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