ᐅ Are roof windows really not feasible with a roof pitch of about 12°?

Created on: 7 Mar 2018 10:36
A
AnNaHF79
Hello,

we have a single-pitched roof (with a weatherproof underlayment) with a slope of about 12° (a bit more). We would like to install a roof window in the stairwell area; however, our architect tells us this is not possible due to the slope (only from 15° upwards). Raising the gable to adjust the slope is not an option for building code reasons, as we would then exceed the maximum allowed height.

I did some research and so far only found windows from Vitral that are suitable for slopes between 0° and 30°, but the architect says these are only suitable for flat roofs, and so on.

Surely it must be possible to install a roof window on single-pitched roofs with a 12° slope — we can’t be the first in 2018, can we?

Any ideas?

Thanks.
R
ruppsn
25 Mar 2018 13:49
Is that really the case? I would first check whether their installation guidelines allow for a window surface. I don’t see any clear indication that they have no problem with it. Rather, they remain completely vague on the issue. In my opinion, their statement is so weak that in case of problems it would immediately fall apart and slip through your fingers [emoji6]

If the installation guidelines explicitly permit the casing of roof windows, you then only need to find both a window installer AND a roofer to install it—and here’s the catch—they must provide a warranty. And this is where it might get tricky.
The roofer is still working outside the ART (recognized rules of technology), meaning in case of problems, they are already involved. If something leaks, the trouble starts. The window installer says they did everything correctly and refers to the roofer, who also claims to have done everything properly and refers back to the window installer. Then you’re left out in the rain—literally and figuratively.
I would evaluate whether the window is so important that it justifies risking weakening the roof sealing there and later headaches. Alternatively, if the building permit / planning permission and budget allow, consider a different roofing material (e.g., standing seam metal roofing), which may integrate roof windows significantly better.
Personally, I wouldn’t do it on a BRAAS 7+ roof structure; I’d leave out the window and spend the money elsewhere. However, I don’t know what the window is intended for.
11ant25 Mar 2018 14:29
I get the impression that the architect’s concerns are not about the roof window breaking through the roof surface itself, but rather about the window’s application area: a 7° pitch is unusually low for a roof window and unusually high for a flat roof dome. This pitch is neither fish nor fowl when it comes to choosing the right window.
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R
ruppsn
25 Mar 2018 14:36
The 7 degrees here— I think it was 12 degrees for the original poster—probably don’t invalidate your statement, though, right? [emoji4]
A
Alex85
25 Mar 2018 14:47
Roof domes typically have a pitch of 0-15 degrees. That should not be an issue.
A
AnNaHF79
25 Mar 2018 14:48
Exactly, says Velux as well.
We have 12° Celsius (54°F).
11ant25 Mar 2018 21:57
Alex85 schrieb:
Skylights are typically installed at slopes between 0 and 15 degrees.
AnNaHF79 schrieb:
Exactly, that’s what Velux says as well.

If the manufacturer (and their warranty conditions) specify this, the architect shouldn’t oppose it. The one who pays has the final say – so make that clear to them.
ruppsn schrieb:
I think the original poster mentioned 12 degrees. But that probably doesn’t invalidate your point, right?

That’s correct. The practical implication here is that if a replacement is needed later, you might not find another manufacturer willing to produce for that slope. I don’t see any additional risk as long as the current manufacturer approves.
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