How to choose the right skylight. How to choose a skylight? Installation of skylights How to choose the right skylights
How to choose the right roof windows for your home? What characteristics need to be paid attention to, what do they affect? How to choose the right number of windows and their size?
To make your attic light, cozy and comfortable, before purchasing a window for the roof, you need to decide on the size of the window, usable area glazing, the purpose of the room and convenient way roof window opening.
How to correctly determine the size and number of windows?
Window Width
Optimal Width the future window depends on the distance between the rafters. The distance between the rafters should be 2-6 cm more than the width of the selected window. If the distance between the rafters is less than the width of the window (or vice versa), a partial change in the design of the rafters (fitting) is possible.
Window height
Properly selected length (height) of the roof window provides a view for both sitting and standing people.
The smaller the angle of inclination of the roof, the greater should be the height of the window.
Number of windows
The number of windows required to illuminate the attic is determined by a ratio of 1:10, for every 10 m2 of floor area, 1 m2 of window glazing is required. This is the recommended ratio at which the minimum lighting standards are observed according to SNiP.
For example, if the area of a room in your attic is 15 m², then the total useful area of \u200b\u200bglazing should be approximately 1.5 m². The size of the glazing area is given in the product card according to the size of the windows. Having chosen a window with a size of 78 * 140 cm with a usable glazing area of 0.73 m², we get that two such windows are needed for the room (2x0.73 \u003d 1.46 m²).
For living rooms, children's recommended to use more windows. The higher the roof window is from the floor level, the more light you will get in your attic.
Need help freezing?
What type of window opening is most convenient for you?
Top handle (opening along the central axis)
The top position of the handle is suitable for installing the window on optimal height 90 - 120 cm from the floor. Allows furniture to be placed under the window. 
Bottom handle (opening along the central axis)
This arrangement of the handle is convenient when installing a window at a height of 120 - 160 cm from the floor, as well as in attics with a high wall.
Window with combined opening system
Provides two ways of opening: along the central and upper axis (provides a panoramic view).
Windows with a raised axis of rotation of the sash
The axis of rotation of the sash is located above the central part of the window frame, which makes it possible to manufacture skylights high altitude, providing additional lighting rooms and overview.
If you need a roof window to have additional functions, you can pay attention to special-purpose windows: emergency and maintenance exits to the roof.
Choosing a window model for the purpose of the room
Wooden or white?
When choosing a window model, you need to pay attention to the material from which it is made. For bedrooms, children's rooms and living rooms, it is recommended to purchase skylights made of pine wood. premium winter preparation. This is the most eco-friendly material. For rooms with high humidity air or in white interiors (bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pool) PVC roof windows or wooden windows coated with white polyurethane (moisture resistant). These models are durable, do not require special care and are easy to clean.
It is worth paying attention to the double-glazed window. For children's, billiard rooms, it is recommended to use a safe double-glazed window with the "triplex" system. If a double-glazed window is broken, the fragments will not crumble, but will remain on the film and will not cause harm.
Choosing an insulating salary for a window
The salary for the window is obligatory element for installation and is selected depending on the type roofing material. There are flashings for single installation, and combined flashings for installing skylights in groups.
In addition to the salary, it is necessary to purchase installation kits, hydraulic thermal insulation, vapor barrier apron. These accessories will help not only to carry out quality installation, but also increase the warranty period for the roof window.
Only owners of private houses can feel the beauty of the attic, if there is one, of course. But since this is not an ordinary room, in many ways the design concept is decided by the right lighting. But how to choose a roof window so that it ennobles to the maximum and favorably emphasizes all the charm of the room.
The inclined version of the installation of the roof window allows much more to pass into the room sunlight.
Some nuances
The modern market for the production of window structures is large enough, and in order not to get confused in it, you can follow the following recommendations:
Schematic drawing of a roof glazing with an indication of the main components.
- Glazing area. In this case, the masters deduced the basic rule and proportion - 1 to 10, that is, 1 square. m. of the attic window account for 10 sq.m. gender. But if you decide to place a nursery or living room in the attic, then in this case, choose a proportion of 1 to 8. The selection of windows should follow only taking into account these proportions and nothing else.
- There should be at least one window in the room. Unless natural lighting is not required by a wardrobe, pantry, boiler room. In fact, some people try to make a window in the bathroom, placing it under the ceiling.
- The location of the roof windows. Here the shape of the roof plays a role in many respects. In order for the room to have more light, it is necessary to install a window structure on both slopes.
- Roof window dimensions. This parameter is influenced by the fact what purpose is given to the window. Which roof windows are best used for lighting alone, and which ones are better for contemplating the surrounding landscape? In this case, you need to pay attention to the level of the roof slope - high (long) forms are used for sloping roofs.
Even when developing a project, the width of each window is calculated, since the step directly depends on this building structure roofs. This issue is resolved together with the designer, as he will be able to correctly suggest what you need to pay attention to: the correction of the size of window or truss structures.
Standard sizes of skylights. The main characteristic of such products is that they have their own standard size range. Manufacturers often produce their products in stock from 6 to 14 sizes. Therefore, before preparing a window opening for a window, it is necessary to find out in advance exactly what sizes are in stock, so as not to blunder.
Serial number of roof window. Such a concept as a "series" implies the technical characteristics of a window structure, namely:
- double-glazed window;
- material;
- window opening axis;
- function "micro-ventilation";
- the presence of one or another window fittings.
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Construction material
The most common material is glued laminated timber. It is so popular due to the fact that it is harmoniously suitable for all rooms, except for bathrooms and bathrooms (due to the high level of humidity). For these purposes, either metal-plastic windows, or wooden with polyurethane coated, as they well withstand moisture and sudden changes in temperature.
Roof window opening axis. There are the following options for execution: in the middle, at the top and at two-thirds of the height of the window. Most often they put exactly the first option, since they have a fairly optimal price. In other models, there is one advantage - the window opening scheme is so convenient and comfortable that there is no need to constantly think that you can hit your head on it. But if you wish, you can choose a roof window with combined system opening.
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Double-glazed windows
The installation height of the roof window depends on the way it is opened.
The components of a good window are strained glass and filling with argon (inert gas). Since the roof window is still located on the roof, it has several times more load from natural phenomena(wind, snow, hail, rain, etc.) than usual. Therefore, the use of tempered glass is due to such a need. Inert gas (argon), in turn, contributes to good thermal insulation.
If there is no limitation in finances, then more expensive models can be considered, the design of which can be quite diverse:
- argon is replaced by a gas with more high level thermal conductivity;
- a special technology for the production of glass allows, in case of damage, to break it into non-sharp pieces (like car glass);
- glass may have special coating with different purposes: whether it is the reflection of heat into the room or out;
- better thermal conductivity can be achieved by increasing the internal distance in the double-glazed window;
- increased glass thickness will also contribute to strength.
In addition, for a greater indicator of your wealth, you can purchase automated skylights. They are controlled by wall switches or a mobile remote control.
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Requirements for double glazing
In order for roof windows to fully perform their functions, their double-glazed windows must meet certain requirements:
- High-quality double-glazed windows should provide good security and high thermal insulation.
- If you want to purchase a luxury window, then at the very beginning you need to ask the seller about the availability of additional functions. You have to pay for each “chip”, so it’s better to immediately think about this or that supplement in home use.
- There is a small point that sellers do not always focus on. The level of thermal insulation of a double-glazed window and the level of thermal insulation of a whole window are two different things.
Before buying a FAKRO roof window, you need to decide on the size of the window, the useful area of glazing, the purpose of the room and the method of opening. Specifications windows reviewed in.
1. Selecting the window size
The optimal width of the future window depends on the distance between the rafters:
- for installation on rafters, this distance should be 2-5 cm more than the width of the window. For example, if the distance between the rafters is 80 cm, then the nearest width suitable window- 78 cm (Fig. 1);
- if the distance between the rafters is greater than the width of the selected window, thanks to universal system installation, the FAKRO roof window can be installed on the crate (Fig. 2);
- if the distance between the rafters is less than the width of the window, a partial change in the design of the rafters is possible (Fig. 3).
The choice of window size in height provides for a number of conditions (Fig. 4):
- Installation height from the floor (optimum height - 120 cm).
- The angle of the roof (the smaller the angle of inclination, the greater the height of the window should be).
2. Selecting the number of windows
The number of windows required to illuminate the attic is determined by the ratio of the usable area of the window glazing to the floor area. The recommended ratio is 1:10. Example: if the attic area is 25 m², then the total usable glazing area should be approximately 2.5 m². The value of the usable glazing area is given in the price list in the rectangle below the window size. If you use a 78x118 cm window with a usable 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 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 according to the purpose of the premises
To install roof windows in living rooms, children's rooms and bedrooms, it is recommended to purchase
skylights made of the most environmentally friendly material - pines of the highest grade, winter harvested (class 1A). For rooms with high humidity (bathrooms, kitchens, swimming pools) are ideal
roof windows. PVC windows are durable, do not require special care and are easy to clean.
4. Choice by opening method
To make roof windows as user-friendly as possible, FAKRO has provided several ways to open them:
Window trim is a must for installation and is selected depending on the type of roof. Provides watertight connection of the roofing material and the window unit, being a protection against rain, 
snow and wind.
Reduces the access of light and heat, complements the interior of the attic.
Roof windows and accessories can be controlled in two ways: manually using the window handle, or remotely for even more comfortable operation.
Manual control.The higher the roof window is 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 to them is possible thanks to , whichcarried out using the wall keyboard or remote control.Z-Wave can be integrated into the system " Smart House", and also connect additional elements e.g. rain and/or wind sensor.
In case of strong wind or rain, the Z-Wave system will automatically close all windows connected to it.
The service life of the window and the tightness in the area where the window is installed in the roof directly depend on correct installation- this operation must be carried out by a qualified are specialists. Contact official service centers FAKRO andcertified installation teams .
Lifetime Warranty
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 during the entire further operation. That is whydouble-glazed windows and any spare parts for FAKRO windows are provided absolutelyfor freeregardless of the cause of damage and the date of purchase.
Glazing area
This is the first thing you need to know the owner of the house. Remember the main rule: the attic glazing area should be at least 10% of the area of the room (for example, 5 m 2 of glazing per 50 m 2 of the room area). It is better if the proportions are 1 to 8.
Each room must have at least one window.
Location
Several separate windows at a distance from each other give more light than one window of the same area. This is due to the fact that one window scatters light in all directions, and if there are several of them, then the dispersion will be greater, and, therefore, lighter.
Window height
If you want to look at the street while sitting, then the windows should be located no higher than 1 m from the floor. It should end at a height of 2-2.2 m from the floor. Do not confuse with window length. Since it is tilted, its length must be greater than the vertical height.
Window Width
It is necessary to determine the width of the roof windows at the design stage of the roof, since it (width) directly depends on the pitch of the rafters. It is better when the width of the window is adjusted to the rafters, since the distance between the rafters greatly affects the strength of the roof and the ability to withstand loads. If you doubt the correct choice of window sizes for the attic, contact a specialist.
To select a window with only the required characteristics, it is better to write down the characteristics of the series of several manufacturers, and then select.
window material
For the main types of premises (room, corridor, hall, nursery, etc.), any windows are suitable, including wooden ones. But wood is not suitable for a bathroom, you need to buy plastic, since it does not expand and does not narrow from strong temperature changes. If you still want wood, then it must be covered with a layer of polyurethane.
Opening method
You can choose any. The most popular is the method of opening the sash along the central axis. But it is also the most dangerous, as it increases the likelihood of hitting the head on the sash. The golden mean is a sash with an opening axis located above the middle (2/3 of the window length).
double glazing
The basic solution for double-glazed windows is tempered glass filled with argon, an inert gas. For the possible whims of the buyer, manufacturers have provided various options double-glazed windows: increased glass thickness to enhance strength, different reflective coatings on glass, an increase in thermal conductivity by increasing the distance between the glasses and much more. Based on this, you need to carefully choose the characteristics of double-glazed windows so as not to overpay for unnecessary functions.
opening handle
She could be anywhere. The main thing is that it is convenient for you to open the window. But remember the following: if you have small children, be sure to check for a window lock to prevent accidental opening.
Remote control
If you want to get maximum comfort from the operation of roof windows, you can purchase this feature.
Blocks (section) of windows
Such a decision is not always justified, and often is wrong. Firstly, installing such windows with your own hands is much more difficult, and branded installation will cost more. Secondly, the spread of light will be less than from several single windows of the same total area.
Accessories
Curtains, blinds, Mosquito nets it is better to take from the same manufacturer, so as not to violate the compatibility of designs.
Manufacturer brand
All popular manufacturers that have proven themselves over the years provide quality services. The difference in choice can only be due to the characteristics of individual series of roof windows and the location relative to your home.
In conclusion, we can give advice on the number of windows: if the glazing area is more than 1 m 2, make 2 windows, if more than 2 m 2 - make 3 windows.
The lower the slope of the roof, the longer the windows are better to take in order to provide sufficient lighting.
And one more thing: if you plan to place windows on one side, then it is better to place them above the middle of the height of the floor. If the windows are on both sides of the attic, then one side can be placed at the top and the other in the middle for optimal lighting.
The attic is pretty practical solution housing issue. However, to illuminate modern rooms, windows of a special design are required, which, on the one hand, can provide good solarization, and, on the other hand, can withstand the onslaught of the elements. In addition, an important factor is the ease of maintenance of windows.
How to choose among a fairly large assortment suitable option? What you should pay attention to? How to install a skylight? You will find the answer to these questions in this article.
How to choose a skylight?
So, what should be considered when choosing a roof window? After all, the comfort and coziness of your home for several years will depend on your decision.
Glazing area
sticking to sanitary requirements living quarters should receive their share of sunlight daily. In order to calculate total area windows, you need to divide the floor area by 10. Divide the resulting number by the number of windows and get the area of \u200b\u200beach window. And then elementary geometry follows.
The closer the slope of the window to the horizontal plane, the more light enters the room. Therefore, in some cases, it is possible to reduce the glazing area to 8% of the total floor area. Light tunnels, for example, with a small glazing area, can supply a fairly powerful stream of light radiation.
Since solarization helps fight disease-causing organisms, having at least one window in the room is a must. Exceptions are rooms for technical purposes, such as pantries and wardrobes.
According to the Soviet tradition, bathrooms were built before without windows and natural ventilation. If possible, do not neglect such important architectural elements and consider both natural lighting, which will fight against fungus and mold, and ventilation. Roof windows can combine these two functions. In this way, you can ensure healthy and comfortable conditions for living.
How to position a skylight?
When designing, it is necessary to take into account the fact that windows located in various places and on different slopes in practice they give a greater level of illumination than one window with the same glazing area.
An important factor is also the level of the window relative to the floor. It is best to select this indicator for the individual characteristics of people living in the attic. Because family members can be both short and tall. You also need to consider what exactly you want to contemplate every day in the window. If the view from the window does not suit you, direct your gaze to the heavens. When you are not averse to admiring the city landscape, standard norms will allow you to achieve the desired effect.
As a rule, windows are installed, stepping back 90 - 120 cm from the floor level. And end at 200 - 220 cm from the same mark. At the same time, consider the projection of the window. The gentler the slope, the longer the window needs to be in order to open the view.
The width of the window directly depends on the pitch of the rafters.
Therefore, only two options are possible:
- Select windows in accordance with the size of an existing truss system.
- Discuss in advance the desired width of the windows when designing an attic with an architect.
When an existing non-residential attic of a house is converted into a living space, then, willy-nilly, you will have to adapt to the already standing beams and rafters. When do you deliberately build a residential room under mansard roof, then it can be stated various moments, such as:
- Type of windows (regular window or a block consisting of several double-glazed windows).
- Glass pane sizes.
- Window location.
Standard sizes and series of windows
Skylights are strictly tied to certain sizes. And you already know why. In addition, each manufacturer has its own size range, consisting of 6 to 14 standard sizes.
In addition to sizes, manufacturers offer various series of windows.
They differ in such characteristics as:
- material;
- double-glazed unit;
- location of the opening axis;
- micro-ventilation function (yes or not);
- color, style, etc.
materials
For the manufacture of roof windows, glued laminated timber, metal-plastic and wood, pasted over with a protective polymer, are used. Wood is good in living quarters, but in bathrooms it is better to install materials that are not afraid of dampness.
Opening axis
Depending on the assigned tasks, the axle can be located in different places of the frame:
- Up.
- Center.
- 2/3 of the height.
- Combined.
Windows that open central line more accessible and widespread. The remaining options involve greater access to the open opening.
Double-glazed windows
As for double-glazed windows, this is a separate issue, because. they differ in various characteristics:
- glass thickness.
- Fill gas that reduces heat loss.
- The presence of tempered glass outside and inside the double-glazed window.
- Availability protective coatings, which increase the safety of the window (the window either crumbles into small cubes that do not injure, or fragments are held by films, as in automotive glass).
- Distance between glasses. At the same time, a greater distance contributes to better thermal insulation.
- The number of glasses in the package. Now you can choose between various models from two to six chambers. And this is obviously not the limit.
- Availability heat reflective coating and location options.
Often additional functions double-glazed windows suggest a choice of more expensive models. So before overpaying for more functional option, it is desirable to decide which functions you really need.
IN basic models considered an average level of security, they have enough effective thermal insulation. At the same time, if you want to save heat indoors, pay attention not only to the characteristics of the double-glazed window itself, but also to the entire structure as a whole. Because if the double-glazed window has excellent insulating qualities, and the sealing gum or the frame material leaves the best, then as a result you will overpay, and you will not achieve the desired effect.
Be sure to check the data regarding the properties of the materials that are used in your chosen model. After all, a window is a collection of a number of elements. And the quality factor of the whole structure depends on the work and quality of each of them.
Handles and remote control
Handles for convenience can be located both at the top of the window and at the bottom. Moreover, each of the options has its weighty arguments. Still, you choose based on your preferences. However, in children's rooms and where children's fingers can reach the windows, it is advisable to provide a window lock in case of accidental opening.
The actuator can be either mechanical or electro-pneumatic. Control can be carried out using switches and a mobile remote control. There are many options and it all depends on the financial capabilities and preferences of buyers.
Blocks and accessories
Blocks allow you to combine standard double-glazed windows into larger windows. Thus, it is possible to achieve better lighting and review. However, when choosing blocks, one must take into account the complexity of installation, the strengthening of waterproofing and measures against freezing and condensation. The slightest oversight during installation can cost a lot later.
At large assortment accessories, it is advisable to purchase them together with windows from the same manufacturer. This way you will be sure that they will fit in size and style.
Trade marks
What to look for when choosing:
- Before you go to the store and decide on the set of functions of the roof window that you need. To do this, you can select window characteristics from advertising brochures various manufacturers and mark the ones you like.
- Calculate the total area and the number of windows, according to the ratio of 1:10 to the floor area. If you have gentle slopes, then it will be possible to reduce the area of windows.
- Consider what accessories you will need.
Installation of skylights
Installation is such a crucial moment that it cannot be left to chance for the simple reason that it is precisely the mistakes of installers that often lead to the fact that even the most quality windows can leak and cause other troubles. So, how can you control the craftsmen who install your purchase?
- First of all, do not install the roof window yourself. Because in which case the manufacturer may file a claim for poor-quality installation, and you will not be able to get a free service maintenance. Therefore, it is desirable that the installation is carried out by the service team of the dealer selling the windows. In this case, take documents confirming not only the manufacturer's warranty for the product, but also the warranty document for installation work.
- Check out installation instructions. This can also be done on the manufacturer's website. But after that, you will be able to follow what the experts are actually doing.
What to control when installing a roof window?
- It is essential that horizontal and vertical surfaces matched the level. To do this, you will need a tape measure and a building level. Verification is carried out after installation work when the sash is hung.
- The adjunction of steam and waterproofing membranes, as well as the presence of tapes. After the frame is installed and before the salary is mounted. All joints must be sealed with adhesive tape.
- Drainage of water from the roof window. This stage must be checked before the salary is set and roofing. At the same time, attention must be paid to ensure that the slopes are observed, and that all cuts are glued.
- The correct installation of the waterproofing flashing can be determined according to the instructions. There should be no gaps, as well as protruding nails and staples on the surface that is in contact with the external environment.
- The slopes must be checked with a level, make sure that the lower slope is set perpendicular to the floor, and the upper one is horizontal.
- When you install window sills, after installing them, you need to make sure that there is a gap between the wall and the window sill. This is necessary in order to warm air washed the double-glazed window without hindrance and prevented condensation.
- Batteries must be present under each window. This will provide heating of the cold air flowing from the glass surface.
Maybe you should not delve into all these subtleties and entrust everything to professionals? Could be so. However, practice shows that the craftsmen better comply with all the rules and regulations when they are sure that their client knows the technology for installing a roof window and can ask them for each stage of work. In the end, it is you who pay the money, and therefore you have every right to a really high-quality product and service.
