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December 1, 2022•4 min read

What factors influence the price of rooflights?

Price is one of the most common topics discussed during conversations with our advisors...

What factors influence the price of rooflights?

Price is one of the most common topics discussed during conversations with our advisors. Investors often look for simple price lists, but in the case of professional industrial solutions, such as those offered by Wirmet, the price is the result of many technical parameters.

Why can two rooflights of the same size cost completely different amounts? Here are the key factors that shape the final valuation.

What factors influence the price of rooflights? An investor's guide

Purchasing rooflights is an investment for years, intended to bring savings on electricity and heating bills. However, for the system to be effective, it must be "tailor-made." Understanding what affects costs allows for better budget planning and helps avoid poor decisions.

1. Dimensions and construction (Continuous vs. Point rooflight) The most obvious factor is size.

  • Point rooflights with standard dimensions (e.g., 100x100 cm) usually have fixed catalog prices.
  • Continuous rooflights (skylight bands) are priced individually because their price depends on length, width, and the span of the arch. The wider the band, the thicker the aluminum profiles and polycarbonate sheets needed to ensure the structure can withstand snow loads.

2. Type and thickness of the filling What the rooflight is "glazed" with has a huge impact on the cost:

  • Multi-wall polycarbonate: The most popular choice. The price increases with the thickness of the sheet (e.g., from 10 mm to 32 mm) and the number of its chambers.
  • Thermal insulation parameters (U): The lower the heat transfer coefficient (i.e., the "warmer" the rooflight), the higher the material price, but also the greater the savings on heating the hall.
  • Coloration: Opal (milky) or smoked sheets may have a slightly different price than standard clear ones.

3. Functionality: Fixed, opening, or smoke exhaust? The opening mechanism is the element that differentiates prices the most:

  • Fixed rooflights: The cheapest option, used solely for lighting.
  • Ventilation hatches: Equipped with electric actuators (230V), they increase the cost due to the drive mechanism and wiring.
  • Smoke exhaust vents: These are the most advanced devices. They require certified actuators (24V), a control panel, sensors, and buttons. They are more expensive but essential for the fire safety of the facility.

4. Rooflight base parameters The base is the element connecting the rooflight to the roof. Its price is influenced by:

  • Height: Standard 15–30 cm is cheaper than high bases (e.g., 50–75 cm) required for thick layers of roof insulation.
  • Thermal insulation: Bases can be insulated with mineral wool or PIR foam of various thicknesses.
  • Material: Galvanized steel sheet is the standard, but painting it a specific RAL color involves a surcharge.

5. Safety requirements (NRO and loads) Fire regulations may impose the obligation to use NRO (non-fire spreading) materials. Special coatings or under-polycarbonate fabrics increase production costs but are crucial for obtaining building approval from the fire department. Additionally, in regions with heavy snowfall, structural reinforcement is necessary, which is also reflected in the price.

Summary – why is it worth asking for an individual quote?

By buying directly from a manufacturer like Wirmet, you bypass middleman margins and get a product tailored to your project. Often, a minor change in the specification (e.g., choosing a different polycarbonate thickness) allows for significant cost optimization while maintaining all standards.

Want to know the exact cost of rooflights for your hall? Send us a roof plan or project specification – we will prepare a free, no-obligation quote for you in several variants.

Roof skylights