Start with these 7 essential questions to help guide your decision.
1. Do You Design and Manufacture Your Own Rooflights?
Some companies only resell rooflights—they don’t actually make them. This can limit customisation, slow down lead times, and create challenges if problems arise.
Ask whether the supplier designs and manufactures their own products. If they do, it means greater quality control and better product knowledge.
At Roof Maker, all products are designed and manufactured in-house at our state-of-the-art facility in Leicester. This allows for a highly tailored, efficient, and reliable service—whether you are after bespoke sizing, specialist glass options, or quick turnaround times.
Even more reassuring, Roof Maker is Made in Britain certified, meaning their products are officially recognised as being manufactured entirely within the UK. For consumers, this certification is a sign of:
- British engineering quality
- Strict manufacturing standards
- Support for local jobs and economy
- Lower carbon footprint compared to imported alternatives
When you buy from a Made in Britain manufacturer, you’re not only investing in a trusted, home-grown product—you’re also supporting craftsmanship, sustainability, and the UK economy.
We also deliver via our own fleet of vehicles, our dedicated delivery team are experts at handling our products and ensuring you receive the best service.
2. What Is the Ug-Value of Your Rooflights?
The ‘Ug’ stands for ‘U-value of glazing,’ and the lower this number, the better it is at keeping heat from escaping. Lower values mean better thermal performance and lower energy bills.
Measured in watts per square meter Kelvin (W/m²K), these values are more than just numbers – they’re assurances of how well your home can maintain its temperature.
At Roof Maker our fixed flat rooflights, for example, boast impressive Ug-values from 0.62 W/m²K, thanks to their triple glazing. Opt for our solar control glass, and you could see this value drop even lower, to around 0.57 W/m²K. Our Passive House rooflight has a Ug-value of 0.5 W/m2K. The Passive House standard is an internationally renowned accreditation designed to maximise the environmental performance of building materials.
Read our blog post ‘Understanding Ug-values: Your Key to Energy-Efficient Homes’ to understand more about the importance of Ug-values.
3. What Type of Glass Do You Use?
Not all glass is created equal. The type, thickness, and coatings used will affect everything from heat loss and solar gain to safety and soundproofing.
Ask whether the glass includes:
- Solar control glass to block excess heat
- Blue or Grey tinted glass to help reflect the UV rays and protect furniture
- Laminated or toughened glass for safety
- Easy clean coating for lower maintenance
- Noise reduction if you’re near traffic
- Privacy glass if you are overlooked
At Roof Maker we handcraft every order, meaning you can customise your rooflight for your exact needs.
4. Do You Offer Opening Rooflights?
Need ventilation? Not all rooflights open. Ask if the supplier offers:
- Manual or electric opening mechanisms
- Remote or sensor-controlled options
- Hinged or sliding designs
Opening rooflights are especially useful in kitchens, bathrooms, and loft conversions. They offer natural ventilation, allowing fresh air to circulate throughout your living space. This helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, reduces stale air, and improves air quality.
At Roof Maker we offer various opening rooflight options for flat or pitched roofs:
- Open-Lite® Access Rooflight not only opens for ventilation but allows you to unlock roof space
- Slimline® Roof Lanterns can have 1 or 2 opening vents
- Hinged-opening Rooflights offer ventilation when full access is not needed
- Luxlite® Pitched Rooflights are available in opening or fixed – our customers often mix them across multiple rooflights as the external look remains the same
We only make electric opening rooflights to you never have to worry about trying to open them manually especially if they are up high. We offer a rain sensor so you have peace of mind that the rooflight will close should the British weather take a turn.
5. How Is the Glass Fixed to the Frame?
This detail often gets overlooked—but it matters. A secure, weatherproof bond between the glass and frame prevents leaks and ensures durability. Look for systems that use structural silicone bonding, high-quality glazing tapes, and well-engineered seals. Premium rooflights may also include tri-seal systems or warm edge spacers for added thermal efficiency.
You may also need to check the rooflight you are buying is framed, you can read more in our blog post ‘Know the Difference: Frameless Views vs. Frameless Rooflights’ but an external frame enhances the longevity of the rooflight in a few really important ways.
- The frame encases the glazing unit and protects the glazing unit and your property from water ingress.
- It protects the fragile edges of the glazing units from sideways impacts which could damage or break the glass.
- The frame acts as a solid border, distributing load and enhancing the rooflight’s ability to withstand external pressure such as high winds.
6. What Finish Do You Use On Your Frames and Why?
The external finish protects your rooflight from the elements and keeps it looking good.
Ask what type of powder coating is used and how thick it is. A marine-grade finish is ideal because it offers long-lasting resistance to corrosion, UV damage, and weathering.
At Roof Maker all our rooflights have a marine-grade powder coated frame, our standard RAL colours are available at no extra charge or we can match to any RAL colour you need for a small extra cost.
7. What Warranties Come With Your Rooflights?
A comprehensive warranty shows the manufacturer stands by their product. Ask about:
- Glass unit guarantees (10–20 years is ideal)
- Structural warranties on frames and seals
- Electrical warranties for powered rooflights
Roof Maker offer an industry-leading 20-year seal warranty. We manufacture our own IGU’s (Integrated Glazing Units) so we are confident they are made to the highest quality. We also offer a 10-year warranty on the frame and 1 year on any electrical motor. Read more on our warranty page.
Choosing the right rooflight isn’t just about looks—it’s about performance, longevity, and peace of mind. By asking the right questions up front, you can avoid costly surprises later and ensure you’re investing in a solution that’s built to last. Need help or want to learn more? Reach out to suppliers, compare specs, and don’t be afraid to ask tough questions.