferred choice for visual impact and ease of fit.
FAQs: Fixed vs Opening Rooflights
Yes. Fixed rooflights are generally 20–40% cheaper than opening models.
No, unless they project over 150mm above the existing roof plane. Check PlanningPortal.gov.uk for complete details.
Yes — but not in all cases. You'll need alternative ventilation, and they cannot function as a fire escape.
Not if properly installed and maintained. Always use a reputable installer familiar with your roof type.
Installation & Maintenance Overview
| Aspect | Fixed Rooflight | Opening Rooflight |
| Installation time | 1–2 days | 2–3 days (electric takes longer) |
| Complexity | Low | Medium to high |
| Maintenance | Clean glass occasionally | Check hinges/motors yearly |
| Cost range | £1,100–£1,900 installed | £1,600–£3,000+ installed |
Tip: Combine installation with larger works (e.g. extensions or re-roofing) to reduce scaffolding and labour costs.
Final Takeaways
✅ Choose fixed rooflights for flat roof extensions or when ventilation isn't essential
✅ Choose opening rooflights in bedrooms, bathrooms, or lofts where air flow or fire escape is required
✅ Frameless models from Skylights.co.uk offer sleek design and premium performance
✅ Check UK Building Regs to stay compliant
✅ Always get expert advice before ordering
Still unsure which roof light is right for you? Contact Us for guidance, or download our free buyer's checklist.
