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by Rachel Lyon, Editorial Director for The House Designers
Have you heard of roof windows before? It’s understandable if you haven’t, but you should address that gap in your knowledge! This niche product category is popular in Europe and offers a host of possibilities and benefits, so it’s a great idea to consider your options. Here’s what roof windows have to offer your home.
Defining a Roof Window
Distinct from skylights and typical windows, roof windows offer unique appeal and functionality. When closed, they may look like skylights, but they’re always placed within reach and open wide enough to allow egress. These key features make them ideal for renovations and loft conversions, where a non-vertical wall area means you can’t use regular windows. A roof window is the perfect solution to finish your space up to code, even if you want to add bedrooms!
Roof windows can also offer more than meets the eye. Some models include a ventilation flap that, when opened, allows fresh filtered air to pass through the frame of a closed window. You can enjoy a refreshed interior without worrying about rain or security! And if you prefer the privacy and flexibility of window treatments, rest assured that there are plenty of shade options for roof windows. They’re specially made to hold onto the roof window’s frames, so you don’t have to worry about anything hanging down awkwardly and getting in the way.
Types of Roof Windows
Like there’s no one perfect type of window, there is no single roof window that’s ideal for every application. It all depends on the pitch of your roof, what kind of room it’ll be in, and your design goals. Here are the major types of roof windows to consider.
Top Hinged Roof Windows – For 15- to 55-degree roof pitches, top hinged roof windows open out from a handle on the bottom of the sash. You can open them just a little, or enough to stand beneath while you take in panoramic views!
Center-Pivot Roof Windows – For 15- to 90-degree roof pitches, center-pivot roof windows rotate open around an axis, with the top of the sash coming inside while the bottom pushes out. They are ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, or anywhere you want passive climate control because hot air can escape out the top opening while cooler air is pulled in through the bottom.
Roof Access Roof Windows – For 15- to 85-degree roof pitches, roof access roof windows swing open 90 degrees from a side hinge to easily allow egress. They aren’t as popular for finished living spaces as other types due to their more utilitarian design, but they provide more convenient access to the roof, of course.
Balcony Roof Windows – For 35- to 53-degree roof pitches, balcony roof windows open from the top and bottom to create your own personal terrace overlooking the world outside. They include railing on the sides for safety, but you can always choose to only open the top-hinged top section, if you prefer.
If you’re inspired and want to learn more about the roof window possibilities, see what VELUX® can do for you. With eight decades of skylight and roof window innovation under their belt, this leading international manufacturer offers exceptionally durable, weathertight, and energy-efficient products that you can use across the whole house. Perhaps you have a bonus room to work with, or you’re renovating an older home to finish more of its space? Feel free to chat online or find a local dealer who can help you choose the perfect roof windows for your needs!