How to do the installation of roof windows with your own hands. Completion of assembly operations

What are roof windows

We stood in front of the choice of a roof window or you are just interested in what kind of roof windows are - below we will tell you about the types and types roof windows.

V modern construction, roof windows found wide application in the roofs. They bring daylight, create room ventilation, coziness and comfort.

It so happened that the construction industry of the 21st century is actively developing, bringing new technologies and materials. Likewise, the windows in the roofs have acquired significant additions, upgrades and improvements.

But first things first.

Types of roof windows

To begin with, in order to divide the windows by type, you can consider all the companies that are manufacturers of roof windows. By the way, there are not many of them on our continent.

Roof window manufacturers

VELUX - Denmark

The company VELUX (Velux) for the production of roof windows was founded in Denmark in 1941. Velux is the world leader in this industry.

FAKRO - Poland

The origins of the Fakro company go back to 1986. FAKRO - positive example how the carpentry workshop became a renowned manufacturer of roof windows and stairs on a continental scale.

Roto from Germany

Roto roof windows are also produced in Poland and Russia.

Windows by type of material:

1. Wooden windows

The most common and popular. The frame and sash of the window are made of laminated veneer lumber.

1. Polyurethane coated windows

The frame is made of wood covered with polyurethane, which does not fade or yellow over time.

1. PVC roof windows

Windows with a plastic (PVC) profile - for installation in rooms with high humidity- bathrooms, kitchens.

1. Armored windows

Armored roof windows are heavy and are usually installed in "concrete roofs" (made of monolithic concrete structures).

The production and delivery of armored windows are prepaid within 1-3 months.

Standard windows

Standard roof windows have rectangular shape... They consist of a frame and casement... Their main difference is the type of opening.

Windows by type of opening:

• Top pivot roof windows
• Roof windows with raised pivot
• Roof windows with center pivot
• Roof windows with two pivot axes
• Side-pivot roof windows

Tilt-and-turn roof window (window with two pivot axes) has two opening systems controlled by one handle. The folding sash position provides safe and comfortable access to open window... The sash does not enter the room and does not protrude beyond the window opening. The swing axis of the sash at ¾ of the window height guarantees effective ventilation and allows you to look out of the window, standing upright. Safety is guaranteed by the automatic fixation of the sash in the position for washing the window, and the inflow fresh air- two-stage ventilation gap.

All of the aforementioned standard manual roof windows. But in the modern era, skylights have become globally automated. They appeared - " smart windows".

Smart windows

Roof windows with remote control... They are powered by a remote control, solar energy and more!

Modern smart skylights allow you to save your installation to the remote control and enjoy the fresh air at the push of a button.

You can also connect not only windows to the remote control, but also roller shutters, curtains, and even blinds.

The rain sensor automatically closes the window when the first raindrops appear, while the ventilation valve remains open and allows the room to be ventilated.

All of these skylights are for installation in pitched roofs with flat surfaces. It is possible to install one window or two or three or more side by side.

Separately, it should be said about the arched roof window.

Arc window

Curved windows are a structure in which, depending on the radius of the roof arch, the window box, its sash, double-glazed window and fittings are bent. The curved window fits perfectly into the arched and vaulted roof, allowing you to create an original and modern architectural composition of the building.

Combined windows

Direct combo box:

Facade or cornice windows:

The windows located on the front connections allow for the implementation of individual options for building the attic. They combine the properties of both conventional and dormer windows. This type of solution is always an eye-catcher and adds a special charm to the whole house. The use of such solutions gives more lighting and interior design possibilities. The standard transverse drainage strip guarantees optimal water flow and prevents clogging of the façade.

Facade windows can be combined with additional ones:

Roof windows as dormer

Skylights and vertical window elements can be used as an alternative to the traditional dormer window by skipping large quantity daylight and natural ventilation of the room.

Balcony windows (window-balcony)

Thinking about building own home or even summer cottages, I want the house to be beautiful, unlike the neighbors, comfortable and functional. It would also be nice if it was inexpensive. An attic roof allows you to solve almost all of these tasks. The exterior of the house turns out to be interesting, and the building can be decorated in different styles- all combination options roofing, the type and shape of the roof, windows and balconies, and it is probably impossible to count. It is worth talking about the cost separately.

A combination of ramps aimed at different sides gives a very unusual effect. This is exactly the kind of house you would not call ordinary.

How much does it cost to build an attic

The device of the attic floor is considered profitable due to the fact that there is no need to spend money on the construction of walls. This is only partly true.

Firstly, a lot of money will be spent on creating a rafter system. Its cost depends on the selected type of attic roof (see below) and on the price of lumber in your area.

Secondly, you will have to pay a considerable amount for. It is clear that the roofing material alone is far from sufficient to provide the required air conditions for residential premises (if the attic is planned to be residential). We'll have to insulate, and the layer of insulation should be significant. For example, for central Russia, the layer mineral wool high density should be from 200 mm, plus a layer of waterproofing and vapor barrier.

Third, windows are much more expensive. If you make them auditory, they construct a special structure of rafters, which complicates the relief of the roof, and therefore increases the cost of materials and installation. Even on an ordinary gable, you have to think about the device of valleys and snow retention over the windows.

The second option - windows in the plane of the roof - require particularly careful sealing so that precipitation cannot get inside. This makes the installation 1.5-2 times more expensive. The windows themselves are about the same cost: they must have a reinforced frame and reinforced glass that can withstand snow loads. In addition, for maintenance, the frame must be rotatable, and this is still an increase in cost.

In the attic, two types of windows are installed - vertical and in the plane of the roof. Both types can be used in the same project. In the photo below good example such a combination. You can't say for sure that the house is memorable. How many more options can there be?

A mansard roof in several levels is also a common technique.

In addition, such popular and inexpensive roofing coatings - materials based on metal such as profiled sheets, metal tiles, roofing iron - are not advised to be used when installing an attic roof in a private house. There are two reasons:

1. High thermal conductivity. Due to the fact that the metal conducts heat very well, it is necessary to lay a large thickness of thermal insulation materials. Otherwise, it will be too hot in the attic in summer and cold in winter.
2. Increased noise generated by the coating when it rains. Even an ordinary roof covered with metal sounds like a drum in the rain. The mansard room is much larger in area and the "tool" is more powerful. If the level of noise inside the room can be fought with additional sound insulation, then on the street you will not remove the sound with anything. If the neighbors' houses are at a considerable distance, it may not be scary, but if the building is dense, conflicts may arise.

Calculated well, additional insulation and soundproofing will minimize the cost benefit of purchasing a roofing material. Perhaps a different, initially more expensive roofing covering will turn out to be more profitable as a result. So here you need to calculate the options.

All this was described so that you have a better idea of ​​whether it is really that cheap to build an attic floor. It turns out - not very much. Nevertheless, this solution has its advantages:

• The attic floor turns out to be light. Therefore, the foundation for private houses will require only a little more powerful than with the construction of one floor. Since the cost of the foundation is a significant part of the cost, then the benefits are tangible.
• In case of a lack of funds, the insulation of the attic and its commissioning can be delayed for the required period. Moreover, this delay will be useful. That's why. Wood is almost always used for construction. high humidity... If you start insulation immediately, moisture will be absorbed into the insulation. If the "pie" is done correctly, it will go away naturally. But if there are violations, problems can arise. If the roof under the roofing material will stand for some time without insulation (but with waterproofing installed under the roof covering), then the wood will dry well and there will be fewer problems.
• The attic allows you to make the house original and non-standard. In any case, the building turns out to be more expressive and individual - there are a lot of design options.

We tried to describe as fully as possible the disadvantages of the attic roof and its advantages. If difficulties did not frighten you, choose which design you prefer.

Types of mansard roofs

The roof of the attic type used in the construction of private houses has different options devices. Everything can be done existing species roofs, except, perhaps, flat. All others can be realized both in "pure" form, and in combination.

Single slope

Houses with single-pitched mansard roofs look unusual. Its device is the simplest due to the lack of a skate and the problems associated with its arrangement. The beams are supported by a Mauerlat fixed to the multilevel walls. The bevel is formed by the difference in height between two opposite walls. In this case, the angle of the slope should be in the region of 35 ° -45 °. A smaller slope will lead to the accumulation of a large amount of snow, which requires reinforcement of the load-bearing beams and the installation of additional supports, and this reduces the already not very large living space in such attic floor.

If speak about external design houses, buildings look outside the box. Most often, a large window is made in the high wall of the attic floor: the structure itself has this. For examples, see the photo below.

Device shed roof turns out to be the cheapest if the distance between two opposite walls does not exceed 4.5 meters: you can lay bars of standard length on the walls and not make supporting structures. Apparently this is the reason for the decision in the photos below, but it turned out very interesting.

If the distance between the walls is less, the design is quite simple

Gable

A gable roof attic is the most widespread: with a general structure, there can be many solutions. The design itself is the most optimal: at a relatively low cost, it can satisfy various requirements for the required area of ​​the room.

The easiest way is to implement an attic under a conventional gable roof, but its height must be sufficient so that a living space can be distinguished under it (if the floor is supposed to be made residential). May be:

• symmetrical - the ridge is located above the middle of the building;
• asymmetric - the ridge is offset from the center.

The gables are straight. The room turns out to be trapezoidal; in fairly wide buildings, a square one can be distinguished. Flaw gable roof attic type with the fact that a large space is cut off on the sides, which is not always acceptable in private houses. To prevent large areas from walking, they are used for arranging pantries or cabinets.

With such a device, windows are made in the roof, their location depends on the angle of inclination. They can be auditory, as in the photo above or in the plane of the roof, as in the photo below.

There is another option for arranging the attic roof of a private house with two slopes - one and a half floor. It is installed on walls driven out to a certain level. The house is then called "one and a half floors" (one of these houses in the photo above).

These are two types of gable roofs. There is also a third - broken ones. They can be distinguished in a separate category- the device has significant differences.

Broken lines

The device of a sloping mansard roof is both more complicated and simpler. In fact, these are the same two slopes, but consisting of two parts with a different slope. Such a structure allows, without spending money on the construction of walls, to get living space, only slightly less than for downstairs(by about 15%). In this sense, its structure is simpler. But the rafter system has a more complex structure, and in this sense, its structure is more complicated.

The construction of a sloping mansard roof is the most commonly used version of the rafter system - with the removal of a part of the rafter beyond the wall surface. Thus, an overhang is formed, which protects the junction to the walls from precipitation.

It is this type that is most common for self-construction. It allows you to easily increase useful area, build on small buildings such as a garage or, get additional, almost detached, housing. Since materials are usually used in construction, lightweight, the bearing capacity of the foundation is usually sufficient, but the calculation does not fit. ().

Small premises from a log below, and above - a vast attic, resting on racks

Four-slope

This is already complex systems that must be counted. The surface is large, the cost of insulation increases significantly, at the same time the size of the attic room decreases: parts of the premises are cut off from all four sides.

Their plus is high resistance to strong winds: all surfaces are sloping and the wind load does not push the slopes so hard. The structure is such that the overhangs can be made low, protecting the walls from the effects of precipitation and winds. In addition, houses with such roofs are considered by many to be the most attractive. The classic version is hip.

One of the types of hipped roofs is a hip roof and an attic room under it. You can stand in full growth only in the central part

With their device, inclined rafters are reinforced - they account for most of load. In general, its rafter system is one of the most complex, material-intensive and, therefore, expensive. So that you can estimate the entire scope of work and costs, consider its design in the photo below.

In the upper picture, all the stops, slopes that need to be placed are visible, on the second, the structure and location of the rafters are more clearly drawn.

There is also a transitional option - a half-hip. She is a cross between a gable and hipped roof... In this case, the hip is made only for a part of the floor height.

Only the main types of mansard roofs are described. There are also combinations of them. For example, hip can also be broken, as well as shed. There are really a lot of options. The main thing is not to make gross mistakes when developing a rafter system, and then implement everything correctly.

Mansard roof with balcony

How skylights are made has already been described above. Balconies are built on almost the same principle. There are even special window systems that allow this to be done in the surface of the ramp. Although the implementation is simpler, such a window costs decently.

If the bearing capacity of the walls allows, by increasing the size of the dormer-type window, you can make a hanging balcony.

The balcony platform can be supported by columns. Only in this case, the removal is done above the entrance. Then the columns fit organically, and also serve as decoration.

A balcony on the pediment of a house with an attic is built according to a different principle. It is protected by the overhang pushed forward, if the wall allows, the platform is made hanging.

V small houses more often the balcony is made due to the fact that the pediment of the attic floor is shifted from load-bearing wall... Due to this indentation, a platform is obtained. Peaks in such roofs are made by extending the roof at least to one level with outside wall, or even better - further. This ledge will also protect the wall of the pediment and reduce the amount of precipitation that will fall on the open area.

The design of this type of roof is such that by extending it, even a covered terrace can be made. Its edge can rest on decorative wall or on poles.

The difficulty of this project is the long rafters

A similar idea is implemented in this project, but the roof is multi-gabled. It is difficult to calculate it on your own, it is even more difficult to make the valleys correctly, because they are rare.

If we talk about non-standard solutions, then the "L" -shaped mansard roof - from two sheds it will turn out to be functional. It's also an inexpensive way to decorate such a custom building.

"L" shaped single-pitched mansard roof

Hosts who want to turn the attic above the bathhouse into a functional living space need to take care of the free flow of fresh air and daylight. These tasks will be solved by the installation of dormer windows, the rules of which differ from the standard technology of installation of facade counterparts. If the owner of the bath decides to equip the slopes with windows, and not the gables, the structure with the light-conducting element should become part of the multi-layer roofing system. The window needs not only to be securely reinforced, but also to ensure the preservation of the technical characteristics of the roof, which guarantees a competently performed installation.

Tasks of roof window structures

The complex "pie" of the roof, built according to the rules, retains heat, does not accumulate condensate on the surface, and serves for a long time thanks to the perfectly working under-roof ventilation. Equivalent responsibilities are placed on the "fragile shoulders" of roof windows, which, moreover, must open freely and not cause difficulties in closing. The windows, along with the roofing system, will have to repel atmospheric attacks. Therefore, it is recommended to equip the attic with special structures:

• with tempered glass or triplex glasses;
• with an energy-saving light-transmitting element;
• with hermetic seals and linings;
• with a sturdy frame protected from constant exposure to moisture and UV rays;
• with devices providing shading, easy operation, ventilation in summer and winter mode, protection from insects and dusty suspension.

If you want to look at projects of baths with an attic, we advise you to read the article

It is advisable that the use and maintenance of them is not difficult, so that the fogging and damp finish does not irritate the owners. All requirements will be met by accurate selection and flawless installation of roof windows, carried out in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and generally accepted technological standards.

Pre-planning and calculations

Installation without calculations is a waste of money. In order not to waste money, you first need to calculate everything, select windows in accordance with the tasks to be solved and the type of roofing material and determine the place for their installation.

Calculating the glazing area

The formula is extremely simple, the result depends on the floor area. Every 10 m² should be illuminated by 1 m² of glazing, regardless of the size of the window. There is a nuance that slightly corrects the amount of light penetrating through the attic window. The higher the window opening, the more daylight passes through it. However, a position that is too high will make it difficult to admire the surrounding nature and a similar installation is more suitable for flat roofs with slope angles of 15-20º.

Roofs with steep slopes unspoken laws and architectural aesthetics force to equip with windows, the lower line of which is on average from 1.00 to 1.40 m.The lower limit is 0.80 m, the upper limit is 1.90 m. However, the height of the location is practically does not affect the size of the roof windows. In any case, the total area of ​​light transmitting elements should be calculated using the above formula, and the owner wants one, four or two windows - a choice based on personal preference.

Which window to buy?

The buyer is now offered mass various designs with numerous features that 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 pivot axis and the window handle. Last characteristic affects the installation height of the window in the attic. The handle is too high - it is inconvenient to open if the remote control is not attached to the window, too low - it is 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 the window. The higher its relief, the higher the height should be at the outer window frame. Products with the Fakro brand, for example, have a special marking, according to which windows are selected for attics with tiles, ondulin, metal profiles or smooth roll coating.

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

Important! The installation of a shower gutter above the upper line of the roof window is a prerequisite. 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 initially needs to be decided by the owner of the bath, who wants to install skylights with his own hands. The determination of the installation site should be carried out in parallel with the selection of the optimal design. More precisely, these issues are addressed together.

Choosing a place for installing windows

Location is an important factor in determining the service life of the entire roof, interior decoration and the aesthetic data of the building. Before figuring out how to install a roof window, you should find the optimal place for its device.

Valuable professional advice... No need to arrange window openings:

• on the slopes of the valley, as in the inner corners precipitation will accumulate;
• next to ventilation outlets, chimneys, the operation of which will cause condensation;
• near abutments to horizontal walls due to accumulation of precipitation and possible shading.

Professionals advise not to get carried away at all by the proximity of any nodes of the roofing system.

The limits of the height of the opening for the attic window have already been mentioned. There are no clear technical guidelines on this matter, therefore it cannot be said for sure which has more impact on the choice.

• Definitely the type of roofing material. Any soft roll variety can be cut anywhere. Shingles are not allowed! It should be positioned so that the bottom line of the window structure is above the row of “uncut” whole shingles.

Attention. If it is not possible to arrange an opening over a row of solid tiles, it will have to be disassembled, and after installation, cut or shaped elements must be laid on top of the window frame.

• A significant criterion is the step of the rafters. It is advisable not to violate the integrity of the rafter system. It is recommended to buy windows, the size of which allows them to be freely installed between two adjacent rafters with a margin of 7-10 cm. The margin is necessary for laying the thermal insulation layer. If the step of the rafter system is not enough for a large window, it is better to purchase and install two or three small ones next to it.

Note. If it is necessary to remove part of the rafter for mounting the window to increase strength truss structure a horizontal bar is installed in the window opening.

• Top or bottom handle. Skylights with upper handles are arranged at a height of up to 1.10 m, with lower handles - at a height of up to 1.70 m.

The owner choosing a place for installation should take into account that a heating device must be installed under the glazed structure, because rational heating of the skylights will exclude the formation of condensation. This factor also affects the installation height. And one more thing: the buyer of remote-controlled windows needs to worry about cable routing.

Stages of the device window in the attic

The whole process of installing a window in the attic can be divided into a number of technological stages:

• preparation of the opening for the installed window;
• installation of a frame with a pre-dismantled glass unit;
• laying of insulating material, waterproofing;
• fastening the factory gutter above the upper line of the window structure or constructing it from a piece of waterproofing;
• installation and fastening of flashing parts;
• return to the place of the dismantled glass unit in the reverse order;
• interior decoration with vapor barrier and slope construction.

The manufacturer's instructions describe in detail the installation of dormer windows: the owner of the bath, who does not have experience in this area, will be able to carry out the installation with his own hands, exactly following the instructions. Note only key points that may be overlooked. But accounting for them is a guarantee of a quality installation.

Opening device rules

• Since insulating material is to be laid between the frame and the opening around the entire perimeter, an allowance of 2-3.5 cm must be left on each side of the rectangle, depending on the thickness and density of the insulation.
• A technological gap must be left between the bottom line of the window structure and the roofing material, the size of which depends on the type of roofing. For an attic with tiles, for example, you need to leave 9 cm.
• 4-10 cm are left between the upper mounting beam and the roofing material. They are necessary so that the window does not "warp" in the event of shrinkage of the wooden truss structure.
• Window frame will be attached to the rafters or to special rails fixed in level in a strictly horizontal direction. The slats are made from a bar with dimensions equal to the sheathing bar.
• WITH inside on the waterproofing or on the existing finish, draw an outline according to the calculated distances.
• Waterproofing is not cut along the contour of the window! You need to cut it with a kind of "envelope" so that overlaps of 20-25 cm remain. The overlaps are then turned outward, fastened with a stapler to the frame or to the crate, the excess is cut off. On top of them, a waterproofing apron will be "put on" so that the insulating shell is completely sealed.

Specificity of window frame installation

Mounting brackets are attached to the frame according to the manufacturer's instructions. The manufacturer of windows Fakro advises to dismantle the glass unit before fixing the brackets, the manufacturer Velux recommends removing the glass unit after fixing the brackets and "baiting" the frame in the opening. Heat insulating material on the top and bottom line window system it is more convenient to lay and fix with a stapler before installing the frame into the prepared opening.

Advice. The thermal insulation can be laid in the opening before installing the frame and attached to the upper and lower mounting bar.

Frame installation and mandatory adjustment

• The bottom brackets are secured firmly, and the screws on the top brackets are not fully tightened. A slight backlash is required for adjustment.
• It was during this period that the horizontals and verticals are reconciled, adjustment is made using plastic corners in case of deviations. Experts advise to temporarily put the sash in place to check how it will fit into the frame. No need to be lazy, after fixing the salary, fix the shortcomings and serious mistakes it will be impossible.
• The distances between the opening and the frame on the left and right must be equal.
• After adjustment, all fasteners can be tightened firmly, a waterproofing apron can be laid around the frame, and thermal insulation can be stapled along the side lines of the frame.

To install a drainage gutter in the crate above the window, you need to cut out two pieces, the size of which is equal to the height of the drainage device, and cut out a piece of waterproofing according to these dimensions. The gutter must be placed under the cut-out section of waterproofing and attached to the crate. Note. The condensate drainage trough is positioned at an angle so that moisture does not linger, but spontaneously flows into the roof ventilation gap.

Completion of assembly operations

The penultimate touch - the installation of the salary must thoroughly comply with the manufacturer's instructions. General rule: always start with the fastening of the lower element, and all parts of the flashing are brought under the elastic seal. Then, in the reverse sequence of dismantling, the frame is put in place. On the inside, a vapor barrier material is laid and the roof window is decorated by installing slopes.

Important. The plane of the lower slope must be installed strictly horizontally, that is, perpendicular to the floor surface. The upper slope must be perfectly vertical.

This is not a complete, but rather "detailed" list of nuances, according to which the installation of dormers is carried out. More precisely, the article is a list general recommendations, which must be followed regardless of the specific features of window structures from a particular manufacturer. A strict rule is compliance with the installation technology attached to the product. It will help the self-installer to eliminate errors, and the service customer will be able to competently control the process.

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Windows on the attic floor can be very diverse. If earlier the attic was perceived as a kind of addition to the common space, and if there were windows on it, then they were not the most complicated, now the status of the attic floor has changed significantly. Housing with such a floor began to be considered elite, and the windows for it are offered quite complex, functional and beautiful.

What is an attic floor?

The attic, in fact, is not a full-fledged floor: it is an attic space that is used as a living or technical room... Thus, from empty space, you can get a useful area if you refine it, properly insulate it, etc.

Most often, such floors are used as bedrooms, lounges, guest rooms. Less often they are adapted for workshops, storerooms. The attic floor can be shaped like ordinary room, there can also be several walls at an angle. It is possible, however, not to stand in full growth on such a floor in all parts of the room. From the attic floor, you can make one large or several small rooms suitable for living. The disadvantages of such a structure include the lack of natural light. Most often, windows in such structures are not planned, so you have to look for a solution after the construction of the house is over.

Installing a window into a hole cut in the roof

What are attic windows for?

Without natural light, an attic cannot be considered an attic floor. To use the premises as a residential one, windows are needed in the attic, the options for which can be quite varied, ranging from inclined structures that are installed directly in roofing material, and ending with display cases, which take up space from ceiling to floor. The main task of window structures is:

• Creation of the required room illumination.
• Blocking warm air inside and insulation cold from outside.
• Giving the right appearance the room, because the design is significantly influenced by the appearance of the window.

Where is the best place to install the window, and which one?

The design of rooms with can be very diverse, from a simple room, upholstered with clapboard, to a complex structure, striking in comfort and splendor. Much also depends on what type of windows will be chosen: they should not only isolate heat and create the necessary illumination, but also fit into the interior in a single style.

It must correspond to the dimensions of the room, the calculation of the dimensions takes place taking into account the illumination that the structure will give. If the windows are installed between the rafters, their size is usually standard, but if the attic space is large, several structures are selected so that the lighting is uniform. The windows must match the width that allows them to be placed between the rafters, otherwise the roof will have to be remodeled, and this is expensive and unjustified.

Vertical windows in the attic

In addition, you will need to take into account the slope and height of the roof slopes: if you plan to equip a recreation room, study or nursery, it is better to give preference to large windows. The bedroom requires less light, so the size of the window may be smaller. There are three standard sizes:

• 78x140;
• 78x118;
• 78x160.

If larger windows are required, can also be ordered standard designs 94x140, 114x118 or 114x140 cm.Rarely come across very small windows, the size of which is 55 or 66 cm; pay attention to the fact that buying a standard window is much more profitable, since it will cost several times cheaper than one made to your size.

Help diagram for window selection from roof pitch angle

Which windows to give preference to?

Choosing to the attic floor , it is important to consider not only them appearance, shape and size, but also pay attention to such factors:

• Protection from moisture and precipitation.
• What the frames are made of.
• How the window opens.
• What kind of glass unit is used.

Windows can seriously differ structurally, the most important role is played by a double-glazed unit: the thicker it is, the heavier the window will be, which is not very good for the attic floor, therefore, they are often used equipped with a heat-saving system and filled with argon. This allows you to reduce the weight to a minimum, reducing the load on the structure and fittings, while reliably protecting the room from freezing.

It will not be superfluous to use triplex technology: thanks to which the glass is glued, if you break such a window, there will be no fragments in the room, and it is quite easy to replace the glass unit. In addition, you need to pay attention to where the window handle will be located. If it is too high and it is inconvenient to get it, you can equip the window with a variety of drives that will help you either lower the handle below or control the structure using the remote control.

Remote window control

What other windows are there?

There are not only sloped structures that need to be mounted directly into the roof. Some projects have a very suitable design in order to build on the attic floor. Most often, such a solution is laid even during the construction of a house, otherwise then the entire floor will have to be redone. Such windows are an excellent design solution, they give a lot of light, and if the house opens good view, you can admire it while relaxing or before bed. It should be noted that such windows have a number of features:

• The complexity of the design and its big sizes, therefore, the price for such a solution will be significantly higher than for roof-mounted windows.
• Heating devices cannot be placed on the wall directly under the window. We'll have to remove them to another wall or install them in front of the window using special fasteners screwed to the floor.
• The use of curtains also causes difficulties; a special frame is required to be attached to the ceiling.
• Such windows have large area, therefore, it is quite difficult to keep warm in the room.
• A warm structure will be heavy.
• It is necessary to calculate that such windows will be even when planning a house. It is usually impossible to install them after completion of construction, or you have to dismantle the entire floor.
• Lighting with the help of such windows will be the most correct and natural, but they give a lot of light, therefore, if you want to equip a bedroom on the attic floor, it is better to think in advance that the windows do not face east. If the structure is facing south, be prepared for the fact that in the summer it will be quite hot in the room, although the problem can be solved with tinted film.
• You cannot use more than one. In addition, the wall, which will have a floor-to-ceiling window, should not be load-bearing.
• Should not put pressure on the structure heavy weight beams and partitions.
• Washing such a window is quite problematic.

Is self-installation possible?

Most often, when buying a skylight, the owner wonders how to spend less money. You shouldn't skimp on quality, buy cheap fittings or low-quality double-glazed windows. In the end, such savings will cost you more than buying an initially good window. The easiest way to save money is to install the structure yourself.

To do this, you need to clearly know. In fact, it is not difficult, you just need to strictly follow the instructions; it is recommended to get an assistant, since any installation is much more convenient to carry out together. The easiest way is to use a euro window: it is inexpensive, relatively easy to install, meets all the requirements for illumination, safety and convenience. Such a window can be installed at any stage of home readiness; it is not necessary to lay down their layout right away.

Attic window installation sequence

If it is planned that it will protrude on the roof, then it must be laid during the installation of the roof, since a special box is required for it. This usually requires a flat gable roof: the easiest way to do the necessary preparatory work... To do this, mount the side walls, nail boards to them, cover the structure with roofing material. Such a ledge is sometimes called a cuckoo.

When using the standard inner window it is installed between the roof beams. They are fixed by the rafter system, a support board is installed for the window, which is attached between the rafters, after which the window frame is attached to it. To prevent the frame from falling out, a fixing bar is placed in its upper part. The sides of the window and the drain must be insulated with a roofing material similar to that of a roof.

The sequence of actions during work should be as follows:

• An opening for a window is cut out in the roof, corresponding in size. The rafter system should not be affected.
• For the window frame, a frame is mounted, special support lags are installed.
• Laying waterproofing and insulation.
• Cover the sides with roofing material.
• A window is inserted.

Before starting work, it is necessary to strengthen the roof structure well, mount a reliable frame into which the window frame will be inserted, you can strengthen the structure using adjacent rafters. Jumpers are attached to them, to which beams are attached to fasten the window. The assembly of the block takes place without glass, it is inserted later. The frame must be above the level of the roof, otherwise water will not escape from it.

The choice and installation of a window is not the most difficult thing, there is a large number of design solutions that can be brought to life by developing a house plan. If it is already built, you can use convenient standard solutions.

A room equipped in an attic is called an attic. It was invented in Paris back in 1630 and the relevance of this architectural solution has not been lost to this day, moreover, taking into account the growth of volumes suburban construction it is constantly applied.

The attic structure should work like a roof

The design of the attic is determined by the type of roof itself. Historically, the best option the roof profile for arranging the attic room is the so-called sloping roof. The figure shows the ratio of the volume of this room in the case of a gable and a broken line.

Even with the naked eye, it can be seen that the size of the room under the sloping roof is larger than under the gable. It can also be seen that it is larger in area than the one located on the first floor, this is due to the design feature of the house itself. Yes, and it is somewhat easier to make.

Attic frame without insulation

The construction of an attic room means that it automatically becomes an integral part of the roof structure. That is, the beams that are used to make walls and ceiling slab attics, take on the load from the roof structure, making it more durable and stable.

For the manufacture of an attic in frame house it is necessary to use the same materials that were used in the construction of the main walls and ceiling of the first floor.

That is, if a 150x50 mm timber was used for the walls, then the same should be used when arranging the attic room.

As supports, under the wall beam, the lags of the ceiling of the first floor are used. Fastening is carried out using nails or a corner and wood screws. How exactly to fix the beams is chosen by the developer himself, based on his experience and knowledge.

Subtleties of construction

The necessity of installing windows complicates the life of builders, because of this it is necessary to complicate the structure of the roof or to use windows that are intended for use in the attic. Another point that can complicate the life of the developer is insufficient natural ventilation, that is, it will be necessary to take measures to create forced ventilation in the attic. In addition, a complex roof entails an increase in labor intensity when arranging heat and waterproofing. But all these complications are outweighed by the attractive appearance of the house with mansard roof and an extra room never hurts.

Non-bearing elements of the attic frame

Non-bearing elements of the attic room include those that are used for facing walls and ceilings, as well as for heat and vapor insulation of the room itself. In this case, it may be necessary to create an additional frame on the vertically installed frame beams of the room walls. To decorate a room, lining is usually used, the main thing is that when it is nailed, it is unacceptable that pieces of thermal insulation get into the cracks.

Attic insulation

Work related to the insulation of the attic is fraught with certain difficulties, namely, it is quite time consuming and complex, and some developers violate the order of work in order to speed up the work.

The thickness of the insulation depends on in which part of our country the house is being built, if we talk about middle lane Russia, then the optimal would be the use of a heat-insulating mat 150 mm thick.

In this case, a material such as basalt wool or its analog is suitable for insulating the roof.

Some masters use expanded polystyrene. Any roofing material is suitable for covering the roof, only it must be remembered that there are materials that will require constant ventilation, such as metal tiles and their analogues. In other words, the developer will have to provide a gap of 20-30 mm between the metal tile and the film covering the thermal insulation.

Roofing cake

Theoretically, subject to all the subtleties and well-done work, the roof should not allow moisture to pass through and condensation will not form. If flaws were made during the arrangement of the roof, then the condensate formed under the tiles will settle on the surface of the film, which prevents it from getting inside the insulation. And after a while, it will simply dry out.

Insulation is placed between the rafters and if the width of the board is less than the thickness of the insulation mat, then you can either nail an additional bar onto the rafters, or fix a sheet of drywall, but in this case, the surface of the sheet and the mat must be separated by special vapor barrier paper. Such a design will ensure normal vapor permeability, in other words, the vapor generated as a result of the temperature difference between the room and the inner layer of insulation will settle on the surface of the paper and gradually evaporate. To ensure its evaporation between the insulation and the waterproofing layer, it is necessary to leave a gap of about 10-15 mm, steam will be removed through it.

Another small detail, for guaranteed steam removal, it is desirable that the ridge of the roof be cold, for this small viewing windows can be arranged in the pediment, this approach avoids the formation of condensation even in a severe cold snap.

Window

In order for the attic room to have natural light, it is advisable to arrange windows. Before deciding which windows and how many to install, remember that the roof window always lets in more light.

In the case of an attic, one large window will give slightly less light than two small ones installed at a short distance from each other. For greater efficiency, it is advisable to place windows as high as possible from the floor of the attic room, but at the same time it is necessary to take into account the height of the person who will live in this room.

When calculating the area of ​​a window, you can use an empirical formula, that is, derived from practical experience. The ideal ratio is 1 to 8, that is, with a room area of ​​16 square meters, the window area must be 2 or more square meters.

Attic windows

Attic windows are placed in the space between the rafters and are installed at the same time as the roof. The window frame can be attached directly to the rafters.

If the dimensions of the window are less than the width of the step of the rafters, then it is necessary to make a crate for it, that is, fill the rafters with additional bursia and, if necessary, install a support bar. If the size of the window exceeds the width of the rafter step, then it is possible either to make cuts in the rafters, or to install a crate under the window, in such a way as shown in the figure below

Roof structure

Balcony

A balcony platform for the attic can be arranged in several ways, from the side of the pediment or from the side of the slope.

To arrange a balcony from the side of the roof, craftsmen use a window-balcony combination. This design is shown in the figure below. It is installed according to the same rules as for a simple window.

Window-balcony in the attic

The balcony from the side of the pediment can have several designs, for example, the wall of the pediment is arranged at a distance of two or three steps of the rafters, and the floor is covered in the vacant space and the railing is installed flush with the cut of the roof.

Balcony under the roof

If there is a desire to make a remote balcony, then even during the construction of the interfloor overlap, you can take out the beams to the required length. By the way, to increase the reliability of such a structure, it does not hurt to install support pillars under it, just as shown in the figure below.

Balcony out of the total volume of the house

Projects of houses with an attic

And this is a project of a house 6 by 4 meters, the total building area is 24 m2. Total area: 36 m2.

House with a mansard roof 6x4
Floor plan of 1st floor and attic floor

We would like to offer you several options for projects of houses with an attic.
For example, the first option. House 6x6 meters, total area - 30 m2

House with an attic and a veranda 6x9

More projects frame houses different area see the section "Projects of houses".

Video

We invite you to watch a video about building a house with an attic roof on your own with a step-by-step photo.