Thinking Beyond the Frame - What Architects Should Consider When Specifying Rooflights

July 28, 2025

We know all too well that rooflights can completely transform a space, flooding interiors with natural light, supporting ventilation, and enhancing wellbeing. But getting the specification right isn’t always straightforward. From acoustic performance to coastal durability, there’s a lot to consider.

We have extensive experience of working closely with architects, designers and specifiers from concept to completion, ensuring every rooflight we supply is the perfect fit for the project. With more than 30 years of experience and a portfolio that spans schools, hospitals, heritage landmarks and cutting-edge commercial builds, Whitesales is here to help you get it right first time.

Here are some key factors to consider when specifying rooflights so you can get it right, every time.

Ventilation

Will the rooflight support natural comfort ventilation or does the project require integrated smoke control? Our rooflights can be fitted with openers or louvres to meet airflow and fire safety requirements without compromising on aesthetics. We supported this approach at Woodland View ASN School, helping balance daylight with fresh air to create a calm, supportive learning environment.

Glazing Type

Clear or diffused? That choice affects how light behaves inside the space. In environments like sports halls, diffused glass is ideal for eliminating glare and shadows, reducing the need for blinds and making the interior easier to use.

We’ll advise on the best option based on the building’s purpose and user needs.

Fragility

The CWCT classifies rooflights by their impact resistance, which is crucial for safe specification. The ratings are:

• Class 0 – Walk-on

• Class 1 – Safe for occasional maintenance

• Class 2 – For use near accessible areas

• Class 3 – Fragile

We’ll guide you on selecting the right fragility class for each part of the roof, with advice rooted in real-world application and regulation.

Thermal Performance

With tightening Building Regulations and the growing emphasis on Passivhaus compliant construction, thermal performance must be considered from the very beginning of the design process.

U-values play a critical role in ensuring energy efficiency, particularly in overhead glazing, where heat loss can be more significant than with vertical installations. We work closely with you to understand your specific project requirements and performance targets. This collaborative approach ensures your rooflights contribute to both regulatory compliance and wider sustainability goals.

 

Acoustic Considerations

Projects near airports or major roads may require enhanced acoustic glazing. We offer specification advice and high-performance options to help reduce sound transmission, ensuring internal spaces stay calm and quiet.

Lead Times and Budget

On tight timelines or smaller-scale builds, our stock-size rooflights offer quick delivery and cost-effective performance. For complex projects, we offer 100% bespoke solutions across a range of configurations including ridgelights, dualpitch, pyramids and barrel vaults. If you can design it, we can deliver i

Ongoing Support

Our in-house team supports architects and specifiers at every RIBA stage. We offer detailed CAD drawings, BIM objects, technical data sheets and hands-on guidance to help ensure regulatory compliance and avoid costly site delays.

Whether you’re specifying for a school, heritage site or high-end residential project, you can rely on us to help bring your daylighting strategy to life.

Work with a Partner Who Understands the Detail

Whitesales is about more than just supply rooflights. We collaborate. From product selection to bespoke engineering and site-specific adaptations, we help you find solutions that work, in every sense.

Explore more of our case studies or contact us to discuss your next project.

We know all too well that rooflights can completely transform a space, flooding interiors with natural light, supporting ventilation, and enhancing wellbeing. But getting the specification right isn’t always straightforward. From acoustic performance to coastal durability, there’s a lot to consider.

We have extensive experience of working closely with architects, designers and specifiers from concept to completion, ensuring every rooflight we supply is the perfect fit for the project. With more than 30 years of experience and a portfolio that spans schools, hospitals, heritage landmarks and cutting-edge commercial builds, Whitesales is here to help you get it right first time.

Here are some key factors to consider when specifying rooflights so you can get it right, every time.

Ventilation

Will the rooflight support natural comfort ventilation or does the project require integrated smoke control? Our rooflights can be fitted with openers or louvres to meet airflow and fire safety requirements without compromising on aesthetics. We supported this approach at Woodland View ASN School, helping balance daylight with fresh air to create a calm, supportive learning environment.

Glazing Type

Clear or diffused? That choice affects how light behaves inside the space. In environments like sports halls, diffused glass is ideal for eliminating glare and shadows, reducing the need for blinds and making the interior easier to use.

We’ll advise on the best option based on the building’s purpose and user needs.

Fragility

The CWCT classifies rooflights by their impact resistance, which is crucial for safe specification. The ratings are:

• Class 0 – Walk-on

• Class 1 – Safe for occasional maintenance

• Class 2 – For use near accessible areas

• Class 3 – Fragile

We’ll guide you on selecting the right fragility class for each part of the roof, with advice rooted in real-world application and regulation.

Thermal Performance

With tightening Building Regulations and the growing emphasis on Passivhaus compliant construction, thermal performance must be considered from the very beginning of the design process.

U-values play a critical role in ensuring energy efficiency, particularly in overhead glazing, where heat loss can be more significant than with vertical installations. We work closely with you to understand your specific project requirements and performance targets. This collaborative approach ensures your rooflights contribute to both regulatory compliance and wider sustainability goals.

 

Acoustic Considerations

Projects near airports or major roads may require enhanced acoustic glazing. We offer specification advice and high-performance options to help reduce sound transmission, ensuring internal spaces stay calm and quiet.

Lead Times and Budget

On tight timelines or smaller-scale builds, our stock-size rooflights offer quick delivery and cost-effective performance. For complex projects, we offer 100% bespoke solutions across a range of configurations including ridgelights, dualpitch, pyramids and barrel vaults. If you can design it, we can deliver i

Ongoing Support

Our in-house team supports architects and specifiers at every RIBA stage. We offer detailed CAD drawings, BIM objects, technical data sheets and hands-on guidance to help ensure regulatory compliance and avoid costly site delays.

Whether you’re specifying for a school, heritage site or high-end residential project, you can rely on us to help bring your daylighting strategy to life.

Work with a Partner Who Understands the Detail

Whitesales is about more than just supply rooflights. We collaborate. From product selection to bespoke engineering and site-specific adaptations, we help you find solutions that work, in every sense.

Explore more of our case studies or contact us to discuss your next project.

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Thinking Beyond the Frame - What Architects Should Consider When Specifying Rooflights

July 28, 2025