Skylights wood or plastic. Skylights in the photo: choose and install correctly

The roof plastic window will perfectly cope with its task - it will illuminate and ventilate the room. A wide range of designs is able to meet any customer needs. However, it should be remembered that even the most robust design can ruin poor-quality installation.

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, 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 “observe” Kai’s communication with Gerda, who also lived in separate attics and grew beautiful roses? 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 from reviews

The most active discussions on the forums concern various complexities 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 to summer time 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 in recent times increases steadily. 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 casement. 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 bear much high costs than was spent to call and consult 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 replacement with a new one the only way avoid leaks. Interestingly, in 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 windows of the latest models produced by Aereco do not get enough of the presence of pre-installed systems in the form of a self-adjusting supply valve providing 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 strength of skylight glass, 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 such a roof window, you get:

• goods with a high safety factor;
• a reliable product functional characteristics provide protection of the premises from drafts, low temperatures, excessive humidity;
• 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 an ordinary double-glazed window at an angle in a 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 skylights is not determined by the quantity square meters in it, but by the combined sum 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 flow rising from the heating element under the window opening will spread parallel to the roof window area. 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, special requirements have been put forward to the structures in terms 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 usual.

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 in a 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 details 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 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 of reducing the amount of heat entering through the windows are 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 their products with a twenty-year glass warranty. 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 inclination 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 developer is inexperienced, an incorrect project was used when decorating 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 you look straight ahead, should coincide with the bottom 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 skylights in winter period in video:

The attic has long ceased to be in country houses exotic. In most, an insulated attic is a must. Of course, like any other room, the attic must be equipped with windows. There are many types of such structures. Attic windows should be selected taking into account several important factors.

Purpose

Structures of this type primarily serve, of course, to provide attic lighting. However, they also have another purpose. Often, such windows are installed not only in residential, but also in unheated attics. In the latter case, they also have a purely technical purpose. If repairs are needed, workers climb onto the roof through them.

What should be the dimensions of skylights

It is necessary to select such structures for the attic first of all, focusing on their dimensions. Skylights are usually installed between the roof rafters. Therefore, their width should be such that they fit freely in this space. Otherwise, costly changes will have to be made to the design of the roof frame.

When selecting windows in height, one should pay attention to factors such as the total area of ​​​​the attic, the height of the slopes, and the purpose of the room. For example, for a living room, an office or a nursery in the attic, big windows. For you can choose their lower version.

Standard sizes

In the European part of Russia, in the Urals and Siberia, roof rafters are most often installed at a distance of 80 cm from each other. Window manufacturers, of course, take this factor into account. Standard sizes roof windows can be:

• 78x118 cm;
• 78x140 cm;
• 78x160 cm.

Also for the attic, you can also purchase larger windows of 94x140 cm, 114x118 cm and 114x140 cm. Sometimes small structures of this type are also on sale - 55 or 66 cm.

In principle, models with a width of 78 cm are well suited even for truss system with a step wider than 80 cm. In this case, you just have to think about how to close the gaps near the frames. If the rafters are installed very close to each other, the owner of the house will most likely have to make windows to order. They will cost, of course, more expensive than the standard ones. However, the owners of the cottage will still have to spend less money than when reworking the roof frame.

Top Producers

There are a huge number of companies producing skylights. When choosing such designs, you should definitely pay attention to the brand of the manufacturer. Especially popular in our country are, for example, Velux skylights. This company produces both wooden and plastic models. Attic dimensions Velux windows usually standard. The width of most of their models is 78, 94 or 114 cm. Velux windows of 55 cm are also on sale. The height of the models ranges from 78-160 cm.

Also, Fakro brand windows are quite popular with domestic owners of private houses. The models of this manufacturer are distinguished not only by good quality and ease of use, but also by a very low cost (from 8 thousand rubles). The dimensions of Fakro skylights are also usually only standard. On sale you can find models with a width of 55 to 114 cm.

Types of double-glazed windows

In addition to such a parameter as the size of skylights, when buying, you should also pay attention to the degree of their insulation. On sale today there are designs with both two glasses and three. The second option for the Russian climate is considered more suitable. At the same time, it is better for owners of cottages in Siberia and the Urals to pay attention to “warm” double-glazed windows (with a special reflective film).

Frame types

Skylights, which vary in size and price, can make a big difference to a building's exterior. Therefore, it is, of course, worth looking at what material their frames are made of when buying. For a concrete or brick cottage, PVC window models are more suitable. In this case, you should also pay attention to the color of the frames. Windows should organically fit into the architecture of the house.

For a chopped or panel building, it is worth looking at structures with wooden frames. You can also save money and choose plastic windows. However, in this case, it is better to purchase models with brown frames, beige or wood grain.

by way of closing

The most popular among Russian summer residents are medium-turning mansard structures. These windows have only one sash. At the same time, it opens by turning around its axis. The mass of such a window is leveled by hinges located in the center. Therefore, it is very easy to manage it. The owner of the house only needs to rotate the sash on these hinges.

The windows of this variety are popular not only for their ease of use, but also because of the ease of maintenance. Glass in the attic usually gets dirty very quickly. In windows of this design, the sash can simply be rotated 180 degrees and washed.

Among other things, on sale today there are:

• balcony skylights;
• hatches;
• hinged traditional designs;
• vertical;
• eaves.

Balcony skylights

Such transformer models are less popular than mid-turn models (mainly due to the high price), but they are also quite often installed in attics. When folded, they are double-sided. When you open them, you get a small attic "balcony". In order to expand such a window, you just need to lift the upper part of the sash up (this forms a glass "roof", and move the lower one forward.

The dimensions of Velux, Fakro, etc. roof windows of the balcony type are also usually standard. The most popular are models with a width of 78 cm. In addition, on sale today there are more overall designs of this variety, which, when unfolded, form a whole terrace. Their sizes can vary from 94 to 114 cm.

It is not allowed to install balcony windows in any attic. Installation of such structures is possible only on roofs with a slope angle of at least 35 and not more than 55 degrees.

Skylights

Models of this variety are most often installed in unheated attics and serve purely technical purposes. There is only one sash in such structures. At the same time, she rises. Sometimes polycarbonate is used instead of glass in the windows of this variety.

On the residential attics usually only hatches with a non-standard configuration are mounted. The dimensions of this type of roof windows are most often small. They are used complete with a special "light tunnel". Such models are installed only when it is impossible to install conventional pivoting or hinged windows. For example, if there is a wide technical space between the attic ceiling and the actual roofing.

Swing models

Windows of this variety are also quite popular. Using such traditional models is quite comfortable. The inconvenience in this case lies only in the complexity of caring for the glasses. In order to wash the double-glazed window from the outside, you will either have to stretch hard, or even go out onto the slope.

Cornice skylights

These are the usual models installed on the gables of the roof. In fact, such windows are not actually attic windows. From the end of the house on the roof, you can install structures of any height and width. Very often, cornice windows are used as panoramic windows. The fact is that due to the peculiarities of the layout of the attic small structures of this type simply will not be able to provide good lighting.

It also happens that not just windows, but balcony structures are installed on the gables. The floor in such "terraces" is usually the overlap of the attic itself. But sometimes gable balconies are made protruding forward. In this case, they are supported from below with columns or pillars.

Vertical Models

Such windows are also often used in attics and are able to perform their main function of illuminating the room very efficiently. Their only drawback is the high cost of installation. The fact is that when installing models of this variety, changes to the roof structure will have to be made in any case. Vertical windows are mounted in a specially arranged attic "birdhouse".

What should be the hardware

These are the modern skylights (sizes, types). The device of models produced by well-known manufacturers, in most cases, allows you to use them with great convenience. However, when choosing windows for the attic, of course, you need to pay attention not only to the double-glazed window, design features and the type of frame. You must also make sure that good quality accessories. Handles, hinges, etc. in dormer windows are usually used differently than in simple facade ones. As a rule, the manufacturing technology of such fittings is the know-how of a particular company and is not widely advertised.

When choosing windows, first of all, you should pay attention to the position of the handle. It can be located at the top or bottom. Both options are considered quite convenient. If the window is located very high from the attic floor, it is better, of course, to choose a model with a bottom handle. Otherwise, in the future, opening the fold, most likely, will not be very convenient. If the window is equipped with a window sill and flower pots are installed on it, you should take a closer look at the model with the top handle. In this case, it will be possible to open the window without the risk of touching and knocking down the plants.

Accessories

In order to make it more convenient to use windows in the attic, many manufacturers supply them with different kind additional fixtures. This can be, for example, a rod, a cord or a remote opening system. A model equipped with such devices is worth buying if it is located in the attic very high.

Also, windows of this variety can be supplemented with special curtains, blinds or roller shutters. Such models are perfect for the sunny side.

Model price

How much can the owner of the cottage cost? Of course, for a large attic it is worth choosing larger models. For a small roof, small structures are better suited. But, of course, it depends on the dimensions and prices of the roof windows.

Installing small ones is usually not too expensive. Simple medium-turn triplexes of 78 cm cost, for example, about 15-35 thousand rubles. (depending on the height and design features), wide - 25-45 thousand rubles. If desired, today you can find it via the Internet and a budget option such windows. As an example, we can cite the same Polish Fakro skylights. The sizes and prices of the models of this manufacturer, as well as the designs of any other brands, are correlated. Small models "Fakro" (55 cm) cost only 8-10 thousand rubles. For a design of 78 cm, you will need to pay 12-17 thousand rubles. A wide window of this manufacturer at 94-114 cm costs between 15-16 thousand rubles.

Velux windows are attic, sizes and prices can also be different. They cost more than Fakro. The price for 55 cm models ranges from 16500-19000. Windows 78 cm wide cost 21,000-24,500 rubles. The price for wide structures of 94-114 cm starts from 26 thousand rubles.

The attic is pretty practical solution housing issue. However, to illuminate modern rooms, windows of a special design are required, which, on the one hand, can provide good solarization, and, on the other hand, can withstand the onslaught of the elements. In addition, an important factor is the ease of maintenance of windows.

How to choose a really suitable option among a fairly large assortment? What you should pay attention to? How to install a skylight? You will find the answer to these questions in this article.

How to choose a skylight?

So, what should be considered when choosing a roof window? After all, the comfort and coziness of your home for several years will depend on your decision.

Glazing area

sticking to sanitary requirements living quarters should receive their share of sunlight daily. In order to calculate the total area of ​​windows, you need to divide the floor area by 10. Divide the resulting number by the number of windows and get the area of ​​\u200b\u200beach window. And then elementary geometry follows.

The closer the slope of the window to the horizontal plane, the more light enters the room. Therefore, in some cases, it is possible to reduce the glazing area to 8% of the total floor area. Light tunnels, for example, with a small glazing area, can supply a fairly powerful stream of light radiation.

Since solarization helps fight disease-causing organisms, having at least one window in the room is a must. Exceptions are rooms technical purpose such as pantries and wardrobes.

According to the Soviet tradition, bathrooms were built before without windows and natural ventilation. If possible, do not neglect such important architectural elements and consider both natural lighting, which will fight against fungus and mold, and ventilation. Roof windows can combine these two functions. In this way, you can ensure healthy and comfortable conditions for living.

How to position a skylight?

When designing, it is necessary to take into account the fact that windows located in different places and on different slopes in practice give a greater level of illumination than one window with the same glazing area.

An important factor is also the level of the window relative to the floor. It is best to choose this indicator under individual characteristics people living in the attic. Because family members can be both short and tall. You also need to consider what exactly you want to contemplate every day in the window. If the view from the window does not suit you, direct your gaze to the heavens. When you are not averse to admiring the cityscape, standard norms will allow you to achieve the desired effect.

As a rule, windows are installed, stepping back 90 - 120 cm from the floor level. And end at 200 - 220 cm from the same mark. At the same time, consider the projection of the window. The gentler the slope, the longer the window needs to be in order to open the view.

The width of the window directly depends on the pitch of the rafters.

Therefore, only two options are possible:

1. Select windows in accordance with the size of an existing truss system.
2. Discuss in advance the desired width of the windows when designing an attic with an architect.

When an existing building is converted into a dwelling non-residential attic at home, then, willy-nilly, you will have to adapt to the already standing beams and rafters. When you deliberately build a residential room under a mansard roof, you can specify various points, such as:

• Type of windows (regular window or a block consisting of several double-glazed windows).
• Glass pane sizes.
• Window location.

Standard sizes and series of windows

Skylights are strictly tied to certain sizes. And you already know why. In addition, each manufacturer has its own size range, consisting of 6 to 14 standard sizes.

In addition to sizes, manufacturers offer various series windows.

They differ in such characteristics as:

• material;
• double-glazed unit;
• location of the opening axis;
• micro-ventilation function (yes or not);
• color, style, etc.

materials

For the manufacture of roof windows, glued laminated timber, metal-plastic and wood, pasted over with a protective polymer, are used. Wood is good in living quarters, but in bathrooms it is better to install materials that are not afraid of dampness.

Opening axis

Depending on the assigned tasks, the axle can be located in different places of the frame:

• Up.
• Center.
• 2/3 of the height.
• Combined.

Windows that open along the center line are more accessible and common. The remaining options involve greater access to the open opening.

Double-glazed windows

As for double-glazed windows, this is a separate issue, because. they differ in various characteristics:

1. glass thickness.
2. Fill gas that reduces heat loss.
3. The presence of tempered glass outside and inside the double-glazed window.
4. The presence of protective coatings that increase the safety of the window (the window either crumbles into small cubes that do not injure, or fragments are held by films, like in car glass).
5. Distance between glasses. At the same time, a greater distance contributes to better thermal insulation.
6. The number of glasses in the package. Now you can choose between various models from two to six chambers. And this is obviously not the limit.
7. The presence of a heat-reflecting coating and options for its location.

Often, additional functions of double-glazed windows require the choice of more expensive models. Therefore, before overpaying for a more functional option, it is advisable to decide which features you really need.

The basic models take into account the average level of security, they have enough effective thermal insulation. At the same time, if you want to save heat inside the room, pay attention not only to the characteristics of the double-glazed window itself, but also to the entire structure as a whole. Because if the double-glazed window has excellent insulating qualities, and the sealing gum or the frame material leaves the best, then as a result you will overpay, and you will not achieve the desired effect.

Be sure to check the data regarding the properties of the materials that are used in your chosen model. After all, a window is a collection of a number of elements. And the quality factor of the whole structure depends on the work and quality of each of them.

Handles and remote control

Handles for convenience can be located both at the top of the window and at the bottom. Moreover, each of the options has its weighty arguments. Still, you choose based on your preferences. However, in children's rooms and where children's fingers can reach the windows, it is advisable to provide a window lock in case of accidental opening.

The actuator can be either mechanical or electro-pneumatic. Control can be carried out using switches and a mobile remote control. There are many options and it all depends on the financial capabilities and preferences of buyers.

Blocks and accessories

Blocks allow you to combine standard double-glazed windows into larger windows. In this way, you can achieve better lighting and visibility. However, when choosing blocks, one must take into account the complexity of installation, the strengthening of waterproofing and measures against freezing and condensation. The slightest oversight during installation can cost a lot later.

At large assortment accessories, it is advisable to purchase them together with windows from the same manufacturer. This way you will be sure that they will fit in size and style.

Trade marks

What to look for when choosing:

• Before you go to the store and decide on the set of roof window functions you need. To do this, you can choose from the brochures the characteristics of windows from various manufacturers and mark those that you like.
• Calculate the total area and the number of windows, according to the ratio of 1:10 to the floor area. If you have gentle slopes, then it will be possible to reduce the area of ​​\u200b\u200bwindows.
• Consider what accessories you will need.

Installation of skylights

Installation is such a crucial moment that it cannot be left to chance for the simple reason that it is the mistakes of installers that often lead to the fact that even the highest quality windows can leak and cause other troubles. So, how can you control the craftsmen who install your purchase?

1. First of all, do not install the roof window yourself. Because in which case the manufacturer may file a claim for poor-quality installation, and you will not be able to receive free service. Therefore, it is desirable that the installation is carried out by the service team of the dealer selling the windows. In this case, take documents confirming not only the manufacturer's warranty for the product, but also the warranty document for installation work.
2. Check out installation instructions. This can also be done on the manufacturer's website. But after that, you will be able to follow what the experts are actually doing.

What to control when installing a roof window?

• It is very important that the horizontal and vertical surfaces are level. To do this, you will need a tape measure and building level. The check is carried out after the installation work is completed, when the sash is hung.
• The adjunction of steam and waterproofing membranes, as well as the presence of tapes. After the frame is installed and before the salary is mounted. All joints must be sealed with adhesive tape.
• Drainage of water from the roof window. This stage must be checked before the salary is set and roofing. At the same time, attention must be paid to ensure that the slopes are observed, and that all cuts are glued.
• The correct installation of the waterproofing flashing can be determined according to the instructions. There should be no gaps, as well as protruding nails and staples on the surface that is in contact with the external environment.
• The slopes must be checked with a level, make sure that the lower slope is set perpendicular to the floor, and the upper one is horizontal.
• When you install window sills, after installing them, you need to make sure that there is a gap between the wall and the window sill. This is necessary in order for warm air to freely wash the double-glazed window and prevent condensation.
• Batteries must be present under each window. This will provide heating of the cold air flowing from the glass surface.

Maybe you should not delve into all these subtleties and entrust everything to professionals? Could be so. However, practice shows that masters better comply with all norms and rules when they are sure that their client knows the technology for installing a roof window and can ask them for each stage of work. After all, it is you who pay the money, and therefore you have full right for really high quality products and services.

Only owners of private houses can feel the beauty of the attic, if there is one, of course. But since this is not an ordinary room, in many ways the design concept is decided by the right lighting. But how to choose a roof window so that it ennobles to the maximum and favorably emphasizes all the charm of the room.

An inclined version of the installation of the roof window allows much more sunlight to pass into the room.

Some nuances

The modern market for the production of window structures is large enough, and in order not to get confused in it, you can follow the following recommendations:

Schematic drawing of a roof glazing with an indication of the main components.

1. Glazing area. In this case, the masters deduced the basic rule and proportion - 1 to 10, that is, 1 square. m. of the attic window account for 10 sq.m. gender. But if you decide to place a nursery or living room in the attic, then in this case, choose a proportion of 1 to 8. The selection of windows should follow only taking into account these proportions and nothing else.
2. There should be at least one window in the room. Unless natural lighting is not required by a wardrobe, pantry, boiler room. In fact, some people try to make a window in the bathroom, placing it under the ceiling.
3. The location of the roof windows. Here the shape of the roof plays a role in many respects. In order for the room to have more light, it is necessary to install a window structure on both slopes.
4. Roof window dimensions. This parameter is influenced by the fact what purpose is given to the window. Which roof windows are best used for lighting alone, and which ones are better for contemplating the surrounding landscape? In this case, you need to pay attention to the level of the roof slope - high (long) forms are used for sloping roofs.

Even during the development of the project, the width of each window is calculated, since the step of the building structure of the roof directly depends on this. This issue is resolved together with the designer, as he will be able to correctly suggest what you need to pay attention to: the correction of the size of window or truss structures.

Standard sizes of skylights. The main characteristic of such products is that they have their own standard size range. Manufacturers often produce their products in stock from 6 to 14 sizes. Therefore, before preparing a window opening for a window, it is necessary to find out in advance exactly what sizes are in stock, so as not to blunder.

Serial number of roof window. Such a concept as "series" means by itself specifications window construction, namely:

• double-glazed window;
• material;
• window opening axis;
• function "micro-ventilation";
• the presence of one or another window fittings.

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Construction material

The most common material is glued laminated timber. It is so popular due to the fact that it is harmoniously suitable for all rooms, except for bathrooms and bathrooms (due to the high level of humidity). For these purposes, either metal-plastic windows or wooden ones with a polyurethane coating are used, as they withstand moisture and sudden changes in temperature well.

Roof window opening axis. There are the following options for execution: in the middle, at the top and at two-thirds of the height of the window. Most often they put exactly the first option, since they have a fairly optimal price. In other models, there is one advantage - the window opening scheme is so convenient and comfortable that there is no need to constantly think that you can hit your head on it. But if you wish, you can choose a roof window with a combined opening system.

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Double-glazed windows

The installation height of the roof window depends on the way it is opened.

The components of a quality window are tempered glass and filling with argon (an inert gas). Since the roof window is still located on the roof, it has several times more load from natural phenomena(wind, snow, hail, rain, etc.) than usual. Therefore, the use of tempered glass is due to such a need. Inert gas (argon), in turn, contributes to good thermal insulation.

If there is no financial constraint, then you can consider more expensive models, the design of which can be quite diverse:

• argon is replaced by a gas with more high level thermal conductivity;
• a special technology for the production of glass allows, in case of damage, to break it into non-sharp pieces (like car glass);
• glasses can have a special coating with different purposes: whether it is the reflection of heat into the room or out;
• better thermal conductivity can be achieved by increasing the internal distance in the double-glazed window;
• increased glass thickness will also contribute to strength.

In addition, for a greater indicator of your wealth, you can purchase automated skylights. They are controlled by wall switches or a mobile remote control.

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Requirements for double glazing

In order for roof windows to fully perform their functions, their double-glazed windows must meet certain requirements:

1. High-quality double-glazed windows should provide good security and high thermal insulation.
2. If you want to purchase a luxury window, then at the very beginning you need to ask the seller about the availability of additional functions. You have to pay for each “chip”, so it’s better to immediately think about this or that supplement in home use.
3. There is a small point that sellers do not always focus on. The level of thermal insulation of a double-glazed window and the level of thermal insulation of a whole window are two different things.