Replacing an old roof window is usually simpler than adding a new one, since the opening is already there. Here is how a swap works on Ridgeway houses.
Many loft rooms and converted roof spaces in Ridgeway still have roof windows fitted some time ago. They may leak, mist or no longer open as they should. Replacing a VELUX or similar window is often a neat job because the opening exists, but a few checks come first.
Does the size still fit?
Windows come in set sizes, and the new one needs to match the old opening or be only slightly different. If the old window is a standard size, the swap is straightforward. If it is odd, discontinued or from a different maker, we look at what fits without cutting more rafters than we need.
If the old window is an unusual size, we can sometimes adjust the opening a little, or adapt the frame, rather than rebuild it. We look at both and tell you which is better. Matching the old opening exactly keeps the work smaller and tidies up the inside finish as well.
What happens to the surrounding roof
The old window and its flashing come out. Tiles around the opening are lifted so the new flashing kit can be laid correctly. The kit has to match the roof covering. Reusing an old flashing is not wise, as it may be tired, and it is a common reason for leaks around replacement windows.
- Old window and flashing removed carefully
- Tiles lifted and relaid to the new kit
- Felt and battens checked and repaired
- New window fixed to the frame and sealed
The frame and the lining
Sometimes the old frame is rotten, or the lining and insulation around the opening have failed. We check these when the window is out. If the frame is damp or damaged, it is repaired or rebuilt. Good lining and a vapour barrier stop cold edges and condensation around the new window.
Why replace and not repair
Misted sealed units, worn seals, hinges that stick or a window that leaks around the frame are often more sensibly dealt with by replacement than repeated repair, especially on an older model. We tell you honestly when a repair or a new sealed unit will do, and when the whole window should go. If there are several windows, we can discuss doing them together, so access and tiling are done once.
Planning and what to ask
A like-for-like swap rarely needs any permission, but size changes may need checks — we advise before work starts. Ask whether the flashing kit is new, how the roof is protected while the opening is out, how the lining will be finished and what the plan is if rot is found.
Tell us what the fault is: leaking at the sides, misting between panes, a stuck catch or draughts. That tells us whether the problem is the window or the roof around it, and sometimes a new sealed unit or fresh seal is enough, with no need for a full replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the new window be a different size?
Possibly, but that means altering rafters and flashings, and it may need checks before work starts. If you want a bigger window, we survey the roof and explain what is involved before suggesting it.
Will the new window look the same from outside?
It will be very close if we match the size and finish. Details such as frame colour and the line of the flashing may differ slightly. We can talk through the options so you know how it will look.
Does the whole roof need to be redone?
No. The work is limited to the window and the tiles around it. If we find the roof itself is tired we tell you, but replacing a window does not mean you need a new roof.
Talk to our team about VELUX and roof window installation in Ridgeway
Every roof is different — the fastest way to get an accurate answer is a quick chat with our team.