Flat Roof Skylights For Commercial Spaces

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Opening up an entirely new field of view, flat roof skylights are a popular choice among architects who infuse spaces with natural light. Light is an essential element in beautiful and functional commercial buildings. Flat roof skylights also reduce energy consumption and improve occupant well-being. Explore the commercial applications, benefits and features of flat roof skylights below! We also highlight some IQ Projects examples that showcase our expertise in delivering these glazing solutions.

Key Features

Advanced glazing technology is at the forefront of modern skylight design. High-performance glass options, such as low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings and argon gas fills, achieve excellent thermal insulation. For projects requiring superior energy efficiency, triple-glazed units offer U-values as low as 0.9 W/m²K, significantly reducing thermal transmittance.

Structural integrity and safety are paramount in commercial applications. Skylights are engineered using toughened and laminated glass to ensure durability and meet industry standards for impact resistance. For areas with foot traffic, such as rooftop terraces, load-bearing designs like walk-on skylights are available, providing both functionality and safety without compromising aesthetic appeal.

Weatherproofing and durability are also essential for long-term performance. Flat roof skylights are designed to prevent water ingress, with systems rigorously tested to standards such as EN12208 for water tightness and EN12207 for air permeability. Maintenance-free finishes, including self-cleaning glass options, reduce upkeep requirements and ensure that the skylights remain clear and functional over time.

Ease of installation is another critical consideration. Features like pre-fabricated upstands simplify the installation process, saving time and reducing on-site labour costs. Modular systems allow for scalability and adaptability, making them suitable for both small-scale projects and large commercial developments.

The Benefits of Flat Roof Skylights in Commercial Applications

Flat roof skylights play a pivotal role in introducing abundant natural light into commercial spaces such as offices, retail outlets and industrial facilities. The infusion of daylight creates beautiful interiors and inviting atmospheres that support your body’s circadian rhythm.

For this reason, enhanced natural lighting has been shown to boost employee morale and productivity. In office environments, workers exposed to natural light report higher levels of satisfaction and efficiency. In retail settings, natural illumination enhances product visibility, making the shopping experience more engaging for customers.

In terms of energy efficiency, flat roof skylights contribute significantly to sustainability goals. By maximising daylight penetration, businesses can reduce their reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours, leading to substantial energy savings. Modern skylights are designed with high-performance glazing that minimises heat loss in winter and reduces heat gain in summer. Improving thermal efficiency lowers energy costs and contributes to a building’s overall environmental performance, aligning with green building certifications like LEED and BREEAM.

Design flexibility is another advantage of working with us to create flat roof skylights. IQ Projects offers sufficient versatility to meet diverse architectural requirements, whether it’s creating large expanses of glass for atriums, or integrating smaller units into corridors and offices. Custom sizes and shapes allow architects to realise their vision without compromising on functionality. Moreover, the ability to integrate skylights with building automation systems enables optimal ventilation and climate control, enhancing indoor comfort.

Bespoke Glass Roof Systems

We have engineered a variety of glass roof solutions that cater to different architectural challenges. For instance, our work on courtyard infills in listed buildings demonstrates our ability to seamlessly integrate modern skylights while preserving historical aesthetics. In creating atrium roofs, we focus on designing impressive central spaces that are flooded with natural light, enhancing the building’s ambiance and openness. Our expertise also extends to incorporating opening glass roofs, which provide automated systems for ventilation and access, effectively bringing the outside in.

Automated Rising Electric Systems (ARES)

The ARES rooflight is designed to offer ventilation to both residential and commercial spaces at the touch of a button. Its flexibility in design options mean there is virtually no restriction on size or shape. Using high-quality actuators, hinged rooflights can automatically lift to ventilate the building below. The actuators and fixing details can be concealed within the building finishes, maintaining a clean and minimalist appearance. The ARES is particularly suited for commercial spaces that require enhanced functionality, including integrations with ventilation and smoke extraction systems.

Modern Automated Rooflight Systems (M.A.R.S)

Our M.A.R.S offers a blend of technological advancement and minimalist design. These thermally broken, fully automated systems deliver high thermal performance, ensuring energy efficiency. With slim framing, they maximise light intake and provide unobstructed views. The advanced automation allows integration with smart building systems and weather sensors, offering features like automatic closure upon detecting rain. Such systems are ideal for buildings in large cities where rooftop spaces are utilised for gardens or external areas.

Let Us Help You…

At IQ Projects, we provide architects and specifiers with bespoke glazing solutions that redefine design possibilities. Our expertise in glass roof systems, automated rooflights and retractable roofs ensures your projects achieve both functional excellence and architectural distinction.