Triple Glazed Rooflight

In terms of energy performance, triple-glazed units with three panes of glass are usually superior, and they offer much better insulation. This is especially helpful for those who live in colder regions or need to optimise thermal performance.

Lower U-values = better insulation which leads to a warmer, more energy-efficient home.

Pros:

• Exceptional thermal insulation, reducing energy bills.

• Enhanced soundproofing capabilities.

• Improved security due to additional glass layer.

• Helps meet Part L Building Regs and Passivhaus standards

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to double glazing.

• Increased weight, requiring stronger structural support.

• Heavier units may require mechanical lifting

• Laminated inner pane may not be supported for overhead glazing

While the initial investment is higher, the long-term energy savings and comfort can justify the cost for many homeowners.

Solar control glass for rooflights:

The main purpose of solar control glass is to keep its indoor temperature comfortable by reducing heat accumulation due to sunlight while minimizing glare. The solar control glass coating also contains soft coat Low-E glass present in double or triple glazed units

It’s ideal for areas that get strong, direct sunlight, like:

• South-facing extensions

• Garden rooms

• Living areas with large rooflights

• Glazed corridors or walkways

Pros:

• Reduces cooling costs by limiting solar heat gain.

• Protects interiors from UV damage.

• Enhances occupant comfort during sunny periods.

Cons:

• Slight darker tint than double glazed which may reduce natural light transmission.

• Higher initial investment.

Expert Insight: Sunsquare emphasises that solar control glass is beneficial for overhead glazing, helping to maintain energy efficiency and comfort.

Acoustic Rooflight

Soundproofing glass is used where minimum disruption due to sound is required, like in music studios, classrooms, meeting rooms, or residential areas within bustling cities. They usually contain laminate glass with soundproofing interlayers, differing thicknesses in the panes that break up sound waves.

Pros:

• Excellent noise reduction performance (often achieving reductions of 40dB or more).
• Enhances focus and comfort in learning or creative spaces.
• Improves building acoustics without sacrificing natural light.

Cons:

• Heavier and more expensive than standard glazing.
• Requires correct framing and seals to maintain sound insulation effectiveness.

Heated Glass Rooflights

Swimming pools, spas, and many recreational centres have high humidity levels which makes condensation control difficult—this is where heated glass becomes useful. These rooflights come with an invisible conductive layer that gently warms the surface of the glass to above dew point, meaning condensation cannot form.

Pros:

• Prevents condensation on glass, maintaining clear views and avoiding drips.

• Improves comfort and aesthetics in humid environments.

• Enhances insulation when combined with double or triple glazing.

Cons:

• Higher installation and operational cost due to embedded heating elements.

• Requires professional electrical connection and controls.

Laminated glass benefits rooflights

Laminated glass is two or more pieces of glass with a durable polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ionoplast (SentryGlas) interlayer bonded together. This design helps control the glass shattering into pieces. Since the fragments will be kept attached to the interlayer, the chance of injuries will be greatly reduced.

Pros:

• Overhead Safety:
  One of the primary advantages of laminated glass in overhead glazing is its ability to hold broken shards in place. This feature provides critical protection against falling glass, making it ideal for skylights and rooflights installed above areas of frequent use.
• Structural Glazing Applications:
  Laminated glass possesses the glass strength required for structural ceiling installations which enables the use of walk-on roof lights and glass to glass modular rooflights. The glass bonding ensures maximum load bearing capability along with optical clarity.
• Security Compliance:
  Laminated glass assists in delaying unauthorized entries due to breakage, offers better protection against forcible entry attacks. This feature enables achieving Building Regulations Part Q (2015 which states “reasonable safety or security all unsecured elements in new homes”) in new residential buildings.

Cons:

• Weight and Cost:
  Laminated units are heavier and more expensive than standard glazing, requiring reinforced framing and support structures to ensure safe installation.
• Product Variation and Misrepresentation:
  Multiple grades and interlayer types are available (e.g. PVB vs EVA vs SentryGlas), which can lead to consumer confusion or even mis-selling if the specification is not clearly understood.
• Installation Sensitivities:
  Correct framing and compatible sealants are crucial. For instance, PVB interlayers can suffer from delamination if exposed to moisture or incompatible silicones, compromising performance and clarity over time.