As a long-time admirer of roof lanterns, I am desperate to incorporate one into my new extension plans. Not only am I drawn to the way they bring natural light pouring into the spaces they grace, but I also love their sculptural forms and the architectural interest they bring to a house, both inside and out.
That said, I do have a couple of concerns about fitting what is, essentially, a big glass box into the ceiling of the kitchen. One is how to prevent overheating when using roof lanterns, although given the orientation of the space in question, I am not so worried about this. Of greater concern to me is how I'll keep it clean. Our neighbours have a section of glass roof and it is constantly covered in fallen leaves, bird mess and watermarks.
I really don't want to be having to call in the window cleaner more often than is necessary to keep my new glass structure gleaming, so I asked the experts for their tips on cleaning a roof lantern on a DIY basis – and their advice on choosing a design that will minimise maintenance.
How to clean the outside of a roof lantern
1. Start by making sure it's safe
I have to admit, cleaning windows is not one of my favourite home maintenance jobs, which is why I am so pleased to see the window cleaner every six weeks. That said, it is sometimes necessary to give them a once over in-between his visits. While I might not love the task, it is still do-able, but how about when it comes to a giant window set into to the roof? Cleaning the Velux windows is hard enough.
Rebecca Clayton, a director at IQ Glass, explains that while not impossible, this is certainly a job to approach with a level of caution. "Cleaning a roof lantern yourself is possible in many cases, but the first consideration should always be safe access. Roof lanterns and roof glazing are overhead glass elements, so homeowners should never assume they can stand on or climb over the glass, unless it has been specifically designed and specified for that level of access.
"Where safe access is not available, the safest option is usually to clean from ground level, or from a secure position using a telescopic water-fed pole with a soft brush attachment," adds Rebecca.
This kit has everything you need to get even really high-level windows clean, without ever leaving the ground. It comes with a water-fed brush and soap dispenser, as well as a cobweb duster and squeegee to prevent streaks and water marks.
2. Clear debris first and then wash
So, the good news is that cleaning a roof lantern – or other types of rooflights for that matter – on a DIY basis is definitely not an impossible task. But how to go about it?
"For general cleaning, we would advise removing any loose debris first, particularly from the frame edges, glazing bars and drainage areas," advises Rebecca Clayton. "The glass can then be cleaned with clean water, a mild detergent and a soft, non-abrasive brush, sponge or cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, scrapers and pressure washers, as these can damage specialist coatings, seals or frame finishes."
Scott Nicholas, MD of Roof Maker Limited has some more tips. "If you want to clean the outside yourself, you’ll need to ensure that the area where your roof lantern is placed can support your weight. If you’re certain, get a sturdy ladder and a partner to hold the ladder while you climb.
"You’ll want to first remove debris, moss, and mould," continues Scott. "Some of this may be easily picked off but for tougher jobs like mould, you’ll need mould remover. Again, as with cleaning the inside you must not use any abrasive products with harsh chemicals that can compromise the glass or frame. Once you have removed debris, you’ll need to repeat the cleaning process. Use a soft sponge and non-abrasive glass cleaner before drying with a microfibre cloth."
Shop roof lantern cleaning kit
If you plan on regularly tackling the task of cleaning your windows, a super sturdy, extendable ladder is a must. This one extends to 7m and comes with a stabilising bar. Made from strong aluminium, with steel rung guides, the ladder comes in sections for easier transporting
These economical window cleaning cloths have been designed so that you need no cleaning product at all – simply spray your windows with water and wipe away with a dry cloth. They are designed to remove every last spot of grease and grime and are machine washable – with a 300 wash guarantee
Powerful enough to remove every last trace of dirt and grime from your roof lantern, yet promising a streak-free finish. Only a small amount is required meaning this solution offers fantastic value for money, plus it is kind to the skin
Rebecca Clayton is Communications Director at IQ Glass. She has many years of experience with the company, which specialises in architectural glazing and installs some of the most pioneering architectural glass technology available today.
Ever since 2001, when Roof Maker was started, every rooflight they sell has been designed and developed specifically to address maximising the flow of light into any room. Every rooflight they manufacture is made to measure and built by hand in their own on-site factory
What is the best way to clean the inside of a roof lantern?
Of course it is't just the exterior of a roof lantern that needs cleaning – the inside will need dealing with too. This will be particularly important if you are installing a lantern as part of your kitchen windows ideas as steam, grease and so on can quickly make glass dirty.
1. Preparation is key
Scott Nicholas, explains how to approach the interior of your lantern. "To clean the inside, preparation is key. We recommend choosing a dry but overcast day if possible as sunny weather can lead to streaky marks forming on the glass.
"Start by moving any furniture or objects from beneath the zone you want to clean," continues Scott. "This includes furniture, small appliances, or anything else you don’t want to get covered in dust or soapy water. You’ll need a ladder and someone to hold it so you can clean and scrub inside your roof lantern without shaking the ladder. If you feel you are not able to work at heights safely then we recommend paying an expert."
2. Remove dust and debris, then wash and dry
"Start by dusting the inside with a duster to remove any loose dust or debris," advises Scott Nicholas. "Fill a bucket of water with glass cleaner or dishwashing liquid and use non-abrasive cleaners and sponges. Wipe the panes and frames carefully with the sponge before drying with a microfibre cloth. It’s important to make sure you dry as soon as you are done cleaning to prevent streaks forming from air drying."
What design features could help with cleaning a roof lantern?
Does self-cleaning glass really work?
There have been some huge glazing innovations in recent years, but the one I am the most interested in is self-cleaning glass.
Edward Stobart, technical sales manager at IDSystems, explains how it works. "When you choose a glass roof lantern it is important to consider the glass specification. In addition to solar control glass, which features a coating that reduces the heat that passes through the glazing from direct sunlight, it is also definitely worth opting for glass with a self-cleaning coating.
"The microscopic coating is applied in the manufacturing process of the glass to the outside of the sealed unit," continues Edward. "The coating works in two ways, firstly through photocatalytic action which reacts with UV rays from the sun to breakdown and loosen organic matter (like bird droppings and pollen), which can then be washed away by the next rainfall.
"Secondly, the coating creates a hydrophilic action which prevents rainwater from beading, which leaves streaks when the water dries," he continues. "Instead, the water is spread evenly over the surface as a thin layer which allows the water to drain away leaving a streak-free finish."
Rebecca Clayton is keen to point out, however, that specifying self-cleaning glass doesn't mean you'll never have to pull out the squeegee again.
"It is important to understand that low-maintenance glass doesn't mean 'never-clean' glass. It is sometimes referred to as self-cleaning glass, but that can be misleading. The coating will reduce the need for cleaning, but the roof lantern may still need occasional rinsing or manual cleaning, especially during dry weather, after building work, near trees, close to busy roads or in coastal locations," she warns.
"IQ Glass offers low maintenance glass, which is applied to the external face of the glass to create a smoother surface. This helps prevent dirt and contaminants from bonding to the glass, making the roof lantern easier to clean and reducing how frequently cleaning is required. It is particularly useful for hard-to-reach roof glazing and for projects in harsher environments, such as coastal homes," she notes.
Think about the style and pitch early on
While I clearly can't expect my roof lantern or any ceiling glazing to be entirely maintenance free, according to the experts I spoke to, there are steps I could take, at the design stage, to ensure the upkeep required to keep it sparkling is minimal.
"Choosing a design with a pitch of around 30-degrees will significantly improve the ability of any self-cleaning coatings to function," points out Edward Stobart. "This is steep enough for water to run off easily while low enough to maintain a sleek and stylish aesthetic."
"The best advice is to make the roof lantern easy to maintain from the outset," adds Rebecca Clayton. "Choosing the right glass specification, considering low maintenance coatings, ensuring a suitable roof pitch and drainage, and understanding the safety requirements for roof glazing maintenance will all help keep the glass looking its best for longer.
"Many of our frameless glass lanterns and structural glass roofs are designed as bespoke architectural glazing systems, so we always encourage clients to think about maintenance at the design stage," continues Rebecca. "This includes the pitch of the glass, water run-off, drainage detailing and whether there will be a safe way to access the roof glazing for future cleaning or maintenance."
A long serving member of the IDSystems team, for the past 20 years Edward has advised and supported self-builders and renovators to identify the most suitable glazing options for their project. He has recently finished a complete renovation and remodel of his own home, transforming a tired 1960s house into a stylish modern family home. His expertise ensures that each project is equipped with cutting-edge, bespoke glazing designs that enhance both functionality and aesthetics.
FAQs
How often should you clean a roof lantern?
It sounds like cleaning a roof lantern is not the impossible job I thought it might be. Even so, I am keen to know how often I'll have to carry out the task.
"How often a roof lantern needs cleaning will depend on the setting," advises Rebecca Clayton. "A lantern below trees or in an exposed environment may need attention more often, while rooflights or roof glazing in a more sheltered location may only need occasional maintenance.
"As a general guide, homeowners should check the glass, drainage channels and frame areas a couple of times a year and clean as required."
There are so many considerations to bear in mind when choosing window styles for your home – but this is a crucial element to get right, both in terms of the appearance of your home as well as how it performs for you. Make sure you research all the options thoroughly before making your final decision, particularly if you are thinking of going all out with a full glass roof extension idea.
