Frameless vs Framed Skylights: Which Looks Better and Performs Best?
If you're planning to add a skylight to your home, you've probably asked: Should I choose a frameless or framed skylight? It’s not just a design decision — it affects everything from insulation to light quality and maintenance.
This expert-driven guide breaks down the pros and cons of frameless and framed skylights, providing real-world examples, performance comparisons, and practical tips to help you make an informed decision for your project. Whether you're renovating a kitchen extension or designing a loft conversion, this article is your trusted resource.
What’s the Difference Between Frameless and Framed Skylights?
✅ Frameless Skylights
Feature edge-to-edge glazing with no visible internal frame
Often appears as a seamless sheet of glass
Typically fixed and mounted on a flat roof upstand
Example use: Modern kitchen extensions, garden studios, minimalist interiors
✅ Framed Skylights
Include internal visible frames (usually aluminium, timber, or uPVC)
Available in fixed or opening versions
Suitable for both pitched and flat roofs
Example use: Loft conversions, pitched roof bathrooms, heritage renovations
Frameless rooflights from Skylights.co.uk are ideal for flat roofs where clean lines matter. Framed models offer more flexibility when it comes to ventilation.
Frameless vs Framed: Comparison Table
| Feature | Frameless Rooflights (KingsView Glass) | Traditional Framed Skylights |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetics | ✅ Sleek, modern, minimal | ✅ Traditional or industrial |
| Visible Frame | ❌ None (internal) | ✅ Yes |
| Glazing Area | ✅ Larger viewable glass | ❌ Slightly reduced |
| Ventilation | ❌ Fixed only | ✅ Opening and manual/electric |
| Best Roof Type | Flat roofs | Pitched or flat roofs |
| Maintenance | ✅ Low (especially with self-cleaning glass) | ✅ Moderate (moving parts) |
| Planning Permission | ✅ Easier under 150mm projection | ✅ May require more clearance |
Pros and Cons Breakdown
✅ Frameless Skylights — Pros
Clean architectural look
Excellent daylight penetration
Perfect for minimalist, modern spaces
Often easier to install flush on flat roofs
❌ Frameless Skylights — Cons
No ventilation — needs mechanical or background airflow
Not suitable for steeply pitched roofs
Slightly higher cost
✅ Framed Skylights — Pros
Opening models offer natural ventilation
Available for both flat and pitched roofs
Range of frame finishes (white, grey, timber)
❌ Framed Skylights — Cons
The visible internal frame may block part of the view
The frame may require periodic maintenance
Less glass-to-frame ratio than frameless models
In my experience fitting both styles, frameless units offer a striking aesthetic, while framed units are better for traditional builds or where ventilation is key.
Real Home Installations
🏡 Barlow & Sons Construction – Flat Roof in Nottingham
“We fitted two frameless skylights from Skylights.co.uk in a flat roof extension. Their minimal design opened up the space with uninterrupted sky views.”
🏡 Isabelle’s Loft in Brighton
“Our framed opening skylight lets in light and fresh air. It blends well with our traditional roofline and meets escape requirements, too.”
🏡 CraftHaus Architects – Urban Bungalow in Leeds
“We paired three fixed frameless rooflights side-by-side. The result? A gallery-style kitchen drenched in daylight with no glare.”
FAQs: Frameless vs Framed Skylight Questions
Frameless skylights typically provide a more visible glass area and allow more daylight to pass through, especially when flush-mounted on flat roofs.
Framed skylights — particularly opening models — are better suited to spaces that need airflow or passive ventilation.
Yes. Roof lights use toughened, laminated, and triple-glazed glass that meets BS EN safety standards.
Not necessarily. Self-cleaning coatings help minimise buildup. Frameless designs have fewer crevices where dirt collects.
Best Applications: Where Each Works Best
Frameless Skylights:
Modern kitchen extensions
Garden rooms or studios
Above stairwells or feature landings
Homes with a flat roof and high architectural expectations
Framed Skylights:
Loft bedrooms requiring egress windows
Bathrooms where ventilation is essential
Conservatories or pitched-roof homes
Heritage properties with traditional glazing need
Recommendations: How to Choose
Choose Frameless if:
Aesthetics and clean lines are your top priority
You have a flat roof and no ventilation requirements
You want a low-maintenance, fixed glass solution
Choose Framed if:
You need opening skylights for airflow or a fire escape
Your project involves a pitched roof
You're blending with traditional architectural elements
Multimedia & Expert Resources
Final Takeaways
✅ Frameless rooflights deliver striking visual appeal and more glass area
✅ Framed skylights are versatile, affordable, and better for ventilation
✅ Choose based on your roof type, airflow needs, and design goals
✅ We offer frameless and fixed solutions trusted by homeowners and professionals across the UK
Still comparing options? Request a consultation from us here.
Last updated: 26 May 2025. Part of the “Skylight Design Comparison Series” by Skylights.co.uk.