There are a huge variety of loft conversion windows on the market, and unless you’re a loft conversion specialist, you’d be forgiven for not knowing your dormer from your roof lights. What’s more, not every type of window will suit your home – or your budget – and so it can be difficult to make a choice.
Feeling
spoilt for choice? There are so many varieties of loft
conversion in London that it can be difficult to see what’s best for
your home, so let’s bust the jargon and let the light shine on the type of
window that’s right for you.
Roof Lights or Sky Lights
These
are the most common type of loft conversion window, and are those which sit
flat against the pitch of the roof. By installing roof lights, the overall look
and character of the original loft is maintained, and this type of conversion
can often be done without planning permission.
Sky lights of various sizes can be installed according to the loft room’s use. For
example, larger windows can be used in living or bedroom loft rooms, with
smaller bathroom windows. Similarly, they can also be installed on the opposite
side of the roof to a dormer window, or over a stairwell, to maximise the
amount of natural light that fills the space.
Flat Roof Dormer
A
flat roof dormer is the traditional dormer window which extends beyond the
pitch of the roof to create both head height and a large window allowing in
plenty of natural light.
Traditionally
they have been thought of as slightly unsightly, but with a modern loft
conversion, their exterior finish can be made more attractive through tiles,
rendering or cladding.
Cat Slide Dormer
Similar
to the traditional dormer, the cat slide dormer extends beyond the pitch of the
roof in the traditional fashion, but instead of having a flat roof like a
typical dormer window, they have a slight pitch to them, making them more
attractive from the outside but giving just as much interior head height.
Cropped Dormer
Yet
another variation of the flat roof dormer, but a slightly shorter version which
doesn’t extend as far beyond the roof line. Obviously this means that you have
less floor area than a normal dormer, but maintains the head height.
Generally
they are thought to be more attractive than a traditional dormer as they do not
take over your entire roof space.
Bonnet Dormer
These
are the series of ‘chocolate box’ cottage small dormer windows. They add plenty
of character to any home, and on the interior the cubby holes created can be
used to house a vanity unit and sink, a desk, dressing table, or reading nook,
among many other ideas.
Roof Terrace
A
contemporary option, and if your house is surrounded by views this could be the
option for you. Not only does adding a dormer style window or French doors give
plenty of natural light, but a small roof terrace also has the benefit of
adding outdoor space to your property. Pretty much the ultimate in loft
windows: bringing the outside in!
Still
need some roof window jargon busted? Contact Bespoke Lofts. Our experts will
talk you through what type of window is best for your conversion, your home and
your lifestyle.