In this guide we’re going to look at the types of roof windows available, what fitting them entails and how to choose the right ones for your property.

A Roof Window Overview

Roof windows are typically installed in pitched roofs but can also be added to flat roofs. Because your roof bears the brunt of the weather that is thrown at your house, it’s vital they are fitted correctly and of high quality Edinburgh roofing. Roof windows comprise of two parts… the window itself and then a flashing kit which ensures the entire setup remains watertight… obviously an important consideration particularly in the UK!

There are several types of flashing kits available including low profile, recessed, and conservation style. There are several manufacturers of roof windows but probably the best known is Velux, who stock a range of them.

Read Also: Roofing Contractors in Edinburgh, UK: 3 Best Companies

Types of Roof Window

There are three main types of high-quality Edinburgh roof windows that you can choose from. Which one you select will depend on a variety of factors including cost and location for the window.

• Fixed Roof Windows – These are, as the name suggests, fixed. In other words, they don’t open. You would typically choose one of these for hallways or rooms that require light but not any additional ventilation.
• Top hung Roof Windows – These are a popular choice and consist of a handle at the base of the window which releases a mechanism to allow the window to swing open upwards from a hinge located at the top of the window.
• Centre-pivot Roof Windows – Perhaps one of the most common types of roof window, centre-hung windows pivot on a hinge that is located halfway up the window. This means the bottom half of the window swings up and out whilst the top half drops down into the room.

Choosing the Correct Roof Windows for your Property

Now the decision has been taken to install a roof window you just need to decide which type will be the most suitable for your home and circumstances. Check out the list of things to consider below:

Roof Type

The type of roof on your home will influence the type of roof window you buy. Depending on the brand, different manufacturers will be able to advise on the suitability of their windows for your roof. Roof Lanterns would be most suitable for flat roofs whilst you can get roof windows that can be installed on pitched roofs where the angle of the roof ranges anything from 15 – 90°.

Roof Window Location

Location, location, location as the old adage goes… it applies to not only property but also the position of your roof window! Factors to consider are numerous but include the direction of the roof… if you have the option of installing on a north-facing roof or a south-facing roof then south-facing is going to be infinitely preferable if you want decent levels of light to enter the room.

The layout of the room interior will also play a role… don’t end up with a roof window installed in an awkward location. Make sure you design the room layout first before committing to the location for a roof window.

Functionality

You can choose between roof windows that open manually or ones that open electrically. Manual ones are just fine where it’s easy to access the window (for example in a loft conversion) but less practical where the roof window is high off the ground. In this instance, an electric opening window is all but essential unless you’re happy running up and down a ladder each time you want to open it!

There is a lot to consider when choosing roof windows for your property. Ultimately it’s well worth speaking with a roof professional before committing to a purchase and, as with most things roof-related, it’s vital to get a reputable roofing contractor in Edinburgh to install them for you. A poorly fitted roof window will leak and also potentially be dangerous so it’s not worth the risk of cutting corners in this regard.

To arrange for a free no-obligation quotation from one of our fantastic roofing estimators, please contact us on 0131 555 5121 or email us at hello@ronaldgrahamgroup.co.uk

Ronald G Graham Roofing Ltd is a specialist roofing company based in Edinburgh, offering a variety of services. Get a free, no-obligation quote now.