Basically

By removing one tile or slate from the roof above a landing or upstairs corridor and replacing it with the appropriate Suntile and ducting system, users will be able to enjoy natural light in an otherwise dark room.  There’s no need to cut joists or anything structural.  It is ideal for those whose stairs rise to the centre of the house as we see here.

In the situation pictured, the Suntile Basic Kit was used along with the Suntile Extension Kit to bring the light in, through the loft, from the outside.  The roof above was clay pan tiles (ref CDRT1).  In the day time the light is not switched on, this saves energy and money.

Need a bit more detail?

In the middle of summer the basic Suntile kit can transmit the equivalent light to a thousand watt light bulb or a metre square window.  Taking a year of five hour days where the sun is at medium strength we think it’s possible to save at least £30 a year in electricity.

If the sun light comes in directly, ie at the same angle as the roof, it is eight times stronger than if it was to come in through a window.  If the sun light is ducted down through the extension kit it is intensified again by the mirrored walls of the ducting.

Suntile can be fitted by a competent DIYer without the need to cut joists or anything more than felt, insulation wool and plaster board.  Because it’s so simple it doesn’t take long, it can be as little as half an hour.

A bit too much detail?

Apparently, when this couple go to bed late at night they don’t need to switch the light on anymore and risk disturbing the kids. The light from near by street lights coming through the Suntile is enough. Say no more!