Skylights and Velux roof windows are brilliant for flooding your home with natural light, but sometimes you need a break from all that sunshine. Maybe you’re trying to sleep in on a Sunday morning, or perhaps you’re battling the afternoon glare on your laptop screen. The good news? You absolutely can put shutters on skylights and roof windows, and it might just be the home improvement solution you never knew you needed.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about skylight shutters, from the practical benefits to installation considerations. Whether you’re dealing with a traditional skylight or a modern roof lantern, we’ll show you how shutters can transform your space from sun-soaked to perfectly controlled.
Understanding skylights and roof windows
Before we dive into the shutter solutions, let’s clarify what we’re working with. Skylights are fixed windows installed in your roof to allow natural light into the room below. They can’t be opened and are purely designed for illumination. Roof windows, on the other hand, are hinged and can be opened for ventilation as well as light.
Both serve similar purposes but have different installation requirements and potential challenges when it comes to adding window treatments. You’ll find them in everything from converted lofts and extensions to modern open-plan homes where maximising natural light is a priority.
The most common types include flat roof windows, pitched roof windows, and the increasingly popular roof lanterns – those stunning glass structures that create a real wow factor in kitchens and living spaces.
The possibility of shutters on skylights and roof windows
Here’s the short answer: yes, you absolutely can fit shutters to skylights and roof windows! While it might seem like a tricky proposition given the angle and location, modern shutter technology has evolved to meet this challenge head-on.
At Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds, we’ve been fitting bespoke skylight shutters for years, and we’ve yet to encounter a roof window that couldn’t be transformed with the right approach. Whether you’re dealing with a velux window in your loft conversion or an elaborate roof lantern in your kitchen extension, there’s almost certainly a shutter solution that will work.
The key lies in understanding that skylight shutters operate differently from their vertical counterparts, but they offer all the same benefits and more.
Benefits of shutters on skylights
Light control that actually works
Unlike curtains or standard blinds that can look awkward on angled windows, shutters give you precise control over how much light enters your space. The adjustable louvres allow you to direct light exactly where you want it while blocking harsh glare from other areas.
Privacy without compromise
Even though your skylight faces upward, there are times when privacy matters. If you have tall neighbouring buildings or you’re concerned about aerial views, skylight shutters provide complete privacy when needed while still allowing light through when the louvres are adjusted.
Superior insulation properties
Skylights can be notorious heat loss points in winter and heat gain problems in summer. Quality shutters add an extra layer of insulation, helping to regulate temperature and potentially reducing your energy bills. The air gap created between the shutter and window provides natural thermal protection.
Style that elevates your space
Let’s be honest – most skylight covering solutions look like afterthoughts. Properly fitted shutters, however, become an integral part of your room’s design. With Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds’ colour matching service, we can ensure your skylight shutters perfectly complement your existing décor or match popular Farrow & Ball colours for that designer finish.
Types of shutters suitable for skylights
Motorised shutters – the modern choice
For skylights that are difficult to reach, motorised shutters are a game-changer. With the touch of a button, you can adjust your shutters throughout the day. No more precarious ladder climbs or awkwardly placed poles. These systems are particularly popular for roof lanterns where manual operation would be impractical.
Manual shutters – reliable and cost-effective
For more accessible roof windows, manual shutters remain an excellent choice. They’re typically more budget-friendly and have fewer mechanical components that could potentially need maintenance. A simple handle or rod system allows easy operation.
Material considerations
The materials we use for skylight shutters need to withstand different conditions than standard window shutters. Moisture from condensation and temperature fluctuations require materials that won’t warp or deteriorate. Our range includes moisture-resistant options perfect for bathroom skylights or kitchen roof windows.
Our colour matching service means you’re not limited to standard white – we can match virtually any colour to ensure your shutters integrate seamlessly with your interior design scheme.
Installation considerations
Why professional fitting matters
While DIY enthusiasm is admirable, skylight shutter installation is definitely a job for professionals. Working at height with precision measuring and fitting requires experience and proper equipment. At Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds, our fully trained installers are experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges of angled installations and slanting roof spaces.
Measuring accurately for angled windows
Standard measuring techniques don’t apply to skylights. The angle of the window, the depth of the recess, and the opening mechanism (for roof windows) all need careful consideration. Our surveyors use specialised techniques to ensure perfect fit and function.
Addressing unique challenges
Every skylight installation presents its own puzzle. Condensation channels, opening mechanisms, and structural limitations all need to be worked around. Our installation team has seen it all and can provide solutions that work with your specific setup rather than against it.
Cost factors to consider
Material and customisation costs
Skylight shutters typically cost more than standard window shutters due to their specialised nature and often motorised operation. However, the investment pays dividends in functionality and property value. The exact cost depends on size, materials, and whether you opt for manual or motorised operation.
Installation complexity
The installation cost for skylight shutters reflects the additional complexity and safety requirements of working at height. However, with Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds currently offering free fitting with every quote for a limited time, this represents excellent value for such a specialised service.
Long-term savings
The improved insulation properties of skylight shutters can contribute to reduced heating and cooling costs over time. Additionally, the protection they provide to your roof window from UV damage can extend the life of the window itself.
Addressing common concerns
“Will shutters block too much light?”
This is the most common worry, and it’s understandable. However, properly designed skylight shutters actually give you more control over your lighting than having no covering at all. During bright sunny days, you can diffuse harsh light while still maintaining illumination. On overcast days, you can open the shutters fully to maximise available light.
Maintenance requirements
Skylight shutters are actually easier to maintain than you might expect. The angled position means dust doesn’t settle as readily as on horizontal surfaces. A occasional wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient, and our 5-year guarantee provides peace of mind.
Durability concerns
Quality skylight shutters are built to last. The materials we use are specifically chosen for their ability to withstand temperature fluctuations and moisture. With proper installation, they should provide decades of reliable service.
Frequently asked questions
Can shutters be fitted to any type of skylight?
Almost all skylights and roof windows can accommodate shutters, though the specific solution varies depending on the window type, size, and location. Our survey service will determine the best approach for your particular situation.
How do motorised skylight shutters work?
Motorised systems use quiet, reliable motors controlled by remote control or wall switches. Many can even be integrated with smart home systems for automated operation based on time of day or light levels.
What happens if the motor fails on motorised shutters?
Quality motorised shutters include manual override options, so you’re never stuck with shutters in the wrong position. Additionally, our 5-year guarantee covers motor functionality.
Can shutters be fitted to roof lanterns?
Absolutely! Roof lanterns are actually ideal candidates for motorised shutters given their size and inaccessibility. The shutters can be designed to follow the lantern’s shape perfectly.
Do shutters affect the opening of roof windows?
When properly designed and installed, shutters work around the opening mechanisms of roof windows. Our survey process specifically addresses this to ensure full functionality is maintained.
Can plantation shutters be fitted to skylight windows?
Yes, plantation shutters can be fitted to skylight windows. These shutters are custom-made to suit the dimensions and shape of your skylight, ensuring a seamless fit. They offer a stylish solution for light control and privacy while complementing the overall design of your space.
Do skylight window shutters have anti-heat properties?
Skylight window shutters are effective at minimising heat transfer, especially when made from insulating materials. They help in maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures by reflecting sunlight and reducing heat buildup, which makes them ideal for warmer months.
Can I install roof shutters with blackout blinds or pleated blinds?
Yes, roof shutters can be installed in conjunction with blackout blinds, pleated Velux blinds and even in some cases, Venetian blinds. The combination of shutters and skylight blinds offers enhanced versatility, allowing you to achieve total darkness or softened light diffusion depending on your needs. The integration of these features is designed to maximize both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Transform your skylights with professional shutter solutions
Stylish skylight shutters represent the perfect marriage of form and function, offering unparalleled control over natural light while adding significant style and value to your home. Whether you’re looking to tame the morning sun in your bedroom, reduce glare in your home office, or add a designer touch to your kitchen’s roof lantern, shutters provide a solution that simply works better than any alternative.
The key to success lies in working with experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities that skylights present. At Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds, we’ve built our reputation on solving exactly these kinds of specialist shutter challenges.
Ready to discover how skylight shutters could transform your space?
Contact Lifestyle Shutters & Blinds today for your free, no-obligation survey appointment. With our current offer of free fitting with every quote, there’s never been a better time to explore our range of made-to-measure shutters and other window coverings.
Give us a call or email your requirements over and we’ll get right back to you with solutions tailored to your specific needs.