What Are the Types of Roof Windows?
Our website offers a wide range of flat roof windows, pitched roof windows, and electric roof windows. They are all high-quality and suitable for different roof types and applications. It is crucial to decide which is best for your needs when adding a window to your roof, so we're here to walk you through the basic functions and benefits of each.
Centre Pivot Roof Windows
Centre pivot roof windows are one of the most basic types of roof windows available. They open only via a centre pivot and can be rotated 180 degrees.
The handle is at the base of the sash, and when pulled, the frame swings out from the bottom. The window's design means that it can be installed lower than usual, and furniture can also be positioned underneath for maximum benefit when using natural lighting.
The windows can be equipped with internal and external accessories, which help increase the flow of light and air into a room.
Windows with Raised Axis of Rotation
In this instance, the axis of rotation is situated above the centre of the window. This means even taller people can walk up to the edge of the window. The roof light functions in two ways—the lower part of the sash fulfils a top-hung window function, and the upper part of the sash is an additional source of daylight. The window opens via the centre pivot method and is lockable at 160 degrees for cleaning purposes.
This skylight is the only window on the market when installed on roofs with pitches that satisfy the requirements of the DIN 5034-1 standard, according to which the bottom window edge must be 95cm above the floor level, and the top window edge must be a minimum of 220 cm above the floor level.
Windows with Raised Axis of Rotation with Lower Transom
The two sashes of these windows with a second pane act differently, though both are placed in a single frame. The upper sash can be opened like a pivot window, but its axis of rotation is situated above the centre of the window. This sash is locked for cleaning at 160 degrees. The lower sash is non-opening, and an external pane is laminated.
This style of rooflight eliminates the need for vertical combinations, which can help increase illumination and ventilation in the room, plus give a wider view of the outside of the room.
They are the only window on the market that, when installed on roofs with pitches 20º —65º, satisfies the requirements of the DIN 5034-1 standard, which states that the bottom window edge must be 95cm above the floor level and the top window edge must be a minimum of 220 cm above the floor level.
Top Hung Roof Windows and Pivot Windows
Pivot and top-hung roof windows can be configured to open from 0 to 45 degrees for unobstructed views of your outdoor space. They are like Centre Pivot windows, except the hinge is at the top of the frame, allowing the window to swing the whole length out. Although one of the simpler skylight designs, these windows can be equipped with internal and external accessories and are easy to clean. They are also a great option for letting more fresh air and natural light into a space.
This style of pitched roof window is often used for windows that are easy to reach and with no furniture in front of them, as this can affect how safely and comfortably you can swing the window open.
Panoramic Top Hung Windows
Panoramic Fakro roof windows are usually larger in dimension and open to a wider angle, allowing you to enjoy the natural daylight and views from the outside in more ways.
The 40-degree opening function promotes an easy approach to the window, but you can take this a step further by opening the window to its full 68 degrees. In doing so, unobstructed access to the roof and views can help with the aesthetic value of installing these windows.
These windows can also be used as an emergency escape window.
Balcony Windows
Balcony roof windows are a beautiful and innovative addition to a home. They allow you to bring the outside in and give a room the illusion of more space. When opened, the window's sashes create a balcony. The upper sash opens to 45 degrees, and the lower sash can be tilted upwards to a vertical angle.
Safety barriers are integrated into the bottom sash. These rails are hidden inside the window and are not visible above the roof surface when the roof window is not open.
The balcony automatically locks with a multi-point locking system, so to close the balcony window again, the locks located by the frame rails must be released. These windows don’t need planning permission to create this additional balcony space! These are the perfect options for city living – where outdoor space may be minimal, you can create your own instead!
L-Shaped Combination Windows
Usually installed where a roof meets a vertical wall, L-shaped flat roof windows extend the roof window into the wall, vastly increasing the amount of light allowed into the room. These skylights can be opened in both tilt and tilt-and-turn styles.
L-shaped windows can also be combined with pitched roof windows, creating a versatile solution that maximises natural light and ventilation in spaces with varying roof angles. This combination allows for seamless integration between different roof sections, enhancing the overall design's aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Side Hung Escape Window
These roof lights are available as right opening or left opening, and both styles allow for safe and easy access to the roof. They also act as an escape window in a fire or similar situations.
The top part of the window has a fitted mechanism that makes opening easier and holds the sash stable when the window is opened. The mechanism also prevents these roof windows from slamming shut accidentally.
Both variations of this window can be opened to 90 degrees and equipped with internal accessories, allowing higher levels of light and air into the room.
For more information on our full selection of roof windows, contact our friendly team for help choosing the best option for different types of roof windows!