Velux window installation, replacement and repair across Swindon. We fit new skylights into existing roofs, replace failed units, and fix the flashing problems that cause most skylight leaks.
Velux windows and skylights transform dark loft spaces and rooms with limited wall windows. But they are also one of the most common sources of roof leaks in Swindon — not because the windows themselves fail, but because the flashing kits around them are incorrectly fitted or have deteriorated over time. We install new Velux windows, replace old units, and fix the flashing problems that cause most skylight leaks.
Installing a Velux window into an existing pitched roof involves cutting an opening between the rafters or trusses, fitting a structural frame, installing the window unit, and dressing the flashing kit around it to integrate with the surrounding tiles. The flashing is the critical part — it must be correctly sized for your tile profile, properly dressed under the tiles above and over the tiles below, and sealed at every junction. A badly flashed Velux will leak from the first heavy rain. We use genuine Velux flashing kits matched to the specific tile profile on your roof.
Older Velux windows — particularly units from the 1990s and early 2000s — develop seal failures that cause condensation between the glass panes, hinge mechanisms that stiffen or break, and flashing that has corroded or cracked. Replacing the unit is straightforward if the opening is structurally sound. We remove the old window, check the frame and surrounding timbers, install the new unit with a fresh flashing kit, and ensure proper weather sealing. Most replacements are completed in half a day.
Swindon's thermal cycling is particularly hard on Velux flashings. The daily temperature range on the plateau causes lead and aluminium components to expand and contract repeatedly, eventually fatiguing at fold lines. Wind-driven rain on exposed elevations finds any weakness in the flashing seal. We see more Velux flashing failures in Swindon than in sheltered valley towns — and the fix is always the same: strip the old flashing, fit a new genuine Velux kit matched to the tile profile, and dress it properly.
Flat roof windows bring natural light into single-storey extensions, kitchens and bathrooms with flat roofs. We fit Velux flat roof windows and other brands into GRP and EPDM flat roof systems, with integrated kerb upstands and fully sealed membrane junctions. The key is getting the upstand height and membrane dressing right — a flat roof skylight that ponds water around its base will leak regardless of the window quality.
No call-out fees. No obligation. Call 0179 329 7084.
0179 329 7084"Wanted more light in the loft conversion. They fitted two Velux windows in a day — cut the openings, framed them properly, and flashed them into the existing tiles. Perfect seal, loads of light. Exactly what we wanted."
"Our 1990s Velux had condensation between the panes and the flashing was leaking. They replaced the whole unit with a modern Velux in half a day. No more condensation, no more leaks."
"Velux window leaked every time it rained hard. The original flashing had cracked from thermal cycling. They fitted a new genuine Velux flashing kit and it has been completely dry since. Quick, clean fix."
Supply and installation of a standard centre-pivot Velux: £800–£1,500 depending on size. Replacement of an existing unit: £600–£1,200. Flashing kit replacement only: £250–£500. All prices include scaffold where needed. Prices reflect the southern England labour band. Conservation area properties in Old Town may cost 20-40% more due to like-for-like material requirements.
In most cases, yes. The roof structure needs one or two rafters trimmed to form an opening, with a lintel header and cill to support the window. Planning permission is not usually required under permitted development unless the window projects more than 150mm from the roof plane. We assess suitability during the free survey.
Almost always the flashing, not the window. Incorrectly sized flashing kits, poor dressing around tiles, or thermal fatigue cracking on the lead/aluminium components. We fix these with genuine Velux flashing kits matched to your specific tile profile.
Most roof repairs and like-for-like replacements are permitted development and do not need planning permission under the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) Order 2015, Schedule 2, Part 1, Class C. However, conservation areas and listed buildings have restrictions — see our listed building consent guide.
Timeline depends on job size. Minor repairs: 1-3 hours same visit. Re-roofs: 3-5 days for a semi. Flat roofs: 2-3 days. We confirm dates one week before and again the day before. We never leave a roof exposed overnight.
Yes — Velux flat roof windows and other brands. We integrate them into GRP and EPDM flat roof systems with proper kerb upstands and sealed membrane junctions. Most flat roof failures in Swindon occur on 1970s-80s rear extensions where original felt has exceeded its 15-20 year design life. BS 6229:2018 specifies minimum 1:40 falls for new installations.
10-year workmanship guarantee on all Velux installations. The window units carry Velux manufacturer warranty of 10 years on the unit and 20 years on the sealed glazing. Our 10-year workmanship guarantee covers labour, fixings and installation. Materials carry separate manufacturer warranties - typically 25-30 years for GRP/EPDM, 40-60 years for concrete tiles with A2 stainless nails per BS 5534:2014.
A Velux window is a precision-engineered, factory-sealed unit that rarely fails in its first 20 years. The flashing kit around it is a field-assembled junction between the window frame and the surrounding tiles — and this is where 90% of Velux leaks originate. Every tile profile requires a different flashing kit configuration. Using the wrong kit, or fitting the right kit incorrectly, creates gaps that wind-driven rain exploits immediately. We stock genuine Velux flashing kits for every common Swindon tile profile and dress them according to Velux installation specifications.
Water appearing around a Velux window is not always a leak. In cold weather, warm moist air from the room below condenses on the cold glass and frame, creating drips that look identical to a roof leak. The test is timing: if the water appears only in cold weather when heating is on, it is likely condensation. If it appears during or after rain regardless of temperature, it is a leak. Condensation is solved by improving ventilation — opening the window briefly, fitting trickle vents, or improving room extraction. A leak requires flashing inspection and probable replacement.
Most Velux installations in existing roofs are permitted development and do not need planning permission. However, if the window projects more than 150mm above the plane of the roof slope, if the property is in a conservation area, or if the window is on a principal elevation facing a highway, you may need planning consent from Swindon Borough Council. Building Regulations approval is required for all new Velux installations under Part L for energy efficiency and Part B for fire safety in loft conversions. We handle all Building Regulations notifications and arrange inspection as part of our service. We also advise on planning requirements during the free survey so there are no surprises.
Velux offers several window types, each suited to different roof pitches and room uses. Centre-pivot windows rotate around a central axis and suit pitches from 15 to 90 degrees — the most versatile and most common type. Top-hung windows hinge at the top and open outward, giving clear views and unobstructed head height — ideal for rooms where you want to look out at eye level. Balcony windows combine an upper centre-pivot section with a lower section that folds out to create a small balcony — a premium option for loft conversions. Conservation windows have a flush external profile that meets planning requirements in conservation areas and on listed buildings. We advise on the right type for your room use, roof pitch and planning context during the free survey, and bring the Velux product guide so you can see the options and sizes available.
From £150, no call-out fee.
More →Full re-roofs, 10yr guarantee.
More →GRP/EPDM, 25yr guarantees.
More →Same-day 24/7 response.
Call Now →Cleaning, repairs, replacement.
More →Repointing, flashings, stacks.
More →Biocide, 3-5yr protection.
More →uPVC roofline, ventilation.
More →Fitted to your roof.
More →Code 4 flashings, valleys.
More →Repair, matching, re-roofing.
More →Surveys from £120, fee credited.
More →Here is how to tell if you need this service — and when you might not.
When it is not the answer: If the problem is minor and localised, a targeted repair may be more cost-effective. We assess honestly during the free survey.
We inspect the relevant roof area, photograph everything, and explain what needs doing.
Itemised specification with materials, labour and access costs clearly separated.
Our own team carries out the work to specification. Daily cleanup, weathertight each night.
Walk-through, 10-year guarantee issued, site cleared.
| Job | Typical duration |
|---|---|
| Minor work | Half day - 1 day |
| Standard job | 1-3 days |
| Complex / large scope | 3-5 days |
Weather dependent — we never compromise quality for speed.
Access method depends on the specific job — ladder, tower scaffold or full scaffold. Always itemised in your quote. Scaffold is specified for: work above single-storey height, multi-day jobs, chimney and ridge access — always itemised in your written quote, never a hidden extra.
Pavement scaffold and skip permits go through Swindon Borough Council. On restricted streets in Old Town, the Railway Village and parts of Rodbourne, we coordinate access to minimise disruption. Allow a few working days for permit processing.
All work carries our written 10-year workmanship guarantee. Materials carry separate manufacturer warranties on top.
If a fault appears in covered work, we come back and put it right. No quibbling, no re-charge.
External work during standard hours. We sheet below and clean up each day. You do not need to be home. You do not need to stay home for external work — we just need access agreed in advance.
Work runs year-round where conditions allow. We build weather margin into every schedule and never leave a roof exposed. Swindon's exposed plateau at 120m produces more frost days and stronger gusts than sheltered valley towns — we factor this into every schedule.
No call-out fees. No obligation. Local Swindon roofers you can trust.
0179 329 7084