What to Expect on Installation Day: Rooflight Fitters Explain
You’ve chosen your perfect roof light—frameless, fixed, opening, or triple-glazed—and installation day is fast approaching. But what actually happens when your roof light is installed? What should you prepare for, and how long will it take?
In this expert guide, we explain what to expect on installation day, providing real insights from UK-based roof light fitters, helpful FAQs, and tips to ensure the day runs smoothly, whether you’re installing a single unit or multiple roof lights from Skylights.co.uk.
Table of Contents
Before Installation Day: What You Should Do
✅ Confirm the Details
Double-check delivery times and rooflight dimensions
Ensure the installer has access to structural drawings or roof plans
Confirm whether the upstand or kerb is pre-prepared or supplied with the rooflight
✅ Prepare the Site
Clear any furniture or fragile items from the work area
Make space for tools and protective sheeting
Ensure power sockets are available nearby
"Preparation is key. When clients have cleared the space and secured pets or children, the whole install runs quicker and cleaner."
— Dan Rowley, Director at Northern Rooflight Fitters
What Happens During Installation?
The installation process may vary slightly by roof type (flat vs pitched) and product type (fixed vs opening), but generally includes the following steps:
1. Site Setup and Safety Measures
Scaffold or tower access installed if needed
Dust sheets, floor protection, and tools set up
Electrical safety checks (especially for electric rooflights)
2. Opening the Roof
Existing roof layers (tiles, membrane, deck) are removed
Joists may be trimmed with structural reinforcement if required
Opening is measured and prepared to match the rooflight
3. Upstand/Kerb Installation
For flat roofs, an insulated upstand or kerb is installed (prefabricated or built on site)
Checked for level, height, and weatherproofing compatibility
4. Rooflight Placement
Rooflight is lifted and fixed into place (may require crane or team lift)
Silicone and weatherproofing applied
For opening units: motors, switches, and controls wired
5. Finishing Touches
Internal finishing: plasterboard trims, insulation around frame
External weatherproofing and seal checks
Testing: open/close mechanism (if applicable), water tightness
“Our frameless models from Skylights.co.uk usually fit within a day. The prefabricated upstands help streamline the install.”
— Tara Nolan, Lead Installer, Elevate Glazing Group
How Long Does Rooflight Installation Take?
✅ Typical Duration:
Single fixed rooflight (flat roof): 4–6 hours
Opening electric rooflight (pitched roof): 6–8 hours
Multiple units/modular systems: 1–2 days
Delays can occur if:
Structural issues are uncovered (e.g., rotten joists)
Poor weather impacts safe roof access
Delivery issues or wrong measurements arise
Comparison Table: Fixed vs Opening Rooflight Installation
| Feature | Fixed Rooflight | Opening Rooflight |
|---|---|---|
| Install time | Shorter (half-day) | Longer (full day or more) |
| Complexity | Lower | Medium to high (requires wiring) |
| Scaffolding required | Sometimes | Often (especially on pitched roofs) |
| Finishing effort | Moderate | More extensive (motors, ventilation) |
| Risk of delays | Low | Moderate (wiring, motor testing) |
Customer Stories: Real Installation Experiences
🏡 Harper Joinery Co – Frameless Rooflight in Birmingham
“We installed a 1.2m x 2.4m unit over a new kitchen island. The client had the roof ready with a pre-built upstand. Start to finish was 5 hours — great result.”
🏡 Anya’s Loft Bedroom in Edinburgh
“The team arrived by 8:30am and completed the two electric opening rooflights by 5pm. A crane helped lift the heavier units, and the wiring was neatly tucked into the rafters.”
🏡 Lewis Property Services – Modular System in Reading
“Installing three fixed rooflights side by side took two days including plastering. Frameless look is what made the clients go ‘wow.’”
FAQs: Installation Day Questions
It’s helpful, but not essential. Ensure the team has access to all required areas and you’re reachable by phone for questions.
Briefly, yes. If the weather suddenly changes, installers typically cover the opening with tarpaulin or temporary sheeting.
Light drizzle might not delay work, but heavy rain or wind may postpone installation for safety reasons.
Usually, no plastering and final decoration are done by a separate contractor once the roof light is sealed.
What to Check Before Installers Leave
✅ All rooflights open and close correctly (if operable)
✅ Seals are tight and waterproof
✅ Flashings are in place and securely fixed
✅ Rooflight glazing is free from chips or scratches
✅ You’ve been shown how to operate/remotely control the unit (if electric)
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Final Takeaways
✅ Rooflight installation usually takes a few hours to a day
✅ Frameless units from Skylights.co.ukp install cleanly with minimal finishing
✅ Prep the area, confirm details, and ensure easy access for a smooth experience
✅ Ask questions and inspect the installation before sign-off
Need a professional installer recommendation? Contact us to connect with approved fitters or download our Pre-Install Checklist.
