Before buying a FAKRO roof window, you need to decide on the size of the window, the usable glazing area, the purpose of the room and the way of opening. Technical characteristics of windows are considered in.
1. Choosing the size of the window
The optimal width of the future window depends on the distance between the rafters:
The choice of the size of the window in height provides a number of conditions (Fig. 4):
2. Selecting the number of windows
The number of windows required to illuminate the attic is determined by the ratio useful area glazing windows to the floor area. The recommended ratio is 1:10. Example: If the area of the attic is 25 m², then the total usable glazing area should be approximately 2.5 m². The useful glazing area is shown in the price list in a rectangle under the window size. If you use a 78x118 cm window with a useful glazing area of 0.59 m², then for a room with an area of 25 m² you will need four such windows (4x0.59 = 2.36 m²).
The higher the roof window is installed from the floor level, the more light it gives. That is why in FAKRO windows the handle is at the bottom. This makes the operation of the window installed at the optimal height more convenient and simple.
3. Selection by purpose of the premises
For the installation of roof windows in living rooms, children's rooms and bedrooms, it is recommended to purchase
roof windows made from the most environmental material- pines of the highest grade for winter harvesting (class 1A). For rooms with high humidity air (bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pool) are ideal
roof windows. PVC windows are durable, do not require special maintenance and are easy to clean.
4. Selection by opening method
To make the roof windows as easy to use as possible, FAKRO has provided several opening methods:
The frame for the window is a must for installation and is selected depending on the type of roof. Provides a waterproof connection roofing material and the window block, as a protection against rain, 
snow and wind.
Reduces access to light and heat, complements the interior of the attic.
The roof windows and accessories can be operated in two ways: manually using the window handle, or remotely for even greater operating comfort.
Manual control.The higher the roof window is installed from the floor level, the more light it gives. That is why in FAKRO windows the handle is at the bottom. This makes the operation of the window installed at the optimal height more convenient and simple. For windows located high or in hard-to-reach places, it will be optimal to use the universal telescopic .
Automatic control windows and accessories are possible thanks to whichcarried out using a wall keyboard or remote control.Z-Wave can be integrated into the Smart Home system, as well as connect additional elements, for example, a rain and / or wind sensor.
In case of strong wind or rain, the Z-Wave system will automatically close all connected windows.
The service life of the window and the tightness in the area of installation of the window in the roof directly depend on the correct installation - this operation must be performed by qualified e specialists. Contact official service centers from FAKRO and tocertified assembly teams .
Lifetime guarantee
We are confident in the quality of our products, which is confirmed by many years of successful sales experience all over the world, and we want our customers to have this confidence not only at the time of purchase of FAKRO roof windows, but also throughout their further operation. That is whydouble-glazed windows and any spare parts for FAKRO windows are provided absolutelyis freeregardless of the cause of damage and the date of purchase.
Hello, our regular and new readers!
Leaving 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, you have to talk a lot about the features of the installation of roof windows. Sometimes the measurer is forced to dispel the customer's vain hope for a certain result, which 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 admiring the results of the transformation of the space under the roof.
Since when arranging the attic, many nuances are taken into account: the number of windows and the size of window openings, and the direction of opening, construction material, etc., using someone else's experience, you can avoid common mistakes and achieve what you want with less effort and expense
We are all familiar with attics since childhood. Who hasn’t "hid" there with Carlson and the Kid, reading about their joint adventures in a house under the roof? Or did not "observe" the communication between Kai and Gerda, who also lived in separate attics and grew there beautiful roses? For the first time, the space under the roof began to be used as a living space in the second half of the 17th century, when the Frenchman François Mansart, a famous enterprising architect, drew attention to the empty "territories".
Most of the 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.
It is typical for mansards when the windows are located in the roof. Because of this, the installation of structures, and indeed the frame, must meet 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.
The most active discussions on the forums concern various difficulties with the installation and operation of roof windows. Sometimes in dialogues there are also very negative statements from people who have worn out the renovation of the attic.
The advantages and disadvantages of roof windows in the video:
Flow
“... In winter, the snow on the window thaws and freezes all season, then it starts to flow. Ice builds up at the junction of the window and frame. And I also tortured the condensation - 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 has become 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.
Increased temperature in summer
"... I would like to achieve that it would be cooler in the attic of the parent's summer cottage ...".
The problem can be resolved using one of the following methods:
Price
“Everything suits in the attic window: there is no blowing anywhere, it fits well into the interior, it is convenient to use. But the price! Twice the cost of an ordinary glass unit ”.
Which manufacturer's products you prefer is entirely your choice. If you want better quality, you will have to pay more.
Attractive view
“The attic rooms are much nicer. At night all the stars of the world are yours! "
Saving energy
« Roof windows set in the study and bedroom. Comfort and light have definitely increased. "
Scientists also confirm the statements of this user: due to the angle of arrangement, inclined windows transmit more light than ordinary ones, that is, standing vertically (about 40%).
Handle placement based on user preferences
The location for installing the handle is best chosen 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 sash 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.
Fittings
The equipment requires a separate type of fittings and you cannot buy it at retail. It is produced by the same firms that produce windows for attics.
If it is necessary to replace or update some element, the application must be sent to the window seller.
Despite the similarity with the hardware for ordinary PVC double-glazed windows, the attic has some technical differences.
Skylights are a good option for arranging office and residential premises. What designs do users like and what to look for in order to be satisfied with their choice?
The installation of roof windows by non-specialists is absolutely typical and growing, considering that the flow of complaints about leaks has been steadily increasing lately. And with the arrival of heat, the number of dissatisfied people will increase, since this is a natural phenomenon when the technology for installing tilted windows is violated. However, leaks can still occur after a flawless installation. What can cause moisture to seep under the frame?
“Yesterday I received an application from client P, complaining about leaks in dormers. Moisture seepage is observed under the lower porch of the sash. The caller claims that the installation of double-glazed windows was carried out by experienced specialists. "
After arriving at the indicated address and inspection, 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 melted, 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 the water was able to seep out little by little.
The key to solving the problem is to clear the snow from the window and remove any moisture on the glass surface by wiping it down with a clean rag.
To restore the functionality of the seal, a lubricant containing liquid silicone is required.
After a while, it turned out that the recommendation fully justified itself: the leak did not appear anymore. The problem was eliminated with "little blood" due to the fact that the attic window was installed according to the rules. If the technology was violated, then the owner of the house would have to incur much higher costs than was expended to call and consult a specialist.
About the technology for installing mounting windows in the video:
Getting acquainted with the dialogues on forums where dormers are discussed, it becomes clear that the leading topic of conversation is related to the problem of leaks. 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 leaks - over time, even expensive double-glazed windows begin to leak water.
When you hear statements, the essence of which is "Velux windows or, say, ROTO windows serve for 10-15 years and have never flowed", you start to think that today's double-glazed windows of the same companies are made not in Denmark or Germany, respectively, but somewhere in Egypt or even near the town of Starye Pyrki.
Where do the legs grow from for such a suspicion? It's simple: most of those complaining about leaking dormers assure that the structures were installed by specialists, and do not understand what kind of 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 confirmation of this.
How does the leak occur in the latter case:
The sealant can begin to let water through and due to the long-term operation of the glass unit 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 seeping moisture is transparent, then the cause of the problem is poor assembly.
So that over time a good sealant does not lose its properties, it must be lubricated. But even thorough care is powerless before time - then replacement with a new one is the only way to avoid leaks. Interestingly, for double-glazed windows with doors that open according to the principle of a hatch, the rubber bands last longer.
Of course, roof windows also have a lot of advantages! No one has ever complained about their poor thermal insulation or drafts. Owners of the latest Aereco windows will not rejoice at the pre-installed systems in the form of a self-regulating inlet valve that provides ventilation.
There were rave reviews from the owners of double-glazed windows with wooden frames.
Unlike conventional ones made of the same material, the former are absolutely not afraid of decay, do not climb and do not require systematic painting, since they are treated with a special impregnation and have a protective coating.
The users are also pleased with the strength of the glass of roof windows, 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 dormer window, the glass in which resisted attempts to break it for a long time.
The window owners also like the loyalty program of manufacturers FAKRO, Velux, ROTO to their customers, expressed in the ability to replace defective elements for double-glazed windows free of charge.
Like anyone purchasing a product, a roof window buyer expects the quality of the 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 pleases with democratic prices.
By purchasing such a roof window, you get:
Glasses of high-quality dormers are made of triplex. In addition to strength, this material has a valuable property: upon a crushing impact, the glass does not fly apart with a splash of fragments, but cracks, covered with a web of cracks of different lengths, but remains in the window opening.
The skylights of the skylights scatter the sun's rays, so the light inside the room will be pleasing to the eyes and harmless to things prone to fading.
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 significant experience in arranging houses for our needs. But since we do such a feat much less often, we have to seek practical advice on a variety of construction issues. Further, we will present a lot of applied information about dormers, 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 your questions.
What is the difference between a roof window and a conventional vertical glass unit? What are the advantages of the former? Can a regular glass unit be installed at an angle in a mansard roof?
The main difference between windows is their purpose. Vertical double-glazed windows are mounted exclusively in the window openings of the vertical walls of buildings for various purposes.
Skylights are designed for roof mounting and are therefore capable of carrying loads similar to those experienced by a roof.
The procedure for installing windows into the roof also has a number of nuances that are not needed for the installation of ordinary double-glazed windows.
The cost of roof windows is determined not by the number of square meters in it, but by the combined amount for all the elements that make up the structure. How larger area, more complete set 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 the salary? This is an element for connecting a glass unit 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 providing heat, hydro, vapor barrier, are paid separately.
In most cases, pine wood from our northern regions is used for the manufacture of roof windows. This material was preferred because of its special density and heat-conducting qualities.
If you prefer PVC double-glazed windows, we recommend choosing a product made by Roto or Factro. Or take advantage of an absolutely innovative proposal - choose a structure made of wood covered with polyurethane on the outer layer. It protects wood from moisture impregnation, is not afraid of exposure to heat, does not turn yellow and is resistant to mechanical stress.
Algorithm for installing roof windows in the video:
They have different purposes and different volumes of loads. The roof should have the same heat loss coefficient over the entire area, therefore, the windows in the roof should also be a reliable barrier to heat escape from the room.
All modern double-glazed windows are cladding structures and have similar problems with condensation. Therefore, this manifestation of excess moisture can be observed even in the highest quality structures.
How to deal with the resulting condensation:
The fact is that the upper slope of the roof window should be horizontal, and the lower one - vertical.
Then the warm air flow rising from the heating element under the window opening will spread parallel to the area of the roof window. If the lower slope turns out to be horizontal, then there is a need for a ventilation gap from special gratings.
Often these windows end up overhanging people in the room.
Therefore, special safety requirements have been put forward for structures:
What is triplex technology? It is a complex of two glasses bonded with an interlayer between them in the form of a film. It is she who prevents the glass from "exploding" by fragments when hitting the window.
To familiarize yourself 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 glass unit, size) is located on the right. For more details on what you can find out by reading the information on the nameplate (plate), find out in a special section.
In the 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, manufacturers of roof windows propose to fight it by using sun-reflecting glass, interior curtains, roller shutters, blinds, awnings. When choosing a suitable option, remember that using roller shutters, you will be forced to illuminate the room with artificial lighting, since such protection will completely shade 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 indicator greatly increases 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 an air conditioner in the attic will be pretty tight.
If the house is heated, then the skylights will not freeze. But due to their inclined arrangement, snow can accumulate on top of the glass. If the precipitation is light, then the snow will quickly disappear. And in case of significant snowfall, the snowdrifts need to be shaken off periodically so that the amount of light entering 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. When they flow down, they can cause a mini pool to form 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 find yourself in front of the fact that a section of carpet, parquet or furniture located directly under the window gets wet. To prevent unpleasant consequences, you can use a thick towel or rug.
As for the difficulties with caring for roof windows. Yes, they get dirty more quickly, because on inclined surfaces, dust and dirt are better retained. However, it is easier to clean the doors of such double-glazed windows due to their location. Provided that the window is located in the living area, and not high above the flight of stairs. In the latter case, cleaning without a telescopic mop will be difficult.
If you are afraid that children will try to use the dormer window as a mansard access to the roof, use fittings with a key locking system.
Based on the above, we can conclude that when choosing a high-quality dormer window, you will receive a reliable and easy-to-use structure that will delight your eye and soul for more than one year. Manufacturers who are confident in their product indirectly confirm the quality of their products with a twenty-year glass guarantee. At the same time, they emphasize the need for systematic lubrication of fittings accessible to moisture and recommend periodically refreshing appearance ram paint.
Don't believe that there are no problems with roof windows? Right. 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 long service of an attic double-glazed window, it is extremely important to observe the installation technology: take into account the angle of inclination of the roof, floor level, professionally mount the structure in a permanent place. Often, if errors are made, then they are noticeable even to a person who has no experience in construction.
If the developer is inexperienced, an incorrect project was used when arranging the house, then the result may be, for example, the inaccessibility of a free view - when you cannot reach 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 forum users. Taking into account the parameters of the project, she ordered 78 x 140 double-glazed windows attic, but in practice the last figure should have been 160 cm.As a result, the owners of the room must bend over to review the situation on the street, which is not very convenient, whatever one may say.
To avoid inconvenience, calculate so that the lower edge of the glass unit is at a distance of 80-110 cm from the floor. A more specific reference point: when sitting on a chair, your line of sight, when looking straight ahead, should coincide with the lower edge of the glazing. You also need to take into account your height: if you get up, you should not be afraid of hitting the sash open window.
Don't miss the choice the desired design the following memo will help: when determining the length of the window, take into account the angle of inclination 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 edge of the sash. If you suspect that you can miss the size of the attic window due to errors in the project, then before choosing specific structures, do not be too lazy to measure the attic yourself or by inviting an experienced measurer. Then you will definitely be sure that the skylights will decorate the room and allow you to admire the 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 questionable. You will not be able to admire the views through them, unless you study the sky. But save a lot on electricity. In general, the choice is always yours if you are smart about solving any problem.
About the use of roof windows in winter in the video:
The windows in the attic will help turn this room into a living space, which will be very bright and cozy. Artificial lighting alone will not work. In this case, the attic will still be dark, it will be unpleasant to be in such a room.
Taking into account the fact that most often a bedroom is located in this room, windows should be mandatory, because without natural daylight it will be very difficult to get up in the morning. The attic can be turned, if desired, into your study for doing what you love, for example, an art workshop or a room for sewing and handicrafts. In any case, good natural light is needed here.
Roof windows, like any others, should provide good illumination in the room so that there are no dark corners anywhere. It is possible to calculate the required number of windows, thanks to the existing standards. On average, 1 m 2 of glazed windows provides about 10 m 2 of the room with natural light. Calculate based on an average of 1:10, there will be plenty of such daylight for the attic. This room will receive a lot more light than the rest of the rooms due to the tilt of the windows. On average, the illumination of the attic is 40% higher than that of a conventional room. This is because the windows are part of the roof of the building, so they are sloped.
Attic windows should be installed 90 cm higher from the floor. Their upper edge should be at least 180-220 cm above the floor level of the room. Only such a size of the windows will provide really good lighting, thanks to which no additional lighting devices are required during the day. The length of the windows also directly depends on the angle of inclination of the roof. On steep roofs, the length of the windows can be made shorter, if the roof is shallow, then the windows should be longer.
The width is selected depending on the distance between the construction beams. The roof window of the attic should be 6-7 cm less than this parameter. On each side it is necessary to leave a gap of at least 3-3.5 cm in order to lay the insulation, preventing the formation of "bridges" of cold. For example, if the distance between the building beams is standard, that is, 80 cm, the width of the roof window should be no more than 74 cm.As a result, there are 3 cm wide gaps for insulation on the left and right.
When choosing windows for the attic, remember that several small ones will illuminate a room much better than one huge one. You can install them, if desired, at any height, as well as at any angle, depending on what place in the attic room you want to illuminate in the best way. For example, if you make windows under the ridge of the roof, then the center of the room will be most illuminated. If you want the illumination to be concentrated closer to the walls, you need to mount the windows as low as possible. This option is optimal if you want to see not only the sky, but also what is happening in your yard.
V finished projects of houses with an attic the required number of windows for this room has already been calculated, as well as their optimal length and width, angle of inclination. The project provides for exactly where they need to be mounted in order to get the best daylight illumination for this room.
There are three types of windows that are suitable for this room. Their main difference is the way the window sash is opened:
Having learned what they are types of windows for the attic, you can choose the option that is right for your home. But be sure to specify when buying which roof this or that window is intended for. For example, double-glazed windows in which the sash axis is raised by ¾ of the window height, as a rule, are mounted in the roof with a slope of 20-65 °. The cheapest center-pivot windows can be installed if the roof pitch is between 15 ° and 90 °. Always check with the manufacturer for this nuance, as different models may have their own installation features.
As in any room, the attic should be cozy and warm, in many respects it depends on the quality of the double-glazed windows you choose. To find out what thermal insulation properties the window you like has, ask the manufacturer for the coefficient of heat transfer resistance. The higher it is, the less heat will go out of the attic through the windows.
Most of the inexpensive insulating glass units are single-chamber. As a rule, two-chamber double-glazed windows can be made to order or you can take ready-made ones, which belong to the premium class. All modern single-chamber double-glazed windows are produced with a special spraying, which significantly increases the coefficient of heat transfer resistance. They are good because in summer they keep the room cool, which is especially important for the attic, which is located directly under the roof of the house. In winter, they perfectly save the heat in the room, even in a strong blizzard, your attic will remain cozy.
If you have attic with large windows , the more you cannot save on them, you need double-glazed windows with built-in thermal insulation blocks. Their cost is slightly higher than standard ones, but they make it possible to save on heating. It is very important that warmth does not escape from the room through the huge roof windows. Therefore, initially it is necessary to select double-glazed windows with the maximum coefficient of heat transfer resistance and additional insulation.
When purchasing windows for the attic, be sure to ask the manufacturer if they have any burglary protection. Many put bars on the windows of the first floor and a reliable strong door, but they completely forget that intruders can enter their homes through the attic. To protect your home from thieves, choose windows with toughened, extra strong glass, it is very difficult to break. In addition, you need to make sure that the double-glazed windows are safe to use, this is especially important if you want to make a children's room in the attic. There are windows with special glass, which, if accidentally broken, will not crumble into small fragments into the room. Thanks to a special protective film, all the pieces of broken glass will be held together.
The window should help create coziness, homelike atmosphere in the attic room. But what kind of comfort can we talk about if you live, for example, next to a noisy highway, a railway station, or your neighbors have a dog that constantly and loudly barks. Be sure to consider all the factors when choosing insulating glass units for your attic. Ask the manufacturers what soundproofing characteristics this or that window has. If you live near sources of constant and strong noise, choose double-glazed windows with maximum sound insulation properties. This is especially true if you want to make a bedroom in the attic.
When purchasing windows for the attic, be sure to buy a waterproofing frame immediately. It is necessary to reliably, firmly and tightly connect the glass units to the roof. Without it, the installation of attic windows is impossible, at the first rain they will begin to leak. It is important to know that a certain type of waterproofing flashing is suitable for each roofing material. For example, a salary that is intended for metal or euro-slate is not suitable in any way for a flat seam roof or bitumen shingles. Therefore, it is necessary to decide on the type of roof windows at the stage roofing works, in order to immediately purchase all the materials necessary and suitable for their installation.
In some models of windows, it is located at the top of the frame, in others - at the bottom. Manufacturers are still arguing among themselves, citing arguments in favor of precisely "their" location of the handle on the window frame. But in reality, they are equally comfortable and the choice depends only on your personal preference. If you have children, it is better to choose windows with a top handle on the frame. In the event that you prefer its lower location, be sure to check that the handle is equipped with a locking function so that the kids cannot open the window accidentally.
The cheapest options for attic windows are equipped with a special pole, with which they can be closed and opened. If desired, you can purchase more expensive ones that come with a remote control. There are also windows that are controlled by wall switches. Which option to choose is up to you.
Like any other windows, they can be equipped with mosquito nets, roller shutters, curtains and other accessories. It is very important to select everything from the manufacturer whose windows you decided to buy. Fitting accessories from a completely different company may, in some cases, even damage the window frame.
They must definitely come up to interior design your attic, both in color and size, according to the style of their design. Windows shouldn't look strange and ridiculous in the room. Choose exactly those so that they harmoniously fit into the overall atmosphere of the attic.
Such blocks look very impressive, they make the room very bright and visually expand it, make it possible for an excellent view. But it is recommended to install them only as a last resort, if you really really wanted this particular window option. The fact is that they are very difficult to install. Also, due to their special design, the likelihood of the formation of a huge amount of condensate and freezing increases. The slightest mistakes in their installation, which would not at all affect the operation of standard small windows, can lead to serious consequences when it comes to large blocks.
What exactly needs to be monitored when installing skylights:
If you still have not decided which window to install in the attic, photos and videos will help you figure it out.
In a private house, every meter of usable area counts. The owners are thinking over how to rationally use free and utility rooms. A striking example of the transformation of a useless empty attic into a cozy living space is the arrangement of the attic. In the second half of the 17th century, the famous French architect François Mansart, after whom the attic was named, drew attention to the abandoned attic premises and suggested using them as living rooms for the poor.
Since then, the concept of using these areas has developed so that today the attic is a cozy, bright, warm and comfortable place for rest and life, equipped with all the necessary communications and beautifully decorated. If you spend necessary work for insulation, insulation and decoration, then the attic can act as a full-fledged residential floor, in which there will be bedrooms for residents, and bathrooms with toilets, dressing rooms. In multi-storey buildings, the most expensive real estate is the luxuriously finished attic space - penthouses.
This solution gives the house a lot of advantages:
When designing, one of the important tasks is the correct placement of skylights to ensure maximum daylight.
When building an attic, it is necessary to strictly observe the current building codes and regulations. According to SNiPs, the glazing area must be at least 10% of the total footage of the illuminated room. It should also be taken into account that the sun turns during daylight hours and will shine through the windows for only a few hours. Each room must have at least one window.
Skylights are mounted directly into the roof slope, so they differ significantly from the frontal ones both in technical characteristics and in design.
Mansard frames have the following advantages:
If there are no such skills, it is better to entrust the installation to experienced specialists in order to avoid mistakes and problems during use.
During the installation and operation of such double-glazed windows, disadvantages and difficulties may appear, which have the following solutions:
The windows purchased with a guarantee will last a long time and will not cause trouble for the owners.
Skylights differ in material and construction. There are blind closed double-glazed windows that can be made to order, or a standard version with opening doors. The double-glazed window consists of a double layer of triplex with a gap of a special film that prevents fragments from scattering around the room. The upper layer of the glass unit is made of tempered glass with a large margin of safety.
Double-glazed windows for different weather and temperature conditions regions are produced with different technical characteristics. For cold northern regions, it is preferable to choose a multilayer glass unit, into each chamber of which an inert gas is pumped to retain heat. For hot and sunny countries, it is recommended to buy double-glazed windows with reflective films, mirror and tinted coatings.
There are wooden frames - they are made of laminated veneer lumber, impregnated with antiseptic compounds and varnished for outdoor use.
Wooden beams are coated with polyurethane for durability. Natural material fits perfectly into the interior of a country house and country house.
Frames with PVC plastic profiles are available. This plastic is lightweight and has fire-fighting characteristics, frost-resistant.
Aluminum metal profiles are widely used in public and office spaces.
Armored frames are also used in attic structures - they are heavier and more durable than standard ones and can withstand extreme mechanical and weather loads.
Opening mechanisms are available with manual or automated remote control. There are windows with an upper pivot axis, with a central one, with a raised axis. There are also two pivot axes on the frame, controlled by one handle. The opening takes place in two positions - tilt and swivel.
"Smart" windows are controlled by a remote control or a wall keyboard, to which blinds or roller shutters, roller shutters, curtains are also connected. It is possible to program it to close when it starts raining, then the window closes to the "airing" position. Automation for windows can be integrated into the "smart home" system, climate control system. At a critical temperature rise in the room, the doors will open with the help of an electric drive, and at the first drops of rain, a special sensor will give a command to close. The program controls the processes during the absence of the residents of the house, maintaining the set values of humidity and temperature.
Facade or cornice double-glazed windows are placed at the junction of the facade and the roof, they combine the characteristics of ordinary windows and dormers. They look very original and increase the flow of light entering the room.
You can buy a structure in the form of a dormer, only with transparent walls for more illumination.
When opened, a transforming window turns into a small comfortable balcony, but when closed it has a standard look.
Anti-aircraft windows are designed for installation on flat roofs and are designed with a special sloped frame so that the sun does not hit directly into it.
Light tunnels are installed in the presence of an attic space above the attic. The window itself is mounted in the roof, a corrugated pipe is attached, which transmits the rays to the plafond, scattering the light flux.
The shape of a standard tilted window is rectangular, it can also be square. The structure consists of a frame and a sash, a seal, fittings, and a flashing. Standard frames are mounted on inclined flat roof slopes.
Arched or arched frames have a curved shape. They are designed for appropriately shaped slopes and vaulted roofs.
Round windows are produced that look original and romantic in the interior.
The combined frames are composed of two parts. The lower part is usually rectangular. The upper window is called an extension and can be either rectangular or triangular, semicircular.
The dimensions of the windows and their dimensions depend on various individual parameters, angles and dimensions of the room and the roof:
The factories produce a wide range of products of standard dimensions.
If no option suits the client or he wants exclusive, then there is the possibility of ordering. A measurer will come from the office and take measurements for free, calculate the parameters, draw up drawings. Large and curly shapes and various sizes of frames are made to order.
In addition to the drawing, in the attic arrangement project, a window arrangement, a working estimate is needed.
In addition to the frames and glass units themselves, manufacturing companies produce various additional accessories and components for installation, protection during operation, opening control, and maintenance. These accessories can be indoor, outdoor, they change characteristics, add functionality, decorate and complete the composition. Installation is possible after installing windows or during it.
External components:
Internal accessories:
The curtains can be installed and fixed in any position thanks to special guides. Curtains are easy to care for and can be easily washed with detergents.
Additional accessories and fittings:
Films for adhering to glass with a mirror or tinted effect reduce the temperature in the attic in summer and shade the room.
For installation work, you will need the following tools:
Installation of roof windows is recommended during the construction phase of the truss system. This is a complex and time-consuming process, which is better to be entrusted to professionals, but if necessary, installation can be done on your own, having necessary tool, skills and experience in the field of construction, knowledge of technology. Structures of different manufacturing companies are installed in different ways, have separate features of the installation technology.
Location is a very important aspect that affects the overall composition of the building, technical characteristics, proper functioning and service life of not only the windows, but the entire roof. It is necessary to take a project at home with detailed dimensions, it will be possible to make accurate calculations on them.
There are certain rules for choosing an optimal and safe place.
In these areas, the maximum accumulation of precipitation and condensation occurs, which greatly complicates the operating conditions and increases the risk of fogging and leakage.
The height of the window openings from the floor level is determined by the height of the handle. If it is in the upper part of the sash, then the optimal window height is 110 cm from the floor. At this height, it is convenient to open the sash manually. If the handle is located at the bottom of the glass, the height cannot be less than 130 cm, especially if children are in the attic, and the maximum value of the height is 170 cm.The middle position of the handle assumes that the window is installed at a height of 120-140 cm. dots - radiators under the windows. They are positioned there to prevent condensation from forming. The steepness of the slopes also affects the location of the structure - the smaller the angle of inclination, the higher the window is placed.
The type and properties of the roofing material also determine the location. Soft either roll material can be cut in the desired place, but the shingles must be solid. In this case, the opening is placed over the row of tiles.
The seating depth of the window has three standard values provided by the manufacturer. Outside the window structure, special grooves are cut, marked with the letters N, V and J, indicating different planting depths. Flaps for each depth are made separately, provided with appropriate markings, where the depth is indicated by the last letter, for example, EZV06.
Installation of frames is carried out in the intervals between the rafters at a distance of 7-10 cm from them in order to lay the heat-insulating material. The rafter system provides the strength of the roof, therefore it is undesirable to violate its integrity.
If the frame does not fit into the rafter pitch, it is better to install two smaller windows instead of one large window. When the removal of part of the rafter is still necessary, it is imperative to install a special horizontal bar for strength.
To calculate the dimensions of the opening, you need to add a gap of 2-3.5 cm to the dimensions of the window for laying insulation on four sides. Mineral wool is often used as an insulating material. An assembly gap is left between the opening and the roof cutout, the width of which is determined by the type of roofing material. For shingles, for example, it should be 9 cm.To avoid skewing the window when the house shrinks, the gap between the upper beam and the roof is 4-10 cm.
Installation is desirable on rafters, but it is also possible on a special crate. The lathing beams are installed between the rafters strictly horizontally in level. Outside, above the planned opening, a drainage gutter is attached. It is mounted at an angle so that the condensate flows freely onto the roof, bypassing the window. Such a gutter can be made by hand by folding a piece of waterproofing sheet in half.
When all the dimensions are calculated, you can draw and cut out a model of the drywall opening. On the finished waterproofing of the inner side of the roof or on the finish, it is also necessary to draw an outline of the opening, drill several holes to relieve stress and prevent deformation. Then cut two strips with a band or circular saw crosswise and cut off the resulting triangles, correct the edges strictly according to the outline. The waterproofing is cut with the same envelope and wrapped outward, attached to the crate.
If metal tiles, slate, corrugated board or sheet metal are used as the roofing material, then an opening is cut out from the outside using a similar technology. If the roof is covered with tiles, you should first disassemble the covering, and then saw out. Lay the heat insulator and shoot it with a stapler to the mounting rails. After completing all the work, the dismantled elements of the roofing are returned to their place.
Before installing the frame in the prepared opening, you need to remove the glass unit and remove the flashing. Mounting brackets are included and come in different types from different manufacturers. They are also fastened in different ways: some on the rafters, others on the rafters and on the crate. Mounting brackets are also supplied as standard and are supplied with a measuring ruler for correct adjustment the position of the frame in the opening. Screws and galvanized nails are used as fastening material.
The frame without a double-glazed window must be installed in place in the window opening and correct the position of the lower edge of the box, screw the lower brackets until they stop. It is better to leave the upper fasteners with a backlash and do not tighten to the end to facilitate subsequent adjustment. Experts advise to insert the sash into the frame to check the tight fit and correct gaps. At this stage, they check all levels, angles and distances, correct inaccuracies, adjust the frame in place using plastic corners... In the future, it will be impossible to correct the distortions. After adjustment, the sash is carefully dismantled again so as not to damage the hinges.
After adjustment and adjustment, the brackets are twisted tightly and a waterproofing apron is laid around the box, the top of the apron is placed under the drainage gutter, one edge of the apron is stapled to the frame, and the other is brought under the crate. The thermal insulation is attached along the side portions of the frame.
The flashing must be installed strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is different for different brands, and their equipment is also different. In any case, the lower part of the flashing is mounted first, then the side elements, and then the upper part, and only at the end the overlays are installed.
From the inside, the window is finished and the ready-made factory slopes are installed. Their correct position is such that the lower slope should look horizontally, and the upper slope strictly vertically, otherwise the convection of warm air around the window structure will be disturbed, and unwanted condensation will appear. Slopes are fastened mainly by snapping onto special locks.
Mansard window structures made of plastic PVC profile is offered by all major well-known manufacturing companies. Due to the properties of plastic, the line of such products is used in rooms with high levels of humidity, in regions with a humid climate. A good solution is to install a PVC transformer window. Opening the bottom sash creates a small balcony. Plastic frames are also used to glaze complex structures, for example, balconies and loggias in pediments, if desired or available beautiful views you can make the entire section of the pediment glass from floor to ceiling.
These frames have several locking positions, the opening mechanism for them is along the central axis. Double-glazed windows with tempered glass can withstand significant mechanical loads and even a person's weight. For comfortable ventilation, ventilation valves with special removable filters are provided; they are designed to clean the air in the room when the windows are closed.
The service life of plastic frames with regular inspection and preventive maintenance is at least 30 years. You do not need to tint them constantly.
The most popular material for roof frames is wood. Since wood absorbs moisture, swells, and dries up under the influence of the sun, such material is not used without special protection measures. Basically, they use northern pine, the reliability and strength of which has been tested for centuries, solid or glued beams. Impregnate it with antiseptics and cover it with a double layer of varnish. In this case, the tree does not rot, does not deform, and gains durability. Some manufacturers coat pine timber with monolithic polyurethane. This coating increases the durability of the box and gives it additional strength.
The main advantage of wood is environmental friendliness, safety for human health. Thanks to the beautiful natural texture, reinforced with varnish, it looks natural and harmonious in the interior, emphasizing the atmosphere of a country house. These windows are the most affordable and have the richest assortment of models and varieties, fasteners and opening mechanisms. These frames can be both vertical and installed in dormer in the roof, and inclined for installation on roof slopes at an angle. They are perfect for offices, bedrooms, living rooms and children's rooms.
Aluminum roof frames are mainly used in offices, hospitals, administrative buildings for various purposes... Have a tough solid construction, relatively low weight, withstand strong and sharp temperature jumps - from -80 to + 100 degrees.
The metal profile is of cold and warm type.
You can choose the most suitable shade from a rich palette of colors in which metal profiles are painted. During operation, they do not require any preventive maintenance, except for washing the windows.
Installation of roof window structures is a laborious and responsible business. Experienced specialists share their many years of experience and give valuable advice on their correct installation in order to avoid errors and errors during installation, as well as on preventive maintenance so that they serve reliably for as long as possible.
Before installing the box, be sure to remove the sash from the frame so as not to damage the hinges. After the box is in the opening in its place, its position is adjusted, the sash is put back.
The most famous and large companies that lead in the construction market for roof windows and components for them, offer customers high-quality certified products, as well as additional accessories and preventive window treatments during the entire period of operation.
Danish firm Velux has been working in the Russian Federation since 1991. Unique developments and inventions made this manufacturer one of the leaders of brands represented in Russia. In addition to the main products, the company offers customers a full range of components and accessories that are fully compatible with windows. An innovative material used by the company for the production of timber frames - proven for centuries of use in Europe northern pine impregnated with antiseptic compounds and covered with monolithic polyurethane or a double layer of varnish.
Among the numerous patented inventions, a unique ventilation system equipped with fine filters and a special vent-valve built into the opening handle for comfortable ventilation.
The glazing "warm perimeter", which uses energy-efficient double-glazed windows filled with argon, is equipped with a steel dividing strip. Thanks to it, condensation does not form along the perimeter of the window.
No drafts and crevices, a three-level sealing system, silicone instead of a sealant, only innovative and proven materials - all this is provided by the company's products. According to the results of examinations, Velux windows can withstand frosts down to -55 degrees and are recommended for installation in northern regions.
The main line of Velux models is produced in large and medium sizes.
German windows Roto first appeared in 1935. The products of this company are produced from high quality plastic multi-chamber PVC profile. The windows of this company are small and medium in size. Standard sizes are 54x78 and 54x98. Everything best properties material, Roto products are ideal for the climatic conditions of our country, sudden changes in weather, a large abundance of precipitation.
It is possible to install electric piston drives on Roto sashes, which prevent the window from slamming; you can control the sashes using a remote control or a “smart home” system. Installation is allowed not only to the rafters, but also to the crate; models are produced that are mounted without first removing the sash. The products of this company receive excellent reviews from both construction specialists and owners of private houses who have been using German windows for many years.
Company Fakro for 10 years it has been producing designs that undergo more than 70 different checks and tests before being sold. Raw materials and components are also tested for strength and other parameters. Outside, the structure is protected by overlays.
You can arrange the frame from the inside by clicking the factory ready-made slope to the branded locks. Control is possible using a wall keyboard, remote controls, from a smartphone via the Internet or manually.
For the convenience of working with its products, this manufacturer has developed mobile applications, conducts regular training seminars for builders, review TV broadcasts. To carry out custom-made qualified installation of windows, there are certified teams, as well as official service centers for the repair and preventive maintenance of products. There is an unlimited warranty for the glass unit and spare parts. Replacement of these components is absolutely free, regardless of the service life and the cause of damage. The creation of such an infrastructure for the convenience of purchasing and servicing has allowed the company to gain deserved popularity and become one of the leaders in the Russian market.
Designers and architects create impressive buildings - true works of architectural art, which combine impressiveness and modern openness and lightness of interiors. The variety of complex fantasy forms and the boldness of solutions for roof windows is amazing. The rapid development of building technologies and innovations makes it possible to design unusual attics that reflect the personality and taste of the owners.
Making repairs in the attic, the owners also think over the decorative design of window openings. Hanging heavy and curtains in such interiors is undesirable. Better to give preference light curtains, blinds, roller shutters. The harmonious combination of shades will create a modern, light and cozy interior.
The installation of roof windows should be carried out according to the instructions and constantly check the quality and implementation of the necessary installation steps. Otherwise, your roof will be of poor quality, and leak at the slightest natural damage.
Skylights in the roof and three vertical windows - lucarns in the roof of the attic
It is important to remember the main stages of installing skylights in the roof and their types in order to equip your house as efficiently and efficiently as possible and use the maximum possibilities of the modern construction market.
The first rule to remember when installing a dormer window is that it must be attached not to the crate of the window, but to roof structure(wooden or metal-plastic window frame).
In order for your structure to be lighter and the window can be installed faster and more firmly, a horizontal beam should be installed at the bottom of the window and attached to the rafter system.
In the process of installing the attic structure, it is worth leveling the lower half of the window and screwing all the corners with self-tapping screws, which are necessarily included in the kit with the purchased structure.
Next, you need to align the length of the window parallel to the rafters and screw the screws into the oblong holes at the corners of the attachment. Do not screw them in completely, because after installation you can carefully check everything and, if necessary, adjust the parameters and position of your window system.
The roof window can hold on its own if it is correctly and accurately aligned in such a way that there are approximately equal distances between the frame and the rafters.
After a final inspection of the structure and checking all distances and positions, the self-tapping screws can be screwed into the structure to the base.
It is important to note the fact that attic structures must also have high-quality waterproofing installation with durable material, which will maximally protect your room from moisture and atmospheric influences.
Styling insulating materials should be carried out from the bottom up in order to fit it to the frame as much as possible and to avoid overlaps and unnecessary material residues. Ultimately, all the places where the insulation is connected are screwed and fixed with self-tapping screws.
When installing skylights for a profile roof, it is worth using a special rail on which a corrugated addition is attached, which can be smoothly attached to the profile. This rail should be 10 cm from the bottom of the frame and extend out to the sides by 30 cm.
After the installation of the attic structure is completed, a special sash or glass unit is attached to it.
Insulation operations with a window are carried out from the inside, by placing insulation over the entire area of the frame and closing it from moisture thermal insulation material type of foil. Special fasteners can be placed on the insulation structure, which are made by using self-tapping screws or sealants.
If you are the owner of a cottage or a private house and want to install an attic structure, you should study in detail all types of these structures and make sure of the reliability and strength of your structure.
With the help of the attic, you can create an additional room, bedroom, as well as a kitchen and even bathrooms. Lighting through windows will allow you to create maximum comfort and decorate your attic room in such a way that it becomes a favorite place for all household residents.
Skylights are very popular and in demand at this stage in the development of building technologies, since they allow you to save on lighting, create a certain style and charm for your home.
It is very important to decide in which part of the house you need to install an attic structure and how many windows will be the most the best option so that the shapes and dimensions of your attic match the parameters of the house and achieve a unique and effective design effect.
Installing an attic window is a very important and responsible matter, on the correct decision of which it will depend external design your home and aesthetics.
Lucarna(fr. lucarne, from lat. lux "light") - a window opening in a roof slope, usually an attic, or a dome, with a vertical frame, closed on the sides and on top.
Lucarnaya, for example, is the well-known skylight on the attic roof of a house.
The presence of a hatch allows in the attic rooms get more usable area with a high ceiling. Through the window of the lucarne, you can see not only the sky, but also explore the surroundings.
The roof hatch has a significant impact on the appearance of the house. To preserve harmony in the appearance of the house, the number, shape and location of lucarens must be determined taking into account the type of facade, the type and steepness of the roof.
The dimensions, location and shape of the lucarne also determine the interior of the room in which it is located.
There are several types and forms of windows - lucarnes.
Lucarne with flat roof can be made wide enough, even over the entire length of the room. Then the attic room with a wide hatch will not have sloped ceiling sections.
In the room by the window, they usually place furniture for relaxation or set up a table for work.
Lucarne with gable roof look good on roofs with slopes of more than 30 o.
The width of a hatch with a gable roof is usually inscribed in 1 - 2 steps of rafters. Wider hatches often spoil the look of a home.
Indoors, the ceiling of the lucarne is made flat.
A lucarna with a three-pitched roof looks good on slopes of any steepness and shape. Outside from the ground, the roof of the lucarne is not conspicuous. It is easier to harmoniously place such a hatch on the roof of the house.
A lucarne with a gable roof can be made wider - by 2-3 steps of rafters (up to 2 - 2.5 m.)
The ceiling of the lucarne in the room can be flat, or it can repeat the shape of the roof of the lucarne (in the picture).
The vertical side walls of the hatch can end at a height of less than 2 m from the attic floor. In this version, the roof of the lucarne is made gable, and the window is pentagonal.
Inside, the ceiling of the lucarne recess follows the shape of the roof.
The low walls of the hatch limit the possibility of using the space near the window to accommodate tall furniture.
Outside, the roof covering smoothly flows around the hatch from above and from the sides. It is better to use bituminous, metal or ceramic tiles as a roof covering.
Inside, the ceiling in the niche of the lucarne is made in the form of a cylindrical or conical arch.
A bull's eye lucarne with a wide semi-oval window is usually placed on a large roof slope from the side of the main facade. The soft and flowing roofline above the sunroof looks impressive from the outside. Lucarne Bull's Eye is the main decoration of the house.
It is better if the window inside the attic is entirely in one room. A room with such a window turns out to be very bright and attractive.
A small triangular lucarne is most often made to illuminate the stairs, dressing room or bathroom.
The triangular hatch can also be used to illuminate larger rooms. But such a lucarne adds very little to the space with a high ceiling in the attic.
Inside the room, the ceiling of the lucarne niche follows the shape of the window.
The dimensions of the attic roof hatch are determined from the following considerations.
To ensure the illumination and insolation required by sanitary rules, the glazing area of window openings in the room must be at least 1/8 of the floor area.
In a person with a height of 176 cm, the line of sight passes at a height of 165 cm if he is standing, and 121 cm if he is sitting. To view the surroundings from the attic window, the bottom of the glazing should be at a height of no more than 120 cm from the floor of the room, and it is recommended to place the top of the window above 165 cm.
If the hatch window opens, then in order not to fall out of the window, the bottom of the opening frame must be located at a height of at least 85 cm from the floor. The window may be lower than this height, but in this case, everything below is protected with a metal fence.
