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
