Rooflights can do wonders for any property, maximising sunlight, adding visual intrigue, and making a property feel a bit more modern and trendy.
However, not every rooflight is applicable to any space. When deciding on a rooflight for a project, it’s not just about the size, location, and glazing. Firstly, you have to decide between two main choices: framed or frameless rooflights.
While each one comes with its own benefits and features, deciding between the two can be challenging, especially when you don’t know the difference. That’s where TuffX comes in. Today, we’ll discuss the advantages and potential drawbacks of each option so you can step on the right foot with your project.
We provide a range of high-quality glass applications for builders, contractors, architects, and more, so you know you’re getting the best for your clients.
Understanding Framed Rooflights
When looking at most residential and commercial properties, you’ll notice that framed rooflights are a go-to choice. Now, this is for several reasons, one of which is that the visible frame offers a combination of practicality and visual appeal, adding an extra level of detail for projects that want to make a statement.
Property owners who value durability over minimalism will often go with framed rooflights; the frame is often made from sturdy materials such as aluminium, timber, and composite blends, offering excellent support to the glass pane. Not only does this ensure longevity, but the distinct border draws the eyes upwards, adding intrigue to any room.
For areas with heavy rainfall, this frame adds an extra layer of protection against water ingress and condensation. Framed rooflights also offer more room for customisation, with a choice between various frame colours, sizes, and styles—there’s something to match any interior.
The Benefits of Framed Rooflights
Apart from their visual appeal, there are many reasons why framed rooflights are favoured by builders, homeowners, and business owners alike.
This includes:
- Improved weather resistance: With a watertight seal frame, framed rooflights are the more practical option when it comes to protecting property from damage. TuffX framed rooflights are designed to encourage water runoff, protecting a property’s interior and preventing costly repairs.
- Thermal efficiency: Many framed rooflights include advanced thermal breaks that act as an insulating layer. This layer helps to keep warm air in and drafts out, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems. TuffX rooflights come with excellent U values for great thermal comfort.
- Strength and stability: The frame provides additional structural support, preventing the glass panel from shattering or falling due to heavy impact from external forces. If broken, the glass remains in the frame to prevent the risk of injury.
- Customisation: Framed rooflights can come in various finishes and types of glass (e.g., tinted, double-glazed, etc.). No matter what style of property you’re working with, framed rooflights will blend seamlessly with the interior.
- Suitable for ventilation: Many framed rooflights include integrated opening mechanisms, providing additional ventilation in areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Therefore lowering the risk of mould, dampness, and mildew growth in a property.
Things to Consider
Yes, framed rooflights may be the better option in the long run due to their added support and resistance against wind, rain, and snow.
However, for budget projects, this may not be the most suitable option. Their higher upfront cost can add extra expenses to a project, from the cost of materials to labour. While the initial investment will lead to cost savings in the long run, sometimes the upfront cost just isn’t doable.
In terms of appearance, the framed border can slightly obstruct the view, which may impact the final decision for projects where visibility is important. However, this does add more stability, and it’s a perfect option for a maximalist.
Framed rooflights require periodic cleaning and inspecting to ensure the frame is intact, which isn’t too time-consuming, but it can be when compared to frameless rooflights. For a more low-maintenance option, choose aluminium frames.
Best Applications for Framed Rooflights
- Home extensions and kitchen renovations
- Garden rooms and home offices
- Shopping centre and restaurants
- Hotels
- Loft conversions
- Conservatories
- Warehouses and educational settings
Understanding Frameless Rooflights
Now, while framed rooflights are a fan favourite in the building and construction world, they’re not always everyone’s top choice. People who are looking for a more sleek, clean, and modern appearance will often lean more toward frameless rooflights.
There’s no denying how pleasing they are to the eye with their ‘floating glass effect.’ It’s also no surprise why people who value minimalism in architecture opt for frameless rooflights; they provide unobstructed views of the sky and surroundings, creating a bright and airy atmosphere that blends with the landscape.
However, the name is quite misleading, as frameless rooflights do, in fact, have a frame; it’s just typically concealed within the roof structure. The hidden frame is invisible to us (unlike framed rooflights), blending the glass panel with the roof for a flush appearance.
While it’s true that frameless rooflights aren’t as beneficial for keeping water out and insulating property, they still offer good levels of protection that are suitable for a home. However, they may not be as beneficial for properties like warehouses, offices, or buildings that require maximum security.
The Benefits of Frameless Rooflights
Sure, frameless rooflights may fall short in terms of performance when compared to framed rooflights. But that doesn’t mean they don’t add value to a property or offer a wide range of benefits of their own.
- Sleek appearance: With a simple, polished design, frameless rooflights fit perfectly with modern or contemporary homes, offices, restaurants, etc., adding a touch of sophistication.
- Uninterrupted views: The less obvious frame provides uninterrupted views of the sky or the surrounding landscape. This creates a closer connection to nature and provides a focal point in a property, adding intrigue.
- Maximised natural light: Frameless rooflights allow more natural light to enter the building, creating a brighter, more inviting environment. Increased daylight can enhance mood levels, regulate circadian rhythms, and create a better environment for productivity in offices, warehouses, or homes.
- Increased property value: For property owners looking to sell in the near future, frameless rooflights can increase the value of the property, attracting potential buyers. This makes them a wise investment in the long run.
- Customisation: With a variety of styles to choose from, you can opt for various styles, sizes, and glazing options for your rooflights. This makes them ideal for a variety of projects, with the ability to customise the finished product.
Things to Consider
Frameless rooflights tend to be more affordable than their framed counterparts; however, without the frame, they may offer less protection against harsh weather conditions and everyday wear and tear.
When choosing frameless rooflights, opt for double or triple glazing and toughened or laminated glass for durability and longevity. For effective water run-off, opt for frameless rooflights that include integrated drainage channels.
Frameless rooflights that are effectively sealed will prevent leaks and damage. If thermal performance is important to you, consider glass with low-emissivity coatings to reflect heat into the room, keeping the interior cosy and energy bills lower.
We recommended steering away from frameless rooflights for load-bearing applications or areas that are prone to heavy external forces.
Best Applications for Frameless Rooflights
- Living rooms, kitchens, and dining areas
- Retail stores
- Restaurants
- Bathrooms and spa areas
- Attic and loft conversions
Making Your Decision: Framed or Frameless?
In the end, the decision ultimately comes down to the type of property you’re working on and style preference.
While frameless rooflights provide unobstructed views, enhanced natural lighting, and a streamlined appearance, framed rooflights offer great structural support, weather resistance, and thermal efficiency.
However, overall, framed rooflights offer more benefits in the long run; their unmatched durability makes them a smart long-term investment.
If you’re looking for framed and frameless rooflights for your project today, you can find a skylight that meets all of your requirements here at TuffX. The Infinity Rooflights range boasts a collection of framed and frameless rooflights, perfect for commercial and residential properties with flat roofs.