Skylights: types and features of installation

In a private house every meter of usable floor space counts. The owners think through how to rationally use the free and utility rooms. A striking example of the transformation of a useless empty attic into a cozy dwelling is the arrangement of an attic. In the second half of the XVII century, the famous French architect Francois Mansart, after whom they named the attic, drew attention to the abandoned attic rooms and suggested using them as living rooms for the poor.

Since then, the concept of using these areas has evolved so that today the attic is a cozy, bright, warm and comfortable place to relax and live, equipped with all the necessary communications and beautifully decorated.If you carry out the necessary work on insulation, insulation and decoration, the attic can make a full-fledged residential floor, which will have bedrooms for residents, and bathrooms with bathrooms, dressing rooms. In high-rise buildings, the most expensive real estate is elegantly decorated attic rooms - penthouses.

This solution gives the house a lot of advantages:

• increase in living and useful area;
• excellent overview of the site and surrounding landscapes;
• improving the design and appearance of the building;
• reduction of heat loss, heating costs.

When designing one of the important tasks is the correct placement of skylights to ensure maximum daylight.

During the construction of the attic it is necessary to strictly comply with the existing building regulations and rules. According to SNiPs, the area of ​​glazing should be at least 10% of the total footage of the illuminated room. It should also be noted that the sun turns during the daylight hours and will shine through the windows in just a few hours. Each room must have at least one window.

Skylights mounted directly into the roof slope, so they are significantly different from the front and the technical characteristics and design.

Mansard frames have the following advantages:

• Inclined window increases the penetration of daylight by 30-40% compared with vertical glass, which saves energy and lighting costs.
• Specially designed system allows to ventilate the rooms and provide adequate ventilation and fresh air in any weather.
• Together with the light in the rooms, cosiness is added, a comfortable and warm atmosphere of the home is created.
• The frames have high heat and sound insulation, when closed, they are sealed.
• Frames do not rot, do not fade, do not require re-painting.

• The glass, made of special triplex, can withstand high mechanical loads; when broken, it does not get enough sleep, but is covered with a grid of cracks, remaining in the frame.
• Triplex has the property to scatter light rays, which prevents burnout of furniture and things and creates a comfortable light for the eyes.
• With building skills and knowledge of technology, you can install windows on your own.

When installing and operating such glass packs, there may be drawbacks and difficulties that have the following solutions:

• In the warm season, in summer, the temperature rises above the norm, it becomes very hot. This problem can be solved by setting the window on the north slope of the roof or by hanging special reflective curtains or film, blinds. You can also increase the layer of insulation and make a visor or overhang, shading the window.
• Violation of tightness, leakage, condensation, ice. Buying uncertified or fake cheap insulated glass, installation errors can lead to such problems. Frozen water creates an increased load on the frame seals, with time deformation occurs in the seals and it becomes possible for moisture to leak into the room. The solution is strict adherence to technology and proper window care. It is recommended to clean the seals and treat them with a liquid silicone grease.
• High cost, which is twice the price of conventional plastic windows.A more complex device, materials and accessories of increased strength increase the price of the product. Proper quality and reliability in use guarantee for their products only major well-known brands.

Skylights vary in fabrication and construction. There are deaf closed windows, which can be made to order, or the standard version with opening doors. A glass unit consists of a double layer of triplex with a gap of special film that does not allow fragments to scatter around the room. The upper layer of the glass unit is made of tempered glass, which has a large margin of safety.

Double-glazed windows for different weather and temperature conditions of the regions are available with different technical characteristics. For cold northern areas, it is preferable to choose a multi-pane glass unit, into each chamber of which an inert gas is pumped that retains heat. For hot and sunny countries, it is recommended to buy double-glazed windows with reflective films, mirrored and tinted coatings.

Frames are wooden - they are made of laminated veneer lumber, impregnated with antiseptic compounds and coated with varnish for outdoor work.

Wooden bars are coated for durability with polyurethane. Natural material fits perfectly into the interior of the country house and country house.

Frame made with PVC plastic profile. This plastic is lightweight and has anti-fire characteristics, frost resistant.

Aluminum metal profiles are widely used in public and office spaces.

The mansard constructions in armor are also armored frames - they are heavier and more durable than standard ones and can withstand extreme mechanical and weather loads.

Opening mechanisms are available with manual or automated remote control. There are windows with an upper axis of rotation, with a central, with a raised axis. On the frame there are also two axes of rotation, controlled by one handle. Opening takes place in two positions - folding and turning.

“Smart” windows are controlled using a remote control or a wall-mounted keyboard, to which blinds or shutters, roller blinds, and curtains are also connected.It is possible to close the program when the rain starts, then the window closes to the “airing” position. Automation for windows can be integrated into the "smart home" system, climate control system. At a critical temperature increase in the room, the sash will open with the help of an electric drive, and at the first drops of rain a special sensor will give a command to close. The program manages processes during the absence of residents, maintaining the specified indicators of humidity and temperature.

Front or eaves double-glazed windows are placed at the junction of the facade and roof, combine the characteristics of ordinary windows and skylights. They look very original and increase the flow of light entering the room.

You can buy a structure in the form of a dormer window, only with transparent walls for greater illumination.

Transforming window when opening turns into a small comfortable balcony, in the closed state, it has a standard look.

Zenith windows are designed for installation on flat roofs and are designed with a special inclined frame so that the sun does not beat directly into it.

Light tunnels put in the presence of an attic above the attic. The window itself is mounted in the roof, a corrugated tube is attached, which transfers the rays to the ceiling, which diffuses the flow of light.

The shape of a standard oblique window is rectangular, and can also be square. The design consists of a frame and sash, gasket, fittings, salary. Standard frames are mounted on inclined flat roofs.

Arc or arched frames have a curved shape. They are intended for slopes of the corresponding form, vaulted roofs.

Round windows are produced that look original and romantic in the interior.

Combined frames consist of two parts. The lower part is usually rectangular. The upper window is called an extension and can be both rectangular and triangular, semicircular.

The dimensions of the windows and their dimensions depend on various individual parameters, angles and dimensions of the room and roof:

• the width of the frame is determined by the distance between the roof rafters;
• the height is calculated by placing the lower and upper level of the window so that it is convenient to open and look at it;
• taken into account and the angle of inclination of the roof.

The factories produce a wide range of products of standard dimensions.

In addition to the drawing, in the attic arrangement project, a window arrangement is necessary, as well as a working estimate.

In addition to the frames and glass packs themselves, manufacturing companies produce various additional accessories and components for installation, protection during operation, opening control, and maintenance. These accessories are internal, external, they change the characteristics, add functionality, decorate and complete the composition. Installation is possible after installation of windows or during it.

External components:

• The salary is mounted on top of the frame and protects the joint between the window and the roof from rainwater and other precipitation. Salaries of different prices are selected for different types of roofing, therefore salaries are not included in the price of windows.To ensure maximum waterproofing of the window, the salary is sunk into the roof covering by 6 cm. They are made in various forms, including for cornices and skates. For different types of roofs the corresponding salaries are issued. The higher the wave of roofing, the higher salary is bought.
• Awnings prune the window opening and reduce light transmission, create coolness on hot summer days, protect from ultraviolet radiation, taking up to 65% of the light. Other advantages of the marquis are the reduction of the noise level, the effect of rain. At the same time, the view when looking at the street through the wrap net is not distorted.
• Roller shutters close the doorway completely and are an effective obstacle for intruders to penetrate, and also significantly reduce the level of noise penetrating from the street. Rolling shutter models are sold, manually controlled by a rod or by using a remote control powered by solar batteries.
• Drives for automatic opening and closing operate on mains or solar panels. They allow you to automate the process of controlling the movement of the valves.
• Mortise lock is an additional means of home security.

Internal accessories:

• The mosquito net is made of fiberglass and aluminum frame and is installed along special guides that prevent the breakdown of the product during strong gusts of wind. The grid completely passes a sunlight, but keeps dust, insects, down and garbage.
• Blinds are available in a wide range of colors and allow you to change the angle and degree of illumination or can completely darken the room. Equipped with remote control systems.
• Roller blinds prune room and are a decorative element of the interior rooms, hide the room from prying eyes. Pleated curtains look very attractive, giving the interior a lightness and a modern look. The coating applied on top of the roller blinds reduces the temperature in the room during the summer heat. To control and move the curtains used telescopic retractable rods.

Additional accessories and accessories:

• The lower handles are set for the convenience of manual opening of high-positioned frames, while the upper handles are blocked. The handle is usually supplied with constipation.
• Telescopic rod and stick are manual tools for controlling sashes, blinds, mosquito nets and curtains. Intermediate elements for rods are sold, the prefabricated structure reaches a length of 2.8 m.
• Partial and waterproofing kits produce ready-to-install, quick and easy installation.
• Ready PVC slopes are easy to install from the inside of the room and do not require painting.
• The factory complete set often includes corners for installation, fixing materials - galvanized nails. Also on the list is a vapor barrier apron, special sealant and adhesive tape.
• The drainage gutter, which is necessarily mounted above the window opening, serves to drain rainwater and condensate.

The following tools are required for installation work:

• linear or circular saw or handsaw;
• construction stapler;
• roulette and level;
• screwdriver and mounting material;
• die shears for cutting metal;
• tongs "corrugation";
• drill.

Installation of roof windows is recommended during the construction phase of the truss system. This is a complex and time-consuming process that is better to be entrusted to professionals, but if necessary installation can be carried out on its own, having the necessary tools, skills and experience in the field of construction, knowledge of technology. The designs of different manufacturing companies are installed in different ways, they have certain features of the installation technology.

Location is a very important aspect that affects the overall composition of the building, technical characteristics, proper functioning and service life not only of the windows, but of the entire roof. It is necessary to take the project of the house with the detailed sizes, on them it will be possible to make exact calculations.

There are certain rules for choosing an optimal and safe place.

It is not recommended to install attic structures in the following roof assemblies:

• at the junction of horizontal surfaces;
• close to chimneys and ventilation outlets;
• on the slopes of the so-called endova, forming internal corners.

In these areas, there is a maximum accumulation of precipitation and condensate, which greatly complicates the operating conditions and increases the risk of fogging and leakage.

The height of window openings from the floor level is determined by the height of the handle. If it is located in the upper part of the sash, then the optimal height of the window is 110 cm from the floor. At this height, it is convenient to open the sash manually. If the handle is located in the lower part of the glass, the height cannot be less than 130 cm, especially if there are children in the attic, and the maximum height is 170 cm. points - radiators under the windows. They are placed there to prevent condensation. The slope of the slopes also affects the location of the structure - the smaller the angle of inclination, the higher the window is set.

The depth of landing window has three standard values ​​provided by the manufacturer. Outside the window structure, special grooves are marked, marked with the letters N, V ​​and J, indicating different depths of fit.Salaries for each depth are made separately, supplied with appropriate markings, where the depth is indicated by the last letter, for example, EZV06.

Installation of frames produced in the intervals between the rafters at a distance of 7-10 cm from them to lay the insulating material. The rafter system ensures the strength of the roof, therefore, it is undesirable to violate its integrity.

To calculate the dimensions of the opening, you need to add to the size of the window a gap of 2-3.5 cm for laying insulation from four sides. Thermal insulation material often acts mineral wool. Between the opening and the cutout of the roof, an installation gap is left, the width of which is determined by the type of roofing material. For tiles, for example, it should be 9 cm. In order to avoid skewing of the window when the house shrinks between the top bar and the roof, the gap is 4-10 cm.

Installation is desirable for rafters, but it is also possible for a special crate. Bars obreshetki installed between the rafters horizontally horizontally level. A drainage gutter is mounted outside the planned opening. It is mounted at an angle so that condensate flows freely onto the roof, bypassing the window. Such a gutter can be made by hand, folded in half a piece of waterproofing fabric.

When all sizes are counted, you can draw and cut the layout of the opening from drywall. On the finished waterproofing of the inner side of the roof or on the finish, it is also necessary to draw the outline of the opening, drill several holes to relieve stress and prevent deformation. Then saw through a band or circular saw with a crosswise cross two stripes and cut the resulting triangles, correct the edges strictly according to the outline. Waterproofing cut through the same envelope and wrapped outside, attaching to the crate.

If metal roofing, slate, corrugated sheet metal or sheet iron is used as the roofing material, then an opening is made from the outside using a similar technology. If the roof is covered with tiles, you should first disassemble the floor and then cut it out. Heat insulator to lay down and shoot with a stapler to the mounting bars.After all the work has been completed, the dismantled elements of the roof covering are returned to the site.

Before installing the frame in the prepared opening, you need to remove the glass and remove the salary. Mounting brackets are included and different manufacturers have different types. They also fasten in different ways: some on the rafters, others on the rafters and on the crate. Mounting angles are also included in the standard kit, they are equipped with a measuring ruler for correct adjustment of the position of the frame in the opening. Screws and galvanized nails are used as fastening material.

The frame without glass must be installed in place in the window opening and correct the position of the bottom edge of the box, fasten the bottom brackets to the stop. It is better to leave upper mounts with backlash and not to twist it to the end to facilitate subsequent adjustment. Experts advise to insert the sash into the frame to check the tight fit and correction of cracks. At this stage, check all levels, angles and distances, correct inaccuracies, fit the frame into place using plastic corners. In the future, the correction of distortions will be impossible.After adjustment, the sash is carefully removed again so as not to damage the hinges.

After adjustment and adjustment, the brackets twist firmly and lay a waterproofing apron around the box, the top of the apron is laid under the drainage chute, one end of the apron is stabbed to the frame with the other, and the other is pulled under the crate. The insulation is attached along the side of the frame.

Salary should be made strictly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Different brands have it different, and their equipment is different. In any case, the lower part of the salary is mounted first, then the side elements, and then the upper part, and only at the end are the lining installed.

From the inside, the window is finished and the factory slopes are assembled. The correct position of them is such that the bottom slope should look horizontally, and the top one - strictly vertically, otherwise convection of warm air around the window structure will be disturbed, undesirable condensate will appear. Slopes are fastened mainly by snapping on special locks.

All large well-known manufacturing companies offer skylights of plastic PVC profiles.Due to the properties of plastic, the range of such products is used in rooms with high levels of humidity, in regions with a humid climate. A good solution is to install a PVC window transformer. When opening the lower sash a small balcony is formed. Plastic frames also glaze complex structures, for example, balconies and loggias in the gables, if desired, or the presence of beautiful views, you can make all the glass of the gable from floor to ceiling glass.

These frames have several fixing positions, the opening mechanism for them is along the central axis. Double-glazed windows with tempered glass withstand considerable mechanical loads and even human weight. For comfortable ventilation ventilation valves are provided with special removable filters, they are designed to clean the air in the room with the windows closed.

The most popular material for mansard frames is wood. Since the tree absorbs moisture, swells, and cracks when exposed to the sun, such material is not used without special protection measures.Basically, they use northern pine, whose reliability and durability has been tested for centuries, solid or glued laminated timber. It is impregnated with antiseptics and covered with a double layer of varnish. In this case, the tree does not rot, does not deform, acquires durability. Some manufacturers cover wooden pine timber monolithic polyurethane. This coating increases the life of the box and gives it extra strength.

The main advantage of wood is environmental friendliness, safety for human health. Due to the beautiful natural texture, enhanced lacquer, in the interior, it looks natural and harmonious, emphasizes the atmosphere of a country house. These windows are the most affordable and have the richest assortment of models and varieties, fixings and opening mechanisms. These frames can be both vertical and installed in a dormer in the roof, and inclined for installation on the roof slopes at an angle. They are perfect for offices, bedrooms, living rooms and children's rooms.

Aluminum skylights are used mainly in offices, hospitals, office buildings for various purposes.They have a tough, solid construction, a relatively small weight, withstand strong and sharp temperature jumps from -80 to + 100 degrees.

The metal profile is cold and warm.

Installing attic window construction is time consuming and responsible. Experienced professionals share many years of experience and give valuable advice on how to properly install them in order to avoid mistakes and errors during installation, as well as preventive care for them, so that they reliably serve as long as possible.

Here are the basic recommendations:

• Failure by the buyer to comply with the manufacturer’s instructions for self-assembly may lead to loss of warranty rights.
• When accepting a window delivered from the factory or from the store, it should be carefully examined for its integrity and compliance with the configuration, dimensions, visual defects and packaging problems.In case of non-compliance with the requirements, the acceptance certificate is not worth signing
• It is not recommended to use foam for installation. In this case, only special insulating sealants are needed. Polyurethane foam does not provide waterproofing, and when it hardens and expands it will create an additional load on the frame and may shift the structural elements and jam the sash.

• After installing the box, it should be insulated, carefully tucking the mineral wool around the window and be sure to lay it under the slopes.
• The adjustment is made at the stage of baiting the box, and only then they tighten to the stop. At subsequent stages of installation, the correction of the position of the box is impossible.
• When buying it is necessary to check the equipment, compatibility of all components and component parts of the structure, check the dimensions with the project or drawing, draw up a contract in which to specify all the details of the order.
• Products must be certified and have all accompanying and warranty documents, as well as detailed instructions for installation and proper operation.
• Fastening the box to the rafters is much stronger, but when mounted on a batten, it is easier to align the frame.

The most famous and large companies that are leading in the construction market of roof windows and components for them offer customers high-quality certified products, as well as additional accessories and means of preventive window treatment during the whole period of operation.

Danish company Velux has been working in the Russian Federation since 1991. Unique developments and inventions brought this manufacturer to the leading brands represented in Russia. In addition to the main products, the company offers customers a full range of components and accessories that are fully compatible with windows. The innovative material used by the company for the production of wooden frames is the northern pine, which has been tested for centuries in Europe and has been impregnated with antiseptic compounds and coated with monolithic polyurethane or a double layer of lacquer.

Among the many patented inventions, we can note a unique ventilation system equipped with thin filters and a special vent window built into the opening knob for comfortable ventilation.

No drafts and crevices, a three-level sealing system, silicone instead of a sealant, only innovative and proven materials - all this comes from the company's products. According to the results of examinations, Velux windows adequately withstand temperatures down to –55 degrees and are recommended for installation in northern regions.

The main line of Velux models is produced in large and medium sizes.

German windows Roto first appeared in 1935. Products of this company are manufactured from high-quality plastic PVC multi-chamber profile. The windows of this company are small and medium in size. Standard sizes are 54x78 and 54x98. All the best material properties of Roto products are ideal for the climatic conditions of our country, abrupt weather changes, a large abundance of precipitation.

Piston actuators that prevent the slamming of the window can be installed on the Roto casements; the doors can be controlled using the remote control or the smart home system. Installation is allowed not only to the rafters, but also to the crate, models are available that are mounted without first removing the sash. The products of this company receives excellent reviews from both construction professionals and owners of private houses that use German windows for many years.

Company Fakro For 10 years, it has been producing structures that pass more than 70 different checks and tests before being sold. Tests for strength and other parameters are also raw materials and components. Outside the design is protected by overlays.

For the convenience of working with their products, this manufacturer has developed mobile applications, conducts regular training seminars for builders, and watch TV shows.There are certified brigades, as well as official service centers for the repair and preventive maintenance of products for custom-made qualified installation of windows. For double-glazed windows and spare parts there is an unlimited warranty. Replacement of these components is absolutely free, regardless of service life and cause of damage. The creation of such an infrastructure for the convenience of buying and servicing allowed the company to gain deserved popularity and become one of the leaders on the Russian market.

Designers and architects create impressive buildings - real works of architectural art, which combine impressiveness and modern openness and lightness of interiors. The variety of complex fantasy forms and the boldness of making skylights shakes the imagination. The rapid development of building technologies and innovations allows us to design unusual attic rooms that reflect the personality and taste of the owners.

Making repairs in the attic, the owners think through and decorative design of window openings. Hanging heavy and curtains in such interiors is undesirable.It is better to give preference to light curtains, blinds, roller shutters. The harmonious combination of colors will create a modern, light and comfortable interior.

Clean and fresh air, beautiful summer landscape, peace and unity with nature - what could be more beautiful! In a country house to enjoy a rest in the attic becomes even more comfortable with the transformer windows, which in the closed position look like usual, and when opened, turn into an improvised balcony.

Recommendations specialist installation of roof windows, see the following video.