How much for a loft conversion with dormers
How Much Is a Loft Conversion?
Typical Range:
$7,000 - $67,600
Cost data is based on research by HomeAdvisor.
Updated June 23, 2022
Written by HomeAdvisor.
A loft conversion costs $7,000 to $67,600, averaging about $20,000. This translates into $50 to $150 per square foot. You’ll pay $9,000 to $34,500 to build a loft from scratch and $14,300 to $67,600 to turn an existing one into a bedroom with an en suite bathroom.
If you have an existing loft, you may be able to increase your property value and usable living space by converting it into a room. Keep these cost factors in mind as you research this project.
2022 Notice: Material Prices Are Surging
Demand for siding and other building materials has grown over the past year. And as a result, manufacturers are increasing materials prices. Prices have gone up 5% to 10% this year, and many parts of the country are experiencing long delivery times. If you're planning a building project, we recommend starting as early as possible in the season, preparing for potential price fluctuations, and allowing extra time to order materials.
On This Page:
- Average Cost to Convert a Loft Into a Bedroom
- Average Cost of Loft Conversion With En Suite
- Cost of Converting a Loft Into Another Room
- Dormer Loft Conversion Cost
- Loft Conversion Cost Breakdown
- Framing and Building Walls
- Ducts and Vents
- Ceiling
- Paint
- Flooring
- Egress Window
- Stairs
- Lighting
- Plumbing
- Structural Engineer and Architect
- Raising a Roof
- Additional Factors
- DIY vs.
Hiring a Pro - FAQs
Average Cost to Convert a Loft Into a Bedroom
Converting a loft into a bedroom costs between $10,000 to $22,000 on average. Although this project isn’t as expensive as a full addition, it usually requires many of the same services, including new plumbing and electrical work.
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Framing | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Subfloor & Flooring | $2,000 – $5,300 |
| Drywall & Painting | $1,200 – $3,600 |
| Ceiling | $1,600 – $4,300 |
| Electrical & Lighting | $1,000 – $3,400 |
| HVAC | $500 – $2,000 |
| Windows & Skylights | $1,000 – $11,000 |
| Stairs | $300-$2,900 |
| TOTAL | $9,000 – $34,500 |
Average Cost of Loft Conversion With En Suite
Converting a loft into a bedroom with an en suite bathroom ranges from $14,000 to $67,000.
This includes the cost to enclose the bedroom and the price to install a bathroom, which is $5,000 to $35,000 on average.
This range may not include running a new plumbing line up to the bathroom space. The cost to install plumbing ranges from $400 to $1,900.
Compare Loft Renovation Quotes for the Best Price
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Compare QuotesCost of Converting a Loft Into Another Room
Loft conversion costs $7,000 to $25,000, depending on the type of room you’re turning your loft into. For example, transforming a loft into a storage space will be less expensive than turning one into a bedroom that needs additional electrical outlets, wiring, and possibly plumbing.
| Room | Cost |
|---|---|
| Home Office | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Storage | $7,000 – $23,000 |
| Gym | $8,000 – $20,000 |
For home office loft renovations, add built-in shelving and resilient flooring for high traffic.
If you're using the space for storage, skip the window and put in a skylight to maximize wall space and save on costs. If you're renovating a loft into a gym, install more light fixtures and hardwood flooring for high-impact workouts.
Dormer Loft Conversion Cost
The cost of flat-roof dormer loft conversion ranges from $12,000 to $56,000. Since these types of homes often have roofs with no pitches, you’ll need to ensure that your setup has sufficient drainage to maintain the integrity of your structure. Installing gutters and downspouts costs $600 to $1,600 on average. A flat-roof dormer is appropriate when you have to maximize every inch of available height for the loft.
Loft Conversion Cost Breakdown
Because converting a loft is similar to building a house in many ways, it also requires a lot of similar projects and related expenses. These can include anything from adding new flooring to installing new electricity. In the table below, find out what you can expect to pay for the most common aspects of a loft conversion.
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Framing | $1,500 – $2,000 |
| Subfloor & Flooring | $2,000 – $5,300 |
| Drywall & Painting | $1,200 – $3,600 |
| Ceiling | $1,600 – $4,300 |
| Electrical & Lighting | $1,000 – $3,400 |
| HVAC | $500 – $2,000 |
| Windows & Skylights | $1,000 – $11,000 |
| Stairs | $300 - $2,900 |
| TOTAL | $9,000 – $34,500 |
Framing and Building Walls
The cost to frame and build new interior walls ranges from $1,400 to $6,000 and is roughly $4,000 on average. Most contractors charge $4 to $10 per square foot for labor, and materials cost an additional $3 to $6 per square foot.
Ducts and Vents
The cost to install ducts and vents in a loft conversion ranges from $500 to $2,000.
This breaks down to an overall price of $10 to $20per linear foot for labor and materials.
Ceiling
The cost to install a new ceiling in a converted loft ranges from $900 to $2,600. The style of ceiling you choose will have the biggest impact on price, with simple drywall builds costing as little as $1 to $3 per square foot and elaborate coffered ceilings costing as much as $20 to $30 per square foot.
Paint
The cost to paint a room ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 on average, though you can save on costs by doing a project like this yourself. Pros charge $20 to $50 per hour, but paint supplies typically cost between $3 and $200, so it’s worth it to consider going the DIY route on this one.
Flooring
The cost to install flooring in a converted loft ranges from $1,500 to $4,500. Materials cost between $3 and $22 per square foot, and pros charge $60 to $120 per hour for labor.
Egress Window
The cost to install an egress window ranges from $2,500 to $5,400. Windows typically cost $100 to $700 on average, and the type of window you choose can also impact the price. For example, prefabricated egress windows cost less than custom ones.
Stairs
The cost to install stairs leading up to a converted loft ranges from $1,000 to $3,100. Factors like the location of the new stairs, the materials, and whether you have to excavate or clear the area beforehand all impact how much you’ll pay.
Lighting
The cost to run new electrical wiring for lighting in a converted loft ranges from $500 to $2,300. Fortunately, this is about half of what it costs to rewire because it’s cheaper to add new wiring than to repair old wiring.
Plumbing
The cost to install plumbing ranges from $400 to $2,000. What you pay depends on the piping material you choose and the project's scope.
Structural Engineer and Architect
Hiring a structural engineer costs$400 to $800. This price covers a basic inspection and consultation to confirm that the structure can support a loft. The cost to hire an architect ranges from $2,000 to $9,500. This usually includes the project plans and drawings, but pros may also charge an additional percentage of the total project in their fees. They’re more likely to do this if you’re hiring them to supervise the project.
Raising a Roof
The price to raise a roof ranges from $15,000 to $125,000. You might need to reconsider this project if your existing structure can’t provide at least 7 feet between the loft floor and ceiling.
Get a Quote for Your Loft Conversion Project
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Get a QuoteLoft Renovation Cost Factors
Though the overall price of a loft conversion depends mostly on the size and features of the room, the type of house can also impact how much you’ll pay.
Average Cost of a Loft Conversion in a Terraced House: If you want to convert a loft in a two-bedroom terraced house, there are a few additional steps you may need to take. First, check with your HOA to see if you must follow specific rules. You may need to pay extra for building permits, for example.
Cost of a Loft Conversion in a Bungalow: The cost of a loft conversion in a bungalow depends on the position and pitch of the ceiling and whether there’s room for a staircase. A bungalow often has high, vaulted ceilings but a smaller footprint. To make the loft conversion work, you may need to lower the ceiling or make space for a permanent staircase.
Semi-Detached Loft Conversion: Cost factors for a loft conversion in a three-bed, semi-detached house depend on the layout. If you have to install a dormer to provide adequate standing room, you may have to get approval from your HOA. Plus, you’ll need to budget for the additional cost of installing a new dormer.
Victorian House: Converting a loft in a Victorian house usually involves dormer installation or other work on the ceiling. Homes from this period often have a high roof pitch of 12-to-12 or greater—compared to the standard 4-to-12—so the odds are high that you’ll need to lower the ceiling first.
DIY Loft Conversion vs. Hiring a Pro Near You
A loft conversion is a complicated project that can significantly affect your home’s safety and structure. This job is better left to a local general contractor. Remember to read reviews and request estimates from at least three contractors when you're ready to start.
FAQs
What is a loft conversion?
A loft conversion is the process of converting a loft (or sometimes an attic space) into a fully functional room, complete with walls, ceilings, lighting, and sometimes plumbing.
What’s the difference between a loft and an attic?
A loft usually has partial walls on at least two sides and is about the size of one or a few rooms.
Meanwhile, an attic is separate from the rest of the house and usually spans an entire floor.
Do I need planning permission to convert a loft?
Converting a loft usually requires a building permit. This is because it’s a larger project that also changes the structure.
How long does a loft conversion take?
A loft conversion can take a few days to several weeks. It depends on the size of the room, the current layout, and features that take more time, like a bathroom.
Have questions about loft renovations?
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How Much Does A Dormer Loft Conversion Cost in 2022?
How Much Does A Dormer Loft Conversion Cost in 2022? | MyBuilder.
com The average cost of a dormer loft
conversion is around £45,000
The dormer loft conversion costs in this article are correct as of 2022
Dormer loft conversions are one of the most common forms of loft conversion, leading to a common question: "How much does a dormer cost?"
There are three main elements that will affect the price of a dormer loft conversion:
- The size of the property and overall conversion
- The number of dormers being added
- The finish of the conversion; for example, are you installing a bathroom?
Dormer loft conversion cost calculator
Taking as a basis three typical properties with an appropriate number of dormers, with a price for a basic conversion as well as incluidng a bathroom, we can break down the costs like this:
| Two-bed terrace | Three-bed semi | Four-bed detached | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of dormers | Two | Two | Four |
| Basic | £30,000 | £45,000 | £60,000 |
| Bathroom | £2,000 | £4,000 | £6,000 |
| Total | £32,000 | £49,000 | £66,000 |
As an addition to this, are all the other costs involved in the loft conversion - adding a staircase, insulating the space, strengthening the floors, fixtures and fittings and so on.
We have found that the standard cost of a dormer loft conversion ranges from around £30,000 to nearly £66,000 depending on the size and scope, with a typical price coming in around £45,000.
Though they are cheaper than some other forms of loft conversion, you will still need to set aside a good budget to get the work done. We’ve spoken to some of the experienced loft conversion specialists at MyBuilder to break down the process.
Stages of a dormer loft conversion
When carrying out a dormer loft conversion, there are a number of stages, from planning, to fitting and finishing. Here is what you can expect.
1
Dormer loft conversion plans cost
You will need to have plans for your dormer loft conversion drawn up either by an architect, or by an architectural technician, or surveyor, laying out the design for the project.
Your plans should take all of the structural alterations needed into account, and will cost in the region of £1,000 plus VAT.
2
Planning permission costs
Most dormer loft conversions will not require planning permission as they are considered permitted developments.
However, depending on the scale of the work, and other factors such as its impact on the street scene, planning permission may be required.
Applying for planning permission currently costs around £200 in England.
3
Building regulation costs
Regardless of your planning status, your dormer loft conversion will have to be inspected by the building regulations department of your local authority to ensure it is being constructed in accordance with the rules, making sure it complies with things like fire safety, access, floor strength and so on.
Submitting the plans for inspection and having on-site inspections can cost between around £400 and £800.
You may also need a Party Wall Agreement if your work will impact any adjoining properties, for example if you live in a terraced house or a semi-detached home.
This requires your neighbours to agree to the work taking place.
You are liable for costs such as their surveyor and any damage to their home which may occur as part of the works - it can cost several thousand pounds depending on how complex the agreement is.
Another potential cost, though not always needed, is a bat survey if you believe your loft may have bats - this can cost up to £400.
4
Dormer loft conversion building costs
When work begins, the initial construction will be carried out externally, with the use of scaffolding and in some cases a roof cover to allow work to continue effectively even with bad weather.
At some point, access will be created into the loft from the interior and the floor will be strengthened. The dormers will be constructed and the roof altered.
Interior walls will be then be fitted along with insulation, and features such as the staircase will be installed, followed by windows.
Electrics and plumbing will go in, before it is plastered and carpentry such as skirting boards are fitted.
Electrical sockets and elements like the WC and sink, if needed, are then added, before the final conversion is ready for final inspection, and decoration can then take place.
This is where the bulk of the costs are spent.
5
Other dormer loft conversion costs
The standard of fixtures and fittings in the loft will have a large impact on the cost of the project .
For example, if you are simply planning to use the space as a large bedroom, it will be cheaper than if you are putting a bathroom in the space, where you will need to purchase the suite, which can cost several thousand pounds.
Moving the property’s water tanks if needed, and altering the rest of the home’s plumbing system, will also add to the overall price.
A slate roof will usually cost more to alter than one with concrete roof tiles.
Another factor is whether the roof was built with a frame - often found in pre-1960s homes - or with wooden trusses, which are easier to construct but can take less weight.
Replacing or reinforcing the trusses can take more work and thus increase the costs.
MyBuilder Top Tip
Before you begin planning your dormer loft conversion, think about what you want to use the space before.
Your budget may restrict the number and size of the dormers you wish to install, but if you don’t add enough to make the room feel truly useful, it will only be money wasted in the long run.
How long does a dormer loft conversion take?
The actual building portion of a loft conversion will usually take between six to eight weeks.
However, the planning stage can also take a considerable amount of time, especially if planning permission is required and a Party Wall Agreement needs to be negotiated.
You will typically be able to stay in your home throughout the duration of the work though, without too much disruption.
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We can help you meet professional loft conversion builders near you to get real quotes today.
How to keep your dormer loft conversion costs down
Hiring trustworthy tradespeople is the best way to ensure your job comes it at a fair price with no unnecessary additions.
At MyBuilder, we typically advocate hiring particular specialists for each role, however, with dormer loft conversions, there are a number of ways of hiring the necessary tradespeople.
You could hire an architect to plan and let them oversee the entire project, hiring a team of builders and other necessary trades, or hire a specialist loft conversion firm who will have a team with all the needed skills.
You can also project manage the work yourself, hiring different tradespeople for different elements of the build, but it will require a lot of attention to ensure each stage runs to schedule and does not cause delays.
Loft conversions
Choosing the right builder for your loft conversion
Dormer windows
Contents
Dormer windows
Dormer window
If you decide to make a room in the attic in a private house or in the country, but there is not enough lighting and there is no ventilation at all, then a dormer window will be a good solution.
But despite all its usefulness and popularity, some people do not even know what it is. The dormer window in the mansard roof is a structure specially built into the roof pie. It is designed not only to illuminate and ventilate the attic space, but also to give the building an attractive appearance. Making a dormer window on the roof is a rather difficult task that requires a lot of effort and time. Installing a window becomes even more difficult if the drawing of the house did not initially provide for its installation.
Before installing such structures, you should consider whether the dormers will properly provide light to the attic space, ventilate it and whether they will organically fit into the overall architectural idea. To make the right choice, first you need to figure out what attic windows are.
First, the designs differ from each other in the presence of side walls and the location of the gable. There are three types of windows:
• no side walls, the pediment is in the plane of the building;
• side walls are present, the pediment is in the plane of the building;
• side walls are present, the gable is out of the plane of the building
Each of these types is better suited to a particular roof.
In this regard, when choosing a window, pay attention to the architectural features and technical characteristics of your roof.
The dormer window structure is available in many configurations and shapes. However, all of them can be divided into two large groups: single-sided and double-sided. It is worth analyzing each of them in more detail.
• Single pitched skylight. The most primitive window configuration. It has a slightly smaller slope compared to the main roof. The device of dormers of this type will not require large material costs from you, and the installation process itself is simple. When choosing this design, you will get more space indoors. The pitch of the dormer roof is independent of the pitch of the roof of the building. The larger the slope of the structure, the more space you will get.
• Double pitch skylight. This type of dormer frame can be equipped with any form of roof, but rainfall will flow from both sides of the window. It will be quite difficult to build a gable window, this process will take you a lot of time and effort, and you will get very little usable living space.
But such a design will look elegant on the top of the house and organically complement the overall architectural design. For example, today a hip with a dormer window is well distributed.
Also, depending on your personal preferences, you can choose the shape of the ramp. The most popular window slope shapes are arched, semicircular or hip. There can be many dormer windows, it all depends on the house and on your desire. Dormer large windows can organically fit only into some designs.
Window shapes can also be different: round, triangular, square - you should choose depending on the interior of the attic space, the shape and design features of the slope. The design of the dormer window is always left to the consideration of the home owner.
Windows also differ from each other in the material they are made from. Structures can be made of corrugated board, there are wooden windows, etc. It is also very common to find a plastic dormer window, which is quite popular today.
The price of each of the materials is different from each other, so you should choose based on the budget. The characteristic of dormer windows largely depends on the material of manufacture, so be careful when choosing.
Insulation for such structures is most often made with polyurethane insulation. If you are going to equip a living room in the attic, it is recommended to buy such a heater and minimize heat loss.
There are generally accepted standards for the design and installation of dormer windows (SNiP). If you follow these rules, your roof dormer will last a long time and you will not have to carry out additional maintenance. Here are a few basic SNiP requirements in relation to dormers.
• Mounting is only possible if the slope angle is 35 degrees or more;
• all superstructures must be located at a predetermined distance from the walls of the building;
• The minimum size of opening doors is 0.6×0.8m. This means that the size of the window must be at least 1.
2x0.8m.
In addition, it is worth noting that the dormer window scheme must be of high quality. It should indicate the material of manufacture. Also, the project should include all the details of the installation of a pitched roof.
A typical design of a dormer window includes rafters, as well as some parts of the body, on which the slopes and, directly, the window itself will be fixed in the future.
The most popular option at the moment is the triangular truss system with steep slopes. A distinctive feature of this design is the one-on-one arrangement above a regular window. Because of this, the design organically fits into the facade of the house and does not seem like a superstructure. However, due to the too steep slopes of the slopes, the usable area inside the room almost does not increase. But many don't care. Most people install dormer windows for the aesthetic appearance of the building, and not at all for a radical expansion of living space. It is also worth noting that the area of this type of dormer window is small, which means that you can equip at least one more window without any problems.
If you have already decided on the shape of the window and the slopes you are going to buy, as well as on the type of construction that suits you, it is time to start installation. If you are not a professional installation of such structures, it is better to turn to professionals. The price of their services is not so high, but you can definitely be sure that the installation is of high quality and you do not have to make repairs. Moreover, finishing the dormer window on the roof is a rather dangerous occupation and for an unprepared person it can result in injuries.
September 03, 2020
Attic rooms located directly under the roofs of private houses can have both residential and non-residential purposes. That is, you can use the attic as a full-fledged room, placing an office or a home theater there, or you can store some household items under the roof, not really bothering with the issues of warming or ennobling the room. Regardless of which option you prefer, your attic will certainly need a dormer window.
And there are several reasons for this, which will be announced in our today's article.
First, let's quickly define what a dormer is and why it's called that. Auditory can be called any window structure in the attic, the main purpose of which is to ventilate the room. You probably think that in the old days, dormers served to "eavesdrop" on what was happening on the street. But it is not. The name comes from the carpenter Alexei Slukhov, who came up with the windows of the corresponding design. Initially, they were called "hearing", after which a more digestible name was fixed among the people - "hearing", which has nothing to do with eavesdropping as such.
As already mentioned, dormer windows are needed in order to ventilate the attic room. Why is it important? Firstly, it is unlikely that anyone would like the attic to be too stuffy. This is especially true in summer, when direct sunlight heats the roof of the house and transfers excess heat to the attic, creating a real bath there.
Ventilation in this case will not be superfluous at all. Secondly, it is worth considering the situation that occurs during the cold season. The private house is heated by a heating system. Part of the heat inevitably goes to the attic area, where it cools sharply due to the lack of heating devices there, and then a significant amount of condensate falls out. The consequences can be quite sad. Mold, fungus, decay of wood material. All this can be avoided if a dormer window is installed in the attic or in the attic.
You can rightly note that if the dormer window is always in the ventilation mode, you can supercool the attic room, and in case of precipitation, completely flood it with water or cover it with snow. Well, if you appear in the attic at least once a day, just open the window for ventilation during your visit. If you visit the attic less often, you can set the dormer window to micro-ventilation mode, or use special comb-type mechanisms that will allow you to keep the window open in a strictly specified position, with protection against sudden opening.
Please note that these methods only work if your skylight is made of a PVC profile.
The second functional purpose of dormer windows is to fill the attic or attic room with light. Believe me, in such a dark space there is not much light. And although the dormer window is not large, it will still make it possible to see everything you need without the use of artificial light sources. Do not forget that there can be several dormer windows, which guarantees the correct placement of light accents with a more functional use of the attic or attic space.
The third function is to protect the entire building. This is due to rather complex physical calculations, but we will try to describe them to you in a simple form. Since a hard roof is one of the weakest elements of a residential building, a strong wind will constantly lift it like a sail. This happens because inside the attic the pressure is very different from the street, which creates the effect of a balloon. Even if the wind is not strong enough to root your roof down, it will create a slight but steady vibration throughout your home that is not noticeable to the occupants but is extremely detrimental to the structure of the building.
If there is a dormer window opened even in the micro-ventilation mode, the street pressure will be aligned with the attic, as a result of which neither vibrations nor the effect of raising the roof will occur. This is how one small window “valve” can significantly increase the longevity of your home.
Finally, the fourth functional purpose of the dormer window is the ability to significantly diversify and ennoble the appearance of the roof and the entire private house due to a small but very original element. See photos of the roofs of private houses equipped with dormer windows. You will understand that such houses look much more interesting than buildings without dormer windows. If you approach the issue of choosing the shape and color of the dormer window with the mind and arrangement, you can ensure that this element will become a real hallmark of your home. And the shapes of the dormer windows can be very diverse. Depending on the type of roof and the wishes of the customer, such structures can be in the form of a triangle, trapezoid, circle, or an ordinary rectangle.
Although, in the latter case, dormers turn into dormers, which have a slightly different purpose.
If you want to make a residential or semi-residential space in the attic or attic, a plastic dormer window must be installed here without fail. And if you decide to install two or three windows, it will be even better. The dormer window will help in the issue of light filling, protection against condensate, as well as the elementary ability to visually expand the cramped space of the attic or attic by accessing the open space of the street. Do not forget that PVC dormer windows will be characterized by the same high degree of heat and sound insulation as ordinary plastic windows.
Features of the design and installation of roof dormer windows
Roof dormer windows are installed as a source of natural light and ventilation in attics and mansards. And thanks to all sorts of design solutions, they also perform an aesthetic function - the facade of the house acquires an attractive and finished appearance.
Functional purpose
Houses with a roof with a dormer window always stand out against the background of the general building with their original and unique look.
Skylights make a building stand out from ordinary houses
What is a skylight for? Its main function is to provide ventilation and lighting of the under-roof space. When choosing the location of the source of natural light in the attic or attic, it is important to take into account the orientation of the future dormer window to the cardinal points. It must face south, then all the requirements for natural insolation of room will be achieved.
The attic window can be replaced with a ventilation grill. The absence of even an insignificant ventilation duct in the roof structure will entail significant troubles:
- Inevitably, heat losses will occur in the attic space, where, when the air cools, condensate forms, which, due to lack of ventilation, will accumulate in a closed room.
- Due to the lack of lighting in the attic, fungus and mold will spread very quickly.
The grid can be installed on the facade of a house made of any material. It can be brick, wooden, block houses.
Attic grill replaces skylight
The skylight can also provide access to the roof for repair or installation work.
If we talk about the architectural appearance of the building, then the hip, tent or half-hip roof by its very design involves the installation of skylights.
What are the
There are different solutions. Window structure can be built into the roof plane or it can be vertical glazing .
It is common to use small triangular, arched and trapezoidal openings with a fully glazed vertical plane.
Roof dormer windows with sidewall designs differ depending on the type of roof:
- flat;
- square single slope;
- square double slope;
- triangular;
- half round;
- panoramic trapezoidal;
- lights;
- round.
- Shed
This is the simplest type, characterized by the presence of a flat roof, the slope of which is less than the slope of the roof.
Single-slope window has a flat roof with a slight slope
It has ample space under the ceiling compared to the double-slope version. When constructing it, attention should be paid to the equipment of high-quality drainage for rainwater and other precipitation. The downside of a slight slope is a reduction in the number of roofing options that can be used.
- The traditional solution is a window located in the wall plane on a gable roof.
The gable roof design significantly reduces the space under the roof
The design of the gable roof itself is characterized by a small headroom. The window may have a pointed or rounded shape. A complex design will require more financial costs than a single-sided one. The downside is that the under-roof space will specifically decrease.
- The outer design of the hip window evokes associations with a measured and comfortable life. The angle of inclination of the structure and the roof repeat each other.
- The arched structure gives the exterior of the house the atmosphere of a mansion. In addition to the horizontal arrangement of dormer windows, vertical placement is possible.
- A window with the name "anti-aircraft lamp" will give the external appearance of the building visual lightness and airiness.
- Panoramic skylights provide high visibility and maximum natural light.
- The enclosing side surfaces of the trapezoidal window are covered with roofing material.
- The "bat" window is best suited for window designs with a slight slope.
- Skylights do not serve to decorate the façade. They perform the practical task of providing the attic living space with sufficient natural light and fresh air. For the installation of these windows, the construction of auxiliary structures is not required.
In terms of waterproofing qualities, modern window systems are reliable and durable.
Structural solutions
The upper part of the end wall, located between the slopes of the roof, having the shape of a triangle, is called a gable. The window is located in the plane of the facade. This does not require additional reinforcement.
The location of the window in the plane of the facade does not require additional reinforcement
Dormer . The structure is located on the roof. The main condition for installing such a window is the need to strengthen the bearing capacity of the roof and perform waterproofing work. The design of a dormer window on a roof of this type is characterized by the fact that the under-roof space does not lose usable area at all, and sometimes even gains. On the windowsill, you can organize a recreation area by placing sofa cushions on it, and under it you can arrange a box for storing household items.
For this type of windows, there are many architectural solutions that diversify the appearance of a house made in any style.
The location of the window on the roof allows you to increase the usable area
Antidormer . This type of windows, on the contrary, is “recessed” into the roof surface, therefore, it does not require additional reinforcements, it is cheaper in execution, but it “eats up” the area of \u200b\u200bthe room under the roof.
Anti-dormer reduces part of the roof space
Inclined or attic . The window is mounted directly into the roof plane. Manufacturers offer many options for the shapes and control mechanisms of such products: they can be round, triangular, rectangular. Requirements for them are imposed on moisture resistance and resistance to external loads.
Skylight integrated into the roof
It is usually found in roof structures of public and industrial buildings. Can have any configuration. Design and installation
Before proceeding with the design, you should familiarize yourself with the requirements of SNiP II-26 and SNiP 21-01. Why do it? Their observance ensures that the constructed structure will meet the requirements of reliability and durability, while the roof parameters will not lose the reliability and quality of their technical parameters.
SNiP conditions regarding the construction of dormer windows:
- The roof slope must have a slope of 35 degrees - in this case, installation is considered possible.
- When it is necessary to build a superstructure, it is important to take into account the recommended distances from the external building envelope.
- The minimum size of sashes that open and are located on the window is considered to be 0.
6 by 0.8 meters, therefore, the permissible parameters of the roof window will be 1.2 by 0.8 meters. - It is not possible for the façade of the hip-roofed window with a quadrangular opening to continue the wall of the building.
GOST assumes the use of different facing materials: copper, sheet metal, tiles . Windows can be fitted with ledges, their own roofing or gutters.
In some cases, it is possible to arrange a balcony on the roof
If the opening is large enough and there is a building envelope, it is possible to arrange a balcony.
Frame development
After determining the parameters of the opening, it is necessary to start developing a drawing of the future structure, which should be not only functional, but also aesthetically attractive.
The width of the dormer is taken so that it exceeds half the width of the attic room.
Assembly of the frame
The installation of the dormer window must take place at the stage of installation of the supporting system of the main roof of the building .
Structurally, the dormer is a miniature roof. Its roof is equipped with its own load-bearing structures, lathing and, if necessary, a ridge.
The window frame contains the same elements as the roof truss system
First of all, gables are made on the roof surface. Then the ridge beam and rafters are fastened, openings are made in the designated places.
It is necessary to fence the openings with strong rafters, on which the main load will be distributed. Rafters can be double or triple.
Next, install the cross beams, which are attached to the rafters. The placement of the lower beam should be at the level of the outer wall of the building. Upper - in accordance with the parameters of the window.
Posts are laid on the beam located below, connected at the top with a bar. As a result, the structure should be connected with the help of beams with the upper beam.
The result will be a frame that does not yet have its own truss system.
Diagram of manufacturing the dormer window frame
To ensure that the rafters do not lose their load-bearing capacity, all elements must be fastened with metal fasteners .
Having checked the frame in all directions, you can proceed with the installation of the ridge beam and the supporting structure of the roof.
Features
Moisture resistant material suitable for sheathing the side walls of the structure. The roof covering is laid at the stage of installation of all roofing material.
In order to avoid leaks, it is important to correctly waterproof the joints with membranes, silicone sealants, pressure strips.
Korovin Sergey Dmitrievich
Master of Architecture, graduated from the Samara State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering. 11 years of experience in design and construction.
Types, scope and differences of dormer windows from dormer windows
A dormer window, unlike a dormer window, is located not at an oblique angle, but perpendicular to the floor.
In our country, among homeowners, this vertically located structure is called a "birdhouse". Also, the international term “lucarna” can sometimes be used.
The effectiveness of the installation of dormer windows depends on their shape, location, dimensions and construction of the extension. Since the fashion for their appearance has changed regularly, property owners can choose options with and without side walls, which further differ in the type of roof. Thanks to this diversity, it is possible to easily build a structure on the roof that blends perfectly with the architectural style of the building.
Construction and types of dormer windows
In order to install a dormer window on a roof, it is necessary to adapt the roof. To do this, serious changes are made to its design. From the outside, this structure looks like a roofing superstructure in the form of a miniature house. The window structures themselves, integrated into the frontal plane of such superstructures, can be square, triangular, round, oval, rectangular or arched.
According to the type of roof, these structures are divided into:
- gable - widespread superstructures with 2 inclined planes, which allow efficient distribution of flowing water flows, provided that the joint angles are correctly calculated;
- flat (French) - because of the term, these roof add-ons are confused with shed dormer windows, but they have a more complex design, which has 3 slopes and is located under a flat roof;
- arched - superstructures with a smooth (radius) bend of the roof;
- hip - elegant designs that completely follow the angle of the roof;
- triangular - this is a type of 2-pitched superstructure that does not have side walls;
- shed - structures with piers and a slope of about 15 °, in which the water flow is oriented towards the window opening.
Installation and design of these roofing superstructures with integrated windows are carried out in strict accordance with the rules and regulations of SNiP 21-01 and SNiP II-26.
Facing materials for dormer windows are selected according to GOST.
It is unacceptable to ignore the requirements and build a superstructure without taking into account building codes. Such actions will adversely affect the strength and stability of the entire roof structure and may lead to roof leakage.
Dormer functions
Skylights were originally designed to keep roofs intact under strong wind loads. The absolute tightness of roof structures in such extreme cases played a negative role. At a high wind speed, the air above the roof is slightly rarefied, and the parameters do not change directly in the under-roof room itself. Due to the difference in pressure, the roof structure tends to rise on its own, so the concept of “ripped off the roof” is by no means a joke and did not appear out of the blue. Thanks to the creation of a dormer window, homeowners living in climatic zones with strong winds were able to protect their homes from premature destruction.
In our climatic conditions, these add-ons are also useful. Despite the absence in most regions of Russia of regular strong wind loads, dormer windows in the attic help to maintain the initial rigidity of the roof frame for a long time, which does not loosen due to the pressure difference that occurs in bad weather. In addition, dormer windows provide:
- the possibility of a comfortable exit to the roof;
- additional vertical space in the installation area of superstructures;
- reduced strength requirements for window casings and double-glazed windows.
In the manufacture of such models, traditional opening systems are usually used, the main types of which can be found in the article on OknaTrade. This allows you to reduce the cost of products. The presence of dormer windows always favorably affects the architecture of buildings.
How are dormer windows inferior to dormer windows? This is due to the fact that despite the higher cost per square meter of glazing, at the end of the day, skylights almost always save money.
This possibility is provided due to the fact that it is not required to change the roof structure and additionally perform complex labor-intensive work. In addition, skylights let in approximately 40% more light and provide better air circulation in the under-roof space. Attic dormer windows
The attic dormer window is not only a decoration that helps to create a unique roof design, but also increases the amount of light in the room. It can be a fairly simple design that you can install yourself, or a product of a complex design shape that gives the roof an individuality.
How did dormer windows come about?
Skylights first appeared in Europe in the middle of the 19th century. They served mainly to create lighting in the attic, thanks to which the room became suitable for housing and household needs. After some time, architects began to use this technique not only from a practical, but also from an aesthetic point of view. Windows gained popularity in such areas as the Renaissance, Gothic, Baroque.
Their appearance was very different depending on the country in which the building was built.
In Russia, for the first time such designs became known after the victory over Napoleon. Ten years later, a roof with a dormer window no longer surprised anyone, it became commonplace, especially for Moscow and St. Petersburg. Attics were most often used for living by people with low incomes, the premises were often given over to workshops.
What kind of windows are there?
Depending on the type and location of dormer windows, they are divided into the following types:
- Located in a gable wall.
- Dormer, which can have a different shape:
-
- triangular.
- square, used if the roof is pitched.
- trapezoidal.
- segmented, most often such windows are called panoramic, are used if the roof has the shape of a trapezoid.
- arched.
- Antidormer. The window is not located at an angle; a special step is made under it in the roof.
- Inclined.
- Skylight: it does not open, it is located in the upper part of the roof.
This classification cannot be considered exhaustive, since construction technologies are constantly being improved, new technologies and materials appear.
Design features
Depending on the type of roof, the dormer window on the roof will also differ, the design of which is selected in a special way.
- Gable wall. Such windows are equipped in the upper part of the wall, which is located at the end of the building. It has a triangular shape, roof slopes are located on the sides. The structure is located on the same plane as the facade of the building. Such a window does not need any additional structures, it opens, you can attach a ladder to it and get through it to the attic.
- The dormer is located entirely above the roof slope. To install such a design, it will be necessary to strengthen the roof and take care of the high-quality waterproofing of the window.
This type of window is most common due to its efficiency, there are a large number of models. - Antidormer is a dormer window on the roof, the design of which is designed in such a way that it does not protrude beyond the roof, while being in the same plane with the facade. This is a built-in window, because of this it reduces the volume of the room inside. It is easier to equip such a product than the one discussed above, however, due to the folding of the interior space of the room, it is not widely used.
- Inclined type. Such a window is most often called a dormer, and it is not uncommon. Such a structure is inserted into the inclined plane of the roof, which is why it is also tilted. The shape of such a window can be any; it is usually made of metal-plastic.
- Skylight. It is made entirely of glass, the shape may be different. Due to the design, the lantern provides maximum illumination of the attic, most often used in non-residential premises, since there is no possibility to curtain it or open it for ventilation.
Skylight examples
Skylights can be used in almost any type of roof and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them versatile. Most often, such structures can be found on the slope of the roof or in the plane of the walls, but they can also be used for shed structures.
Hip roof dormer windows are fairly common. They are well suited for classic houses or period architecture. The frames are usually triangular in shape, the windows give good even lighting, a feeling of comfort and tranquility. This type of window is widely used for modern structures, especially when the roof is heavily lowered to the floor.
Triangular windows are quite simple to make, cost less than other non-standard shapes, and provide the most even lighting, but the amount of light will be moderate. This is good if you are going to turn the attic into a bedroom, but not suitable for a nursery, games room or living room. Sometimes there are arched windows: they are small, but they create a certain design direction that draws attention to the house.
Such windows provide minimal lighting, they can be used for ventilation if they have opening sashes.
Dormer windows can be placed either one by one or in groups, the main thing is not to violate the integrity of the supporting elements of the roof. The arrangement of structures can be both horizontally and vertically. If you want to achieve a wide view and good lighting, you can use a panoramic window, but a lot of heat usually escapes through it.
If the roof is trapezoidal, it will not have side walls, so the window is covered with roofing materials, special waterproofing is used. The dormer window of the attic floor is usually selected depending on the purpose of the room and the type of roof. There is a wide variety of options, so you can always choose the right one.
What are the design requirements?
A gable roof with a dormer not only looks good, but also transforms the attic into a habitable or otherwise usable space. However, certain rules must be observed when choosing a roof window.
First of all, you should take into account the direction of the world, on which the future window will look. The south side gives more light, so if you do not need bright lighting, you can install small windows or use tinting. The larger the windows, their number and slope, the more light will be in the room. The optimal size is calculated something like this: one meter of glazing should account for 9floor meters. It is advisable to include a roof window in the project even before the roofing begins: this will greatly facilitate their installation, since special places will be provided for the windows, and it will not be necessary to disassemble the roofing material.
Gable roof with dormer windows can have different lighting depending on the future use of the room, so it is not necessary to limit yourself to one window: you can install as many as you need. The main condition is only that the frame must fall between the rafters without violating their integrity. It is necessary to comply with the requirements of SNiP, they are needed at the design stage, when the general concept of the room and its style are being developed.
If the building has a not very comfortable roof shape, a triangular dormer window can be placed on the wall of the attic floor. It can also serve as an entrance to the attic. Such windows can be used for non-residential attics or in combination with other solutions. The maximum window size is limited by the plane of the roof, and is calculated from lighting considerations. The larger the plane of the glass, the more light will enter the room. In addition, in order for the structure not to harm the roof, not to weaken it and to serve for a long time, it is necessary to comply with the requirements and norms of construction. SNiP includes the following requirements:
- Inclined windows are installed if the angle of inclination is not less than 35 degrees.
- From the outer walls of the building, superstructures can only be located at a regulated distance.
- The minimum size of the opening sashes must be 0.6×0.8 m, the allowable size on the roof is 1.
2×0.8 m.
Dormer window - myths and reality
Hardly anyone does not know that there are special windows - dormer windows. But, few people know why they are called that. In his dictionary folio, Vladimir Dal interpreted the dormer window as "hearing in the roof" and next explained that he himself did not really understand this term: "What can you listen to in the attic?" But, it is also interesting that in the same work Dahl cites the phrase - "rumors are carried by the wind." In the old days, small open windows were in the servants' quarters, and the owners could eavesdrop on what the common people were talking about. Fragments of phrases carried the wind.
Another legend says that at the construction of the Moscow Manezh, erected in 1817 in honor of commemorating the victory over Napoleon's army, a gang of a serf named Rumors worked.
A talented craftsman erected solid roofs. His roofing work was known everywhere.
Initially, there were no windows on the roof of the Manege and on the gables, the attics were not ventilated. On a hot summer day, the room became very hot, and the hot air deformed the wooden ceilings and the roof. Having learned about the problem, Emperor Alexander I ordered the roof to be redone as soon as possible. This is where Slukhov's unique abilities came in handy. He found a way out by making several windows on the slope for cool air to enter the attic. In the future, such windows in the roof began to be called by the name of the serf master - auditory.
But ventilation is not the only function of dormer windows. They affect the reduction of pressure on ceilings. Beams can hardly withstand the weight of the span, especially if it is large, and can bend or collapse. A strong draft forms a zone with reduced pressure above the ceiling. As a result, the load on the beams is reduced, which makes it possible to avoid very dangerous situations.
Another French name for a dormer window is "lucarna", which means a skylight. Previously, attics were the favorite inexpensive housing for students, poets and artists. In the novel The Three Musketeers, Dumas also settled his main character d'Artagnan in Paris in an attic. Recently, the decoration of attic spaces for living rooms is gaining more and more popularity.
When constructing pitched roofs, modern builders also install dormer windows. They perform three functions: ventilation, access to the roof, and attic lighting. There are four main types of dormer windows: with a gable roof, with a tri-slope and flat roof, and circular. The same roofing materials are used as for the roof. Windows can be of any shape, frameless or with frequent sashes, with access to a balcony, since the pediment of the building is often decorated with a small loggia or balcony.
To improve the thermal performance and create the necessary light conditions in the attic, roller shutters are installed.
They are mounted more often on rectangular, arc, oval or triangular window openings. These can be models with automatic or manual control. The color variety of products allows you to use roller shutters for classic home decoration, as well as for creating avant-garde ideas. Moreover, for greater comfort, automatic roller shutters can be connected to the "smart home" system.
There is a special style of attic decoration - "loft", which came to Europe from the USA in the middle of the twentieth century. At this time, the central part of New York began to be freed from warehouses and industrial enterprises. Empty buildings were converted into inexpensive apartments or shops. Spacious rooms high under the roof began to be converted into studios and galleries, in which artists and other representatives of creative bohemia willingly settled. Translated from English, "loft" means "attic". This is how a special style appeared, very similar to the style of French mansards.
