- February 3, 2026|
- News
Choosing a roof lantern is often about more than bringing natural light into a living space. For many homeowners, colour plays a central role. When a homeowner asks for a roof lantern in a specific shade, the first question trade installers often ask is about lead time. Will a custom colour delay a roof lantern order and what does that really means in practice?
The short answer is that, yes, certain colours take a little longer. The important part is understanding why, how long and what to expect, so you can plan with confidence and complete every roof lantern installation with peace of mind.
A world of colour
When people think of aluminium roof lanterns, Anthracite Grey often comes to mind. At Sheerline Bespoke, colour means far more than a limited palette. As a vertically integrated UK manufacturer, every aluminium profile is powder coated in-house at our Derbyshire facility. This gives us full control over quality, consistency and lead time.
Our award-winning S1 roof lanterns are available in a wide range of finishes, from standard options to true bespoke RAL colours designed around specific needs.
Standard and tier 2 colours explained
For projects working to tighter timelines, we offer three standard lantern colours:
- Pure white
- Anthracite grey
- Jet black
These finishes are part of our everyday production and offer the shortest lead time across standard sizes, custom sizes and kit form roof lanterns.
Tier 2 colours provide a broader design choice while keeping lead times predictable. These include cream, agate grey, squirrel grey, pastel turquoise, chocolate brown, and hipca gloss white. We stock the powder for these finishes, which means production can start quickly.
Tier 2 colours carry a slightly longer lead time than standard colours. At Sheerline Bespoke, finishes like squirrel grey are not treated as fully bespoke. They simply sit on a marginally extended schedule.
What does a true bespoke colour involve?
A true bespoke colour is where a project requires a very specific RAL colour that is not part of our stocked range. This is often driven by architectural detail, a flat roof extension for example, or a need to match other aluminium features such as a roof window or doors.
True bespoke colours add around three to four weeks onto the standard lead time. This includes:
- Running the powder through our Qualicoat approved paint line
- Manufacturing the roof lantern
Why in-house powder coating matters for lead time and quality
Every Sheerline Bespoke S1 roof lantern benefits from a seven-stage pre-treatment process and a low waste, fully integrated powder coating system. The electrostatically charged powder delivers consistent colour across slim aluminium profiles and ensures long-term durability.
Does colour choice affect performance?
Colour choice has no impact on thermal performance, thermal efficiency or energy efficiency. All Sheerline Bespoke roof lanterns are engineered for high performance, using double glazing designed for solar control and excellent insulation.
The benefits of roof lanterns remain the same across every finish
- Increased natural light
- Strong thermal efficiency for year-round comfort
- High performance glazing for modern living spaces
Key takeaways
- Standard colours offer the shortest lead time
- Tier 2 colours add a small extension and are stocked in-house
- True bespoke RAL colours add around three to four weeks
- Performance, thermal efficiency and energy efficiency remain unchanged for the S1
Speak to our team about your project
If you are planning a roof lantern installation and need guidance on colour options or custom RAL colour roof lantern lead time, our team is here to help. Contact Sheerline Bespoke to discuss your project requirements and receive clear, practical advice from specification through to delivery.
FAQs
Will a bespoke colour affect my installation date?
It can, depending on whether the colour is tier 2 or true bespoke. Clear communication at the quoting stage avoids delays.
Are bespoke colours available across all lantern sizes?
Yes. Bespoke colours are available on standard sizes and custom sizes, across our full roof lantern range.
Do installers need to allow extra fitting time?
No. All lantern rooflights are supplied ready for straightforward installation, regardless of colour.