ᐅ Modern roof windows: What can they do?

Created on: 28 Jul 2019 20:56
G
garfunkel
G
garfunkel
28 Jul 2019 20:56
I am considering having two additional roof windows installed. The goal is to bring more natural light into the room and improve ventilation options.
It’s important that the blinds are mounted on the outside, with both the windows and blinds electrically operated. I’m thinking of triple glazing and possibly some additional sound insulation.
How do modern roof windows hold up during heavy rain? Should I expect noise similar to drum-like sounds you sometimes get in caravans?
Does the blind need to be made from a specific material to reduce noise? Would a fabric blind serve as a kind of noise buffer?
Is it advisable to have an electric control system that automatically ventilates in the mornings and evenings (based on low sunlight or suitable temperatures)?

I want the size to fit between the rafters, which would be about 70cm (28 inches) wide. The length should be as long as possible, but 1.2 to 1.4m (47 to 55 inches) would also be sufficient.

Currently, I’m seeing prices around 2000€ for each window. How much would the installation cost in addition? The sheathing and the external roof insulation would need to be opened, the window installed, and everything professionally resealed.
I plan to handle the electrical work and aesthetics myself.

Is there anything else one should consider when installing a roof window? I’ve seen some models that allow ventilation even when external sunshades are used. Is that worthwhile?
H
hampshire
28 Jul 2019 22:33
A roof window is louder than having no window at all during rain, but significantly quieter than the weight-optimized skylights commonly used in motorhomes.

We had Velux windows for 18 years without blinds—noisy and prone to rotting. Five years ago, we replaced two other Velux windows with plastic windows from Heim und Haus with blinds. I find these better. The noise during rain is reduced when the blinds are closed. It is louder during hail. In our new house, we installed Roto windows. They make a very good impression and seem better insulated than the older Heim und Haus models. The windows open mechanically, and the blinds are operated by remote control.

The Heim und Haus windows have a ventilation setting that allows minimal airflow (similar to tilt windows), even with the blinds closed and during rain. I make use of this feature. These windows are hinged at the top edge rather than in the middle. This is practical when you would otherwise have to bend down to look out of an open window.

I do not know the current prices. Heim und Haus is very flexible in negotiations, as is usually the case with most direct sales products.
G
garfunkel
29 Jul 2019 16:41
And what is your opinion on the skylight now?
Does it definitely improve ventilation?
That would be one of the main reasons why I want to have skylights.
H
hampshire
29 Jul 2019 21:53
That cannot be answered without knowing the room. Also, better than which alternative?
Ventilation topic: Two windows side by side do not create a cross breeze.
rick201829 Jul 2019 22:07
A few years ago, we had triple-glazed Velux roof windows installed in our attic apartment. They are electric, with insulated electric external blinds without slots. On the inside, you can insert modules for an internal blind, which we have installed in some cases.

Even with the blinds closed, it’s not louder inside than on the roof tiles. The noisiest part tends to be the metal sheets. Of course, hail is louder than rain.

In total, we have seven roof windows on different sides and floors, allowing for good cross-ventilation.

What we especially like is that you can leave the windows open when you leave the house, and a sensor automatically closes them when it starts to rain.

Velux’s control system is quite proprietary, although it has improved with the IQ system.
G
garfunkel
30 Jul 2019 16:40
I have a gable window, and I expect better ventilation with roof windows than I do now. I also plan to install the roof windows higher up on the roof, since looking outside is less important in this case.

Is Velux a good brand, or just a well-known one? Heim & Haus also seem to be very good and possibly a bit more affordable.