When building a house or renovating the roof and attic, a common question arises – should you install a roof window or build a dormer? Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the installation cost is not the same, so there is no universal answer to which is the better option. Sometimes, a combination of roof windows and dormers can be the best solution.
When building a house or renovating, the cost of work often heavily influences decision-making. If you have limited financial resources, your choice might be straightforward since installing a roof window is generally a more affordable solution.
For roof windows, the situation is clear. You have the cost of purchasing the window and the cost of installation. On the other hand, the cost of a dormer is not as straightforward. It requires multiple skilled workers because building a dormer involves masonry, carpentry, and sheet metal work.
Important Tip: One Contractor for All Tasks
One significant challenge with dormers is dealing with multiple contractors, which increases the chances of encountering problems. If an issue arises, it’s often unclear who is responsible since each contractor may blame another. Therefore, if you opt for a dormer, find one skilled contractor who can handle everything or a contractor who will ensure all tasks are completed correctly before final payment.
Complexity and Potential Issues
Unlike roof windows, dormers have many joints and angles that must be correctly managed to ensure proper water drainage. Expertise is required to assess whether the roof’s slope allows for a dormer installation that ensures effective water runoff.
Aesthetic and Functional Advantages
Despite the complexity, dormers offer significant advantages. Aesthetically, a well-designed roof with dormers can transform the simplest house into a highly appealing structure. Internally, dormers provide more usable space in the attic compared to roof windows.
Deciding Between One Large Dormer or Two Smaller Ones
When installing a dormer, there’s often a debate – one large dormer or two smaller ones? If structurally feasible, one larger dormer is recommended as it provides more interior space, allows more light into the attic, and is easier to construct with fewer elements, reducing the risk of leaks. Additionally, the cost of one larger dormer is lower than that of two smaller ones.
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Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality
Aesthetics and functionality should not be overlooked. If dormers dominate the front of the house, two smaller dormers are usually more visually appealing than one large one. While opinions on aesthetics vary, many consider dormers to be far more attractive than roof windows.
Combining Dormers and Roof Windows
Sometimes, a combination of dormers and roof windows is the best solution. Dormers can enhance the useful space within the attic and transform the exterior appearance of the house, while additional roof windows in other areas can provide extra light and ventilation. It’s important to note that roof windows provide 40% more light than windows of the same size installed in a dormer.
Conclusion
When deciding between a roof window and a dormer, consider both cost and the specific needs of your home. Each option offers unique benefits, and sometimes, a combination of both may be the optimal solution. With careful planning and the right choice of contractor, you can achieve both aesthetic appeal and functional efficiency in your home renovation or construction project.
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