Loft Windows And Roof Lights

Dormer windows are covered elsewhere on this site but, for the purposes of this article, the term loft windows is taken to mean traditional flush fitting roof lights or skylight windows.

And, before going further, it should be noted that Velux windows, though often used to describe roof lights is actually a brand name which, like Tarmac and Hoover, has become so famous that people use the brand name to describe the product.

But, the choices that the homeowner now has when he/she comes to pick their loft windows is huge, and is not simply limited to Velux windows.

If the loft conversion can be built without a dormer, roof lights can be added very quickly and cheaply to provide natural light and, of course, there is no reason why multiple loft windows cannot be installed.

Indeed, the effects of a bank of four roof lights arranged side-by-side, can be spectacular.

The final choice of roof light will very much depend on the design of your loft conversion but there are a number of options to consider.

First thing to decide is the style of opening. Roof lights are usually centrally pivoted but, for escape windows, they are more often top hung. A big advantage of a centrally pivoted roof light is that they save a lot of space as furniture can be placed directly beneath them without creating access problems.

Another point in their favour is that they are easily cleaned and maintained from inside the loft conversion – an important factor when they provide a focal point of a room.

The top hung style is ideal for low pitched roofs as they open outwards and, for this reason, are also best suited as escape windows.

Note – if a roof light is to be used as an escape window then, according to the building regulations, it must have a clear opening sufficient for an adult to get through and it must be located in a position where it is possible for it to be reached by a rescue ladder.

For this reason escape windows are usually sited on the front elevation of the house. For more information on loft conversion safety click here.

Your choice of loft conversion design will also play a part in deciding which finish should be applied to your loft windows.

Timber framed units are usually the most stylish and practical solution but, for bathrooms and perhaps children’s bedrooms or playrooms, it may be advisable to select the more practical and maintenance free polyurethane loft windows.

Windows can be glazed to your preference including double glazed and, for use in bathrooms, obscured glass.

And, innovations over recent years means that homeowners can now opt for electrically or even remotely controlled roof lights. Obviously these are more expensive than their manually operated comrades but they do add that last stylish touch of luxury to your loft conversion.

Once their design is decided upon roof lights are very easily installed and, for a builder or diy expert, should only take a few hours to fit.

One final point is to ensure that the appearance of your roof lights are not spoilt by poor flashing. The material should blend into your roof and provide a watertight seal.

For more info see the related pages below or complete the form at the bottom of the page for a free no obligation quote from tradesmen near you...

Cost Of A Loft Conversion

Loft Stairs

Loft Conversion Guide

Loft Conversion Ideas

Loft Conversion Prices

More On Loft Windows

Dormer Windows

Velux Windows

Loft Conversion