The perfect window for your loft conversion

As home renovation specialists, our team has extensive experience with working on a wide range of home improvements. This may include projects such as a ground floor extension, bedroom refurbishment, or even a dormer extension in London. At Home Tales, we place a huge emphasis on maintaining a clear line of communication with our clients to ensure every last detail is to their satisfaction.

At times, we like to cover topics that often come up during our discussions with clients. In today’s post, we wanted to talk about the different types of windows that can be installed into a loft conversion. The type of window you place here can define the style of your house and add character as well as value, so we think it’s pertinent to do your research beforehand.

Fixed roof light

A fixed roof light is the standard roof window for a loft conversion or ground floor extension. It is an unopenable window that can be on a flat or sloped roof, letting in natural light into an otherwise dim space. As these are fixed, a separate ventilation solution may be required. This may be in the form of a vent or separate openable window. Many variations of roof window fall under the umbrella of “roof light”. Read on to explore the wide range of roof windows you can install.

Dormer window (flat roof, gable, hipped)

Dormers do not always have to span the entirety of a roof slope. Dormer windows are dormers that can be much smaller depending on the size of the window, as its main purpose is to accommodate the new opening. They are positioned within the slope of a roof and are set vertically, adding volume to an existing loft space. A gable end dormer is most popular for this as it adds interest and character to the overall exterior look of a home, to some it looks like the eyes of a house. They are a great option for homeowners looking to bring light into a cramped roof to make it a habitable space. It’s important to note that flat roof dormers allow more habitable space than a pitched dormer, as space with a ceiling height of 1.5 metres and below are not counted as habitable.

Velux window

Velux windows are used throughout all parts of a house with a pitched roof, whether it be a ground floor extension or loft conversion. This type of window requires no structural changes (as opposed to building walls to support a dormer window) and can be slotted between the existing joists. What makes Velux’s different from a standard roof light is that it can be opened up to ventilate the loft space. You can control this manually or electronically depending on your needs. All in all, it’s an energy efficient, low-maintenance option that will bring in natural light.

Juliet balcony doors

For homeowners wanting to maximise the amount of light into their new loft conversion whilst creating a perfect view over their garden, a Juliet balcony is the ideal option. A Juliet balcony is a full-length openable set of doors which includes a metal or glass safety balustrade in front of it. It is fitted vertically on a straight wall. Due to its sheer size, you would get a lot of natural light in and would be able to adequately air out the loft space. Their charming look means a lot of people opt to have these in their new bedroom.

Casement window

A traditional option is a casement window, as this is often the most similar to the existing windows in the rest of the house. These are installed vertically within a straight wall rather than a sloped roof; therefore they are commonly seen in dormers and hip to gable extensions (this is not the same as a dormer window which is specifically built for purpose). They can be any size, with a wide range of opening systems to choose from. As they are mass-produced, they are very affordable. They can suit a modern exterior well as a lot of newer residential builds have casement windows and its unimposing look can suit most homes.

Bespoke glazing

If you can’t seem to find the perfect window for you from what is readily available on the market, there are specialists that offer custom glazing. They can be designed to any shape or thickness that you desire but can rack up a hefty cost. You won’t have to compromise on style, so your interior and exterior will exactly as you dreamed.

Velux balcony

A sister to the standard Velux window, the innovative Velux balcony is a sophisticated option for homeowners wanting the maximum amount of outdoor space. When closed, this window looks like any sleek roof window, but when opened, the window folds out to instantly reveal a balcony. It can be installed into a roof with a slope of 35-53 degrees. This window allows you to enjoy a quick break outdoors on busy workdays or when looking after your new-born, with the best view in your neighbourhood. Its look is suitable in both traditional and modern properties.

Conservation roof window

If you don’t live in a Conservation Area, this will not be relevant to you, but we do think it is handy to know about. Conservation roof windows look distinctly different to a standard roof window. It is defined by the slim glazing bar that runs vertically along the centre of the window. Typically, the frame and glazing bar are made of aluminium and is coloured black. This window was designed to mimic the look of cast iron roof lights that were popular in traditional Victorian homes. They are also shallower in profile compared to a standard roof light and sits in line with the roof to ensure they are not visually jarring. For homes within a Conservation Area, all roof lights must be conservation roof windows (subject to local planning guidelines) to suit the periodic look of the property.

To discuss a prospective home renovation project, along with any of the minute detailed, get in touch with our lovely team of professionals. You can call us on 02070432378 or email us at hello@hometales.co.uk. Alternatively, to book a free no-obligations telephone consultation for a time that best suits you, click here to view our live diary.


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