Roof
window
Fakro GB Ltd - Roof windows – see the light!
Despite the increasing popularity of loft
space conversion and warm roof construction in new homes, among
roof window options the traditional centre pivot is still the
most popular. But today, acknowledgement of the roof window’s
intrinsic design value is leading to use of a far wider range of
products and accessories in more imaginative combinations.
Awareness of product developments can, therefore, be invaluable
for the installer, and not just from the perspective of
installation technique. Indeed, consistent feedback to
manufacturer Fakro confirmed just this - that roofers welcome
details of product improvements and legislation just as much as
factors affecting fixing.
In the early years of roof window installation, functionality
invariably led to the most basic configurations. By contrast
today, L-shaped and other combinations now provide scope for
distinctive interiors which meet the most exacting requirements
and diversity of style. Accessories ranging from blinds and
motor drives to specialised items such as wind, rain and smoke
sensors also do much to enhance overall window performance in
keeping with the specific needs of the environment. But
awareness of some installation opportunities remains limited.
If we take an extreme example of a roof in which a combination
roof window might be thought impractical - a mansard roof - a
module to join windows is now available, so that the upper
element can be installed between 15 and 60° and the lower one
between 45 and 90°. Utilising universal installation brackets,
windows can be set at the depth required for any profile of tile
or slate, providing similar scope to an L-shaped window, but
without the limitation of the lower element being set at 90°.
Conversions of Dutch barns too would, until recently, have
precluded use of roof windows. Curved windows, however, are now
available to be used either singly or in combinations, providing
scope for use with contemporary metal roof profiles in just the
same way.
The more commonly used L-shaped combination window is often used
with other roof windows to extend the overall glazing span and
maximise natural light and view. Traditionally available with
either centre pivot or non-opening options, Fakro has now added
a tilt and turn lower vertical window to its range. And to make
a strikingly distinctive design statement, triangular or
semi-circular top windows can be used with L-shaped combinations
or even a single window.
On a more traditional front, where a light source is required
for a flat roof, the tendency is to install a traditional roof
dome or rooflight. Use of flat roof windows, however, now
provides scope to elevate the installation angle by 15°.
Suitable for use with felts, single ply or asphalt, products
such as Fakro’s EFW system provide good thermal efficiency at
1.5 W/m2k. With a 6.4 mm laminated glass inner pane and a 4 mm
toughened outer, a high standard of safety and security is also
provided. If needed in combination, they can be installed with
just a 30cm gap between each window. On shallow pitches too,
flashings can be used to enhance the installation angle by an
additional 10°. Flashing elements are fully insulated, with weep
flaps to drain away condensation and side sealing channels to
protect against wind blown rain, dust and leaves.
Despite such developments, probably the most significant advance
of recent years has come about in hinge design. Fakro’s FPP
preSelect roof window can be used in either top-hung or centre
pivot mode at the flick of a switch, a patented operating
mechanism guaranteeing complete sash stability and security in
any position. As with other Fakro windows, for user convenience
the operating handle has been positioned in the lower part of
the sash, an invaluable feature for the elderly or those in
wheelchairs. It also provides a U-value of 1.0 W/m2K and between
a 6 and 10% bigger glazing area over a traditional roof window
of the same size.
Windows can now be produced with leaded pane effects and bespoke
decoration of an exceptional standard.
Options now available offer roofers the opportunity to provide
critical advice on site on key factors which ranging from
venting and acoustics to thermal performance. Factors such as
BBA and FSC accreditation, formerly unheard of in the roof
window sector, now add further differentiation for the better
products available. But whether for areas of high humidity,
noise or extreme cold, and regardless of pitch, the roof window
offers far greater practicality and quicker installation than a
dormer, with none of the attendant problems. Added value for all
concerned.
Email: sales@fakrogb.com