This article will tell you about curtains for roof windows. How to use window textiles arrange a cozy attic space?
Description. What you should know about the attic
The attic is the last, upper room in the house. It is located directly under the roof. In the recent past, such attic rooms served as a storage room for unnecessary things. However, increasingly, the attic is used as additional living space.
Due to its placement characteristics, the attic ceiling has a sloping shape. Accordingly, the windows will also be of the wrong configuration.
Openings can be located both on walls and on ceilings and have a round, trapezoidal, semi-circular shape.
For the attic, fabrics with a foil surface facing outwards are suitable.
Kinds
Dormer windows there are:
- Standard rectangular shape. They differ in the type of opening.
- Smart windows. Control is carried out using the remote control.
- Arc windows. Curved structures.
- Combined. Combination of several types.
- Facade and cornice. Such windows are located on façade connections.
- Roof window-balcony.
There are so-called light tunnels. They make them if over attic room there is an attic. Then the window itself is located on the slope of the roof and is connected to the attic with a reflective pipe.
Design options
Dormer windows let in 30-40% more light than regular ones. Therefore, you need to choose curtains especially carefully.
There are the following types of window textiles:
- Standard curtains. These are traditional fabric curtains. They do not protect from the sun, but rather diffuse the sun's rays. Such curtains can cover the opening itself completely, up to half or a third.
- Curtains with side rails. The edges of such textiles are hidden in aluminum profile. This allows you to close the opening more tightly. Control is carried out using a side cord.
- Blackout curtains. They completely prevent the penetration of sunlight (read about blackout curtains). They use a special fabric that is winter time can retain heat.
There are also external roller shutters that can protect against street noise and burglary.
Traditional curtains
This method is convenient if the window is located on a vertical wall. Then you can install a simple cornice above the opening, and hang fabric curtains on the sides.
This is beneficial in a number of cases:
- The ability to keep the entire house in one style.
- Create an elegant, versatile environment.
- Low financial and labor costs.
Pleated curtains
In this case, it is better to refuse traditional curtains. Roller or pleated curtains in pink or blue are better suited.
Bedroom
They hang in this room traditional curtains. Transparent curtains with thick drapes look good.
Depending on the side where the skylights face, textiles can be of varying degrees of density.
Sloping euro-windows differ from dormer windows in that they are mounted directly into the roof at an angle. Window windows were invented in the 19th century, and dormer windows in the post-war fifties of the 20th century. The inclined euro-window is characterized by tightness, practicality, high light transmittance and sound insulation. If there is excess penetration of sunlight into the room, the roof window is covered with canvas or blinds. The light output of an inclined euro-window is 35% higher than that of a pediment or dormer window.
Blinds are installed on inside windows
The outside of the windows can be protected with roller blinds.
A gable window is mounted vertically into a gable wall using a gable collar. Gable frames can be opening or non-opening. Such models serve to increase visibility of the surrounding area.
Hatch window for access to the roof
The roof hatch should organically fit into the appearance of a private cottage. Great solution becomes a hatch window, which can be built into the roof without any problems and looks like a regular inclined euro-window. The hatches are in wonderful harmony with the appearance of the entire building and the windows installed in it. Types of roof inspection hatches:
- The emergency roof exit looks similar to a slanted Euro-window. It has all the functions of simple windows. Used for technical inspection and access to the roof. To open the doors, you simply press the handle and the hatch will open automatically using gas shock absorbers. Such structures are installed on roofs with a slope of 15 to 55 degrees.
Characteristics:
- opening angle up to 70 degrees;
- combined opening and ventilation system;
- laminated internal glass;
- outer layer – hardened surface treated with a self-cleaning agent;
- size from 700 x 1200 mm to 1006 x 1200 mm.
The roof hatch greatly simplifies roof maintenance.
- The operational exit looks like an ordinary attic hatch-window and serves as an exit to the roof. Installed on roofs with a slope from 15 to 55 degrees, equipped with supply valve for attic ventilation. Opens outwards along the lateral axis.
Characteristics:
- Eurowindow opens with a handle;
- the hatch is equipped with a multifunctional double-glazed window;
- the sash can open both to the right and to the left;
- hatch size – 500 by 930 mm.
Operational access to the roof from the attic.
- A hatch window is installed in the attic of buildings for technological inspection and access to the roof. You can select the opening type and side. Equipped with provisions for room ventilation. Installed on roofs with a slope from 20 to 65 degrees.
Characteristics:
- the lower ceiling of the frame serves as a step;
- the sash is fixed in 3 places;
- opening angle up to 89 degrees;
- size – 490 x 760 mm.
Attic hatches can have the most Various types opening.
How to choose the right roof windows?
When choosing a European attic window, you should consider a number of features:
- presence of moisture protection;
- presence of seals;
- profile or frame material;
- opening method;
- glass unit strength.
Design features of roof windows https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UlwbG2I_Hss The design of inclined windows uses a single-chamber double-glazed window, which greatly lightens the load on the fittings and supporting elements. For European attic windows, a frost-resistant, heat-saving double-glazed window is used, which is filled with argon.
Sectional view of attic double-glazed windows.
Double-glazed windows made using triplex technology will protect attic inhabitants from shards of accidentally broken glass. Since two glasses are glued together with a special film, which allows you to hold the fragments. The Easy Clean coating breaks down the dirt accumulated on the euro window under the influence of sunlight, which makes cleaning the glass easier.
Laminated triplex glass will provide excellent protection for your windows.
Important! It is important to pay attention to the location of the window handle. It should be at a comfortable height for use.
Additional options, such as: roller shutters and retaining supports will protect the house from noise, hail, sun and will serve as protection against penetration into the home.
Features of the roof window design
The simplest design of a recessed Euro window. You can use an already erected ceiling and mount a window under an already finished roof y. Such windows can be installed at any time.
This design is not only easy to install, but also very practical.
A projecting roof window must be designed during the construction phase. The structure can be mounted for flat and gable roofs. On flat roof it is much easier to install protruding ceilings. The assembled side walls of the structure are covered with boards and covered with roofing covering material, which covers the entire roof.
This design can also be a good addition to the exterior of the house.
An internal roof window can be installed between the beams that support the roof rafters. The support board is installed between the supports, then placed on it window frame. A fixing beam secures the frame on top. Side walls and the drain is covered with covering material, which covers the entire roof.
Installation of a roof window.
Installation of a roof window
After the final selection of the model and location of the European attic window, we proceed to its installation. Sequence of installation of an inclined window:
- an opening must be cut in the roof to install the frame;
- the roof is strengthened with additional lags and a frame for the window frame is mounted;
- insulation and waterproofing are installed;
- roofing material is laid;
- window unit is installed.
Master class on installing a roof window https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7mQz8E8v9A Before you begin installing a Euro window, you need to strengthen the roof structure and mount the frame for the window frame. Reinforcement is done using rafters located nearby. Jumpers are mounted between them, between which beams are mounted under the window frame. A window frame is installed into the resulting frame. The block should be mounted without glass. The frame should be installed above the roof level, which ensures water drainage. After installing the frame, it is necessary to lay a waterproofing coating to ensure water drainage. Modern models roof windows are equipped with additional functions. These include remote control window openings, roller shutters and safety railings forming a small balcony. Roof window on the remote control https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MLKzwRMPCig
Availability of living space mansard roof not only allows you to functionally use the area, but also gives the whole house a special charm.
Play a significant role in this window units, embedded in the slope - dormer windows. With their help extra space transforms, fills with light and air.
Lighting is required for bedrooms and children's rooms located under the roof, kitchens and wardrobes, and for each room you can choose a suitable option.
Dormer windows vary in size, materials, design, and opening methods.
There are two main types:
- inclined. In a room with such a window, there is a large heat loss during the cold season - due to natural air convection. And on a clear sunny day in a hot summer, the room will become very hot. The degree of heating depends on the angle of inclination and location of the window - which side of the world it faces. At the same time, this design perfectly transmits and scatters light and does not require organization extra space for installation;
- vertical. Their main disadvantage is their low light transmittance. Compared to inclined ones, vertical ones provide almost half as much illumination. And accordingly, electricity consumption increases.
Location and parameters of the window opening
Installation of glazed openings is recommended on roofs with a slope angle of more than 25 degrees.
In every residential attic there must be at least one window.
The higher the opening is, the more light there will be in the room. In the same time, high location makes it difficult to see.
When choosing the size, you need to remember that the lower border should be at a height of at least 80 cm from the floor.
Another nuance: when purchasing, you need to pay attention to the location of the handle. This part should be conveniently placed for use in a specific room: the handle located at the bottom can be easily opened by children, but the top handle can be difficult for adults to reach.
The width of the opening depends on the pitch. If you have to trim, you need to accurately calculate the load and strengthen the structure with a horizontal beam.
In order for the aesthetics of the roof to be at the proper level, when installing an attic you must not forget about appearance at home, including maintaining the proportions of the windows.
Glazing is carried out based on the calculation: 1 sq. m of glass per 10 sq. m of premises.
- square and rectangular. The most common types are;
- balcony The design consists of two parts - a vertical window and an inclined one above it, and both parts open;
- extensions. Semicircular or triangular architectural detail installed above the main window;
- cornice They are placed above the main ones; this design is designed to improve visibility;
- lower elements. Placed in the same plane with the main window - under it, if there is not enough space for two vertical windows;
- light tunnels. Indispensable for natural light rooms small area in the center of the attic. They are made in the form of a pipe, one end of which looks like a lamp - to diffuse the light, the other ends on the roof slope.
Device Features
Modern windows are made from various materials. 
- frame;
- sash with double glazing;
- salary;
- various accessories.
The frame must be durable and not deform under the influence of sunlight and moisture.
It is made from:
- tree. High quality wood is impregnated protective compounds, applied on top protective covering. Laminated timber frames are suitable if attic floor a bedroom or children's room is equipped - a room with normal humidity;
- plastic. Excellent for installation in rooms with excess humidity, withstands temperature changes, and is easy to clean;
- aluminum The material is corrosion-resistant, environmentally friendly, durable and has an attractive appearance.
To ensure ventilation at any time of the year, most modifications are equipped with a special valve.
Double-glazed window
Heavy-duty glass that can withstand severe wind and snow loads is used: tempered or triplex.
In fact, the double-glazed window experiences the same atmospheric influences as the roofing and must have a sufficient degree of reliability. Thermal insulation is improved by the inert gas in the glass unit.
The final stages of installation before installing the sash are to attach an insulating flashing around the attic window.
The choice of salary is influenced by the type, and first of all, by the height of the relief. All parts are joined and attached to frame structure, lathing and roofing material.
Slopes are made inside the room: the lower one is installed vertically, the upper one – horizontally, so that the glass does not fog up. In some cases, slopes may be missing.
Rubber seals and linings ensure tightness; it is also important to install them above the window structure to prevent leaks.
Windows also differ in the way they open. A little over a decade ago, the vast majority of attics were equipped with fixed windows. Now on the building materials market there are a lot of modifications with rotary sashes. 
The sash rotation axis can be:
- central. The window on such an axis can be scrolled – rotated;
- elevated. The axis around which the window rotates is set closer to the top line of the window;
- side. It opens like a traditional window, usually equipped with a shock absorber to prevent it from slamming shut. This device is also called an attic hatch and is often used to access the roof;
- bottom. Balcony windows with such a sash they open forward;
- combined. The design allows you to rotate the sash 180 degrees, as well as open it by tilting it.
Automatic systems
If the window opening is located high, this may lead to certain difficulties when opening. Such structures can be equipped with a special electric drive, which allows you to close and open the window using a remote control.
Manufacturers also offer all kinds of sensors that respond to moisture, temperature environment, wind, or programmable - with their help you can set a schedule. Such devices give a signal at a certain time - and automatic system closes the window.
Roller shutters, blinds, and blinds are used for shading, as well as for decorating the interior of interior rooms.
Don’t forget about such a practical addition as a mosquito net.
Modern manufacturers of roof windows have taken care of all the little details for ease of use.
An indispensable condition for the durability of the structure is proper installation, while it is necessary to take into account the specific features of a particular case and follow all the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In this case, the owner will receive cozy room, flooded sunlight, And stylish design houses outside.
It is believed that the arrangement of a residential attic is more difficult and more expensive than the construction of a conventional non-insulated roof with a cold attic. There are reasons for this:
- It is necessary to properly insulate the attic.
- It is necessary to properly install a vapor barrier and a superdiffusion moisture and windproof membrane.
- It is necessary to install skylights as required by the manufacturer.
Problems often arise with the last point. Errors when installing windows on the attic floor negate all the advantages of this room. As a result of the mistakes of illiterate builders, attic windows leak in the rain, and condensation drips from the ceiling, damaging the finish. It is not surprising that many developers are distrustful of attics, believing that it is better to build a cottage the old fashioned way. Our video and photo instructions, which tell you:
- How to calculate the size of a dormer window depending on the area of the room.
- How to choose a place in the attic roof to install a window.
- How to prepare window hole for installing a roof window.
- How to install the frame and frame of a roof window.
- How to install a condensate drain.
- How to make waterproofing at junction points.
- How to install a roof window frame and make a heat and vapor barrier.
Installation of a roof window: planning
You can install a roof window either at the stage of construction of the attic or on a finished insulated roof with already laid finishing coat and layers of vapor barrier and hydro- and wind protection. In the first option, work is carried out sequentially, step by step and, usually, does not cause difficulties. In the second case, you need to rack your brains on how to install a window in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations, going through the entire pie of the attic roof with flexible tiles.
The main difficulties of installing a roof window left “for later” - you will have to carefully dismantle or cut through it, moving from the inside to the outside:
- internal sheathing for finishing the attic;
- vapor barrier;
- insulation;
- superdiffusion membrane (moisture and wind protection);
- sheathing and counter-lattice;
- cut OSB boards for the opening;
- partially remove around the window opening flexible tiles.
The width of the attic window is determined by the pitch of the rafters. If the developer does not want to install a narrow window, fitting it to the rafters mounted at a distance of, for example, 60 cm from each other, then he will have to cut out one rafter leg, strengthen the structure, etc. This increases the likelihood of errors among installers, the deadlines and estimates for work. From here:
The installation of roof windows must be planned at the stage of designing a house and calculating the rafter system.
As a guide, we are guided by the following figures:
- It is recommended to install roof windows into roofs with a slope angle of 15 degrees or more.
- The window area is selected according to the formula: per 10 sq. m of attic floor should be 1 sq. m of glazing.
- The upper part of the roof window (from the floor) is located at a height of about 2 m, and the lower part is approximately 1.2 m.
- The opening for the attic window should be at least 4 cm wider than it, optimally 6 cm.
- The length of the opening is approximately 4.5-5 cm longer than the length of the attic window.
Stages of installation of a roof window
alexnrg FORUMHOUSE Member
I decided to install a roof window in my house myself. Roofing pie: rafters - board with a section of 15x5 cm, vapor-permeable moisture-windproof membrane, horizontal and vertical sheathing, OSB, underlay carpet, flexible tiles. Questions have arisen:
- How to install a roof window correctly?
- How to prepare the opening?
- How to fix a window in the attic?
- How to drain condensate?
- What is the salary for and how to install it?
The flashing (metal frame) is a system of gutters for hermetically sealing the roof window with roofing covering. The flashing leads away from the attic window rainwater and moisture when snow melts.
All work on installing windows in the attic is divided into a number of sequential steps:
- Preparing the opening.
- Assembly and installation of the thermal insulation circuit.
- Installing a roof window frame into a thermal frame.
- Installation of the sash (glass unit).
- Adjusting the side gap and window shutter.
- Installation of a condensate drain.
- Installation of a waterproofing apron.
- Salary setting.
- Insulation of slopes around the window and restoration of the vapor barrier contour from the inside of the room.
We'll tell you about the key stages of installing a roof window and how to avoid mistakes.
Preparing a window opening for installing a roof window
In the video instructions, a specialist explains how to prepare a window opening for installing a roof window if the roof has been built and the roofing has been laid.
When installing vapor and waterproofing, the films are cut with an envelope (crosswise) and wrapped inside the room (vapor barrier) and outside (wind protection).
The upper and lower parts of the opening are reinforced with lintels (between the rafters).
And with sheathing bars, so that the edge of the OSB sheet does not hang in the air.
The lower support beam of the sheathing must be leveled in order to accurately align the frame of the attic window and avoid a noticeable difference in height on the side slope.
Important! If OSB has not yet been laid on the roof– base for flexible tiles, then the opening is edged with a frame on top, made from OSB sheet or plywood cut into strips.
Assembling thermal insulation and installing a roof window frame
The thermal insulation circuit is mounted on a steel frame, which is easily assembled with latches.
The thermal insulation contour is installed in the prepared opening.
Then disconnect the rotating part of the sash with the double-glazed window from the frame of the attic window.
Mount the mounting plates and install the box in the opening.
Important! Mounting plates(4 things.) are installed in the corners of the roof window, in places prepared at the factory in the frame, into holes pre-drilled by the manufacturer for self-tapping screws.
At long length roof window (more than 1.4 m), in place rotary mechanism(hinges), additional intermediate mounting plates (corners) are installed.
The roof window frame is installed in the finished opening. How to do this correctly, as well as adjust the side gaps and the rebate, is shown in the video.
Secrets of installing a condensate drain
The most important element of the roof window waterproofing system is a metal gutter for draining condensate.
The gutter is installed at a distance of up to 50 cm (optimally 20-30 cm) above the window in the same plane with the hydro- and windproof membrane.
To allow condensate to flow down the gutter, it is installed at an angle ( slope minimum 3 degrees). Then the moisture will be removed to one of the sides ( ventilation duct, formed by the sheathing).
Difficulties with installing a gutter arise if it needs to be mounted on a finished roof. In this case, you will have to manually cut out the openings in the sheathing, and do this carefully so as not to damage the wind protection film.
The easiest way to install a gutter is if the roof has not yet had sheathing installed, there is no base for flexible tiles and a soft roof has not been laid.
Preparing the site for gutter installation consists of the following steps:
- In the middle rafter leg(on both sides of the prepared opening) a vertical incision is made on the film of the superdiffusion membrane.
- A gutter is placed on the seat.
I lower the gutters, using it as a ruler, and make a horizontal cut in the film so as to align the vertical cuts.
The result is a windbreak valve that fits into the gutter and catches all the condensation.
Steam and waterproofing at the junction of the attic window
At the end of the work, a waterproofing apron is installed, which protects the junction areas from moisture.
The waterproofing apron is glued to the frame from bottom to top. Installation is simple - removable protective film from the adhesive layer (strip) and the apron material is carefully smoothed over the top of the frame. The waterproofing flashing is then secured around the window with staples.
Important! The upper part of the apron is placed under a gutter, which removes condensation, and the valve, cut from the windbreak, is placed on the waterproofing apron. To prevent moisture from getting into the places where they are made vertical cuts in rafters, their waterproof in advance with butyl sealant.
Or even a bath or sauna. In many ways, the convenience of living in such a room will depend on the right choice windows, their type, number and location.
Installation of roof windows is a responsible undertaking. After all, when incorrect installation Troubles such as roof leaks and room cooling in winter are possible. We’ll talk about what types of skylights there are and what the technology for installing them is in this article.
Types of dormer windows
If desired, you can install skylights on the gables. Sometimes they are located obliquely in the plane of the roof itself. Also used dormer windows in the attic. In this case, the structure is mounted vertically in a special “birdhouse”. The choice of one option or another depends both on the design features of the attic room and on the personal preferences of the owners of the house themselves. What do dormer windows look like? various designs you can see in the photo gallery below.
Design features
Attic windows can vary greatly in their design features. Today there are the following types:
- Cornice. This design is used in attics with a high wall. In this case, a vertical additional element is installed under the main sash;
- Inclined with a lower element. The top of this option opens. The lower one is deaf;
Dormer windows. Photos of designs with a lower element and cornices
- Balcony. In this case, the inclined structure is connected to the vertical one, which is part of the balcony parapet;
Balcony roof windows look very unusual
- Extensions. Both triangular and semicircular options are used. This addition fits harmoniously into the exterior of the building and looks good in the interior of the attic;
Dormer windows. Photos of decorative extensions
- Light tunnel. If there is also a small attic above the attic living space, a window can be installed on it. The room is illuminated through a reflective tunnel-pipe.
- A lamp that diffuses the light flux is installed at the output.
Attic living space can be illuminated through the attic
- Standard. Such designs can have a rectangular or square shape. They consist of a frame and one swing sash. Sometimes voiceless versions are also used. If desired, you can install such roof windows. Blind structures, however, are practically never found on sale. They are usually made to order. Standard designs most often used in residential premises in the attic;
Types by opening method
Among other things, roof windows can differ in the way they open. If desired, you can install the following types of structures:
- Option with a pivot axis located in the center. These are the most popular roof windows. Reviews about them are extremely positive. They are very easy to care for and can be mounted on slopes with any slope;
- Attic hatch. Opens along the side axis;
Windows in the attic. Photo of a roof hatch and a window with a central axis of rotation
- Option with raised axle;
- Option with lower axle. The doors of such structures open forward;
Material used to make the profile
Facade windows in the attic roof can be made of PVC, aluminum or wood. In ordinary rooms, such as an office, bedroom or living room, you can install all of these varieties. If there is a bathroom or sauna in the attic, wooden structures It's better not to use it. In this case, it is worth installing plastic or aluminum roof windows. Metal-plastic structures can also be a good option.
Thus, the windows on the attic floor can be opened by the most different ways and have different designs. Perhaps these photos will help someone make their choice:
Technology for installing roof windows
The installation of roof windows is carried out in compliance with certain rules. The frame should be mounted so that its lower edge is approximately 120 cm from the floor. The color of the frames should be in harmony with the color roofing material. It is best to install the frames before installing the roofing pie. The sashes are inserted later. Of course, roof windows can also be installed on an already finished roof. In this case, it is first necessary to draw a corresponding drawing.
Preparing the window opening
Installation window design usually performed between the rafters. Dormer windows, the sizes of which are most often standard (550mm), fit into this opening almost perfectly. Of course, only if the pitch between the rafters is approximately 600mm (which happens most often). Below we present instructions for preparing a window opening:
- At the first stage, the place for the frame is marked. In this case, 45 mm should be added to the height of the frame, and 60 mm to the width;
- Next, following the markings, the casing is removed. You can use a power saw to cut the lining;
- After this you need to remove the insulation. Trimming of the sheathing and insulation in the roof is performed parallel to the floor at the top and strictly vertical at the bottom. As a result, the resulting opening will be larger inside than outside. This will allow light to enter the room unhindered;
The opening from the inside of the attic should be wider than from the outside
- In order to insert the frame, you also need to cut off the sheathing and cut a hole in the metal tile or corrugated sheet (or remove the tile);
- Next, it is installed in the opening additional design made of timber, on which the frame will subsequently be attached. WITH outside, on the roof, the size of the bars must correspond to the size of the sheathing bars.
The frame is mounted on a special timber structure
Window preparation
After preparing the opening, the actual installation of the roof windows is carried out. The video presents this process step by step:
The first step is to remove the sash from the frame. All components attached for its safe transportation are removed from the purchased window. The sash can be removed differently from different manufacturers. Most often, you just need to release the turning mechanism lock and disengage the sash.
Next, the frame of the attic windows is prepared. Do-it-yourself installation of the profile in the opening is done using special plates included in the kit. These elements must be attached to the frame on both sides and at the corners. This is done with the help of screws.
The frame is attached to the box using special metal plates
How to install a roof window
The roof window must be installed from the street side. The frame is installed in a block box in such a way that there is a gap of 20 - 30 mm between them for insulation. Only the top two plates are first fastened. Frame insertion is also done using screws.
Before installing the attic windows further with your own hands, you need to insert the previously removed sash into the frame. After installation, close it and check how correctly it “fits” in the frame. Then you need to screw all the screws into the fastening metal plates, securing the frame completely.
Important: Before the frame is finally secured, its position in the box should be adjusted. The profile must be located in a plane strictly parallel to the plane of the roof.
The roof window is inserted into the opening and fixed to the plates
Window sealing
To prevent windows from leaking, they should be waterproofed. Under the box you need to mount a protective apron, usually included in the kit. This element is attached to the bottom of the frame. At the next stage, the side aprons are installed. Next, an apron is inserted into the upper part of the window and a metal casting is attached here.
In order to prevent leaks, a waterproofing apron is installed
To insulate the structure, you can use any modern material. Best suited for this purpose basalt wool. It is inserted between the roofing material and the paving structure.
Important: Polyurethane foam It is better not to use for sealing and insulation. As it expands, it often shifts structural elements from your place. As a result, the doors may jam.Compliance with all technologies is a guarantee that you will get good roof windows. Installing (the video confirms this) them is not as difficult as it might seem at first glance.
