Roof window installation: the most complete installation instructions. How to make windows in the attic - so that it is light and warm! Types of windows in the attic roof

Windows on the attic floor can be very diverse. If earlier the attic was perceived as a kind of addition to the common space, and if there were windows on it, then they were not the most difficult, at present the status of the attic floor has changed significantly. Housing with such a floor has become considered elite, and the windows for it are quite complex, functional and beautiful.

What is an attic floor?

The attic, in fact, is not a full-fledged floor: it is an attic space that is used as a residential or technical room. Thus, from the empty space you can get a usable area if you ennoble it, properly insulate and.

Most often, these floors are used as bedrooms, lounges, guest rooms. Less often they are adapted for workshops, pantries. The attic floor can take the form of an ordinary room, and several walls can also be at an angle. stand in full height on this floor, however, not in all parts of the room. From the attic floor, you can make one large or several small rooms suitable for habitation. The disadvantages of such a structure include the lack natural light. Most often, windows in such structures are not planned, so you have to look for a solution after the construction of the house is completed.

Installing a window in a hole cut in the roof

What are attic windows for?

Without natural light, the attic cannot be considered an attic floor. To use the premises as a living space, you need windows in the attic, the options for which can be quite diverse, ranging from inclined structures that are installed directly into the roofing material, and ending with display windows that occupy spaces from ceiling to floor. The main task of window structures is:

• Creation of the necessary illumination of the room.
• blocking warm air inside and isolation of the cold from the street.
• Giving the desired appearance to the room, because the design is significantly influenced by what kind of window the window will have.

Where is the best place to install a window, and which one?

The design of rooms with can be the most diverse, from a simple room, upholstered with clapboard, to complex design, striking comfort and splendor. Much depends on what type of windows will be chosen: they should not only isolate heat and create the necessary illumination, but also fit into the interior in the same style.

It must correspond to the dimensions of the room, the calculation of the dimensions takes place taking into account the illumination that the structure will provide. If the windows are installed between the rafters, their size is usually standard, but if attic space large, select several designs so that the lighting is uniform. Windows need to be wide enough to be placed between the rafters, otherwise the roof will have to be redone, which is expensive and unjustified.

Vertical windows in the attic

In addition, you will need to take into account the slope and height of the roof slopes: if you plan to equip a rest room, study or nursery, it is better to give preference big windows. The bedroom requires less light, so the size of the window can be smaller. There are three standard sizes:

• 78x140;
• 78x118;
• 78x160.

If larger windows are required, standard designs of 94x140, 114x118 or 114x140 cm can also be ordered. Less common are very small windows, the size of which is 55 or 66 cm; pay attention to what to buy standard window much more profitable, since it will cost several times cheaper than made to your size.

Auxiliary diagram for selecting windows from the angle of the roof slope

Which windows do you prefer?

Choosing in the attic floor , it is important to take into account not only their appearance, shape and size, but also pay attention to such factors:

• Protection from moisture and precipitation.
• What are the frames made from?
• How the window opens.
• What type of glass is used.

Windows can seriously differ structurally, the most important role is played by a double-glazed window: the thicker it is, the heavier the window will be, which is not very good for the attic floor, therefore it is quite often used, equipped with a heat-saving system and filled with argon. This allows you to reduce the weight to a minimum, reducing the load on the structure and fittings, while reliably protecting the room from freezing.

It would not be superfluous to use triplex technology: thanks to which the glass is glued, if such a window is broken, there will be no fragments in the room, and it is quite easy to replace the double-glazed window. In addition, you need to pay attention to where the window handle will be. If it is too high and it is inconvenient to get it, you can equip the window with a variety of drives that will help you either lower the handle lower or control the structure using the remote control.

Remote window control

What other windows are there?

There are not only inclined structures that need to be mounted directly into the roof. Some projects have a perfectly suitable design in order to build on the attic floor. Most often, such a decision is laid even during the construction of the house, otherwise then the entire floor will have to be redone. Such windows are an excellent design solution, they give a lot of light, and if the house opens good view, you can admire it while relaxing or before going to bed. It is worth noting that such windows have a number of features:

• The complexity of the design and its large size, therefore, the price of such a solution will be much higher than for windows mounted in the roof.
• Heaters cannot be placed on the wall directly below the window. You will have to remove them to another wall or install them in front of the window using special fasteners that are screwed to the floor.
• The use of curtains also causes difficulties; a special frame is required that is attached to the ceiling.
• Such windows have a large area, so it is quite difficult to keep the heat in the room.
• A warm design will have a large mass.
• It is necessary to calculate that such windows will be even when planning a house. As a rule, it is impossible to install them after construction is completed, or the entire floor has to be dismantled.
• Lighting with the help of such windows will be the most correct and natural, however, they give a lot of light, therefore, if you want to equip a bedroom on the attic floor, it is better to think in advance that the windows do not face east. If the design faces south, get ready for the fact that it will be quite hot in the summer, although the problem can be solved with a tinting film.
• More than one cannot be used. In addition, the wall in which there will be a floor-to-ceiling window should not be load-bearing.
• The large weight of beams and partitions should not press on the structure.
• Washing such a window is quite problematic.

Is self-installation possible?

Most often, when buying a skylight, the owner wonders how to spend less money. You should not save on quality, buy cheap fittings or low-quality double-glazed windows. Such savings will end up costing you more than buying it in the first place. good window. The easiest way to save money is to install the structure yourself.

To do this, you need to clearly know. In fact, it is not difficult, you only need to strictly follow the instructions; it is recommended to get an assistant, since any installation is much more convenient to carry out together. The easiest way is to use the eurowindow: it is inexpensive, relatively easy to install, meets all the requirements for illumination, safety and convenience. Such a window can be installed at any stage of the readiness of the house, it is not necessary to lay down their layout right away.

Attic window installation sequence

If it is planned that it will protrude on the roof, then it must be laid during the installation of the roof, since a special box is required for it. This usually requires a flat gable roof: it is easiest to make the necessary preparatory work. To do this, mount the side walls, nail boards to them, cover the structure with roofing material. Such a ledge is sometimes called a cuckoo.

When using the standard inner window it is installed between the roof beams. They are fixed by the truss system, a support board is installed for the window, which is attached between the rafters, after which the window frame is attached to it. In order for the frame not to fall out, a fixing beam is placed in its upper part. The sides of the window and the drain must be insulated with roofing material similar to the roof covering.

The sequence of actions during work should be as follows:

• An opening for a window is cut out in the roof, corresponding in size. truss system it should not be affected.
• For the window frame, a frame is mounted, special support logs are installed.
• Lay waterproofing and insulation.
• Cover the sides with roofing material.
• A window is inserted.

Before starting work, it is necessary to strengthen the roof structure well, mount a reliable frame into which the window frame will be inserted, and you can strengthen the structure using adjacent rafters. Jumpers are attached to them, to which beams are attached to fix the window. The unit is mounted without glass, it is inserted later. The frame must be above the level of the roof, otherwise water will not leave it.

The choice and installation of a window is not the most difficult thing, there is a large number of design solutions that can be brought to life by developing a house plan. If it is already built, you can use convenient standard solutions.

The attic is the part of the house that recent times more and more actively began to be used for living space. The solution has a range obvious benefits, although many owners are faced with the problem of creating an optimal microclimate indoors. One of the main elements of the space are windows in the attic, allowing not only to improve the aesthetic component of the house or cottage, but also to expand the possibilities for the active use of additional housing.

Dormer window - a structure located on the roof, which simultaneously performs the role of the wall of the room. Based on the specific conditions and wishes of the owner, such a window can be presented different options and standard sizes, differing not only in cost, but also technical specifications.

Aesthetic design of the attic space

Location options and their differences

Depending on the location, roof windows are divided into inclined and vertical. Vertical installation is carried out on the gables or in the mansard roof openings specially prepared for this. As for the inclined ones, they are placed on the slopes of the roof at an angle of inclination of 15-900 degrees.

Compared to vertical ones, such structures provide greater penetration of light into the room. It is important to remember that they should be positioned so that the distance from the floor to the bottom of the block is about 80-100 cm, and from the floor to the top - about 180-200 cm.

Inclined variant

Please note: According to the requirements of SNiP, the glazing surface should be at least 10% of the area that the floor has.

Design features and variety of choices

Convenient opening and ease of use

There are windows in the attic and in their own design features, for which the following characteristic is used:

1. Cornice - relevant in those attics where there is a high wall. Below, under the main sash, there is another, additional component with a vertical arrangement.
2. Balcony - there is a connection of an inclined and vertical component, which at the same time acts as a balcony parapet.
3. Inclined, having a lower element - the lower block in such windows is deaf, only the upper section is intended for opening.
4. Light tunnel - used in situations where there is another room above the attic, in which, in fact, a window is installed. The lighting of the room is carried out by means of a tunnel-pipe with a reflective effect, located at the outlet of the ceiling.
5. Extensions - the upper elements that perform a predominantly decorative function. They have excellent aesthetic data, harmoniously fitting into the interior of any attic. The design can be different, but often it is a round, semicircular or triangular window.

Plastic or wooden frames

For window blocks made of plastic, the following is inherent:

• durable and robust construction;
• high tightness of the installed product;
• the ability to rotate the double-glazed window around its axis for more comfortable washing;
• unpretentiousness in service;
• no need for periodic staining;
• long period of operation;
• diversity color solutions and standard sizes;
• acceptable cost.

Concerning wooden windows for the attic, they are characterized by the following aspects:

• environmental safety and cleanliness;
• free air microcirculation;
• high aesthetic performance;
• higher pricing policy;
• the need for painting and more complex maintenance;
• the service life depends on the degree of care for the window block;
• the possibility of trouble-free repair during operation.

Types of windows depending on the method of opening

Depending on the type of sash opening used, the following types of roof windows are distinguished:

• rotary with an axis in the center - the most popular option, in which two-way scrolling of the sash is possible, which greatly simplifies the maintenance of the entire structure;
• mansard hatch - the opening of the sash passes along one of the side axes;
• raised axle - located in the upper section window frame, which allows you to open the sash up and down;
• lower axis - with this arrangement, the sash opens forward. A combined version is also possible, with the possibility of unfolding the sashes.

Types of windows by opening method

Please note: there are also electric windows on the market, the opening / closing of which is carried out using the remote control. Among other things, they are equipped with rain sensors that automatically close the sash when the first drops hit.

For lovers of comfort solutions

Choosing a place for mounting the unit

The choice of the correct location plays a significant role in subsequent operation, positively affecting the reliability of the window installed in the attic and its durability. Experts do not recommend installation in such places:

• along the slopes of the valley, as this will lead to the accumulation of precipitation around the window;
• in close proximity to chimneys and ventilation systems, which is associated with the formation of condensate;
• near the border with horizontal walls, which can lead to the shading of the window in the attic and the accumulation of precipitation around it.

In general, window openings should not be located near any components of the roofing system.

In addition, when choosing a place, it is important to consider a number of the following factors:

• Type of roofing - rolled roofing can be cut without any problems in any place, which cannot be said, for example, about tiles. The window structure must be placed so that its upper line is higher than the row of the whole tile; if necessary, it is necessary to disassemble the section of the tile, subsequently laying the shaped or cut elements on the window frame.
• The step of laying the rafters - it is highly not recommended to violate the integrity of the rafter complex by selecting windows with the possibility of their installation between separate elements with a margin of 7-10 cm. thermal insulation material. If necessary, it is better to install 2-3 small windows instead of one overall. If there is a need for partial removal of rafters, window block to give the entire structure the required strength, it should be supplemented with a horizontal bar.
• The location of the handles on the window - they can be installed from above or below. In any case, they should have unhindered and free access without the slightest discomfort.
• The location of the heating - it is worth remembering to install the heater directly under the roof window. This will prevent condensation from forming.

Please note: when choosing the option with remote control, you should immediately take care of laying the cable to the mounted window unit.

original performance with a small step of rafters

Installation activities and their sequence

Installing windows in the attic is not a super complicated process and does not require special knowledge and specialized tools. Everything is quite possible to do on your own, it is only important to adhere to the correct sequence of actions and not to show excessive haste.

Preparing the opening for subsequent installation

Marking and preparatory work

Spectrum preparatory activities includes the following:

• the choice of the location of the future window - in this case, it is worth considering not only the features of the roof and the design of the window itself, but also the convenience of its subsequent use. In addition, the installation site must have good access to sunlight;
• analysis of the crate - the work is carried out from the inside, alternately cutting off the roofing cake in accordance with the markup;
• removal of roofing materials - we are talking about trimming the laid heat, sound and vapor barrier, for which a sharp knife or cutter is used. The freed edges of the coatings are fixed with nails with large caps or a construction stapler;
• dismantling the roof under the windows in the attic - you should be extremely careful not to damage nearby areas. The edges of the steel material must be coated with an anti-corrosion agent;
• reconciliation of dimensions - the final check of the conformity of the dimensions of the opening and the window block, followed by the installation of the frame.
• Please note: the slope of the frame must exactly correspond to the angle that the roof has, without the slightest discrepancy.

Features of installing a window frame

Installation of the window frame is carried out in the following order:

• fastening the frame in the opening - for this, the mounting screws or self-tapping screws included in the kit are used. Practice shows that a standard mounting kit is quite sufficient, but additional fixing strips can be used if necessary;
• installation of a double-glazed window - it is put in place and fixed with the help of special glazing beads;
• waterproofing - at this stage, the integrity of the broken waterproofing cake is restored, gluing all joints with a special insulating tape. roofing material fasten in the usual way for him;
• fixing the platbands - they put the platbands and slopes in place, giving the structure roof window aesthetic and complete look;
• opening adjustment - in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, tighten the adjusting bolts for the smooth operation of the mechanism.

Frame adjustment for hassle-free opening

Offers from the best manufacturers

The greatest demand among domestic consumers are various modifications and types of roof windows under the following trademarks:

1. Velux is a Danish manufacturer and a recognized industry market leader. The products are characterized by a well-thought-out and well-realized design. Combined with the high quality of the components, this guarantees efficient operation even in the most difficult conditions.
2. Fakro - products from Poland, characterized by environmental friendliness and safety. Such windows can be made both from wood and from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The constant introduction of the latest technical developments and innovative solutions allows you to get the final product highest quality.
3. Roto - German windows for installation in the attic, showing excellent anti-vandal performance. It is not possible to open them from the outside. The reinforced profile is not afraid of even significant impacts and loads, which, combined with tempered glass double-glazed window guarantees excellent burglary resistance.

Key Benefits of Tilt Skylights

As for the benefits, the most noteworthy are the following:

• illumination - the inclined position guarantees excellent illumination of the attic space;
• universality - placement is possible almost anywhere and without violating the integrity of the roof;
• rationality - such windows in no way affect the reduction in the free space of the attic itself;
• assortment - a variety of available variations, both in configuration and in color design, allows you to choose the best look for each specific situation;
• safety - the use of special window systems is possible in the most difficult operational and climatic conditions;
• comfort - a range of accessories guarantees maximum comfort and convenience at any time of the year;
• reliability - subject to properly conducted installation work a long service life is guaranteed with full preservation of the main technical and operational characteristics.

Operation in the most difficult conditions

Inclined windows in the attic - an element that is becoming increasingly relevant. Contributes to the growth of popularity and the relative simplicity of installation work, which can be done on your own. But it is better to entrust the calculations to professionals - thanks to this, it will be possible to save precious time, money and gain confidence that everything will be done correctly, on time and on time. high level.

Video: roof window installation

It is believed that the arrangement of a residential attic is more complicated and more expensive than the construction of a conventional non-insulated roof with a cold attic. There are reasons for this:

• It is necessary to qualitatively insulate the attic.
• It is necessary to correctly mount the vapor barrier and the superdiffusion moisture and windproof membrane.
• It is required to install skylights, as required by the manufacturer.

The last point is often problematic. Errors in the installation of windows on the attic floor negate all the advantages of this room. As a result of jambs of illiterate builders, skylights leak in the rain, and condensate drips from the ceiling, damaging the finish. It is not surprising that many developers are distrustful of attics, believing that it is better to build a cottage in the old fashioned way. To avoid the most common mistakes when inserting a roof window into a roofing pie with flexible tiles, our video and photo instructions will help you, which tells you:

• How to calculate the size of a roof window depending on the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe room.
• How to choose a place in the attic roof for window installation.
• How to prepare a window opening for installing a skylight.
• How to install a roof window box and salary.
• How to install a condensate drain.
• How to make waterproofing at the junction.
• How to install the salary of a roof window and make heat and vapor barrier.

Roof window installation: planning

It is possible to mount a roof window both at the construction stage of the attic, and on a finished insulated roof with an already laid topcoat and layers of vapor barrier and hydro and wind protection. In the first variant, work is carried out sequentially, step by step, and usually does not cause difficulties. In the second case, you need to rack your brains on how to cut a window in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, going through the entire attic roof pie with flexible tiles.

The main difficulties of installing a roof window left “for later” will have to be carefully dismantled or cut through, moving from inside to outside:

• inner crate for finishing the attic;
• vapor barrier;
• insulation;
• superdiffusion membrane (moisture and wind protection);
• crate and counter-crate;
• sawing OSB boards under the opening;
• partially remove flexible tiles around the opening under the window.

The width of the roof window is set by the pitch of the rafters. If the developer does not want to install a narrow window, fitting it under the rafters, mounted at a distance of, for example, 60 cm from each other, then one rafter leg will have to be cut, strengthen the structure, etc. This increases the likelihood of errors by installers, the timing and cost estimates for the work. From here:

The installation of skylights should be planned at the stage of designing a house and calculating the truss system.

For reference, we are guided by the following figures:

• Skylights are recommended to be cut into roofs with a slope angle of 15 degrees or more.
• The window area is selected according to the formula: per 10 sq. m of the attic floor should account for 1 sq. m glazing.
• The upper part of the roof window (from the floor) is located at a height of about 2 m, and the lower part is about 1.2 m.
• The opening under the roof window should be at least 4 cm wider than it, optimally 6 cm.
• The length of the opening is approximately 4.5-5 cm longer than the length of the roof window.

Stages of installation of a roof window

alexnrg FORUMHOUSE Member

I decided to install a roof window in the house myself. Roof cake: rafters - a board with a section of 15x5 cm, a vapor-permeable moisture-windproof membrane, horizontal and vertical lathing, OSB, lining carpet, flexible tiles. Questions arose:

• How to properly install a skylight?
• How to prepare an opening?
• How to fix a window in the attic?
• How to remove condensate?
• What is a salary and how to set it?

Salary (metal frame) is a system of gutters for hermetic connection of a roof window with a roof covering. Salary leads away from the roof window rain water and moisture from melting snow.

All work on installing windows in the attic is divided into a number of successive steps:

1. Opening preparation.
2. Assembly and installation of a heat-insulating contour.
3. Installation of a roof window frame in a thermal frame.
4. Installation of a shutter (double-glazed window).
5. Adjustment of the side clearance and window rebate.
6. Installing a condensate drain.
7. Installation of a waterproofing apron.
8. Salary setting.
9. Insulation of slopes around the window and restoration of the vapor barrier circuit from the inside of the room.

Let's talk about the key stages of installing a roof window and how to avoid mistakes.

Preparing a window opening for installing a roof window

In the video instruction, the specialist tells how to prepare a window opening for installing a roof window if a roof has been built and roofing has been laid.

When driving vapor and waterproofing, the films are cut in an envelope (crosswise) and wrapped inside the room (vapor barrier) and out (wind protection).

The upper and lower parts of the opening are reinforced with lintels (between the rafters).

And batten bars, so that the edge of the OSB sheet does not hang in the air.

The lower support bar of the crate must be leveled in order to accurately set the roof window box and avoid, noticeable by eye, a height difference on the side slope.

Important! If OSB has not yet been laid on the roof- base for flexible tiles, then from above the opening is framed, made from striped OSB or plywood.

Assembly of thermal insulation and installation of a roof window box

The heat-insulating contour is mounted on a steel frame, which is easily assembled with latches.

The thermal insulation circuit is installed in the prepared opening.

Then disconnect the turnable part of the sash with double-glazed windows from the frame of the roof window.

Mount the mounting plates and install the box in the opening.

Important! Mounting plates(4 things.) are installed at the corners of the roof window, in the places prepared at the factory in the frame, into holes pre-drilled by the manufacturer for self-tapping screws.

With a large length of the roof window (more than 1.4 m), additional intermediate mounting plates (corners) are placed in the place of the pivot mechanism (hinges).

The roof window frame is installed in the finished opening. How to do it correctly, as well as adjust the side gaps and the rebate, is shown in the video.

Secrets of installing a condensate drain

The most important element of the roof window waterproofing system is a metal trough for condensate drainage.

The gutter is installed at a distance of up to 50 cm (optimally 20-30 cm) above the window in the same plane with a hydro- and windproof membrane.

In order for the condensate to flow down the chute, it is installed at an angle ( slope at least 3 degrees). Then the moisture will be removed to one of the sides (ventilation channel formed by the crate).

Difficulties with installing the gutter arise if it needs to be mounted on finished roof. In this case, you will have to manually cut the openings in the crate, and do it carefully so as not to damage the wind protection film.

The easiest way to install a gutter is if the crate has not yet been installed on the roof, there is no base for flexible tiles and a soft roof has not been laid.

Preparing the site for the installation of the gutter consists of the following steps:

• In the middle of the rafter leg (on both sides of the prepared opening), a vertical cut is made on the film of the superdiffusion membrane.

• A chute is laid on the seat.

I will lower the gutters, using it as a ruler, a horizontal cut of the film is made, so as to combine the vertical cuts.

The result is a windshield valve that slides into the gutter and catches all the condensate.

Steam and waterproofing at the junction of the roof window

At the end of the work, a waterproofing apron is installed, which protects the junction from moisture.

The waterproofing apron is glued to the frame going from bottom to top. Installation is simple - the protective film is removed from the adhesive layer (strip) and the apron material is gently smoothed over the top of the frame. Then the waterproofing apron is fixed around the window with staples.

Important! The upper part of the apron is wound under a gutter that drains condensate, and a valve cut from the windshield is wound onto a waterproofing apron. To prevent moisture from getting into places where they are made vertical cuts in rafters, them waterproofed with butyl sealant.

Master of Architecture, graduated from the Samara State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering. 11 years of experience in design and construction.

Skylights attract attention with their romanticism and non-trivial external execution, which adds originality to the look of the house and allows you to create a source of abundant daylight. The main difficulty if you want to install a window on the roof is the dimensions of the structure, which must be selected with particular scrupulousness. Right choice means the creation of an exterior that will favorably emphasize the external nobility of the house.

How to choose the area of ​​​​future glazing

Manufacturing market segment attic installations replete with various offers, it is not difficult to get lost in them. In order for the attic to be glazed correctly, follow a number of simple recommendations:

Dimensional grid of attic installations

Standard sizes attic structures are represented by 14 positions, and each of the manufacturers has at least 6 dimensional grids in its ranks. For example, Velux roof windows are quite large, they are in a large and medium grid, so it will be very problematic to find small sizes.

Velux company can please customers with only one small size- 55 x 98 cm. Medium-sized designs are represented by indicators of 66 x 118 cm, and large-sized ones - from 78 x 98 cm to 114 x 140 cm. Before you go shopping, it will be practical to ask the seller if the necessary models are in stock.

What is the structure made of?

Most often, the main material is glued laminated timber, with the exception of the design of sanitary zones, since wood does not tolerate moisture.. For a bathroom or bathroom, frames made of metal-plastic or wood coated with polyurethane are used, which copes with high humidity and temperature changes.

By the way, velux roof windows or other manufacturers with small sizes look organically in the restrooms. They provide sufficient illumination, but at the same time do not open a large view from the outside.

Location of opening elements

The opening axis is placed in three variations: in the center, in the upper part and at 2/3 of the height of the window itself. The central option is very popular, since its installation is recognized as the most inexpensive. The two remaining options have the common advantage of convenience and comfort, eliminating the possibility of accidentally hitting an open window. Do not forget that if you wish, you can always choose a combined opening system.

Choosing a double-glazed window for the attic structure

An important role in the choice of roof windows is played by high-quality glass, necessarily tempered and filled with an inert gas - argon, which will provide excellent thermal insulation of the room. Since the window is located on the roof, the dimensions and the double-glazed window determine the degree of load that the structure will have to withstand. Ordinary glass cannot cope with rain and snow, strong gusts of wind and other weather phenomena, so the reliability of a double-glazed window is a guarantee of safety for the owners of the house.

Depending on financial capabilities, many manufacturers offer to consider models whose designs have increased functionality:

• argon is replaced by a gas that provides even higher thermal conductivity;
• a double-glazed window made using a special technology allows damaged glass to disintegrate into non-sharp fragments and protects a person from injury;
• glass with a special coating that will reflect heat either into the room or into the outer space;
• increasing the thickness of the double-glazed window to achieve maximum strength.

In addition to quality indicators, manufacturers offer to take advantage of pleasant developments in the form of automated attic structures. You can control them with a mobile remote control or with switches mounted on the wall.

Specifications of a double-glazed window

To achieve good functionality of roof windows, technical requirements for double-glazed windows play an important role, which must meet the following indicators:

• high product safety;
• providing good thermal insulation;
• the presence of bonus functions at the window of the "Lux" class.

Positioning the windows correctly

To achieve the brightest light during the day, mount 2 or 3 windows in the same room, placing them on opposite sides of the roof. Installation of one, but a large window, will not allow to achieve a similar effect, since its area will be equal to the sum of the areas of several components. Skylights with a large surface will make the room cozy and evenly fill with light. The distance between the windows and the width of the structures is determined by the distance between the rafters.

Optimal dimensions of structures

Beautiful views will allow you to observe installations with dimensions reaching 1 meter. But, taking care of beautiful landscapes, do not forget that the main thing is to install the window correctly. For these purposes, it must be located in the range from 0.9 m to 1.2 m along the lower part (from the floor) and from 2 m to 2.2 m along the upper part.

When determining the dimensions in length, pay attention to the angle of the roof. The lower the slope, the higher the length of the window structure. For example, for a roof with a slope of 35 °, a window length of 160 cm will be optimal. A slope of 70 ° will require a frame 100-120 cm long, respectively.

Think about the number of future windows at the planning and development stage of the project, since the width of the windows and the distance between the rafters have a subtle relationship. The method of designing rafters directly depends on the initial choice.

When installing skylights, determine their dimensions according to the openings in advance, which will facilitate further work and do without alterations with additional costs.

Hello our regular and new readers!

Going to the site, the measurer often not only fulfills his direct duty, but also advises the client on construction issues, helps to navigate the choice of interior design. Of course, we have to talk a lot about the features of installing skylights. Sometimes the measurer is forced to dispel the customer's vain hope for a certain result that the person saw in a magazine or TV show - since the initial data of the house and the financial capabilities of the client are very different from those of the owner, whose house or apartment turned out to be an inspiring picture.

Today we will get acquainted with the reviews of people who have already installed skylights and admire the results of transforming the space under the roof.

Since many nuances are taken into account when arranging an attic: the number of windows and the size of window openings, and the direction of opening, the material of construction, etc., with the help of someone else's experience, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve what you want with less effort and money.

We are all familiar with attics since childhood. Who didn't "hide" there with Carlson and Malysh, reading about their joint adventures in the house under the roof? Or didn’t he “observe” Kai’s communication with Gerda, who also lived in separate attics and grew beautiful roses there? For the first time, the space under the roof began to be used as a residential space from the second half of the 17th century, when the Frenchman Francois Mansart, a famous enterprising architect, drew attention to the empty "territories".

Most European attics are made according to Finnish technology. In Russia, attics began to get involved relatively recently - with the emergence of interest in individual, affordable, durable and airtight housing.

For attics, it is typical when the windows are located in the roof. Because of this, the installation of structures, and the frame, must comply with certain technical requirements. The most popular manufacturers of roof windows for the European market are Danish Velux, Polish Fakro, German Roto. It is these names of firms that are most often found in discussions on thematic forums.

We study the disadvantages of skylights according to reviews

The most active discussions on the forums relate to various difficulties with the installation and operation of skylights. Sometimes in the dialogues there are also very negative statements from people who have suffered with the renovation of the attic.

About the advantages and disadvantages of skylights in the video:

Possible problems and solutions

Flow

“... In winter, snow marks on the window thaw and freeze all season, then it starts to flow. Ice builds up at the junction of the window and frame. And I also tortured the condensate - I clean the snow systematically, but the window is still crying ... ". In response to such statements, they often write about the suspicion that the window became problematic due to the installation by the owners themselves, and not by specialists. And this advice is difficult to refute - hire specialists to solve complex construction problems.

High temperature in summer

“... I would like to make it cooler in the attic of the parental dacha in the summer ...”.

You can fix the problem in one of the following ways:

• by building up a heat-insulating layer under the roof;
• using blinds, reflective film or curtains;
• change the shape of the roof so that in the summer the overhang shaded the window.

Price

“Everything suits in the attic window: it doesn’t blow anywhere, it fits well into the interior, it’s convenient to use. But the price! Twice the cost of conventional double-glazed windows.

Which manufacturer's products you prefer is completely your choice. If you want better quality, you will have to pay more.

What is the advantage of skylights: we study the experience of owners based on reviews

Attractive look

“Attic rooms have become much prettier. At night, all the stars of the world are yours!

Energy saving

“Attic windows were installed in the office and bedroom. Comfort and light just increased.

The statements of this user are also confirmed by scientists: due to the angle of location, inclined windows let in more light than ordinary ones, that is, standing vertically (about 40%).

Placement of the handle, taking into account the wishes of the user

It is better to choose the location for installing the handle, taking into account the age and physical characteristics of the inhabitants of the attic. For families with children, it is better to give preference to doors with handles installed in such a way that it is extremely difficult for children to use the levers without substituting a ladder or high chair. It is even safer to use handles with key locks.

accessories

For equipment, a separate type of fittings is needed and you cannot buy it at retail. It is produced by the same companies that produce windows for attics.

If you need to replace or update some element, the application must be sent to the window seller.

Despite the similarity with the fittings for ordinary PVC double-glazed windows, the attic has some technical differences.

Skylights are a good option for the arrangement of office and residential premises. What designs do users like and what to look for in order to be satisfied with their choice?

What problem might you face

The installation of skylights by non-specialists is an absolutely typical and growing phenomenon, given that the flow of complaints about leaks has been steadily increasing in recent years. And with the advent of heat, the number of dissatisfied will increase, since this is a natural phenomenon when the technology for installing windows at an angle is violated. However, leakage can be observed even after a flawless installation. What can cause moisture to seep under the frame?

“Yesterday we received a call from customer P complaining about a leak in the skylights. Moisture seepage is observed under the lower porch of the window sash. The caller claims that the installation of double-glazed windows was carried out by experienced specialists.

After arriving at the indicated address and inspecting, it turned out that the installation was really done professionally. The cause of the leak was an excess of snow mass on the outer surface of the window glass. Under the sun's rays, the snow thawed, and the resulting water ran down an inclined plane to the lower frame. With a decrease in temperature, the water solidified and increased the load on the seal. Over time, it deformed somewhat, and water was able to seep out a little.

The key to solving the problem is to clear the window of snow and eliminate all moisture on the glass surface with a simple wipe with a clean rag.

To restore the functionality of the seal, a lubricant in the composition with liquid silicone is required.

After a while, it turned out that the recommendation fully justified itself: the leak no longer appeared. The problem was eliminated with little bloodshed due to the fact that the attic window was installed according to the rules. If the technology were broken, then the owner of the house would have to incur much greater costs than was spent on calling and consulting a specialist.

About the technology of installing mounting windows in the video:

Real owner reviews of roof windows

Reading the dialogues on forums discussing skylights, it becomes clear that the leading topic of conversation is related to the problem of leakage. Someone claims that no one will be able to avoid moisture seepage, someone insists that double-glazed windows from a normal manufacturer can fail only if installed by a non-professional. Others argue that neither the brand name nor the qualifications of the installers will save from a leak - over time, even expensive double-glazed windows begin to let water through.

Problems

When you hear statements, the essence of which is “Velux windows or, say, ROTO windows serve for 10-15 years and have never leaked,” you start to think that today’s double-glazed windows of the same companies are not made in Denmark or Germany, respectively, but somewhere in Egypt or even near the town of Starye Pyrki.

Where do legs grow for such a suspicion? It's simple: most of the skylights complaining about leaking roof windows assure that the structures were installed by specialists, and do not understand which workers. It turns out that the root of the problem is a factory defect. And the fact that double-glazed windows let water through not in the rain, but after the formation of ice, is a confirmation of this.

How does the leak occur in the latter case:

• due to heavy snowfalls, a snowdrift forms on the outer glass;
• after a thaw, under the melted snow, ice forms in the evening, reliably “biting” into the window frame;
• because of the heat from the window, the ice is gradually melting, but the water formed because of this has nowhere to escape - there is an ice crust on top;
• if there is a gap between the frame and the sash - if the assembly of the double-glazed window at the factory was carried out in violation of the technology - water seeps under the seal.

The sealant may also begin to let water through due to the long operation of the double-glazed window without preventive maintenance. If the water seepage is caused by the age of the seal, then the streams will leave dark smudges, and if the seepage moisture is transparent, then poor assembly is the cause of the problem.

So that over time a good seal does not lose its properties, it must be lubricated. But even careful care is powerless in the face of time - then replacing with a new one is the only way to avoid leaks. Interestingly, for double-glazed windows with sashes that open according to the hatch principle, sealing gum lasts longer.

Advantages

Of course, roof windows have a lot of advantages! No one has yet complained about their poor thermal insulation or drafts. Owners of the latest models of Aereco windows do not get enough of the presence of pre-installed systems in the form of a self-regulating inlet valve that provides ventilation.

There were rave reviews from the owners of double-glazed windows with wooden frames.

Unlike ordinary ones made of the same material, the first ones are absolutely not afraid of rotting, do not peel off and do not require systematic painting, since they are treated with special impregnation and have a protective coating.

Users are also pleased with the durability of skylight windows, tested in practice: among the dialogues of the farmhouse.ru forum there is a description of a mini-incident that led the narrator to financial expenses, but convinced him of the strength of the glass in such windows. Because of the lost key, the man was forced to enter the house through a locked skylight, the glass in which resisted attempts to break it for a long time.

Window owners also like the loyalty program of manufacturers FAKRO, Velux, ROTO to their customers, expressed in the ability to replace defective elements for roof windows for free.

Skylights: choice based on basic characteristics

Like any person who purchases a product, the buyer of a roof window expects the quality of an insulating glass unit to match the amount paid. Most of the special double-glazed windows for installation in the attic are affordable for a wide range of consumers, and at the same time please with democratic prices.

By purchasing this roof window, you get:

• goods with a high safety factor;
• a reliable product whose functional characteristics will ensure the protection of the room from drafts, low temperatures, excess moisture;
• Durable construction with 10 year warranty.

Glasses of high-quality dormer-windows are made of triplex. In addition to strength, this material has a valuable property: upon a crushing blow, the glass does not scatter with splashes of fragments, but cracks, becoming covered with a web of cracks of various lengths, but remains in the window opening.

Skylight glass scatters the sun's rays, so inside the room the light will be pleasing to the eye and harmless to things that are prone to fading.

Details

If we were engaged in the construction of housing for ourselves with a frequency of 5-10 years, then when preparing the third project, we would have considerable experience in arranging houses to our needs. But since we perform such a feat much less often, we have to apply for practical advice on many building issues. Next, we will present a lot of applied information about skylights, collecting valuable information with the help of Prozarovskaya Marina, who works as a chief engineer. If we missed something, then later we are ready to answer all the questions you sent.

In general terms

What is the difference between a roof window and a regular vertical double-glazed window? What are the advantages of the first? Is it possible to install a conventional double-glazed window at an angle in mansard roof?

The main difference between windows is their purpose. Vertical double-glazed windows are mounted purely in the window openings of the vertical walls of buildings for various purposes.

Skylights are designed for roof mounting, so they can carry loads similar to those experienced by a roof.

The procedure for installing windows in the roof also has a number of nuances that are not needed for installing conventional double-glazed windows.

The cost per square meter of a roof window and the difference in price between it and the usual one

The cost of roof windows is determined not by the number of square meters in it, but by the combined amount for all the elements that make up the structure. The larger the area, the more complete the equipment and the newer the model of the attic double-glazed window, the higher the price for it.

For example, let's say that a basic design without a salary with a size of 78 x 118 will cost the client 9,800 rubles. What is the purpose of salary? This is an element for connecting double-glazed windows with the roof of your house. If it is profiled, then you need to choose a special salary worth 4,150 rubles. But the indicated amounts are the price for each of the products. Work, additions in the form of kits that provide heat, hydro, vapor barrier, are paid separately.

In most cases, pine wood from our northern regions is used for the manufacture of skylights. This material is preferred due to its special density and heat-conducting qualities.

If you prefer PVC double-glazed windows, we recommend choosing Roto or Faktro products. Or take advantage of an absolutely innovative offer - choose structures made of wood coated with polyurethane on the outer layer. It protects wood from impregnation with moisture, is not afraid of heat, does not turn yellow and is resistant to mechanical stress.

Algorithm for mounting skylights in the video:

Why vertical windows are made using a different technology

They have different purposes and different volumes of loads. The roof must have the same heat loss coefficient over the entire area, therefore, the windows in the roof must be a reliable barrier to the escape of heat from the room.

Is sweating possible?

All modern double-glazed windows belong to building envelopes and have similar problems with condensate. Therefore, this manifestation of excess moisture can be observed even in the highest quality structures.

How to deal with the resulting condensate:

• thoughtful organization of air convection;
• creating a ventilation gap if the technology is violated when creating slopes.

The fact is that the upper slope of the attic window should be horizontal, and the lower - vertical.

Then the warm air current rising from heating element under the window opening, will spread parallel to the area of ​​the roof window. If the lower slope is horizontal, then there is a need for a ventilation gap from special gratings.

Special Requirements

Often these windows are hanging over the people who are in the room.

Therefore, the structures put forward special requirements in matters of safety:

• internal glass must be made of triplex, which will save people near the window in case of damage to its transparent elements;
• the outer panes must be of the tempered type which are much stronger than normal ones.

What is triplex technology - this is a complex of two bonded glasses with a layer between them in the form of a film. It is she who does not allow the glass to "explode" into fragments when it hits the window.

To get acquainted with some of the characteristics of a double-glazed window purchased or already installed on permanent place, study the data on the plate located at the end of the window.

To get to it, open the sash so that its upper part looks into the room. Usually a plate with information of interest (class, type of double-glazed window, size) is located on the right. For more information about what you can find out by reading the information on the nameplate (tablet), find out in a special section.

How to use in hot season

In summer, the space under the roof is the hottest area of ​​the house. All the heat that comes to us with the sun's rays is directed to the roof. Understanding the source of the problem, roof window manufacturers offer to deal with it through the use of sun-reflecting glass, interior curtains, roller shutters, blinds, and awnings. Choosing suitable option, remember that using roller shutters, you will be forced to illuminate the room with artificial lighting, since such protection will completely obscure the room.

If the roof has sufficient thermal insulation, then the atmosphere under the roof on a hot day warms up to 26 degrees. With poor insulation, this figure increases greatly and the presence of a window on the south side of the roof will only exacerbate the problem. All protective methods reducing the amount of heat entering through the windows is able to reduce it by no more than a degree. Therefore, it is advisable to put windows in the roof, provided that its slope faces the north side of the world. Otherwise, in the summer without air conditioning in the attic will be quite tight.

Operation in winter

If the house is heated, then the roof windows will not freeze. But due to their sloping location on top of the glass, snow deposits can accumulate. If the precipitation is weak, then there will quickly be no trace of snow. And with significant snowfall, snowdrifts must be periodically shaken off so that the amount of light penetrating into the room does not decrease and the visibility of the windows does not decrease.

Due to the temperature difference outside the window and inside the room, condensation drops form on the glass. Flowing down, they can cause the formation of a mini lake on the floor under the window. If you do not know about this and do not visit the attic for some time, then you may be faced with the fact that a section of carpet, parquet or furniture located directly under the window becomes very wet. As a prevention of unpleasant consequences, you can use a thick towel or rug.

As for the difficulties with caring for skylights. Yes, they get dirty faster, because dust and dirt are better retained on inclined surfaces. However, it is easier to wash the sashes of such double-glazed windows because of their location. Provided that the window is located in the living room, and not high above the flight of stairs. In the latter case, cleaning without a telescopic mop will not be easy.

If you are afraid that children will try to use the roof window as a climb to the roof, use fittings with a locking system with a key.

Reliability and duration of the operational period

Based on the foregoing, we can conclude that when choosing a high-quality roof window, you will get a reliable and easy-to-use design that will please your eye and soul for more than one year. Manufacturers confident in their product indirectly confirm the quality of products with a twenty-year warranty on glass. At the same time, they emphasize the need for systematic lubrication of fittings accessible to moisture and recommend periodically refreshing appearance frame paint.

What problems can the owner of a roof window face?

Do not believe that there are no problems with skylights? Correctly. Any design may not serve as flawlessly as we would like, if during its operation the recommended rules of use are violated.

For example, for a long service life of an attic double-glazed window, it is extremely important to follow the installation technology: take into account the angle of the roof, the level of the floor, professionally mount the structure in a permanent place. Often, if errors are made, they are noticeable even to a person who does not have experience in construction.

If the builder is inexperienced, an incorrect project was used when arranging the house, then the result may be, for example, the inaccessibility of a free view - when you can’t get to the window without a chair or you need to bend in three arcs to look out into the street. A similar situation is observed in the attic of one of the members of the forum. Given the parameters of the project, she ordered attic double-glazed windows measuring 78 x 140, and in practice the latter figure should have been 160 cm. As a result, to view the situation on the street, the owners of the room must bend over, which is not very convenient, whatever one may say.

To avoid inconvenience, count so that the bottom edge of the double-glazed window is at a distance of 80-110 cm from the floor. A more specific guideline: when sitting on a chair, the line of your gaze, when looking straight ahead, should coincide with the lower edge of the glazing. You also need to consider your height: if you get up, you should not be afraid of hitting the sash of an open window.

The following reminder will help you not to miss the choice of the desired design: when determining the length of the window, consider the angle of the roof. If the angle is 30 degrees (or 35), then there should be at least one and a half meters between the lower and upper edges of the sash. If you suspect that you can miss the size of the roof window due to errors in the project, then before choosing specific designs, do not be too lazy to measure the attic yourself or by inviting an experienced measurer. Then you will definitely be sure that skylights will decorate the room and allow you to admire beautiful landscapes without requiring unnatural body curves from you.

If the attic is located in a house with attic walls, then the expediency of double-glazed windows is in question. You will not be able to admire the views through them, except to study the sky. But save a lot on electricity. In general, the choice is always yours if you approach any task wisely.

About the use of roof windows in winter in the video: