How do you know which will be the best option for your home?
Whether it is a new project or replacing existing roof windows, purchasing a roof window can seem difficult as there are a lot of features to choose from. We have assembled a 6-step guide to help you find the prefect option for your needs. However, should you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to contact us via phone, email or chat and an experienced member of the team will be at hand to help you.
Step 1: What do you want to achieve?
Before choosing roof windows and deciding on their layout, you must consider the function and the personal needs of the occupants of the room. What kind of room is it? Bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living room, or other?
When the room type has been decided, consider how much daylight and view is required. Then consider the shape and volume of the room to decide on the number and position of the windows. Adding more windows will provide more daylight and benefits than adding one or two large windows.
Step 2: Select the type and operation method
Select how the window should open.
Top-hung
The top hung roof window is operated with a handle at the bottom. Best fitted on roofs with pitches between 15° and 55°, top-hung windows give you an unobstructed view of your skyline. These windows can be used as a means of escape if required.
Centre-pivot roof window
The centre-pivot roof window is top-operated. Providing ease of use and maximum safety for children. Centre-pivot roof windows are ideal for pitched rooms with low ceilings. Can be turned 180 degrees for cleaning.
VELUX flat roof windows allow you to transform flat roofs of 0-15 degrees, filling your home with light and fresh air. VELUX flat roof windows are a sophisticated alternative to traditional skylights that do not allow for substantial airflow. These roof windows provide optimal light exposure while retaining maximum privacy, which makes them ideal for areas such as bathrooms, as they allow for a sense of privacy that traditional windows cannot offer but can still be opened to ventilate the space.
VELUX INTEGRA® electric or solar-powered roof window
VELUX INTEGRA® is an innovative system of remote-controlled windows. Driven by a motor and powered either by electricity or solar cells, the VELUX INTEGRA® windows are ideal for out of reach situations. Available in centre-pivot, top-hung or flat roof window styles.
If your project requires a special type of roof window such as the VELUX Conservation roof window, or you want to add something spectacular like the VELUX Cabrio Balcony windows, we have you covered at The Roof Window Store. You can contact our Sales Experts on 01592 806 611 or alternatively email us info@theroofwindowstore.co.uk to discuss these options further and to hear about the sizes we have to offer.
Step 3: Select the internal finish
Depending on the type and operation of the roof window, you must decide on the internal finish:
White painted finish
High quality pine wood with water-based long-lasting white paint with discrete wood grain. Suitable for almost all rooms.
White polyurethane finish
High quality moulded polyurethane protects the timber core and is easy to wipe clean. Ideal for humid rooms, such as kitchens or bathrooms.
Lacquered natural pine
Warmth of natural pine with long lasting triple coat finish. Ideal for a traditional interior.
Step 4: Consider the glazing options
The glazing is the easiest way to increase the performance of your roof window. The different types of glazing available have different added benefits such as heat insulation, sound insulation, added strength and protection from the outside elements. For more information on glazing options, click here.
Step 5: Choose flashing and installation products
To further improve energy performance, it is important to insulate around the edge of the roof window, which means choosing compatible flashing and installation products. VELUX and Solstro have a wide range of installation products available to make it quicker and easier to meet building regulation requirements and provide a more comfortable indoor environment.
For further details on flashing and installation products, click to see the range here.
Step 6: Add blinds and shutters
VELUX and Solstro blinds and roller shutters are not only designed to complement a room and interior - they also play an important role in managing heat, light and shading in a room when it gets too sunny. Most blinds also have the added benefit of heat prevention. You can view our full range of blinds here.