Rooflights and Dormers ? Ideal Windows for Loft Conversions

Posted by Richards in Door and Window | Comments Off

Window choices for your loft conversion are limited. Obviously, you cannot install a double-hung or a bay and bow window in your attic. Also, there are building regulations that you need to observe when installing windows in your loft. Basically, there are only two window types that are most ideal for loft conversions: rooflights and dormers. Of course, you can reinvent and be creative with how you want a window to appear and be installed in your loft. However, rooflights and dormers earn the biggest favour. Read on and find out why.

Rooflights

Rooflights resemble skylights but they?re not totally the same. Rooflight forms are more diverse?from a piece of rectangular glass hatch to a roof-like structure protruding from the roof?s exterior. A skylight is just usually a piece of rectangular glass window.

Rooflights are not just perfect with loft conversions. They can also be installed on flat roof surfaces. Rooflight installation is not restricted much by building codes. However, you may need a professional?s guidance when it comes to choosing among rooflight sizes and glazing options. While rooflights are effective in bringing in light to a loft conversion, they don?t add any more headroom.

Rooflights have different opening styles; two of which are top hung and pivoted. The top hung window opens from its bottom part outward. This opening style creates the illusion of more space in the loft area. Also, most people find this the easiest way of opening a loft window. Meanwhile, pivoted windows are best if there are furniture under the windows. These operate by pulling the opening bar at the top of the window inward. By doing so, the bottom part of the window opens outward.

Dormers

Dormers are like small house-like structures installed on the roof surface of a house. They are vertical windows, usually protruding from the roof?s exterior, which give the loft more headroom. It?s a bit funny to think that they are windows with their own roofs.

Installing a dormer is not complicated. And like with rooflights, building codes regarding dormers don?t restrict too much. However, you need to remember not to install a dormer facing the highway. Do not also install a dormer near the edges or the ridge of your roof. Consider your house?s symmetry when deciding on the specific location on which to install a dormer window.

Dormers can also affect the exterior appearance of your house. You can choose between gable and flat dormer roof depending on which will best fit your house?s architectural style. Check out pictures of houses with dormers to get some ideas on dormer styles and installation. Most of the time, two regular-sized dormers are installed instead of just a large one.

Even if you only are only presented with two window types that work perfectly for loft conversions, do not forget that you can be innovative, modern, daring, and creative with your own style. Believe it or not, you can do a lot of awesome things with just these two window options.

Author bio: This article was written on behalf of a Leeds-based company that has been providing excellent building services for years. Learn more about the company and their services at yorkshire-builders.co.uk ? builders in Leeds.

Source: http://www.hillwoodgroup.com/rooflights-and-dormers-ideal-windows-for-loft-conversions/

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