Both types do a good job in the right place. This guide compares how each opens, who it suits and what to think about on semis and terraces.
If you are fitting a roof window in a Hillfields semi, a short terrace or a converted garage roof space, you will be asked to choose between centre-pivot and top-hung. The right answer is practical rather than technical: where the window sits, who reaches it, and what you want to see and feel. Here is how we help people choose.
Centre-pivot in practice
A centre-pivot window turns on a pivot near the middle of the sash. You lift the lower edge and the sash swings round, with the bottom moving out and the top moving in. It is easy to reach at a lower position, and it lets you clean the outer pane from inside. The opening is large, giving good airflow in a stuffy loft. Nobody should be talked into a type that does not fit their room.
Top-hung in practice
A top-hung window hinges at the top and opens outwards like a flap. It gives a clear view and does not intrude into the room, so you can place a desk or bed below. It tends to sit higher on the slope, and handles may need a pole to reach. Cleaning the outer glass takes more effort. It is a sensible choice in lower positions.
- Hinged at the top and projects outwards
- Keeps the room space below clear
- Often placed higher in the slope
- Outer pane harder to reach for cleaning
Matching type to room
In a typical Hillfields loft room with a lowish eaves wall, centre-pivot is easy to reach and clean. Where the window sits higher or the roof is steep, top-hung can give more headroom and a better view while seated. On terraces with a single rear slope, the type may be dictated by where the rafters fall. Pitch and rafters can limit what is possible.
Technical points
Either type needs the correct flashing kit for your roof covering, and rafters may need trimming and doubling up. The lining, insulation and vapour control around the opening decide whether the window stays dry and warm. We measure on site so the window matches the tiles and rafter spacing, rather than ordering from a drawing. Doing this properly stops leaks and condensation later.
- Matching flashing kit to the roof covering
- Rafter changes for the opening
- Lining and insulation around the frame
How we help choose
We stand in the room and look at height, furniture and the slope, then explain which type suits. For converted garage roof spaces, we also consider the pitch and headroom. Where work may need planning or Building Regulations checks, we advise before work starts. You get a clear written description. Colours of lining and trim are agreed at this stage too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type is easier to clean?
Centre-pivot, because the sash turns so the outer pane can be reached from inside. Top-hung windows open outwards and the outer glass is harder to reach safely, so they suit places where cleaning is rare. Reach is the main difference.
Do both types suit a low roof pitch?
Pitch limits how far some windows open, so we check it before ordering. On shallow roofs, certain models work better than others, and we explain the options on site. Good advice here depends on seeing the actual roof.
Can I swap type when replacing an old window?
Often yes, but the frame size, rafters and flashing must suit. We inspect the opening first, and tell you whether it is a simple swap or whether adjustments to the roof and lining are needed.
Talk to our team about VELUX and roof window installation in Hillfields
Every roof is different — the fastest way to get an accurate answer is a quick chat with our team.