Installation of slopes for roof windows, materials for manufacturing and finishing, installation instructions


Dormer windows provide increased air exchange rates and natural lighting in the used under-roof space.
When installing them and fastening them between the rafter legs, the technological map is observed, and the planning features of the room and the ease of operation of the movable sashes are also taken into account.

One of the most important stages of the installation of such translucent structures is the completion of the opening. To successfully decorate the interior of a room, you need to know how you can finish the slopes for roof windows.

Why do you need a window in the attic?

It is necessary to install attic windows in order to turn a dark attic space into a bright and ventilated one.
This will help not only increase the service life of the roofing pie, but also turn the room into a residential one. In the attic you can arrange several bedrooms, a study, a nursery or a living room. The kind of lighting it should have depends on how you plan to use the room. For example, the bedroom does not need bright light, so large windows are not required there; for the living room and children's room, on the contrary, more space and good lighting are needed. If you do not have experience or theoretical ideas about how to install a window in the attic, it is better to entrust the work to professionals. If the work is not done correctly, the windows will allow cold to pass through, moisture will enter the floor, which will adversely affect the building as a whole and the comfort of living in it. We will tell you how to choose the right windows, what kind of lighting should be and how to properly install and insulate the structure .

How to install it in stages in an apartment?

The process is carried out in this order:

  1. Preparatory stage . Before you begin installation work on installing internal slopes, you should perform preparatory steps. If you are replacing an old internal element or updating it, you will need to remove the old layer of plaster.

Then seal the cracks that formed over time or during the installation of a new window. The best way to do this is with plaster. If you lack experience, you can replace the mixture with polyurethane foam. For very large potholes, it is necessary to lay the solution on the reinforcing mesh.

The next step is to treat the surface with a primer and an antiseptic. Apply the mixture in layers, with some time between layers to allow them to dry.

  • Preparing the window opening. At this stage, you need to align the opening using slats in two planes. Then the slats should be plastered with mixtures containing gypsum.
  • Plastering the seam . It is necessary to plaster the seam between the outer part and the window frame. To do this, use a cement-sand mixture with further sealing of the seam with a high-quality sealant. Now the double-glazed windows are being installed if the windows are solid.
  • The final stage . The installation of slopes is carried out according to the technology of the material that is selected.
  • Important! It is better to finish the slope immediately after installing the window structure so that the mounting foam does not collapse.

    Learn more about how to install slopes with your own hands in the video:

Where to install the window?

The design of skylights in the roof can be different, but it is important to choose the right place where such a structure will be installed. Most often, windows are placed between the rafters; the distance between them dictates the size of the window. The roof rafter system must not be disturbed: this can lead to its weakening and destruction. Therefore, the owners of the premises have little choice - either install high and long windows if more light is needed, or install several products at some distance from each other. This is the most optimal option, since it allows you to evenly distribute the load between the rafters and provides the most favorable, uniform lighting.

The size of the window depends on the area of ​​the attic floor. The glazed area should be at least 10% of the total floor area; the more glazing, the better the lighting in the room. It is important to note that the window opening is made without interfering with the rafter system, however, it is possible and even desirable to strengthen it, since the frame and glazing are quite heavy.

Pay attention to the choice of window width: the frame should be 6 cm narrower than the opening, this distance will be needed just to insulate the structure. If the rafters are close enough to each other, and it is not possible to install one wide window, you can place two narrower ones next to each other, which will fit between the rafters.

The installation height of the roof window also depends on the angle at which the roof slope is located. If the slopes are gentle, it will be most convenient to place the window closer to the top, if steep, on the contrary, closer to the bottom. The optimal height, most convenient for using and installing furniture and heating appliances, is 80-130 cm from the floor. If the tiles are made of ceramics, you will have to place windows along their edges, since such products cannot be cut. If the roof is covered with any sheet material, there will be no problems, and you can install the window in any convenient place. It is worth paying attention to the fact that the higher the window is located, the more light it will give, the same applies to the slope: the larger it is, the more light.

Video briefing with detailed instructions

Constructed according to the rules, the complex “pie” of the roof retains heat, does not accumulate condensation on the surface, and serves for a long time thanks to perfectly functioning under-roof ventilation. Equivalent responsibilities are placed on the “fragile shoulders” of skylights, which, moreover, must open freely and not cause difficulty in closing. Windows flush with the roofing system will have to repel atmospheric attacks. Therefore, it is recommended to equip attics with special structures:

  • with tempered glass or triplex glass;
  • with an energy-saving light-transmitting element;
  • with hermetic seals and linings;
  • with a strong frame, protected from constant exposure to water and UV rays;
  • with devices that provide shading, easy operation, ventilation in summer and winter, protection from insects and dust particles.

It is better that using and caring for them is not particularly difficult, so that fogging and damp finishes do not irritate the owners. All requirements will be satisfied by a clear selection and flawless installation of roof windows, carried out in strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and accepted technological standards.

How to choose the size of a roof window

Most manufacturers produce windows from 45 to 94 cm wide, and from 90 to 160 cm high. This is sufficient for most attics and lofts. Three factors are important when choosing window size:

  1. Glazing area for daylight. The normal glazing area is considered to be 1:10, that is, for 10 m2 of attic area you need 1 m2 of glazing. See Fig 1
    Fig 1 Dormer windows lighting calculation
  2. The pitch of the rafter system (the distance between two adjacent rafters). For example, if the distance between the rafters is 800 mm, then ideally a window 74 cm wide will fit into such an opening. Although this rule is the least strict. If, according to the designer’s idea and the room plan, wider or, conversely, narrow windows are needed, the rafters and sheathing are altered to the required size. See Fig 2
    True, this is additional time and labor, but a beautiful window exactly where you want it is worth it.

    Observe the gaps recommended by the manufacturers when installing windows (Fig. 3). This is very important in the long run. After all, the rafter system is subject to shrinkage and slight displacements due to seasonal temperature fluctuations.

    Fig. 3 Rules for installing a roof window
  3. The angle of the roof slope - the height of the window depends on it. The upper edge of the window should be at a height that is comfortable for a person; the lower edge is not recommended to be lowered below 90 cm. Most often, windows with a height of 1.18 to 1.4 m are purchased from us, which is due to the most common and comfortable slope angle of about 50 °. Recommended window heights depending on angles are shown in Fig. 4

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 of at least 3 degrees ). Then the moisture will be removed to one of the sides (the 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.

Preparing the site for gutter installation consists of the following steps:

  • In the middle of the rafter leg (on both sides of the prepared opening) a vertical cut is made on the film of the superdiffusion membrane.
  • A gutter is placed on the seat.

Common window installation mistakes

The specialists of our technical department noticed an amazing pattern: when installing windows, amateurs make much fewer mistakes than experienced builders. Except, of course, for those who specialize in roofing work. The answer turned out to be simple - amateurs read the instructions, and experienced builders often “already know how to do it.” Therefore, we recommend reading this section to the end, even if you are a good specialist. As a last resort, check yourself, and us at the same time.

So, here is a list of common mistakes and ways to avoid them:

  1. Application of polyurethane foam – foam is suitable for compaction and additional fixation when installing door and window openings. There, the frame is rigidly fixed with anchors to a solid main wall, the mounting foam creates a spacer and firmly fixes the structure. In addition, polyurethane foam itself is a good heat insulator. But in the case of skylights, the situation is fundamentally different. Firstly, the rigidity of the structure is less, and the foam during the hardening process can displace or deform the window frame or rafters with sheathing. Secondly, after hardening, the foam loses its elasticity. And the rafter system moves, shrinks and expands due to temperature changes, the foam crumbles and crumbles. As a result, cavities and voids are formed.
  2. Violation of the integrity of the vapor and waterproofing layer. The window must be integral with the entire roofing pie, otherwise problems with leakage and heat loss cannot be avoided. The general structure of the roofing pie, and examples of the correct connection of the vapor barrier film and waterproofing membrane are shown in Fig. 5 a, b, c.

    Fig. 5 a Waterproofing apron of a roof window
    Fig. 5 in Vapor barrier of slopes of dormer windows
    Fig 5 with Roofing pie of a residential attic
  3. The perimeter of the slope is poorly insulated or the insulation does not fit tightly to the window frame. This leads to the formation of condensation and even through freezing in the area of ​​the window opening. For an example of proper installation of a window with an insulated slope, see Fig. 6 a. IMPORTANT! The upper slope should be horizontal, and the lower slope should be vertical in relation to the floor. This is necessary for normal circulation of warm air in the window area, see Fig. 6 d.
    Fig. 6 a Slope of a dormer window in sectionFigure 6 in Dormer window with thermoblock

    Fig 5 c Slope insulationFig. 5 d Air circulation in a residential attic

    To further save heat and simplify installation, we recommend using windows with factory-insulated frames. Figure 6 c shows a section of a Roto (Germany) roof window with a factory-installed WD thermal block.

  4. Insulation of slopes with aluminum foil and other thin layers based on foam rubber and foil. While this option is quite acceptable for summer unheated attics, it is completely unsuitable for full-fledged residential premises. Here you need a full layer of basalt wool with a thickness of at least 100 mm.
  5. The geometry of the window is not adjusted, there are overstresses in the frame structure, and the sash does not fit tightly. Over time, the gap will only widen. A level and instructions for installation and adjustment will help. It is important to correctly adjust the window during the construction phase, since adjustments after installation of the roofing and finishing are problematic. We know of only one brand, Roto, whose windows can be adjusted at any time. This is true if a year after construction the house has shrunk and the geometry of the roof has shifted slightly.
  6. Installation of roof windows in a flat or almost flat roof with a slope angle less than 15°. For such cases, you need to make a special protruding structure, as in Fig. 7. Otherwise, the window will leak.

    Fig. 7 How to install a roof window in a flat roof
  7. Wrong choice or negligence when installing window frames, see Fig. 8. Window frames are different for flat and profiled (wavy) roofs. In addition, for profiled roofing materials (natural or metal tiles) with different wave heights, you also need to buy different flashings. There are flashings for materials with a wave height of up to 45 mm and up to 80 mm. The procedure for installing insulating flashings is as follows: install and secure the bottom apron, then join and secure the side elements, and the head is mounted last.

Fig 8 Structure of a roof window

Dormer windows

Skylights (attics) Window frames

Finishing work: fixing parts and waterproofing

Many manufacturers make their windows quite convenient for installation, according to the standard rafter spacing:

The next step is to install a system of drainage gutters, also called window flashing. This element is necessary for removing precipitation.

Almost all modern roof windows include an external special insulating flashing and all the necessary fasteners, which are quite sufficient. But to be sure that the window is airtight, experts usually recommend using additional insulating materials.

The frame is assembled like this: the bottom element is installed first, then the side parts and the top. Then the clamps are nailed, and the lower part of the gutter is snapped onto them:

Next, the trim is attached to the frame, and a sealant is laid around the perimeter of the window for winter sealing. And finally, the entire structure of the gutter with the seal is pressed with a pad:

Let's move on to waterproofing the window. Thus, insulation is often laid between the rafters and slopes from the inside of the attic room, and the window frame is insulated from the outside with a cuff.

For example, modern sealing collars are made of a special vapor-permeable material, similar to what is laid under the roof. A wool belt is also used as additional insulation, which is pushed between the window frame and the roof bars. It is also possible to embed polypropylene foam directly into the box.

From the inside of the room, the attic window is covered with a vapor barrier apron. It must protect the window opening not only from moisture, but also from condensation. More precisely, the apron collects condensation:

The moisture-resistant tape provides a particularly tight connection between the window and the roof waterproofing. It is difficult to do without it if the window has to be mounted directly into the finished roof, because in this case it is already difficult to get close to the existing roof waterproofing.

And from the outside, waterproofing sheets are placed under the roofing:

If you did everything correctly, your attic will become cozy, bright and warm. Thanks to the presence of such windows, it can be divided into zones, partitions can be installed and separate, fully functional rooms can be arranged inside the under-roof space. After all, the area of ​​the attic is usually equal to the area of ​​the entire house!

What did you decide to install under the roof, and what kind of window are you planning to install?

Choosing a location for a window in the attic of a house

The window area is calculated based on the area of ​​the attic, the height of the ceiling and the distance between the rafters. Sufficient lighting in the room is achieved by a window with an area of ​​at least 10% of the wall area. Installing a window in the roof of a private house requires precise calculations and special attention to detail. The easiest way to place a window opening is between the rafters without making changes to the roof structure.

The width of the frame should be 3-4 cm less than the distance between the rafters for high-quality insulation of the slope with polyurethane foam. When the distance between the rafters is not enough for the required window width, you can install two plastic windows in adjacent niches between the roof rafters. The height of the plastic windows will depend on the height of the ceilings in the attic and the angle of the roof slope.


Photo. Do-it-yourself insulation of attic windows

It is better to install the window before finishing. On a flat roof, it is better to place the opening for it closer to the ridge, and on steep roofs - closer to the floor. The optimal height for installation is from 80 to 120 cm from the floor level. The method and direction of opening the doors depends on personal preferences, the dimensions of the room and the design of the room in the equipped attic of a private house.

Dormer window design

The arrangement of a dormer window allows the use of cheaper PVC frames for vertical glazing systems. An additional advantage is the increase in space inside the attic.

The dormer opening of the roof is formed by two rafter legs, between which one or two more can be cut, depending on the pitch and type of rafter system. The outer rafters of the opening are doubled in thickness and supported in the upper part by a rack of nominal cross-section. The upper edge of the support is cut to the angle of inclination of the roof; in addition, its bottom should be installed on the floor beam and rigidly connected to it.

Another pair of supports are placed parallel to those installed in the front part of the opening, which forms a vertical pediment 30–50 cm before the mauerlat or even directly on it. The front posts are connected to the rafters with horizontal crossbars at the end, cutting them at the appropriate angle.

By reducing the length of the front posts, you can achieve a slope of 9–11%, which is optimal for installing a pitched roof over the auditory opening. Otherwise, a central crossbar and oblique rafters from it can be mounted, forming a gable canopy adjacent to the slope with the formation of two valleys. This option is more labor-intensive, but it allows you to put more insulation into the structure.

How to insulate attic windows with your own hands

Many owners of private houses convert a cold attic into a warm attic to increase their living space. When the roof of the house is hip or, according to the design of the project, the windows should be on the roof, you should seriously think about how to install and properly insulate the window in the attic. Even if you have good attic ventilation in your home, poor installation can lead to serious problems.

Ventilation of a warm attic is necessary to remove condensation and excess moisture from under the roof space.

We do not recommend installing roof windows yourself, as this will void the manufacturer's warranty. We warn you that even the best waterproofing and thermal insulation will not save you from possible leaks in the future if the windows are installed and adjusted poorly. It’s better to entrust the installation of window structures to professionals, and do the insulation yourself.

Insulation of window slopes in the attic

Before installing and insulating a window in the attic from the inside, first plan where it will be located. When cutting rolled waterproofing on the roof, it is not cut close to the opening, but a margin of 20 cm is left on all sides. The roof at the opening site is removed and the sheathing is cut off. The distance between the roof rafters and the window frame should be sufficient for high-quality sealing of the seam with polyurethane foam.

Before purchasing and using thermal insulation material, you should always carefully study the characteristics of the material and the rules for its installation. Use only moisture-resistant materials to insulate attic windows. For example, extruded polystyrene foam (Penoplex or Technoplex) is very durable and does not lose its characteristics even at high humidity.

The finishing of roof windows should also include waterproofing work, since windows on the roof are constantly exposed to precipitation. The sheathing at the top of the opening is cut so that a drainage gutter can be installed. The vapor barrier from the roof is placed under the gutter so that condensation does not flow onto the double-glazed window, but is reinforced into the drainage gutter around the perimeter of the window.

Laying material between rafters

The most affordable method of insulating roof windows is laying thermal insulation material between the rafters. When acting in this way, it is necessary to take into account a number of nuances. In particular, it is necessary to pay attention to the depth of the rafter system. And if it turns out to be not deep enough, the rafters should be extended with wooden overlays.

When laying thermal insulation material, you must ensure that it does not sag anywhere and fits tightly to all surfaces. When waterproofing is completed, the gap between it and the insulation should be at least 2 cm.

Using complex materials

Another way to insulate roof windows is to use complex materials that also successfully perform the functions of hydraulic protection. In this case, insulation can be done both above and below the rafters. When laying insulation over the rafters, it will be necessary to use special seam connections. The main disadvantage of this insulation method is the virtual absence of free air circulation, which means that the attic design must have a reliable vapor barrier.

Waterproofing roof window slopes


Photo.
Waterproofing and insulation of roof window slopes Included with roof windows is always a waterproofing apron, which is laid around the frame so that the window is maximally protected from water leaks. The apron is attached to the sheathing and roof rafters with a stapler. After securing the apron, you can lay down the roofing material and install the bottom, top and side aprons around the frame. All parts of the apron are joined and securely attached to the window frame.

Upon completion of the waterproofing work, another element is attached to the apron, which ensures the tightest possible fit of the apron to the roofing material. To seal joints, use only high-quality sealants. See below for video instructions with tips on waterproofing and insulating a roof window with your own hands. If you have any questions, write them on our insulation forum.

Preliminary planning and calculations

Installation without calculations is money down the drain. To avoid wasting money, you first need to calculate everything, select windows in accordance with the tasks being solved and the type of roofing material, and determine the location for their installation.

Calculation of glazing area

The formula is extremely simple, the result depends on the floor area. Every 10 m² must be illuminated by 1 m² of glazing, regardless of the window size. There is a nuance that slightly adjusts the amount of light coming through the attic window. The higher the window opening, the more daylight passes through it. However, a too high location will interfere with admiring the surrounding nature and such an installation is more suitable for flat roofs with slope angles of 15-20º.

Unwritten laws and architectural aesthetics force roofs with steep slopes to be equipped with windows, the lower line of which is at an average level of 1.00 to 1.40 m. The lower limit is considered to be 0.80 m, the upper limit is 1.90 m. However, the height of the location is practically does not affect the size of roof windows. In any case, the total area of ​​elements transmitting light should be calculated using the above formula, and the owner will want one, four or two windows - a choice based on personal preferences.

Which window should I buy?

The buyer is now offered a lot of different designs with numerous functions, which are not worth listing in this article. The difference is not only in dimensions, but also in the mechanisms of action, in the location of the rotary axis and the window handle. The last characteristic affects the installation height of the window in the attic. The handle is too high - it’s inconvenient to open if the window is not supplied with a remote control; too low - it’s dangerous if children are resting in the sauna attic. In addition to the handle, as a point of application of constant forces, the type of roofing material influences the choice of window. The higher its relief, the greater the height of the outer window frame should be. Products bearing the Fakro brand, for example, have special markings according to which windows are selected for attics with tiles, ondulin, metal profiles or smooth roll coverings.

Typically, the factory equipment includes fasteners, mounting angles, a waterproofing apron with a vapor-removing effect, a special sealant and adhesive tape. Of course, it is better to purchase a complete kit with all the necessary accessories for installation. However, in the absence of insulation, waterproofing and a corrugated vapor barrier membrane, all this can be purchased separately or made from materials offered by hardware stores.

Important! The installation of a drainage gutter above the top line of the attic window is a mandatory condition. If it is not included in the kit, you can make a gutter from a piece of waterproofing material folded in half.

It is difficult to say what the owner of a bathhouse who wants to install attic windows with his own hands needs to decide initially. Determination of the installation location should be carried out in parallel with the selection of the optimal design. More precisely, these issues are resolved together.

Choosing a place to install windows

Location is an important factor that determines the service life of the entire roof, interior decoration and aesthetic properties of the building. Before figuring out how to install a roof window, you should find the optimal location for its installation.

Valuable professional advice. There is no need to arrange window openings:

  • on the slopes of the valley, since sediment will accumulate in the internal corners formed by it;
  • near ventilation vents and chimneys, the operation of which will cause the formation of condensation;
  • near junctions with horizontal walls due to accumulation of precipitation and possible shading.

How to make slopes for roof windows?

The slope of a dormer window is necessary, just like the slope of a regular window. It serves not only to improve the aesthetic perception of the structure, but also acts as an obstacle to cold and does not allow condensation to form. You can do the work yourself, however, you must follow the instructions and remember that arranging the slopes of roof windows is slightly different from creating standard structures.

Features of window designs for attics

The roof of any object performs a number of important functions: protection, ventilation, heat preservation. Accordingly, window structures mounted in the roofing system must perform the same functionality. Therefore, attic windows have their own design features:

  • mandatory presence of special seals and linings;
  • the frame must be made of durable materials;
  • in double-glazed windows only tempered glass or triplex is used;
  • Devices must be provided that would allow windows to be opened and closed easily and quickly, and shading to be performed.

It is necessary that the windows have high-quality fittings, are resistant to various atmospheric loads (wind, precipitation, temperature changes), and we should not forget about the aesthetic component. Typically, the design of standard windows for attic rooms includes:

  • frame and glass unit;
  • salary (its height may vary);
  • internal slopes;
  • special waterproofing seal.

It is desirable that the structures be equipped with roller shutters used for external shading.

Blinds and roller blinds are also used for shading.

It is important to choose the right model of attic window and then carry out installation. Instructions for installing such structures will allow you to complete all the work yourself, without inviting specialists. The main thing is to strictly follow all recommendations and act strictly step by step.

If you are planning to install windows in your apartment in the near future, then read our article - “How to check the quality of window installation.”

What should the shape of the slopes be?

The slope of the dormer window can be made vertically or horizontally. If the shape of the slope is open, most often it is located in the lower part of the structure; it is performed vertically. The upper one, on the contrary, is located in the horizontal plane. This approach will provide the maximum possible lighting, keep warm air inside the room, and prevent condensation from appearing. If this rule is neglected, problems will arise during the operation of the window that will not be immediately noticeable.

To insulate slopes, you can use special belts. They are placed in the gaps between the window and the roof. The element can be placed both on the outside and on the inside of the structure. A special heat-insulating frame can be placed on the outside of the window: it has a membrane that traps warm air inside the room. Such work should be carried out when installing the window; if it was not done, this is a serious violation of the technology. Windows can not only let cold air in, but also begin to leak.

Simple Design Rules

Now, before installing roof windows on the selected side of the roof, decide on their height and parameters. So, they are placed too high only if two rows are planned at once.

Otherwise, the windows are placed at a normal distance from the floor (90-112 cm), otherwise a depressing atmosphere cannot be avoided, as in the basement, where the windows themselves are always almost below the ceiling. You should also not place the attic window too low, because a standing and sitting person should have a better view of the outside world.

The height of the attic window is also affected by the angle of inclination of the slope. So, the lower the roof slope, the flatter the slope, the higher the window should be.

But remember that there must always be access to the window, at a minimum to open it, and at a maximum to escape through it during a fire:

You're probably wondering: why two rows of windows at all? To watch the stars!

Materials for finishing the slope

Depending on what material the dormer windows are made of, the finishing of the slopes will be done in one style or another. Professionals recommend choosing the same materials with which the room itself is decorated. This will help the slopes not only fit harmoniously into the overall style, but also will not cause a conflict of materials, since different products react differently to temperature, humidity and other environmental features.

For slopes you can use lining, drywall, OSB boards, plastic panels. If the windows are well waterproofed, it is not necessary to use moisture-resistant materials; ordinary drywall will do, since moisture will not get on it. If you are not sure that the attic windows are properly insulated, the slopes can be finished with moisture-resistant plasterboard. This will help protect the material from condensation. Any slabs can be secured using a special frame and self-tapping screws. The main condition is to make them even: for this you will have to set up beacons. In addition, for work you will need to have a plumb line and a building level.

The finishing of roof windows must be done with high quality, so it is recommended to use branded materials produced by window manufacturers. This is especially true for heat and vapor barrier. Many manufacturers offer ready-made slopes; you can order them along with the windows, and the slopes will already have the required length. If installed correctly, the windows will be the most airtight. Most often, such a slope is made of high-quality plastic. It is highly durable, does not get dirty, does not require any maintenance, and is not afraid of moisture and exposure to ambient temperatures. It is not difficult to install and dismantle such material even on your own.

Slope of dormer window made of plasterboard

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Preparation for installation

Before making slopes on the roof windows, you need to properly prepare the surface. To do this, you will need to insulate the window structure and lay a vapor barrier. All this is done from the inside; It is most convenient to use rolled insulation; for example, any mineral wool will work well. In addition to it, you can use polyurethane foam.

This installation stage cannot be skipped. It allows you to get rid of cold bridges, so condensation will not form in the space under the roof. It is important to perform vapor barrier correctly and reliably. It is laid on top of the insulation, the contour must be sealed. The knock spots are glued using a thermal seam; it is produced in the factory.

Benefits of cooperation with

The installation of skylights should be carried out by professionals. Only then can you be completely sure that an optimal microclimate will be organized in your room. Otherwise, water flows, wind and snow cover will disrupt the comfort of your room. Our specialists have been installing roof windows in Yaroslavl for many years, and during this time they have managed to study all the nuances of their business. By cooperating with our company, you get the following advantages:

  • The lowest prices in the region with the best quality.
  • Professional installation.
  • Warranty for all products.
  • Free consultations and measurements.
  • Discounts for regular customers.

Cooperate with us and turn your attic into an ideal living space. There are no impossible projects for our specialists!

View catalog with prices (5 MB) Dormer windows

— the sash rotation axis is located in the central part of the window frame;

— equipped with an automatic ventilation valve

— combines two opening methods: mid-turn and suspended;

— equipped with an automatic ventilation valve

— the sash rotation axis is located above the central part of the window frame;

— equipped with an automatic ventilation valve

Advantages of Fakro roof windows

All FAKRO window models are equipped with impact-resistant double-glazed windows with tempered outer glass. They have increased strength, are resistant to extreme weather conditions, and provide additional operational safety.

The windows are made from top-grade pine wood without knots (class 1A), glued in layers and impregnated with an antiseptic in a vacuum chamber. To give greater strength, the wood is coated with several layers of environmentally friendly water-based polyacrylic varnish.

The handle located at the bottom of the window sash allows you to install the window higher relative to the floor level, thereby providing better lighting in the room and ensuring ease of operation.

Choosing the right angle

The main mistake of many inexperienced finishers and owners who decide to make a roof window slope with their own hands is the location of the slopes perpendicular to the window. The peculiarity of the installation of this design is that, unlike the slope of a regular window, the attic window should be at an angle of 110-120º.

The location is chosen relative to the plane of the floor and ceiling. Thus, the lower slope should be located perpendicular to the floor plane, and the upper slope, on the contrary, should be parallel to this plane. If you do not follow this rule, warm air will freely go out into the street, and cold air will enter from the street. As a result, unnecessary moisture will form on the glass unit. It may begin to fall on the slope or walls. As a result, not only will the aesthetic appearance of the coating deteriorate, but fungus or mold may also appear. In winter, such windows will freeze, regardless of how the insulation of the slopes of the attic windows was done.

If the attic is heated, the battery should be placed directly under the window. This promotes proper air circulation and allows you to dry the glass unit, ridding the glass of condensation.


Slope size measurement

Choice of color and shape

If the slope is made correctly, its shape will be open. The choice of this particular design is due to the fact that it not only allows the maximum amount of light to enter the room, but also contributes to good heating of the entire glass area. This is especially true in the cold season, when frost forms on the glass.

Due to the fact that roof windows are located at an angle, they can be covered with snow in winter, so heating the glass is especially important. It will make the precipitation melt, and you won’t have to specifically clean the glass. In addition, the glass will be heated by a heating battery located under the window. This will also help get rid of condensation, which can form not only on the glass, but also in the window opening.

The choice of color depends not only on the general direction of the interior style, but also on the level of lighting. When deciding how to make slopes on roof windows , you need to take into account the style of your room. Dark colors absorb light, so the room will visually appear smaller; if the colors are light, they, on the contrary, will scatter the light, due to which the room will not only be lighter, but also visually appear larger.

Additional materials on the topic

Roof for gazebo

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Roof sound insulation

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Vapor barrier with Izospan

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Your feedback, comments, questions

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Comments

Andrey 01/04/2014 09:43
+1 We insulated the windows in the country house with polyurethane foam and what should we do? - After all, there will be cracks and leaks, that is, will we really have to redo everything and order new windows?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail moderator

Only the insulation can be changed. You cannot insulate with foam.

Tamara 01/10/2014 09:14

+1 We don’t live in the house in winter and don’t heat it. Do you think that in this case there will always be condensation on the windows? What else can be done to prevent this?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail moderator

If you don’t spend the winter in your house, then there’s nowhere for condensation to appear.

Igor 01/15/2014 08:21

+1 I also have an attic in my eternal home, they installed a couple of windows like this. The first one is fine, insulation, etc. And in the second row they installed a floor air conditioner, so it began to leak when it rained and had to be redone. At the same time I insulated it.

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Peter 12/11/2015 12:02

+1 Could you please advise on how to properly install slopes on roof windows? How much does this kind of work cost?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail the foreman moderator

It is better to order installation, since it may not work the first time, and branded slopes are not cheap to experiment with.

Evgeniy 12/11/2015 12:04

0 You write that you can’t use foam, but how to properly insulate roof windows? The article was written a long time ago... there are probably some new materials already?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail the foreman moderator

For additional hydro and thermal insulation, BDX aprons are used; foam cannot be used, as there will be problems with the warranty and with the use of the windows themselves.

Vadim 12/11/2015 12:05

+1 I didn’t understand much from the article, how to properly insulate the slopes of attic windows?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail the foreman moderator

The entire perimeter is insulated. Minimum 50mm. If in doubt, it is better to call a specialist and get everything done efficiently. If the insulation is poor and of poor quality, there will be problems with the windows.

Andrey 12.12.2015 12:07

+1 Thanks for the article, now it’s a little clearer. How to properly decorate the inside of a dormer window?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail the foreman moderator

Use special vapor barrier kits and ready-made slopes - they look great. The main thing is to properly insulate the slopes.

Vitaly 04/27/2016 21:11

0 The windows were installed almost close to the rafters, there was very little space for insulation, please advise how to insulate the slopes in this case?

Reply | Reply with quote | Quote Consultation by phone +7(495) 241-00-59 Answered by Mikhail the foreman moderator

To the fullest possible thickness. You can stick polystyrene foam, foil penofol.

Update list of comments

Materials for insulating a roof window

Glass wool

One of the most popular materials used by builders as insulation is glass wool. This material will not require large financial costs and specific professional skills for installation. Elastic and lightweight glass wool has excellent thermal insulation properties and is perfectly attached to any surface. When choosing a quality material, you should pay attention to its density. The best option would be glass wool with a density of 30-40 kg/m3. Important advantages of the material are its non-flammability, non-toxicity and resistance to any deformation.

Basalt insulation

Insulating an attic from the inside with basalt-based mineral wool is today considered the most common option for its comfortable arrangement. The main advantages of mineral wool include hygroscopicity, high heat resistance and excellent thermal insulation properties. In addition, basalt insulation will provide good sound insulation, which is important for owners of houses with metal roofing.

Expanded polystyrene

The popularity of this material, widely known as polystyrene foam, is due to its high thermal insulation qualities. Insulating the attic with polystyrene foam from the inside is the most cost-effective way to create an optimal microclimate in the room. Lightweight, inexpensive and practical foam plastic is easy to install and resistant to aggressive environments. Its significant disadvantage is its high flammability. And this point must be taken into account when choosing a suitable insulation.

Using drywall

This material has been very popular lately. A lot of structures are made from it, including slopes for walls. When installing it, you may encounter difficulties, but they are much less than when finishing with plaster.

The undeniable advantages of using this material are:

  • Relatively low cost of material.
  • Small amount of waste after installation.
  • You can do the installation yourself.
  • The damaged part of the drywall can be painted over or sealed with putty.
  • Long service life.

But, like any other material, drywall also has its disadvantages:

  • During installation, a large number of tools and materials are used.
  • It is very sensitive to high humidity, so it is better not to use it in an aggressive environment.
  • Insulation is required.

Now you can proceed directly to installing the slopes. Tools and materials required for installation:

  • Construction or stationery knife.
  • Hacksaw.
  • Scissors.
  • Drill or hammer drill.
  • Tape measure, hammer, pencil.
  • Screwdriver.
  • Rollers and brushes.
  • Sandpaper.

Now that the necessary tools are nearby, you can get to work. First, we attach wooden blocks around the entire perimeter of the window, flush with the wall. The bars are fastened with dowels. Then, using a utility knife, a sheet of foam and drywall is cut. The insulation is laid between the bars and pressed using the finished slope segment. Drywall is screwed into wooden blocks in increments of approximately 20 cm around the perimeter.

After all the slopes are fixed, we proceed to puttying. The putty mixture is applied to the sheet in a thin layer and covers the unevenness and screw heads.

The next stage is painting. You can paint it in the usual way, the task is not to stain the windows. Once the paint has dried, you can begin decorating the corners. To do this, plastic corners are cut to the required length and attached to the surface with glue.

Features of waterproofing

Sealing a roof window is one of the most important tasks: since the opening is located in the roof and is located at an angle, there is a high probability that if the sealing is insufficient, it will let moisture into the room, and the glass will begin to fog up, which also has a negative effect on the condition of the walls and roofing pie. Features of the work:

  • A drainage gutter must be installed above the window opening. Waterproofing is placed around the structure; it will also need to be placed under the gutter, between the sheathing. This is necessary so that moisture gets into it and not onto the structure.

  • To properly protect windows from water, use a waterproofing apron, which is sold together with the windows. It will need to be laid around the frame as tightly as possible, attached to the sheathing beam using a construction stapler.
  • After installing the apron, the roofing material is laid and the installation of the flashing proceeds. They start with the lower apron, then move to the upper one, the side ones are mounted last.
  • The flashing is attached to the sheathing made for the window frame. In order for the flashing to fit tightly to the window, it is pressed down with a special element, also sold complete with the window.
  • The joints cannot be covered with polyurethane foam, as it quickly becomes unusable under the influence of the sun; special waterproof sealants are used.

DIY slopes - made from drywall, putty, wood and plastic (100 photo ideas)

The turmoil associated with an important change, the purchase of plastic windows, is the choice of profile, design, fittings, but not only. A decision has to be made regarding the slopes. Without the help of specialists, you can make different types of slopes, save some money and buy a more expensive window sill, for example.

The downside is that, most likely, it will not be possible to repair the windows under warranty. On the other hand, they should not break. The guarantee is only insurance.

Often it is necessary to insulate a window opening; the quality of the “original” slopes is not satisfactory. Only by dismantling the old ones and improving them with insulation will the situation be changed.

Mosaics made of glass, mirror splashes, fragments, relief surfaces and other extravagant design options are created separately, mostly by hand. Do-it-yourself photos of slopes made from different materials will help you make a choice. But a lot depends on the specifics of the installation work, its simplicity or complexity, and accessibility.

Pros and cons of plaster

Increasing the slope by plastering is the most basic way to design a window opening. No need to buy tools or modern materials. Previously, people only plastered walls on their own and coped with this task perfectly.

Disadvantages of this method:

  • the surface may end up being uneven;
  • It is advisable to additionally insulate such slopes;
  • The work will take quite a lot of time, because you will need to apply the building mixture in several layers and let each one dry.

If you try, the new slopes will still turn out smooth and beautiful. As they say, the eyes are afraid, but the hands do. You should buy the necessary materials and begin to restore the natural design that is usual for apartments and houses.

It is important to take into account that in the end the slope will not look as harmonious with the windows as a plastic one. The sense of novelty and progress will be lost. But it will be cozy, and beauty in a “retro” style will return to the house.

The harmony of the design of a window opening is understood differently by different people. This applies not only to curtains, the choice of plants, the color of the window sill, the color of the windows, but also to the slopes.

Installation features

How to make slopes with your own hands when the plaster wrinkles without defects? It is easier to make the surface if you use special plaster beacons. They are commercially available and can be plaster, metal, or wood.

It is better to choose gypsum ones, as they are very easy to handle. Metal ones are perfectly fixed, while wooden ones are easier to remove during the restoration process.

How many beacons are needed for one window? They are installed according to a clear pattern. The first one is attached next to the window frame, close. As a result, the distance of the overlap of the slope onto the frame should be about 50 mm. Beacons are also needed at the outer corners of the window opening. These areas are subject to greater stress, this element strengthens them.

Painting corners help improve the effect, achieve optimal results, and form the correct angle. They are attached using gypsum putty.

To prevent the plaster from cracking, before starting to create a new surface, the old one must be thoroughly cleaned. You can achieve better adhesion of new materials to the surface if you make notches, although this is not necessary.

The surface must be coated with a primer. For plastering, a mixture of cement and sand is used in proportions of 1 to 2. Dry gypsum plaster is ideal for the upper slope.

Each layer is applied as carefully as possible, it is allowed to dry, leveled with a spatula, then the next one is applied. Sanding the last layer is a responsible process. You will not need a spatula, but a sanding machine or sandpaper - with large grains and finer ones.

A sealant that can be used before painting will help eliminate cracks in the corners, along the line where the slope connects with the window frame or wall.

That's all, the slopes are ready. The surface is primed and painted in the desired color. If insulation is provided, it is necessary, after removing old slopes, treating the walls with primer, putty, to install insulating material, fix it with foam or with nails intended for this. Then apply plaster.

Slopes made of plasterboard - many advantages

Installing slopes with your own hands from plasterboard is difficult at first glance. They do everything “scientifically,” as they say. Because of this, perhaps, the result is luxurious - the windows are neat, stylish, fashionable. True, you will need special tools that not every home has.

People are used to needing a hammer to hammer a nail, but it turned out that it is more practical to purchase a screwdriver. In a country house, a hammer is relevant, but in an apartment with modern renovation it is not. And all because of drywall.

This is a light weight material, cut with a grinder. With its help, it is possible to create a perfectly flat surface in a short time. Such slopes can be repaired in case of minor damage using putty.

The disadvantage is that it is not resistant to moisture. Be sure to use a primer. It cannot be used to decorate surfaces on the street side.

They begin with the installation of the frame: a metal profile and guides are attached. Then the insulation is fixed and sheets of drywall are installed. The sides are sheathed first, and then the top.

If desired, if you have the skill, you can get the job done faster than if you choose plastering. Do-it-yourself door slopes are also often made from this material. It is beautiful and practical.

Sandwich panels for slopes

How to make slopes on windows with your own hands without extra effort? Sandwich panels are what you need. By purchasing them, you can simultaneously complete the decor and insulate the window opening. They come in different colors and are easy to fix.

In order to put the slopes in order, in this case it is not necessary to remove the old ones, but it is desirable - a truly durable surface will be created that will last for many years. If you decorate an old surface with sandwich panels, the duration of their operation will depend on its condition.

The starter profile is placed next to the frame, and a wooden strip is taken for the outer edge. The sandwich panel is attached to them using screws and self-tapping screws.

Polyurethane foam carefully fills the void between the panel and the wall. The decorative profile is put on the corners and fixed. All that remains is to wipe the new surface and remove dust. The slopes are done, the new design will delight the eye with the beauty of modern materials and their combination.

Photos of slopes with your own hands

Slopes of roof windows XLC-F, XLC-P

Peculiarities

  • allows you to quickly and correctly finish the interior of FAKRO windows;
  • the ability to adjust the angle of the top and bottom panels allows you to adjust the box to the angle of the roof, which is especially important for ensuring optimal lighting of the room, as well as for proper air circulation near the roof window;
  • the box elements are made of PVC - a lightweight and moisture-resistant material;
  • provides better room illumination;
  • makes it possible to properly insulate and waterproof windows;
  • simple and quick installation - decorative strips and overlays on profiles are installed using the snap-in method;
  • the window frame is designed for installation with windows whose maximum height is 160 cm;
  • easy to keep clean.

All the nuances of installing windows in the roof of the attic floor: types of MO and installation methods

Dormer windows have long become a common roof element. They make it possible to equip the attic space, but create some problems when installing the roof. Installing a roof window can be done with your own hands, subject to certain rules.

Types of windows in the attic of a house

Dormer windows (MO) are classified according to several criteria.

By installation method

Vertical type

It is characterized by a vertical frame arrangement, and for this purpose a special structure (“birdhouse”) is mounted on the slope. Such MOs give the roof a special, decorative look, but limit the access of sunlight to the attic.

Inclined

The windows are located in the plane of the roof slope. They provide better natural light, but look much more modest, and the glass is not protected from vertically directed influences (for example, hail).

By shape and design features

Classic

These are rectangular frames made of different materials with double-glazed windows, which can belong to both types of MO.

With extensions

The upper part of the opening has an original shape to give originality (triangle, arc, etc.).

Window-balcony

The window is combined with balcony elements, allowing access to fresh air. This could be an additional horizontal platform or a rising canopy in a design with a vertical MO.

Combined

The design includes an opening (pivot) and a stationary part.

Combination of vertical and horizontal types

This option provides good lighting and allows you to look outside.

Light tunnel

A rather rare design designed to direct natural light into the living space of the house. A tunnel is formed through the entire attic, and a diffuser lamp is placed at the exit. This design is needed when a room in the house does not have windows.

By opening method

Rotary with central axis

The sash can be rotated in any direction.

Raised axle

It is located at the top of the opening. The sash opens by lifting upward (inward or outward).

From the side

The sash tilts to the right or left.

From the bottom

The sash swings outwards.

Combined option

The window is divided into 2 parts. There is a raised axis at the top with the door opening only outwards. A side axis is mounted in the lower part, which makes it possible to clean the window.

By material

In addition to the specified criteria, MOs differ in frame material:

  • wooden;
  • plastic;
  • aluminum.

Choosing a location on the attic roof

The reliability of the entire roof and the illumination of the attic depend on the correct choice of installation location. To implement it, the following recommendations must be taken into account:

  1. When installing the MO, you should not disturb the rafter system. The opening must be made between the rafters, and the width of the opening should be at least 6–8 cm less than the pitch of the rafter legs. If the step is small, then it is better to make 2 small windows.
  2. The MO should not be located in places where there is a risk of condensation and moisture accumulation - a valley, a ventilation or chimney outlet, any abutment of the roof to elevated structures.
  3. The installation location should be open to natural light, i.e. there should be no high vertical walls nearby.
  4. The height of the opening depends on the slope of the slope. On a steep roof, it is recommended to lower the MO lower to the ceiling. The optimal height is 90–110 cm from the attic floor.
  5. It is better to position the opening so that you do not have to cut the roofing elements (tiles, corrugated sheets, slate) once again.

Installation of slopes on Velux and Fakro roof windows

Professional finishing of roof window slopes. Installation of any complexity. Protect your windows from leaks and freezing. Guarantee for all types of work!

Increasing the living space of a country house by installing an attic is one of the most common techniques in construction. This means that you will need to select and install double-glazed windows in the roof.

Since their installation and subsequent operation are associated with certain difficulties, windows should be chosen of high quality, with fastenings that can withstand increased loads. Fakro and Velux have proven themselves to be trusted manufacturers of roof windows. The frames of the double-glazed windows are made of graded laminated pine wood, impregnated with antiseptic and varnished, equipped with reliable fasteners that hold the entire structure in the opening.

Proper installation of roof window slopes will ensure the preservation of the geometry of the window frame and complete protection of the room from leaks and freezing.

How to finish the attic inside: choosing the material

Windows in the attic ceiling

Thanks to its non-standard geometry, there are many more design possibilities in the attic room than in any other room.

Roof slopes can serve as both the ceiling of the attic floor and at the same time act as its walls. An exclusive interior can be created thanks to windows in the ceiling, or well-placed load-bearing beams.

The functional purpose of the attic is also of great importance - the interior decoration must correspond to it.

Preparing the attic for finishing

As a rule, the attic is located in a house with a pitched roof. It could be one steep slope and the other a gentle slope, or both gentle slopes. If two slopes are steep and their overhangs reach the ceiling, then it’s just an attic:

  • To be able to turn it into an attic, the attic must be raised in height, due to a small wall around the perimeter of the house. A person should be able to walk around the attic without bending their head.

Attic converted into attic

  • There was a time when attics were unheated and were intended to house servants, poor students and poor intellectuals. Today, the view of this room has changed - it has become a full-fledged living space, subject to its high-quality insulation.
  • Many materials used for interior finishing of the attic make it possible to install thermal insulation during their installation. Particular attention is paid to the roof slopes, because they are the ones that take on precipitation, wind loads and the effects of low or high temperatures, depending on the season.
  • In the process of roofing work, thermal insulation of the roof must be carried out. In any case, if you plan to make a residential attic. Regardless of this, the same list of work on insulating the roof slopes must be performed inside. A double layer of thermal insulation guarantees the room protection from freezing and drafts.

Slope of a dormer window - installation features

For Fakro and Velux, slopes, templates and sealant are included with the frame, which simplifies the finishing of window openings.

When installing slopes for Velux and Fakro roof windows, professional installers will take into account all the details:

  1. They will make effective hydro- and vapor barrier;
  2. They will check how the window insulation is done. There are usually no problems on the sides, but on the top or bottom there is not enough space to install insulation. Here the number of insulating circuits should be increased. These measures will allow the windows to keep the temperature in the room even at -50
  3. Only rigid insulation is used to prevent it from sagging under its own weight. Never use polyurethane foam for this purpose! As it expands, it causes deformation of the frames, which leads to the appearance of cracks and disruption of the opening mechanisms;
  4. To ensure optimal circulation of warm air, the upper slope will be installed strictly parallel, and the lower slope strictly perpendicular to the floor;
  5. Calculate the length of the screws used during installation. The fasteners should securely hold the entire structure, but not create “cold bridges”.

Finishing stages

Some of the above structures for the design of slopes are subject to finishing:


  1. On top of plasterboard sheets:

      Puttying the plane.
  2. Leveling the surface with paint sandpaper.
  3. Applying primer to improve adhesion.
  4. Painting in 2 layers.
  5. After plastering slopes:
      Treating the surface with lime or acrylic putty.
  6. Sanding the plane.
  7. Checking the quality of alignment.
  8. Applying primer.
  9. Painting with a roller in 2 - 3 layers.
  10. Refinishing unpainted areas with brushes.
  11. Finishing of sandwich panels, plastic strips:
      Degreasing the contact plane.
  12. Open the roll of self-adhesive film.
  13. Removing the protective layer.
  14. Gluing the film onto a plastic or steel surface for rough finishing.
  15. Smoothing the material.
  16. Removing voids and defects with a needle and repeated smoothing.

Upon completion of finishing, it is necessary to check the quality of the finishing coating and, if necessary, carry out local cosmetic repairs of the slopes.

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