Choosing skylights. What should you pay attention to?
The roof window is obviously intended to be installed in an associated structure. Its peculiarity is that it is often located at a significant angle (usually from 45o to 70o). Skylights are useful in that they make it possible to:
save heat in the room, reducing heat loss.
increase the surface for the penetration of sunlight into the room, they transmit 30-40% more light.
save space, since the window is opened to the outside using the top handle. Therefore, a piece of furniture can directly adjoin the window itself.
make quick installation, since no additional structures are needed for the roof window.
Therefore, roof windows are preferable to vertical windows for installation directly in the attic.
Major manufacturers of roof windows
When choosing a manufacturer, I recommend paying attention to fakro , Velux, Roto roof windows . In general, their assortment is similar, but there are differences.
Features of the offer of various companies
Velux has a reputation for being the number one manufacturer. This Danish company focuses on the production of additional elements. It offers illuminated roof windows with roller shutters.
The Polish company Fakro is noticeable by its presence in our country, since the production of window products developed by this company is open here. The company relies on a waste system to repair or replace failed elements. Its representatives promise that they are ready to change the windows in any case of their refusal. Prices for Fakro and Velux products are comparable.
The same cannot be said about Roto, whose products are somewhat (by about 25%) more expensive. For such an increase in cost, the company promises excellent fittings, and also promises a quick installation of its structures in comparison with competitors.
The choice of roof windows according to their characteristics
When installing roof windows, you should pay attention to the following factors:
Window size. The size should be chosen taking into account the size of the room. You also need to remember that the window will be 2 centimeters smaller than the hole made for it.
The need for heat conservation. The more severe the winters, the greater the design requirements.
Good ventilation. You should choose products that will allow you to ventilate the room with high quality.
Humidity level. If a kitchen or bathroom is being set up in the attic, you should prefer a window model that is designed for a room with high humidity. The aforementioned manufacturers offer such products.
Glass unit type. The thicker it is, the stronger it is.
Insulating gas type. This is usually argon, but other gases may have preferred thermal insulation characteristics.
Skylight style. It must be in harmony with the stylistic design of the surrounding space, both the roof and the interior. Glasses should not be conspicuous, they should be combined with other elements in color and size.