Skylight and Roof Window FAQs

The main difference between a roof window and a  skylight is that skylights are designed for unoccupied rooms like attics or garages, and prioritise light and ventilation, while roof windows are designed for occupied rooms such as living areas, and are engineered for better thermal performance and comfort.

To maximise light in a room using roof windows, position them to capture the most sunlight during the day by installing them to be south facing where possible.

Using one large roof window can allow daylight to light up to 46% of the room. Two roof windows with the same combined surface area of the single one would illuminate about 48%. Four roof windows with the same combined total surface area, but distributed more evenly, would allow daylight to illuminate approximately 65% of the room, highlighting the impact roof windows can have in brightening spaces.

The positioning of roof window lining can also impact light levels. To allow more light to enter the room, lining should be vertical below the window and horizontal above the window.

Some of our best roof windows for maximising natural light in a room are the Better View windows that are a high pivot window.

Additionally, our Vision Energy windows are also great as they’re designed to be paired with another openable roof window to maximise light levels.

All our roof windows will enhance the amount of natural light in a room. The key thing is to consider window placement and evaluate using a number of smaller roof windows to better distribute light.

At Dakea, we’re proud to offer a selection of the best insulative roof windows in the commercial market.

From central pivot options to fixed and flat roof solutions, throughout our range of energy-saving roof windows, we offer a wide selection of products that can meet the needs of any project that requires window insulation.

For example, the Ultima Energy PVC is a high class, 3 pane roof window that combines exceptional energy efficiency, noise block technology and the highest technical parameters, ensuring superior comfort for any room.

For more information, check out our blog, where we dive into more details regarding the best windows for heat insulation.

Discover our full range of energy saving roof windows, or contact the team to discuss the best solution for your project.

Choosing the right pitched roof window is often comes down to size. With a low roof pitch, you’ll need a larger roof window, especially in height, to achieve the same view in a home with a steeper pitch. In other words, the shallower the roof, the taller a window needs to be to provide an equivalent outlook.

Beyond window size, it’s also important to think about the installation height. To ensure that most occupants can enjoy a clear view, the general rule is simple: the lower the roof pitch, the higher you should position the roof window.

There is no single “correct” size or placement for pitched roof windows. The best choice depends on the needs and comfort of the people using the space, as well as the specific characteristics of the room.

We also offer a range of flat roof windows suitable for roof pitches between 5° and 15°.

For more information, check out our pitched roof window buyer’s guide.

If your roof window is leaking and you’re a homeowner, you should contact your roofer or installer. The cause of the roof window leaking will depend on when it was installed and will influence what the best solution is.

If you’re a roofer, window installer, or contractor, you should check the roof window and flashing for damage, as well as check that it was correctly installed. Bear in mind that it’s not always the roof window that’s leaking and water can be coming from another source.

Read our full guide on roof window and skylight leaks for more information.

Throughout our range, we have roof window sizes from C2A (55x78cm) to U8A (134x140cm).

Use our window configurator tool to find the best roof window for your size requirements.

To discover our full range of roof window sizes, view our rooflight size guide.

To open the roof window, unlock the latch by pivoting it, then apply gentle pressure to the window to push it open. If the window is high up, our telescopic opening rod might come in handy.

You can leave your roof window open in the rain provided that the rain is light and the window isn’t open too wide. In heavy rain, even if the window is only open a little, you might notice rain splatter entering.

Within our range of products, we also offer some automatic options. For flat roof windows, our Azure Electric includes a rain sensor which automatically closes in bad weather, and for smoke ventilation systems, we have our Dakea rain sensor, designed to prevent water intrusion and maintain indoor comfort.

During periods of bad weather, water is likely to gather on the roof window exterior, therefore we recommend you only fully pivot your window for cleaning. If it’s fully pivoted, any rain water will run into the room.

Be sure to close your windows when you’re not in the house for security. Read more roof window security tips.

Condensation can form on a roof window during colder months when warm indoor air comes into contact with the cold glass surface. Although Dakea’s high quality, insulative roof windows are designed to minimise roof window condensation, it may still occur in rooms with high humidity levels or extreme temperature differences.

The way to reduce roof window condensation is to keep the room well-ventilated and comfortably warm. Opening vents regularly and maintaining consistent heating temperatures helps prevent moist air from settling on the window surface.

It’s also important to limit excess moisture in spaces not designed for it. For example, hanging washing to dry in an attic room can significantly increase humidity levels, leading to roof window condensation.

If your roof window is more than 20 years old, condensation may be caused by a deteriorating seal or reduced insulation performance. Older windows are more likely to allow heat loss, and in this case, replacing the window may be the most effective long term solution.

To explore practical advice and long-term solutions, read our full guide on: how to stop condensation on windows, with expert guidance specifically for roof windows.

Roof window lining should be installed vertically below the window and horizontally above the window to allow maximum light into the room. Make sure the lining is correctly splayed.

If the lining is installed incorrectly, warm air can become trapped, increasing the risk of roof window condensation. When installed correctly, warm air circulates freely around the room, helping to reduce condensation and maintain a comfortable indoor environment.

Before installing a roof window, it’s essential to consider the structural integrity of the roof. Most roofs can be adapted to accommodate a roof window, but some roof rafters – especially engineered trusses – should not be cut without a proven solution. Homes built after 1960 typically have factory built roof trusses, which must be inspected by a structural engineer before any work begins.

It’s generally safer to create the roof opening from inside. Make sure the placement maximises natural light and headspace, rather than simply fitting between existing roof rafters.

If you’re unsure which beam or rafter can be safely modified, we strongly recommend seeking professional advice before starting the installation. Proper planning ensures your roof window is installed safely, efficiently, and performs as intended.

When installing a roof window, it’s critical to follow proper roof work safety precautions to protect yourself and others. Always wear suitable protective equipment, including hard hats, protective gloves, safety masks and goggles, particularly when cutting internal materials or roof tiles. Additionally. using temporary support battens when positioning the window frame is also strongly recommended to maintain stability. The installation of a roof window should be completed from the inside of the house.

As with any roof work, there is a risk of falling objects such as hammers or tiles. Never leave tools or materials on the external roof surface, and section off any areas that could pose a hazard. All safety measures should comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act.

Even experienced roofers benefit from an extra pair of hands. Roof windows can be heavy, so having another person to assist when lifting and positioning the window significantly reduces the risk of accidents and ensures a safer installation.

Register your warranty today to activate your 20-year guarantee on all Dakea pitched roof windows, and 10 years of coverage on flat roof windows.

The Next 20 Guarantee system gives you a simple choice between a standard 10 year legal guarantee and an extensive, unrivalled, free of charge 20 year product guarantee. This exclusive offer is available to all registered clients.

There are no hidden costs or conditions. Simply register online to activate your transferable 20 year guarantee, which can be passed from homeowner to homeowner. Make the most of your Dakea roof windows by registering today and enjoy long term peace of mind.

Certain signs indicate it may be time for a roof window replacement. Including leaks, cracked or damaged glass, poor energy efficiency with significant heat loss, visible mould, or simply an older window that no longer performs as it should.

Roof windows that are over 20 years old were not manufactured to meet modern energy efficiency standards. As a result, they can let a lot of heat escape in the winter, or enter in the summer, making a home less comfortable and more expensive to heat or cool. Replacing an old roof window can improve insulation, prevent damage and enhance overall comfort.

For more guidance, explore our blog posts on choosing the right replacement and understanding the hidden costs of outdated roof windows. These resources offer practical tips to help you make informed decisions about upgrading your roof windows.

Roof window maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional attention to keep windows looking and performing at their best. Clean the glass pane periodically, grease the hinges as needed, and clean debris from the gutters around the window, most commonly during autumn.

If the roof window is installed in a high humidity room, you may need to re-lacquer the wood once a year to protect it. All Dakea roof windows rotate up to 165 degrees, making it easy to clean the external pane. The Dakea Ultima range also features a care free Titan Glass coating that helps break down dirt and reduces cleaning effort.

Frames can be wiped with warm, soapy water if necessary, although this is rarely required. Frequent cleaning of wooden frames may mean occasional re-lacquering is needed. For rooms with high humidity or frequent moisture exposure, we recommend either re-lacquering with water-based lacquer or considering a PVC roof window for low maintenance durability.

For detailed, safe cleaning advice, see our useful blog on how to clean roof windows, which walks you through the process from start to finish.

Roof window blinds require very little maintenance. To keep them clean, simply wipe the blinds with a damp cloth. Regular cleaning is enough to maintain their appearance and functionality, ensuring your roof window blinds continue to operate smoothly and look their best.

Caring for a roof window roller shutter is straightforward. To maintain optimal performance, periodically clean the gutter and the area around the roller to prevent dirt or debris from affecting its operation.

No regular servicing is required to keep your roller shutter working efficiently. Simple, sensible maintenance will ensure it lasts for many years.

For added comfort and protection, the Dakea solar operated external roller shutter provides the most coverage against solar hear, light and noise, making it an excellent choice for energy efficiency and home comfort.

Caring for your electric roof window opener is simple and helps ensure it runs smoothly for years to come. Wipe the motor with a damp cloth using mild detergent to remove dust and dirt. To maintain durability and optimal performance, we recommend greasing the chain once a year.

If you haven’t found the answer you were looking for in our FAQs, our customer service team is happy to help. You can reach us via our contact page or by calling (+44) 20 3970 5080.

Please visit Altaterra Technical Services for support.