Daylight Systems Explained: Every Type, Cost & How to Choose the Right One

If you are planning a build or refurbishment, getting natural light right is one of the smartest decisions you can make. Daylight systems are not just about aesthetics. They affect energy use, occupant wellbeing, and how a space feels day to day.  

Whether you are a developer working on multiple units or a building owner doing a one-off upgrade, this guide covers everything you need to know. We will walk through every main product type, typical costs, and what to look for when choosing. 

What Are Daylight Systems? 

Daylight systems are purpose-built glazing solutions fitted into roofs or ceilings. They are designed to bring controlled natural light into spaces where a standard window simply would not work. This includes flat roofs, pitched roofs, extensions, corridors, and commercial buildings. 

They range from simple fixed rooflights to large modular glazing setups used in commercial developments. The right system depends on your roof type, your budget, your building regulations requirements, and how much light you actually need. 

A key point for developers: daylight roofing systems in the UK must comply with Part L of the Building Regulations. This covers thermal performance and U-values. Choosing a non-compliant product at the start can cause real problems at sign-off. All products stocked at Skylights Roof Lanterns are manufactured to meet UK building regulations as standard. 

Types of Daylight Systems: A Full Breakdown 

Understanding daylight roofing systems in the UK means knowing which product category fits your project. Here is a clear look at the main options. 

Flat Glass Rooflights 

These are among the most popular choices for modern builds. They sit flush or near-flush on flat or low-pitch roofs. The glazing is typically double or triple-glazed toughened glass. Triple glazing gives better thermal performance and is worth the extra cost on most projects. 

They suit extensions, kitchen rear additions, and new-build residential properties well. Fixed versions are low-maintenance and clean-lined. Opening versions add ventilation, which is important in kitchens and bathrooms. 

Polycarbonate Dome Rooflights 

These are the workhorses of commercial and industrial roofing. They are lightweight, impact-resistant, and much more affordable than glass alternatives. Brett Martin's Mardome range is one of the best-regarded options on the UK market. The Mardome Trade and the Mardome Reflex dome rooflights are widely used in warehouses, stairwells, schools, and public buildings. 

Polycarbonate domes diffuse light well. They reduce glare and spread natural light more evenly across large floor areas. If budget is a primary concern, these are a sensible starting point. 

Roof Lanterns 

Roof lanterns are the premium end of the daylight system spectrum. They project upward from the roofline and create a dramatic, light-filled effect inside. They work particularly well over kitchen extensions, orangeries, and open-plan living areas. 

Brett Martin's roof lanterns are available in thermally broken aluminium frames. These keep heat loss down while delivering the architectural look developers and homeowners want. The Wendland Roof Lantern is a strong mid-range option, starting from around £474.95. The Brett Martin Roof Lantern sits at the higher specification end. 

Opening and AOV Rooflights 

Opening rooflights come in both manual and electric versions. They are used where ventilation is needed. AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) rooflights are specifically designed as smoke vents for fire safety compliance in commercial properties and communal areas. These are often required under Building Regulations for certain building types. 

Access Hatch Rooflights 

These serve a dual purpose. They bring in light and provide roof access for maintenance. They are common in commercial buildings, apartment blocks, and industrial units where roof access is a regular need. 

Modular and Linked Rooflights 

For large commercial or industrial roofs, modular linked systems let you create continuous runs of glazing. These span large areas and deliver significant daylight to spaces like warehouses, distribution centres, and production facilities. 

Daylight System Cost Comparison 

Costs vary significantly depending on glazing type, size, and specification. The table below gives a general guide for supply-only *pricing. 

Prices are subject to change. Installation costs are additional. 

How to Choose the Right Daylight System 

This is where most buyers get stuck. Here are the key questions to work through before you buy. 

What type of roof do you have? 

Flat and pitched roofs need different products. Most flat glass rooflights and polycarbonate domes are designed for flat or near-flat roofs. Roof lanterns work on flat roofs but some pitched roof variants exist. Roof windows are specifically for pitched roofs with steeper angles. 

Do you need it to open? 

Fixed rooflights cost less and require no maintenance. But if the space below needs ventilation, an opening rooflight is worth the extra spend. Electric opening is particularly useful where the rooflight is hard to reach by hand. 

What glazing specifications do you need? 

For most residential projects, double glazing meets Building Regulations. Triple glazing is better for thermally demanding spaces or where noise reduction matters. Self-cleaning glass is a practical upgrade on rooflights that are hard to access for cleaning. 

What is the structural opening size? 

Always measure the structural opening, not the rooflight itself. Most manufacturers list the upstand or kerb size, which fits within the structural opening. Getting this wrong means returns and delays. 

Is fire safety compliance a factor? 

On commercial sites and in communal residential areas, AOV rooflights may be a building regulations requirement. Speak to your architect or building control officer early in the project. 

Why Brett Martin Is the Benchmark in the UK 

Brett Martin has been manufacturing rooflight and glazing products in the UK for decades. Their Mardome polycarbonate dome range is trusted across commercial construction. Their flat glass skylights and roof lanterns meet or exceed UK building standards. Products come with warranties of up to 20 years and many carry BBA (British Board of Agrément) certification. 

At Skylights Roof Lanterns, Brett Martin is our core supplier. This means you are getting genuine Brett Martin products, not copies. You can browse the full range of skylights and flat roof glazing options on our website, with delivery available in 1 to 3 working days on most in-stock items across mainland UK. 

Conlusion:

Choosing the right daylight system does not have to be complicated. Start with your roof type, work out whether you need ventilation, set your glazing specification, and match your budget.  

For most residential projects, a flat glass double or triple-glazed rooflight will do the job well. For commercial builds, polycarbonate domes or modular systems are the practical choice. Roof lanterns are the architectural statement piece that adds real value to premium extensions and open-plan spaces. 

If you are unsure what suits your project, the team at Skylights Roof Lanterns is happy to help. Call us on 020 4538 3079 or go through our product range to find the right fit for your build. 

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