How to transform your loft conversion with a pitched roof window
Peter Daniel , Product Innovation Director at The Rooflight Company , discusses how to get the most out of a loft conversion .
Loft conversions are becoming increasingly popular amongst homeowners who want to add space to their property but either don ’ t have the budget for an extension or don ’ t want to deal with a lengthy planning and building process . Loft conversions neatly fit the brief by increasing the living space of a home without physically making the property bigger . They add value but can be straightforward to renovate , therefore presenting a cost-effective way to create versatile and functional spaces out of otherwise unused square metres in the roof .
With homeworking predicted to be part of a long-term cultural shift following the pandemic , loft conversions offer an option for a home office with the added benefit of work being on a separate floor , making it easier to separate work and family life . But equally , the additional space could be used as a bedroom , playroom , or even a gym .
Dependent upon your property and location , a significant benefit could be that you may not need planning permission for a loft conversion , as they sometimes fall under the ‘ permitted development ’ category , but you should always check this with your local authority or via your architect or loft conversion specialist .
When it comes to letting in natural light to a loft conversion , there are a couple of different options for homeowners . The first is a dormer window ; the second is a roof window or rooflight .
A dormer is a window and roof combination , used in areas of a home with vaulted ceilings , such as a loft conversion . They tend to be the more expensive option partly due to the unit itself , but they are also more labour intensive to install .
Rooflights provide an alternative solution that often do not require any planning permission provided you adhere to specific requirements relating to protrusion and height . The requirements are quite clear and easy to achieve with the right product . Nevertheless , whatever decision you make , you should always seek advice and be aware of the details set out in Building Regulations .
The biggest challenge with installing a rooflight to a pitched roof is the structural work . In a typical space , homeowners will need to cut at least one rafter . But the more light the space needs , the larger the rooflight , the more rafters will need to be cut to accommodate it , so a structural engineer will need to be involved to make sure the weight of the roof can still be borne safely .
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This will be particularly important if it ’ s a period property where the rafters are most likely to be hundreds of years old .
The other thing to consider is the underlay of the roof itself . The underlay is imperative because it protects the roof against condensation and leaks . There are two common types , impermeable ( type HR ) and vapour-permeable ( type LR ). If the roof uses type HR , care needs to be taken during the installation process as the roof window installation can easily block the ventilation paths which can lead to cold bridging , condensation , and damp issues . However , using a builder familiar with installing rooflights to a loft conversion should mitigate these problems . If in doubt , the manufacturer of the product will always be able to offer installation advice .
By and large though , the most significant difference between using a rooflight over a dormer window is the aesthetics . Rooflights are very much an extension of the design of the interior , whilst seamlessly fitting into the silhouette of the exterior . Admittedly , not every rooflight is the same so research is key , but there are products out there that offer a clean view out with zero sightlines , marrying aesthetics with functionality . Like our neo rooflight , for example , which invites the outside in with a thin steel frame which sits flush to the roof tile on the exterior . It also benefits from a low U-value , allowing for great thermal performance .
Conversely , dormer windows can be clunky and , although they add light to a room , it isn ’ t the same beautiful framing quality that a rooflight can achieve with uninterrupted light from above .
Loft conversions present a unique opportunity for homeowners . No other renovation will add space in the same way without needing to build upwards or outwards . The challenge comes with configuring the space to work for your needs , and ensuring it receives enough light and ventilation , something a rooflight is perfect for .
To learn more about the Rooflight Company and how rooflights can transform your project , please visit https :// www . therooflightcompany . co . uk /