Skylights: types and installation features

In a private house, every meter of usable area counts. The owners are thinking about how to rationally use free and utility rooms. A striking example of the transformation of a useless empty attic into a cozy living space is the arrangement of the attic. In the second half of the 17th century, the famous French architect François Mansart, after whom the attic was named, drew attention to the abandoned attic premises and suggested using them as living rooms for the poor.

Since then, the concept of using these areas has developed so that today the attic is a cozy, bright, warm and comfortable place for rest and life, equipped with all the necessary communications and beautifully decorated. If we carry out the necessary work on insulation, insulation and decoration, then the attic can act as a full-fledged residential floor, in which there will be bedrooms for residents, and bathrooms with toilets, dressing rooms. In multi-storey buildings, the most expensive real estate is the luxuriously finished attic space - penthouses.

This solution gives the house a lot of advantages:

• increase in living and usable area;
• excellent overview of the site and surrounding landscapes;
• improving the design and appearance of the building;
• reduction of heat loss, heating costs.

When designing, one of the important tasks is the correct placement of skylights to ensure maximum daylight.

When building an attic, it is necessary to strictly observe the current building codes and regulations. According to SNiPs, the glazing area should be at least 10% of the total footage of the illuminated room. It should also be taken into account that the sun turns during daylight hours and will shine through the windows for only a few hours. Each room must have at least one window.

Skylights are mounted directly into the roof slope, so they differ significantly from the frontal ones both in technical characteristics and in design.

Mansard frames have the following advantages:

• A sloped window increases the penetration of daylight by 30-40% compared to a vertical glass unit, which saves energy and lighting costs.
• A specially designed system allows rooms to be ventilated and to ensure adequate ventilation and fresh air in any weather.
• Together with the light in the rooms, coziness is added, a comfortable and warm atmosphere of an inhabited house is created.
• The frames have increased heat and sound insulation, they are airtight when closed.
• Frames do not rot, do not fade, do not require re-painting.

• Glass made of special laminated glass withstands high mechanical loads; when broken, it does not spill out, but becomes covered with a network of cracks, remaining in the frame.
• Triplex has the ability to scatter light rays, which prevents fading of furniture and things and creates comfortable lighting for the eyes.
• If you have construction skills and knowledge of technology, you can install windows on your own.

During the installation and operation of such double-glazed windows, disadvantages and difficulties may appear, which have the following solutions:

• In the warm season, in summer, the temperature rises above normal, it becomes very hot. This problem can be solved by installing a window on the north slope of the roof or by attaching special reflective curtains or film, blinds. You can also increase the layer of thermal insulation and make a visor or overhang that shades the window.
• Leakage, condensation, ice formation. Buying uncertified or fake cheap double-glazed windows, installation errors, can lead to such problems. Frozen water creates an increased load on the frame seals; over time, deformation occurs in the seals and it becomes possible for moisture to seep into the room. The solution is strict adherence to technology and proper window care. It is recommended that the seals be cleaned and treated with a liquid silicone grease.
• High cost, which is twice the price of conventional metal-plastic windows. A more complex device, materials and fittings of increased strength increase the price of the product. Only large well-known brands guarantee proper quality and reliability in use.

Skylights differ in material of manufacture and construction. There are blind closed double-glazed windows that can be made to order, or a standard version with opening doors. A double-glazed window consists of a double layer of triplex with a gap of a special film that prevents fragments from scattering around the room. The upper layer of the glass unit is made of tempered glass with a large margin of safety.

Double-glazed windows for regions with different weather and temperature conditions are produced with different technical characteristics. For cold northern regions, it is preferable to choose a multilayer glass unit, into each chamber of which an inert gas is injected to retain heat. For hot and sunny countries, it is recommended to buy double-glazed windows with reflective films, mirror and tinted coatings.

Frames are made of wood - they are made of laminated veneer lumber, impregnated with antiseptic compounds and varnished for outdoor use.

Wooden beams are coated with polyurethane for durability. Natural material fits perfectly into the interior of a country house and country house.

Frames with PVC plastic profiles are available. This plastic is lightweight and has fire-fighting characteristics, frost-resistant.

Aluminum metal profiles are widely used in public and office spaces.

Armored frames are also used in roof structures - they are heavier and more durable than standard ones and can withstand extreme mechanical and weather loads.

Opening mechanisms are available with manual or automated remote control. There are windows with an upper axis of rotation, with a central axis, with a raised axis. There are also two pivots on the frame, controlled by one handle. The opening takes place in two positions - tilt and swivel.

"Smart" windows are controlled by a remote control or a wall keyboard, to which blinds or roller shutters, roller shutters, curtains are also connected. It is possible to program it to close when it starts raining, then the window closes to the "airing" position. Automation for windows can be integrated into the “smart home” system, climate control system. At a critical temperature rise in the room, the doors will open with the help of an electric drive, and at the first drops of rain, a special sensor will give a command to close. The program manages the processes during the absence of residents of the house, maintaining the set values ​​of humidity and temperature.

Facade or cornice double-glazed windows are placed at the junction of the facade and the roof, they combine the characteristics of ordinary windows and dormers. They look very original and increase the flow of light entering the room.

You can buy a structure in the form of a dormer, only with transparent walls for more illumination.

When opened, the transforming window turns into a small comfortable balcony, but when closed it has a standard look.

Anti-aircraft windows are designed for installation on flat roofs and are designed with a special sloping frame so that the sun does not hit directly into it.

Light tunnels are installed in the presence of an attic space above the attic. The window itself is mounted in the roof, a corrugated pipe is attached, which transmits the rays to the ceiling, scattering the light flux.

The shape of a standard tilted window is rectangular, it can also be square. The structure consists of a frame and a sash, a seal, fittings, and a flashing. Standard frames are mounted on inclined flat roof slopes.

Arched or arched frames have a curved shape. They are designed for appropriately shaped slopes and vaulted roofs.

Round windows are produced that look original and romantic in the interior.

The combined frames are in two parts. The lower part is usually rectangular. The upper window is called an extension and can be either rectangular or triangular, semicircular.

The dimensions of the windows and their dimensions depend on various individual parameters, angles and dimensions of the room and the roof:

• the width of the frame is determined by the distance between the roof rafters;
• the height is calculated by placing the lower and upper level of the window so that it is convenient to open and look into it;
• the angle of inclination of the roof is also taken into account.

The factories produce a wide range of products of standard dimensions.

In addition to the drawing, in the project for arranging the attic, a window arrangement, a working estimate is needed.

In addition to the frames and glass units themselves, manufacturing companies produce various additional accessories and components for installation, protection during operation, opening control, and maintenance. These accessories are internal, external, they change characteristics, add functionality, decorate and complete the composition. Installation is possible after installing windows or during it.

External components:

• The flashing is mounted on top of the frame and protects the joint between the window and the roof from rainwater and other precipitation. For different types of roofing, salaries of different prices are selected, therefore salaries are not included in the cost of windows. To ensure maximum waterproofing of the window, the flashing is recessed into the roof covering by 6 cm. They are made in various shapes, including for cornices and ridge. For different types of roofs, appropriate salaries are issued. The higher the wave of the roof covering, the higher the salary is bought.
• Awnings shade the window opening and reduce light transmission, create coolness on hot summer days, protect from ultraviolet radiation, absorbing up to 65% of the light. Other advantages of awnings are noise reduction, rain effect. At the same time, the view when looking at the street through the awning mesh is not distorted.
• Roller shutters close the opening completely and are an effective obstacle to intruders entering, and also significantly reduce the level of noise coming from the street. Models of roller shutters are sold, manually operated with a rod or with a solar-powered remote control.
• The drives for automatic opening and closing are powered by mains or solar panels. They allow you to automate the process of controlling the movement of the leaves.
• A mortise lock is an additional home security tool.

Internal accessories:

• The mosquito net is made of fiberglass and an aluminum frame and is installed along special guides that prevent the product from falling off in strong gusts of wind. The mesh completely transmits sunlight, but retains dust, insects, lint and debris.
• Blinds are available in a wide range of colors and allow you to change the angle and degree of lighting, or can completely darken the room. Equipped with remote control systems.
• Roller blinds shade the room and are a decorative element of the interior of rooms, hide the room from prying eyes. Pleated curtains look very attractive, giving the interior an airy and modern look. The coating applied on top of the roller blinds reduces the temperature in the room in the summer heat. Telescopic retractable rods are used to control and move the curtains.

Additional accessories and fittings:

• The lower handles are placed for the convenience of manual opening of high-located frames, while the upper handles are blocked. The handle is usually provided with a lock.
• Telescopic rod and stick are hand tools for operating sash, blinds, mosquito nets and curtains. Intermediate elements for rods are sold, the prefabricated structure reaches a length of 2.8 m.
• Steam and waterproofing kits are available ready-to-install, making installation quick and easy.
• Ready-made PVC slopes are easy to install from the inside of the room and do not require painting.
• The factory complete set often includes corners for installation, fastening materials - galvanized nails. Also on the list is a vapor barrier apron, special sealant and duct tape.
• The drainage gutter, which must be installed above the window opening, serves to drain rainwater and condensate.

For installation work, you will need the following tools:

• linear or circular saw or hacksaw;
• construction stapler;
• roulette and level;
• screwdriver and fastening material;
• electric shears nibblers, perforated for metal cutting;
• pliers "corrugation";
• drill.

Installation of roof windows is recommended at the stage of construction of the rafter system. This is a complex and time-consuming process, which is best entrusted to professionals, but if necessary, installation can be carried out on your own, having the necessary tools, skills and experience in the field of construction, knowledge of technology. Structures of different manufacturing companies are installed in different ways, have separate features of the installation technology.

Location is a very important aspect that affects the overall composition of the building, technical characteristics, proper functioning and service life of not only the windows, but the entire roof. It is necessary to take a project of a house with detailed dimensions, according to which it will be possible to make accurate calculations.

There are certain rules for choosing an optimal and safe place.

It is not recommended to install roof structures in the following roof nodes:

• at the junction of horizontal surfaces;
• close to chimneys and ventilation outlets;
• on the slopes of the so-called valley, forming the inner corners.

In these areas, the maximum accumulation of precipitation and condensation occurs, which greatly complicates the operating conditions and increases the risk of fogging and leakage.

The height of the window openings from the floor level is determined by the height of the handle. If it is located in the upper part of the sash, then the optimal window height is 110 cm from the floor. It is convenient to open the sash manually at this height. If the handle is located at the bottom of the glass, the height cannot be less than 130 cm, especially if children are in the attic, and the maximum value of the height is 170 cm.The middle position of the handle assumes that the window is installed at a height of 120-140 cm. dots - radiators under the windows. They are positioned there to prevent condensation from forming. The steepness of the slopes also affects the location of the structure - the smaller the angle of inclination, the higher the window is placed.

The seating depth of the window has three standard values ​​provided by the manufacturer. Outside the window structure, special grooves are cut, marked with the letters N, V ​​and J, indicating different planting depths. Flaps for each depth are made separately, provided with appropriate markings, where the depth is indicated by the last letter, for example, EZV06.

Installation of frames is carried out in the intervals between the rafters at a distance of 7-10 cm from them in order to lay the heat-insulating material. The rafter system provides the strength of the roof, so it is undesirable to violate its integrity.

To calculate the dimensions of the opening, you need to add a gap of 2-3.5 cm to the size of the window for laying insulation on four sides. Mineral wool is often used as an insulating material. An assembly gap is left between the opening and the roof cutout, the width of which is determined by the type of roofing material. For shingles, for example, it should be 9 cm.To avoid skewing the window when the house shrinks, the gap between the upper beam and the roof is 4-10 cm.

Installation is desirable on rafters, but it is also possible on a special crate. The lathing beams are installed between the rafters strictly horizontally in level. Outside, above the planned opening, a drainage gutter is attached. It is mounted at an angle so that the condensate flows freely onto the roof, bypassing the window. Such a gutter can be made by hand by folding a piece of waterproofing sheet in half.

When all the dimensions are calculated, you can draw and cut out a layout of the drywall opening. On the finished waterproofing of the inner side of the roof or on the finish, it is also necessary to draw an outline of the opening, drill several holes to relieve stress and prevent deformation. Then cut two strips with a band or circular saw crosswise and cut off the resulting triangles, correct the edges strictly according to the outline. The waterproofing is cut with the same envelope and wrapped outward, attached to the crate.

If metal tiles, slate, corrugated board or sheet metal are used as the roofing material, then an opening is cut out from the outside using a similar technology. If the roof is covered with tiles, you should first disassemble the covering, and then saw out. Lay the heat insulator and shoot it with a stapler to the mounting bars. After completing all the work, the dismantled elements of the roofing are returned to their place.

Before installing the frame in the prepared opening, you need to remove the glass unit and remove the flashing. Mounting brackets are included and come in different types from different manufacturers. They are also fastened in different ways: some on the rafters, others on the rafters and on the crate.Mounting brackets are also included in the standard kit, they are equipped with a measuring ruler to correctly adjust the position of the frame in the opening. Screws and galvanized nails are used as fastening material.

The frame without a double-glazed window must be installed in place in the window opening and correct the position of the lower edge of the box, screw the lower brackets until they stop. It is better to leave the upper fasteners with a backlash and do not tighten to the end to facilitate subsequent adjustment. Experts advise to insert the sash into the frame to check the tight fit and correct gaps. At this stage, they check all levels, angles and distances, correct inaccuracies, adjust the frame in place using plastic corners. In the future, it will not be possible to correct the distortions. After adjustment, the sash is carefully dismantled again so as not to damage the hinges.

After adjustment and adjustment, the brackets are screwed tightly and a waterproofing apron is laid around the box, the top of the apron is placed under the drainage gutter, one edge of the apron is stapled to the frame, and the other is brought under the crate. The thermal insulation is attached along the side portions of the frame.

The flashing must be installed strictly according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is different for different brands, and their equipment is also different. In any case, the lower part of the flashing is mounted first, then the side elements, and then the upper part, and only at the end the overlays are installed.

From the inside, the finishing of the window and the installation of ready-made factory slopes are carried out. Their correct position is such that the lower slope should look horizontally, and the upper slope strictly vertically, otherwise the convection of warm air around the window structure will be disturbed, and unwanted condensation will appear. Slopes are fastened mainly by snapping onto special locks.

All large well-known manufacturing companies offer dormer window constructions made of plastic PVC profiles. Due to the properties of plastic, the line of such products is used in rooms with high levels of humidity, in regions with a humid climate. A good solution is to install a PVC transformer window. Opening the bottom sash creates a small balcony. Plastic frames are also used to glaze complex structures, for example, balconies and loggias in the gables; if desired, or if there are beautiful views, you can make the entire section of the gable from floor to ceiling glass.

These frames have several locking positions, the opening mechanism for them is along the central axis. Double-glazed windows with tempered glass can withstand significant mechanical loads and even a person's weight. For comfortable ventilation, ventilation valves with special removable filters are provided; they are designed to clean the air in the room when the windows are closed.

The most popular material for roof frames is wood. Since the tree absorbs moisture, swells, and dries up under the influence of the sun, such material is not used without special protection measures. Basically, they use northern pine, the reliability and strength of which has been tested for centuries, solid or glued timber. Impregnate it with antiseptics and cover it with a double layer of varnish. In this case, the tree does not rot, does not deform, and gains durability. Some manufacturers coat pine timber with monolithic polyurethane. This coating increases the durability of the box and gives it additional strength.

The main advantage of wood is environmental friendliness, safety for human health. Thanks to the beautiful natural texture, reinforced with varnish, it looks natural and harmonious in the interior, emphasizing the atmosphere of a country house.These windows are the most affordable and have the richest assortment of models and varieties, fasteners and opening mechanisms. These frames can be either vertical and installed in a skylight in the roof, or inclined for installation on roof slopes at an angle. They are perfect for offices, bedrooms, living rooms and children's rooms.

Aluminum skylights are mainly used in offices, hospitals, and administrative buildings for various purposes. They have a rigid, durable structure, relatively low weight, withstand strong and sharp temperature jumps - from -80 to + 100 degrees.

The metal profile is of cold and warm type.

Installation of roof window structures is a laborious and responsible business. Experienced specialists share many years of experience and give valuable advice on their correct installation in order to avoid errors and errors during installation, as well as on preventive maintenance so that they serve reliably for as long as possible.

Here are the basic guidelines:

• Failure by the purchaser to follow the manufacturer's instructions for self-assembly may result in the loss of warranty rights.
• When accepting a window delivered from the factory or from a store, you should carefully examine it for its integrity and conformity to the configuration, size, detection of visual defects and packaging damage. In case of non-compliance with the requirements, the acceptance certificate should not be signed.
• It is not recommended to use polyurethane foam for installation. In this case, only special insulating sealants are needed. The mounting foam will not provide waterproofing, but when it solidifies and expands, it will create an additional load on the frame and can move the structural elements and jam the sash.

• After installing the box, it should be insulated by carefully tucking mineral wool around the window and be sure to lay it under the slopes.
• Adjustment is made at the stage of baiting the box, and only then tightened to the stop. At the subsequent stages of installation, the correction of the position of the box is not possible.
• When buying, it is imperative to check the complete set, compatibility of all components and component parts of the structure, check the dimensions with the project or drawing, draw up an agreement in which to indicate all the nuances of the order.
• Products must be certified and have all accompanying and warranty documents, as well as detailed instructions for installation and correct operation.
• The fastening of the box to the rafters is much stronger, but when mounted on the crate, it is easier to align the frame.

The most famous and large companies that lead in the construction market for roof windows and components for them offer customers high-quality certified products, as well as additional accessories and preventive window treatments during the entire period of operation.

Danish firm Velux has been working in the Russian Federation since 1991. Unique developments and inventions made this manufacturer one of the leaders of brands represented in Russia. In addition to the main products, the company offers customers a full range of components and accessories that are fully compatible with windows. The innovative material used by the company for the production of wooden frames is the Nordic pine tree, proven for centuries of use in Europe, impregnated with antiseptic compounds and covered with monolithic polyurethane or a double layer of varnish.

Among the numerous patented inventions, one can note a unique ventilation system equipped with thin filters and a special vent-valve built into the opening handle for comfortable ventilation.

No drafts and crevices, a three-level sealing system, silicone instead of a sealant, only innovative and proven materials - all this is provided by the company's products. According to the results of examinations, Velux windows withstand frosts with dignity down to -55 degrees and are recommended for installation in the northern regions.

The main line of Velux models is produced in large and medium sizes.

German windows Roto first appeared in 1935. The products of this company are produced from high quality plastic multi-chamber PVC profile. The windows of this company are small and medium in size. Standard sizes are 54x78 and 54x98. All the best material properties of Roto products are ideal for the climatic conditions of our country, sharp weather changes, and a large abundance of precipitation.

It is possible to install electric piston drives on Roto sashes, which prevent the window from slamming; you can control the sashes using a remote control or a smart home system. Installation is allowed not only to the rafters, but also to the crate; models are produced that are mounted without first removing the sash. The products of this company receive excellent reviews from both construction specialists and owners of private houses who have been using German windows for many years.

Company Fakro for 10 years it has been producing designs that undergo more than 70 different checks and tests before being sold. Raw materials and components are also tested for strength and other parameters. Outside, the structure is protected by overlays.

For the convenience of working with its products, this manufacturer has developed mobile applications, conducts regular training seminars for builders, review TV broadcasts. To carry out custom-made qualified installation of windows, there are certified teams, as well as official service centers for the repair and preventive maintenance of products. There is an unlimited warranty for the glass unit and spare parts. Replacement of these components is absolutely free, regardless of the service life and the cause of damage. The creation of such an infrastructure for the convenience of purchasing and servicing has allowed the company to gain deserved popularity and become one of the leaders in the Russian market.

Designers and architects create impressive buildings - true works of architectural art, which combine impressiveness and modern openness and lightness of interiors. The variety of complex fantasy forms and the boldness of solutions for roof windows is amazing. The rapid development of building technologies and innovations makes it possible to design unusual attics that reflect the personality and taste of the owners.

Making repairs in the attic, the owners think over the decorative design of window openings. Hanging heavy and curtains in such interiors is undesirable. It is better to give preference to light curtains, blinds, roller shutters. The harmonious combination of shades will create a modern, light and cozy interior.

Clean and fresh air, beautiful summer landscape, peace and unity with nature - what could be more beautiful! In a country house, enjoying your stay in the attic becomes even more comfortable with transforming windows, which look as usual when closed, and when opened, turn into an impromptu balcony.

See the following video for expert recommendations on the installation of roof windows.