Exploring Dormer Windows: Types, Installation, and Considerations

Introduction of Dormer Windows

‘Dormer’ is derived from the French word ‘dormer’ which means ‘sleeping room’. lucarnes were used to provide ventilation to the spires of buildings thus the oldest form of lucarnes dormers.

Dormers were also used in Britain as domestic architecture in the 16th century. Since then it has become prevalent and is still used to be used at present.

Before installing a dormer window for a new house construction or loft conversion, it is necessary to know about its pros, cons, and styles.

What Is Dormer Window?

A dormer is a form of a roof window project outside the vertical roof.

The dormer window is a window exiting on the pitch of the main roof sitting vertically in the frame structure.

The dormer window is located on the sloping side of the roof and provides natural light in the room with an attic, loft, or vault.

A dormer window is often found in architecture such as colonial, Greek revival, and cottage-style.

Dormers are commonly used to open a window in the loft and in the ceiling plane. Different types of dormer architecture are the leading element of many buildings to complement different styles.

Such windows are commonly known as lucarne on the church and cathedral spears.

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Types of Dormer Windows

Below are the different types of dormer-style windows.

1. Gable Dormer Windows

Gable dormers are the most common dormer type in the world. This type became widespread after the cap cod style became a popular design in the 1950s in the United States.

This type has a simple pitched ceiling with two sloping planes in the dormer and is supported by a vertical frame. The triangle section is formed. They are also called ‘Doghouse’ dormers because of the similarities in their shape.

This is a simple task to add light, symmetry, and space at home. This type is useful to help water flow down from the sides and away from the windows, so it helps prevent floods, leaks, and structural damage in homes.

Gable dormers make groups of 3-5 dormers on the ceiling in most homes with ceilings.

Nowadays, the shape of the gable depends on the structure system used in the home, aesthetic concerns, the availability of materials, and the climate.

The colder the winter, the more the risk of ice increases and thus decreases the intensity of the sloping roof.

2. Hip Dormer Windows

Hip dormers have a ceiling that consists of three sloping planes. These planes grow from each side of the frame and gather at a space on the ridge. The hipped roof is usually a gentle slope and has no other vertical sides or gables.

Hip dormers are made on all sides with the same pitch or slopes, which makes them symmetrical. They reach the center point of contact. This type has a beautiful compatible level facia for the sewer easily fitted around the dormer.

The hip roof is not as easy as a gable roof because it is more difficult to tie it due to the necessary rafts or the complex system of the truss. This type can give a home a compact and concrete look.

The hip roof is self-bracing and requires much less diagonal health than most other dormers.

This type of roof is more appropriate in the storm region. Hip dormers are difficult to maintain and they are not able to provide a lot of natural light as gable types.

3. Eyebrow Dormer Windows

Eyebrow dormers originated in Britain. Boston’s architects first used it in the 19th century and then became popular in America.

They add a little composition to the large buildings as they break the monotony of a flat inner ceiling or rectangular, linear ceiling.

They are commonly found in the post-model beach house and modern cottage designs.

Custom-med sash, even if it is certain that it is necessary to make a hinged, with an eyelid dormer. They require a difficult framing process so they are an expensive dormer type.

This type gives a lot of light to the interior room. The eyebrow dormer is seen in different sizes and shapes, from high half-round to Richardsonian sine curve.

4. Shade Dormer Windows

Shade dormers have a single flat plane ceiling and the ceiling is sloping in the same direction as the dormer but at a pinch angle. These windows are made to provide a headroom with a large area of space.

The dormer requires a separate roof cover because the ceiling pitch in this type is shallower than the ceiling.

The overall cost of this type is higher and therefore it becomes a less favorite type. Shade dormers have no hip or top beside it is not rounded at all. This helps increase the space below.

5. Pediment Dormer Windows

Most dormers fit into the roof of any home but the pediment dormer extends away from the roof of the house.

They get support from posts or pillars. This type is very popular in America. This type is useful for designing a home based on modern or contemporary design.

The main function of the pediment dormer is that they provide shelter. They are usually very useful to create spaces covered over entries, driveways, courtyards, or porches.

They allow light to penetrate and create the illusion of space. This type is a bit expensive, the reason is that its costs include finished undersides, high-end materials, architectural windows, and pillars.

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Dormer Window Installation

The important things and steps to install dormer windows are outlined below.

A dormer frame is created at the same time as the framing roof structure is prepared at the time of the new home.
Sheathing means plywood that covers framing studs. The sheathing is attached to the outside dormer walls and the rafts of the main roof.
The next step is to install a vapor barrier wrap on the cover on the vertical walls of the dormer. The window is usually installed forward, then shingles are installed on the dormer ceiling and the main roof at the same time so that there is no visible transition between the two.
The interior of the dormer is finished after the external work is completed. Painted and trim etc. At the same time, the internal loft space is finished.
When the dormer window is retrofit, the main focus is to reduce the time the gaping hall in the ceiling. Internal framing, such as internal rafts or tries should be made before.
The outer frame of the dormer is made on the surface of the roof. When it is completed, the connecting hall is cut from the ceiling. Only then the extra framing is done.
It is best to do this when we are changing shingles in an existing house if you have a consideration about returning one or more dormer windows. This way it is easy to put new shingles on the entire ceiling at the same time. This can provide the most harmonious look.

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Dormer Installation Cost

The average cost of window dormers can be approximately $ 5500. The cost to install dormer windows is probably priced between $ 4000 and $ 10000.

Dormer Window Replacement

When it comes to house improvement, construction can be difficult to consider given various building control and planning laws.

Generally, it is important to get planning permission when installing new dormers in the front of the house.

Planning permission is not required to change the dormer window if there is already a dormer window in the building. However, it is advisable to investigate with your local authority.

Dormer window replacement is a bit of anxiety because it has to be vandalized in the ceiling and this makes this window a costly replacement.

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Advantages of Dormer Windows

Here are the Dormer Windows Pros as follows.

1. Headroom

This window provides more head space as it makes a hole in the roof. The small box shape loft conversion of the dormer gives much more space.

2. Beautiful Design

These windows are very useful in bringing natural light which proves to be helpful in improving the environment of the area.

3. Source of Light

These windows are very useful in bringing natural light which proves to be helpful in improving the environment of the area.

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Disadvantages of Dormer Windows

Here are the Dormer Windows Cons as follows.

1. Less Energy Efficient

This window has a problem with air leakage from the roof space so it is less energy efficient.

2. Cost

It costs more money to install additional windows. The roof has to be broken to put this window, which is the main reason for the increase in costs.

3. Difficult to Install

Since installing a dormer window is complex, the DIY project is not suitable. This task is dangerous so it is imperative to seek the help of a professional experienced.

FAQ

What Is a Dormer Window?

A dormer window is a type of roof window projecting from the vertical plane of a roof. It is a window that protrudes vertically from the inclined side of a roof structure, providing natural light into attic, loft, or vault spaces. Dormers are commonly found in various architectural styles like colonial, Greek revival, and cottage-style buildings.

What Are the Different Types of Dormer Windows?

Gable Dormer Windows: These are common and have a simple pitched roof with two sloping planes, resembling a triangle, often seen in groups on the roof.
Hip Dormer Windows: Featuring three sloping planes that merge at a ridge, creating a symmetrical appearance with gentle slopes.
Eyebrow Dormer Windows: Originating from Britain, these break the monotony of a flat ceiling and are commonly found in modern cottage designs.
Shed Dormer Windows: Characterized by a single flat plane and a ceiling that slopes at a shallower angle, providing ample space below.
Pediment Dormer Windows: Extending away from the roof and supported by pillars, often used in contemporary designs to create sheltered spaces.

How Are Dormer Windows Installed?

Dormer windows are typically installed during new home construction or as part of a renovation process. Installation involves creating a dormer frame alongside the roof structure, applying sheathing and vapor barriers, installing the window, and finishing the interior and exterior accordingly.

What Is the Cost of Installing Dormer Windows?

The cost of installing dormer windows can vary widely, ranging from approximately $4,000 to $10,000, depending on factors such as the type of dormer, materials used, labor costs, and location.

Do Dormer Windows Require Planning Permission for Installation or Replacement?

Generally, installing new dormer windows in the front of a house may require planning permission. However, replacing existing dormer windows might not need permission in certain cases, but it’s advisable to check with the local authorities to comply with regulations.

What Are the Advantages of Dormer Windows?

Increased headroom in loft or attic spaces.
Enhanced design aesthetics and increased natural light.
Improvement in the overall environment of the area due to the influx of natural light.

What Are the Disadvantages of Dormer Windows?

Potential air leakage, making them less energy efficient.
Higher installation costs due to the need for roof alterations.
Complexity in installation, requiring professional expertise and not suitable for DIY projects.

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