Adding a dormer to your home is always an appealing idea; it lets more natural light in and cuts down the cost of electricity while boosting the look of your home. During those hot Australian days, you can even open your skylight if it is a ventilating one to let fresh air in, making your home less stuffy. This guide has everything you need to know about dormers, and we always advise people to hit up a professional instead of DIYing these types of jobs.
1. The style of the dormer will depend on the use of your attic
There are an infinite number of dormer styles: Bulls-eye dormer, sloping dormer, trapezoidal dormer, and hipped dormer. The choice will depend on the exterior appearance of your home and the use of your attic. For example, a rampant dormer is very slanted and goes in the same direction as the roof slope.
As a result, the fenestration will be quite limited. Although it can be used for ventilation, the light will be limited. For this reason, a crawl space can be used more if your attic is being converted into a storage room or a room that does not require much light.
However, if you want to turn your attic into a bedroom, then it would be better to opt for a roll-up dormer. This type of dormer is covered by a flat roof, which allows a large window installation. The light penetration will be optimized, and the ventilation of the room.
2. Be careful not to confuse skylights and roof windows
It is not uncommon to see roofs equipped with windows, also known as Velux. You may not have known that Velux is also a brand that has been a pioneer in this field for almost 60 years. In fact, the name was inspired by VE for ventilation and LUX for light. The main difference between the skylight and the Velux is in the window’s layout. In the case of the skylight, it is placed vertically, while the Velux is instead installed on the roof.
It is certain that a roof window will be more exposed to the weather; for this reason, it is usually made of double glazing and has excellent sealing. The skylight does not save space, unlike the dormer window. Moreover, the latter is generally installed by a roofer because it represents an essential work in the renovation, which is not the case with roof windows.
3. The skylight represents a significant gain in space
Turning your attic into a living space can be a significant expansion project. It is probably the best way to ensure their longevity. Indeed, neglected places tend to fall into disrepair, especially because of the lack of heat. It will certainly be better preserved if your roof has a living area. An architect will be able to work with you to design your new skylight according to your needs.
This type of installation is ideal for gaining space in height and maximizing the room’s luminosity. Once the plans are in hand, it will be necessary to obtain authorization from your municipality, as improvements to the exterior of a house generally require a renovation permit.
4. The dormer contributes to the durability of your roof
Did you know that attics are the perfect place for mold and mildew to grow? Dark, damp, cold, and often poorly ventilated, attics tend to deteriorate easily, especially if they are poorly maintained. Even if you are not converting your attic into a living space, installing a skylight on your roof would be the perfect option to ventilate your attic and intensify the penetration of light during lovely days.
You will find that mold and mildew will disappear over time. However, note that roof insulation must be particularly effective to remedy your moisture problems once and for all.
5. Dormers converted to flat roofs
Modern houses tend to take on original geometric shapes, giving them a trendy look. However, this does not prevent the installation of skylights, which blend perfectly into the contemporary look of homes with their design possibilities. We now find dormers composed of a terrace and a bay window to take full advantage of the sunshine and comfort provided. So, even though the dormer window has appeared.
Looking for help?
Are you interested in placing a skylight in your home, and do you live in Melbourne? Then you should contact Daylight Skylights; they provide you with a free quote for your future construction. They are the leaders in skylight installation with over 35 years, and this is why you should trust them with all skylight needs. So what are you waiting for? Give them a call today and make your dreams become a reality.
Leave a Reply