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Picture waking up to a bright, airy, roomy bedroom where the sun pours in and it feels warm and snug. This can be a reality with dormer windows on the top floor of your surrey home.
So whether you want to add more room in Guildford or your main roof in Woking, more natural light and ventilation in Esher or more kerb appeal and resale value in Ascot, dormer windows are worth a look.
In this guide we’ll cover all aspects of dormer windows, their features, benefits and everything in between and give you helpful advice and practical tips to help you make a decision.
Dormer Windows – What are they?
These are a feature that stick out from a flat roof or a sloping roof line, creating more headroom and floor space in the loft, attic or upper floor of a property. This design has several key features:
More Living Space: By extending the existing roof shape and adding vertical walls, they create usable square footage in the attic or upper floor of your home.
You can turn this space into a bedroom, home office or playroom and make the most of your living area.
Structural Integration: Dormer windows are built into the existing roof structure so it’s a seamless design.
This integrates with the exterior of your home and also the curved roof, structural stability and pitched roof
Natural Light and Ventilation: One of the biggest benefits of dormer windows is the amount of natural light that comes into your living spaces.
And they also provide ventilation to help regulate indoor temperatures and create a healthier indoor environment.
Architectural Versatility: Dormer windows come in different styles from classic gabled to modern shed dormers so you can choose a style that matches your home’s architecture and your personal taste.
The Magic of Dormer Windows
Beyond the wow factor, dormer windows have many benefits that can improve your living and increase your property’s value. Here’s why and some of the benefits to consider:
More Living Space: As mentioned above the extra square footage and roof space that dormer windows provide can be a big deal, you can create more living areas or expand existing ones. This is great for growing families or those who want more room for hobbies or home based business.
Natural Light and Ventilation: The amount of natural light and ventilation that comes in can make your living space more welcoming and comfortable. Natural light has been shown to have positive effects on mood and well being and proper ventilation can improve indoor air quality and reduce moisture issues.
Kerb Appeal and Resale Value: The architectural style and character that dormer windows bring to the exterior of your home can increase its kerb appeal. This is a big selling point for potential buyers and can increase your property’s resale value and make it more desirable in a competitive market.
Energy Efficiency: When designed and installed with energy efficient materials dormer windows can help with insulation and temperature control in your home. This can mean lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint and make your home more eco friendly.
Improve Your Living and Surrey Home’s Value
Besides the features and benefits above dormer windows have many more benefits that can impact your daily life and long term investment in your home. Here are some of the benefits to consider:
Indoor-Outdoor Connection: Dormer windows can create a stronger connection between your indoor living spaces and the outdoors. The natural light and ventilation can make your home feel more open and welcoming and the added architectural interest can provide lovely views and a sense of being connected to the outside.
Property Value: As mentioned above dormer windows can increase the kerb appeal and resale value of your home. Buyers often pay a premium for properties with unique features and extra living space so dormer windows are a worthwhile investment.
Flexible Living Spaces: The extra square footage that dormer windows provide can be used as you like. Whether you’re creating a home office, a snug reading nook or a large master suite dormer windows can be designed to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Better Life: The combination of natural light, ventilation and extra living space can have a big impact on your overall quality of life. These can lead to better mood, productivity and overall well being and make your home a happy and enjoyable place to live.
Which Dormer Window Style to Choose?
Dormer windows come in different styles each with its own look and functionality.
Here are some of the most popular:
Gabled
Classic style gable dormers have a triangular roof like a mini house within your roof. Gabled dormers are a timeless choice and can add a bit of sophistication to your home’s exterior.
Shed Dormer
With a single sloping roof shed wall dormers are a practical and cost effective option. They have plenty of headroom and are great for modern or minimalist homes.
Eyebrow Dormer
With a curved or arched roof, eyebrow dormers add a bit of fun and charm to your home’s exterior. They’re popular for Victorian or cottage style homes.
Hipped Dormer
Similar to a gabled dormer but with sloping sides, hip roof dormers are a more streamlined modern look. They’re great for homes with a hip roof or those who want a more contemporary feel.
Flat roof Dormer
Flat roof dormer windows are popular because they create more internal space and are cost effective.
When choosing the right window style for your dormer loft conversion consider the style of your property, your personal preferences and the use of the loft space as additional living space.
Planning and Installation
Before you start your dormer window project there are several things to consider to ensure a smooth and stress free dormer conversion and installation:
Building Codes and Permits: Check with your local authority to see if you comply with building codes and get the necessary permits. Dormer window installations require structural changes so you need to follow the right process.
Budget: Dormer window installations can be a big investment, costs vary depending on the size, style and complexity of the project. Get multiple quotes from reputable contractors and budget enough for the project.
Structural Integrity: Dormers add weight to your roof so you need to make sure your home can take the extra load. A professional contractor or structural engineer can assess the feasibility and recommend reinforcement if needed.
Energy Efficiency: Install energy efficient windows and proper insulation to maximise the energy savings and comfort your new dormer windows will bring.
Hire a Professional: While DIY projects are tempting dormer window installations are complex and often require special knowledge and skills. Working with a reputable contractor who specialises in dormer window installations will ensure a smooth and safe process, your investment and your home will be protected.
FAQ’s
1. Can I install dormers in any home?
Dormer windows can be installed in any home but the feasibility depends on the existing roof structure, attic space and local building codes. A professional assessment will determine if your home is suitable for a dormer window installation.
2. How much does a dormer window cost?
Cost varies depending on size, style, materials and complexity of the project. Call us for a quote.
3. Do they need special maintenance?
Like any other window dormers need regular cleaning and maintenance to function properly and last long. But their design and position on the roof may require extra care such as checking for leaks, maintaining the flashing and keeping the surrounding area clear of debris.
Can I install them myself?
While you can try a DIY dormer window installation it’s not recommended as it’s complex and has structural implications. Dormer window installations involve structural changes, roofing work and compliance to building codes so it’s best left to the experts.
5. How long does it take?
Duration of installation can vary depending on the scope of the project and any unexpected issues that may arise. Typically a dormer window installation can take from several days to several weeks depending on the size and complexity of the project.
Summary
– These are functional and beautiful additions to your home, more living space, natural light, ventilation and architectural appeal.
– The features of the windows, structural integration and multiple styles provide many benefits like kerb appeal, energy efficiency and indoor-outdoor connection.
– Property value, flexible living spaces and overall quality of life.
– Choosing the right dormer style, gabled, shed, eyebrow or hip roof dormer is important to match your home and personal taste.
– Proper planning, budgeting and compliance to building codes and permits is key to a successful installation.
– Working with a professional contractor who specialises in dormer installations will ensure a smooth and safe process, your investment and your home will be protected.
By Jessica Stevens
