6 Different Types of Roof Windows
Roof windows are designed to bring natural light and ventilation into loft conversions, attic rooms, and pitched roofs. Unlike standard vertical windows, they are installed directly within the roof slope and must be specially designed to withstand weather exposure and roof angles.
There are several different types of roof windows available in the UK, each designed for different roof pitches, room layouts, and ventilation requirements.
Roof Window Types Comparison Table
| Type | Opening Method | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Centre Pivot | Rotates in the middle | Most loft conversions |
| Top Hung | Hinged at the top | Better views |
| Conservation | Traditional design | Listed buildings |
| Electric | Motorised opening | Hard to reach windows |
| Escape | Wide opening | Loft bedroom safety |
| Flat Roof | Fixed or opening | Extensions |
Types of Roof Windows
The main types of roof windows used in UK homes include:
1. Centre pivot roof windows, the most common design, rotating around a central hinge.
2. Top hung roof windows, hinged at the top to provide a wider opening and better views.
3. Conservation roof windows, designed for listed buildings and conservation areas.
4. Electric roof windows, motorised windows operated by remote control or wall switch.
5. Escape roof windows, designed to meet Building Regulations for loft conversion escape routes.
6. Flat roof windows, designed for flat roofs and modern extensions.
Each type is suited to different roof pitches, room layouts, and ventilation needs.
Understanding the differences between these options can help homeowners choose the most suitable roof window for their property.
This guide explains the main types of roof windows, how they work, and when each type is typically used.
What Is a Roof Window?
A roof window is a window installed within the slope of a pitched roof rather than a vertical wall.
They are commonly used in:
- Loft conversions
- Attic bedrooms
- Home offices in roof spaces
- Extensions with pitched roofs
Roof windows differ from skylights because they are designed to be within reach and open for ventilation, whereas skylights are usually fixed or positioned out of reach. Unlike the other different types of windows roof windows are only for the roof of the houses.
Main Types of Roof Windows
Below are the most common types used in UK homes.
1. Centre Pivot Roof Windows
Centre pivot roof windows are the most common type of roof window installed in loft conversions.
The window sash rotates around a hinge positioned in the middle of the frame. This design allows the window to be opened easily and enables the external glass to be cleaned safely from inside the room.
Key features include:
- Pivot hinge positioned in the centre
- Easy cleaning from inside the property
- Suitable for a wide range of roof pitches
- Usually the most affordable roof window option
Centre pivot windows are particularly popular in attic bedrooms and loft spaces where the window is installed at a height that is easy to reach.
2. Top Hung Roof Windows
Top hung roof windows open outward from hinges located at the top of the frame.
This creates a wider opening and allows the sash to move completely out of the line of sight, providing a clearer view compared with centre pivot designs.
Advantages include:
- Improved outward views
- Larger opening for ventilation
- Suitable when windows are installed lower in the roof
Top hung windows are often chosen for loft bedrooms where homeowners want a more conventional window opening style.
3. Conservation Roof Windows
Conservation roof windows are designed specifically for heritage properties, listed buildings, and conservation areas.
These windows are designed to look more traditional and less visually intrusive.
Typical features include:
- Black external frames
- Slim external profiles
- Glazing bars that resemble traditional roof windows
Planning authorities often require conservation roof windows in areas where modern roof window designs would not be permitted.
4. Electric Roof Windows
Electric roof windows use a motor to open and close the window automatically.
They are usually controlled by:
- A remote control
- A wall switch
- Smart home systems
Electric roof windows are commonly used when the window is positioned out of reach, such as in high ceilings or vaulted loft spaces.
Many models also include rain sensors that automatically close the window if rain is detected.
5. Escape Roof Windows
Escape roof windows are designed to meet Building Regulations for emergency escape routes in loft conversions.
When opened, the window creates a larger clear opening that allows occupants to escape in the event of a fire.
Typical features include:
- A wider opening angle
- Quick release hinge mechanisms
- Compliance with loft conversion fire safety requirements
These windows are commonly required when converting a loft into a habitable room such as a bedroom.
6. Flat Roof Windows
Flat roof windows are designed for roofs with little or no pitch.
They are commonly installed in:
- Flat roof extensions
- Kitchen extensions
- Modern architectural homes
Flat roof windows typically use double or triple glazed glass units combined with insulated frames to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.
Roof Window Sizes
Roof windows are manufactured in a range of standard sizes designed to fit between typical roof rafter spacings.
Common roof window widths include:
- 550 mm
- 660 mm
- 780 mm
- 940 mm
- 1140 mm
Typical roof window heights include:
- 780 mm
- 980 mm
- 1180 mm
- 1400 mm
Smaller roof windows are often used in bathrooms or narrow roof sections, while larger models are commonly installed in loft bedrooms and living areas where more daylight is required.
In many loft conversions, two smaller roof windows installed side by side can provide more balanced natural light than a single large window.
Miscellaneous costs: You may need to allow extra budget for things like access equipment, upgraded glazing, specialist locks, or bespoke finishes. It is also wise to keep a small contingency of about ten to sixteen percent for any unexpected changes.
Roof Window Materials
Roof windows are available in several different frame materials.
Timber Roof Windows
Timber roof windows are the traditional option and are commonly used in loft conversions.
Advantages include:
- traditional appearance
- strong structural performance
- good insulation properties
However, timber frames usually require occasional maintenance such as repainting.
uPVC Roof Windows
uPVC roof windows provide a low maintenance alternative to timber.
They are often used in rooms where moisture levels are higher, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Benefits include:
- moisture resistance
- minimal maintenance
- often lower cost than timber
Aluminium Roof Windows
Aluminium roof windows are often used in modern homes and contemporary extensions.
They offer:
- slim sightlines
- strong structural performance
- a modern appearance
These windows are commonly used in larger roof glazing installations.
Popular Roof Window Brands in the UK
Several manufacturers dominate the roof window market in the UK.
Velux
Velux is the most widely recognised roof window brand and is commonly specified in loft conversions. The company offers centre pivot, top hung, electric, and conservation roof window designs.
Fakro
Fakro roof windows are a popular alternative to Velux and offer similar functionality, often at competitive prices.
Keylite
Keylite is another well known roof window manufacturer, particularly popular with installers due to its quick installation systems and flashing kits.
Roof Window Pitch Requirements
Roof windows must be installed within specific roof pitch ranges to ensure proper operation and weather resistance.
Most standard roof windows are designed for roof pitches between:
15 degrees and 90 degrees
If the roof pitch is lower than this, specialist flashing kits or flat roof glazing systems may be required.
Manufacturers normally provide recommended pitch ranges for each model.
Roof Window Blinds and Accessories
Roof windows can be fitted with a range of accessories designed to control light and improve comfort.
Common accessories include:
- blackout blinds for bedrooms
- light filtering blinds
- solar powered blinds
- insect screens
- external heat protection blinds
These accessories can help reduce glare, improve sleep, and control heat gain during summer months.
Which Type of Roof Window Is Best?
The best roof window depends on several factors, including:
- roof pitch
- height of the window within the room
- ventilation requirements
- planning restrictions
For most loft conversions, centre pivot roof windows are the most common choice because they are affordable and easy to operate.
However, top hung roof windows are often preferred when the window is positioned lower in the roof, as they provide better outward views.
Roof Windows vs Skylights
Many homeowners confuse roof windows with skylights. The main difference is accessibility.
| Roof Windows | Skylights |
|---|---|
| Installed within reach | Often installed out of reach |
| Designed to open | Often fixed |
| Provide ventilation | Primarily provide light |
| Common in loft rooms | Common in flat roof extensions |
How Much Do Roof Windows Cost?
Typical roof window prices in the UK include:
- Centre pivot roof windows: £300 to £700
- Top hung roof windows: £500 to £900
- Electric roof windows: £900 to £2,000+
- Flat roof windows: £400 to £1,200
Installation costs vary depending on roof construction, access, and whether structural work is required.
Roof windows are one of the most effective ways to bring natural light into loft spaces. In our experience, centre pivot roof windows remain the most widely used because they offer a good balance of cost, ease of operation, and compatibility with most roof pitches.
FAQs About Roof Windows
Windows installed in roof slopes are usually called roof windows or skylights, depending on whether they are designed to open and be reached from inside the room.
The most common type is the centre pivot roof window, widely used in loft conversions and attic rooms.
Roof windows provide both ventilation and natural light, while skylights are typically fixed and designed mainly to bring light into a room.
Most roof windows are designed for pitched roofs between 15° and 90°, although specialist products are available for flat roofs.
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