The home you live in needs to be energy efficient to stop wastage of energy and to reduce fuel bills. So, when you are making modifications to your property, you need to make sure that your home complies with energy conservation regulations and best practices and is not compromised because of the changes you plan to make.
Look at the roof window U-value
You can take steps to reduce the amount of heat that is lost through your windows and door's glazing by choosing products which have a high U-value.
To comply with Building Regulations, you must make sure that the maximum U-value for your installation is not exceeded. The regulations are different depending on whether you are constructing a new building or modifying an existing structure, so it's always advisable to consult a professional before starting any work to make sure it meets building's approval.
If you install a rooflight that is in close proximity to a boundary, it's important to get approval from Building Regulations as the fire performance of the window will need to be assessed.
In past years, the idea that roof windows would result in heat loss what somewhat justifiable but modern, double glazed roof windows like those from Duratech, Velux, Roto and Fakro are engineered to be fully compliant with building regulations and both the window and the frame are designed to result in as low a heat loss as possible. Much of the advances are as a result of improved precision in the manufacture which eliminated the possibility of drafts as well as the investment that companies like VKR Holdings (who make Duratech and Velux roof windows) have made in improving the materials used, all the while maintaining an environmentally conscious approach, using sustainable woods and a clean manufacturing process.
Adding a roof window blind will also further reduce the potential heat loss from the window and will help the double glazing in it's job of insulation.
