Which Rooflight Glass Type is Best? (Solar-Control, Self-Cleaning, Triple Glazed)
When choosing a roof light or skylight for your home, the type of glass is just as important as the frame style or size. The wrong glazing can lead to overheating, condensation, glare, or heat loss, especially in the UK climate. So, which roof light glass type is best for your needs?
This expert-driven guide compares solar-control, self-cleaning, and triple-glazed rooflight glass options. We'll explain when to choose each, highlight key performance factors, and share insights from professionals who've installed and specified these products across UK projects.
Table of Contents
Why Glass Type Matters in Rooflights
Your roof light is a direct path between inside and outside. Unlike a vertical window, it faces the sky, which means more sun exposure, heat transfer, and rain contact.
Choosing the proper glass affects:
Thermal performance (U-values)
Solar gain and overheating
Cleaning and maintenance
Noise reduction
Compliance with Building Regulations
"Clients often focus on size and style, but glazing choice is critical. The wrong spec can lead to excessive heat or fogging — especially in kitchens and lofts."
— Hannah Miles, Architectural Technologist
Glass Types Explained: Solar-Control, Self-Cleaning, and Triple-Glazed
Here's how each glass type performs and when to use it:
✅ Solar-Control Glass
Reflects UV and infrared rays while allowing natural daylight
Keeps interiors cooler during summer
Reduces the fading of furniture and floors
Best for:
South-facing kitchens
Open-plan living spaces
Conservatories and garden rooms
Pro tip: Combine with low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings for winter heat retention.
✅ Self-Cleaning Glass
Has a special hydrophilic and photocatalytic coating
Breaks down organic dirt with sunlight
Rainwater spreads evenly across the surface and washes grime away
Best for:
High, hard-to-reach rooflights
Flat roofs where water runoff is slower
Low-maintenance households
"We specify self-cleaning glass for almost every flat roof installation now. It helps avoid ladders and keeps skylights clearer longer."
— Daniel Preston, Installer at VistaRoof Systems
✅ Triple-Glazed Rooflight Glass
Three layers of glazing with argon gas-filled cavities
Exceptional insulation (U-values as low as 0.6 W/m²K)
Reduces condensation risk and outside noise
Best for:
Bedrooms, nurseries, or offices under pitched or flat roofs
Passivhaus or low-energy homes
Loft conversions where energy loss is a concern
Note: Triple-glazed units are heavier — ensure your roof structure can support the extra load.
Comparison Table: Rooflight Glass Types
| Feature | Solar-Control Glass | Self-Cleaning Glass | Triple-Glazed Glass |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heat Reduction | ✅✅✅ | ✅ | ✅✅ |
| Maintenance Reduction | ❌ | ✅✅✅ | ✅ (sealed units) |
| U-Value (Thermal Efficiency) | ✅✅ | ✅ | ✅✅✅ |
| Cost | Medium | Medium | High |
| Weight | Normal | Normal | Heavy |
| Best for | Sunny spaces | Hard-to-reach areas | Energy-efficient homes |
Real Use Case Examples
🏡 Ellis Roofing Ltd – Kitchen Extension in Leeds
“We installed a triple-glazed solar-control frameless rooflight from Skylights.co.uk above a kitchen island. Zero glare, no summer heat buildup — it’s the ideal spec for south-facing rooms.”
🏡 Beatrice’s Loft in Manchester
“We used self-cleaning glass in our flat roof loft conversion. With limited access and rainy weather, it looks great all year.”
🏡 Sam & Leyla’s Passive House in Bristol
“We wanted ultra-low energy loss. Our 1.5m x 2.0m triple-glazed fixed rooflight keeps our heating bills down and our bedroom warm.”
How to Choose the Right Glass Type for Your Rooflight
Consider these key factors:
1. Room Orientation
South-facing rooms get more sun; solar control is essential
North-facing rooms benefit more from high insulation
2. Roof Type and Access
For flat roofs, self-cleaning glass helps reduce maintenance
For pitched roofs with easy access, standard double glazing may suffice
3. Purpose of the Room
Use triple-glazing in bedrooms for comfort and noise control
Self-cleaning in kitchens to reduce smudges and stains
Solar control in bright, open-plan living areas
4. Climate and Compliance
Match glazing to Part L (Thermal Performance) and Part F (Ventilation)
Use certified U-values and installation practices
FAQs: Glass for Rooflights and Skylights
Yes, especially for rooms with large glazed areas or southern exposure. It improves comfort and prevents overheating.
Yes. Many premium rooflights — including those from Regal Glass Group — offer glass with both features integrated.
It significantly reduces it, especially when paired with thermal breaks and proper ventilation.
Triple glazing or solar-control, depending on the room’s orientation and insulation goals.
Installation Notes
Choose glass types certified to BS EN 1279 (thermal and sealed performance)
Ensure your upstand or kerb is compatible with heavier units (triple glazing)
Work with professional installers who understand UK building regs
“In my experience, 90% of rooflight performance issues relate to wrong glass spec or poor installation. Invest in both.”
— James Harper, Glazing Consultant
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Final Takeaways
✅ Choose solar-control glass for sunny kitchens and south-facing rooms
✅ Opt for self-cleaning glass in hard-to-reach places like flat roofs
✅ Use triple-glazing for bedrooms, lofts, and energy-efficient homes
✅ Frameless units combine all these technologies in one sleek design
Still unsure which rooflight glass is best for your home? Contact us for tailored advice.
