When converting your loft space, natural light is really important. Careful consideration of how many windows, the type of window, and where they should go, can make the room light and airy and a much nicer space to be in. There are two main types of window for a loft conversion, both of which offer contrasting designs and choosing one will depend on your needs.
Dormer Windows
Dormer windows sit vertically on your roof. To do this, a small sloping roof is attached to the existing roof and the window fitted on the end so the window has its own small roof, in effect. These windows are often used when there is not enough head height as they create more usable space.
From the outside of your house, these windows can often look really good, making your house appear grander and bigger. There are nine types of dormer window, all varying how they attach to your roof. The gabled wall dormer is a classic style that is often found on traditional cottages and older houses. Before getting your heart set on them, however, you need to check whether you need planning permission. Dormers at the back of the house don’t typically need planning permission, but dormer windows on the front sometimes do.
Skylights
Another common type of window used for loft conversions is the skylight. These windows are also referred to as roof lights, roof windows, or Velux windows – however Velux is a brand of skylight. Roof lights sit flush to the existing roof, meaning no need for extra building or adjusting to your roof structure and are definitely the simpler option of the two.
These windows are best for roof spaces that have sufficient head height and space. They let in a substantial amount of light and look great flush against the roof, for a seamless loft conversion. From the outside of your house, they are hardly noticeable and require no planning permission.
J Wolf Construction are experienced in converting loft spaces and can help with choosing and fitting windows to make your new attic the way you want it to be. So if you’d like more information, we fit loft conversions in South West London and are happy to provide advice or a free no-obligation quote. Call us now on 07832 517516.