Choosing double-glazing from your skylights isn't hard – double-glazing will help keep in the heat, cut down on the noise and even keep your utility bills down. However, that isn't the only decision you'll need to make. One of the most important decisions is whether you go for a top-opening or centre pivot double-glazed windows.

The difference is easy enough to understand:

• Top-hung skylights open from the top and are pushed right away from the room so none of the glass sits inside.
• Centre pivot windows are tilted from the centre, so glass is half in and half out when the roof window is open.

Both options come with their own pros and cons, but here are just three reasons why it's best to use centre pivot skylights.

1. Lower Cost  

If you're having skylights put in, you're probably having them as part of a whole new room, usually an extension outwards or a loft conversion, and such projects tend to be on the expensive side. Even if they're being put in one of your current rooms, your costs can still add up. As such, you'll want to look for ways to cut down on costs without sacrificing quality. Going for centre pivot skylights helps you do just that. They're considerably less expensive than top-hung skylights.

2. Easier Cleaning

Probably the most compelling reason to choose centre pivot roof windows over top-hung roof windows is how easy they are to clean. Of course, it'll be easy enough to clean the interior glass, but the exterior will pose some problems. With a top-hung window, you need to clean from the outside, which usually means hiring a professional. In contrast, most centre pivot skylights rotate a full 180-degrees so that you can bring the outside pane in for quick and convenient cleaning. Keep in mind that roof windows tend to get dirty faster than normal windows since they face upwards and are usually unprotected.

3. Safer and Easier Operation

Finally, centre pivot skylights are a little easier to operate. With a top-hung window, you have to put the window right outwards, which can be tricky and a little dangerous if you have a shorter stature. It can be even easier to bring them back to closed. With a centre pivot window, you can swing the window in and out without having to reach too far. 

For more information, contact your local window installation team. 

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