Why Circular Rooflights Stand Out
Benefits & Best Uses
As with every other kind of rooflight, circular rooflights come with their unique set of benefits which makes them a premium choice. While flat rooflights are favored for their practicality, circular rooflights have the advantage of architectural design, light diffusion, and beauty which can’t be replicated.
In this post, we explore why circular rooflights stand out and highlight the factors that make them a premium choice.
When to Use Round Rooflights?
In contrast to traditional rectangular skylights, innovative round rooflights have been developed to enhance the aesthetics of buildings with curved and nonstandard architectural lighting applications. Their beauty combined with functionality makes them an excellent selection to consider for many design
Extensions and Round Buildings – Structures with curvilinear features like domes, rotundas, or circular rooms greatly benefit from round rooflights for symmetry.
Feature Skylights – In residential or commercial buildings with set esteem, circular rooflights serve as an accent feature where style and sophistication are greatly needed.
Atriums and Stairwells – Their symmetric light distribution means they perform incredibly well for central spaces like stairwells and atriums that need a great deal of basic lighting.
When to Use Round Rooflights?
Living Spaces – Ideal for open-plan kitchens, dining areas, and lounges, circular rooflights enhance brightness and create a sense of space.
Bathrooms – Providing natural light without compromising privacy, they are perfect for bathrooms and ensuites.
Commercial Buildings – Offices, retail spaces, and showrooms benefit from the stylish and functional appeal of round rooflights.
Stairwells & Hallways – These areas often lack windows, making circular rooflights a great solution to introduce daylight.
Garden Rooms & Extensions – Whether for a home office or a relaxation space, circular rooflights make a stunning addition to garden rooms.
Why Are Circular Rooflights More Expensive?
Despite their appealing aesthetic, circular rooflights come at a higher cost due to the intricate and complex nature of their manufacture and installation. Here’s why:
Glass Processing & Shaping
Unlike standard rectangular or square glass panels, circular glass must be precision-cut into a round shape. This process requires specialized machinery, increasing production costs.
Rolled Frames for Exact Diameter
While standard aluminum or steel frames work for flat rooflights, circular rooflights require frames that have been rolled to the correct diameter. This additional fabrication step adds to the cost.
Welding & Upstand Construction
To ensure structural integrity and airtightness, the rolled frames must be welded to create a continuously sealed structure. This helps keep the rooflight secure and weatherproof—making the process far more intricate than standard rectangular frames.
Skilled Interior Finishing
Finishing the interior of a circular rooflight opening demands highly experienced carpenters. Unlike standard rooflight edges, circular openings require:
Installation of curved plasterboards Custom-cut insulation and sealing materials Precision ceramic glass printing for black edge banding
Most rooflights feature a black cosmetic band around the edge, applied using ceramic glass printing technology. Achieving a flawless, circular band requires precise printing techniques, further adding to the expense.
Custom Upstand Fabrication
The upstand ensures the installation remains weatherproof and thermally insulated. Circular upstands must either be CNC-cut from timber or, for a more premium option, moulded from concrete. Compared to standard rectangular upstands, this level of customisation makes installation both costly and time-consuming.
Final Thoughts
For a high-quality circular rooflight, it’s essential to source from an experienced rooflight specialist. The process—from frame rolling and welding to achieving a flawless finish—requires skill, precision, and expertise.
At Overhead Glazing, we have successfully designed and installed numerous circular rooflights, including projects for NHS buildings. Our technical team is here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring a seamless experience from design to installation.
Get in touch with us today, and let us assist you with your rooflight requirements.
