ᐅ Tilt windows or dormers?

Created on: 20 Nov 2008 07:48
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Ziegel-1
20 Nov 2008 07:48
Hello,
we want to convert our attic into a living space and are now facing the decision of whether to install standard tilt windows or to build dormers right away. What experiences do you have with this? What is better, and how can I bring more light into the attic? Thanks for your help, this is not an easy decision!
K
Kuddel-1
20 Nov 2008 16:22
Hello,
Dormer windows look nicer than tilt windows, but you need a building permit / planning permission for them. Tilt windows let more light into the room, which is an important factor not to be underestimated. Fewer windows are needed for this, whereas with dormers you have to install several to achieve sufficient brightness.
N
Nebel-1
20 Nov 2008 17:17
Hello,
I also don’t have dormers because you need a building permit / planning permission for them here. Besides, it’s true that dormers can make the roof area darker since less light comes in. They do look nicer, though, but the effort is quite significant because you have to build a small gable with all the necessary components.
B
BauLine-1
21 Nov 2008 00:33
That depends on where you want to install them—in Switzerland, Germany, or Austria? In Germany, for dormer windows of this size, you do not need a building permit or planning permission.

If you want more light, choose roof lounge windows.
Ziegel schrieb:
Hello,
we want to convert our attic and are now facing the decision whether to install standard tilt windows or to build dormers right away. What experiences do you have with this, which is better, and how can I bring more light into the attic? Thanks for your help, it’s not an easy decision!
K
Kaffee-1
24 Nov 2008 09:11
I can’t imagine that dormers don’t require permission in Germany! For us, it was required, but it might vary from municipality to municipality. It’s better to check in advance, because afterwards you won’t be able to make any changes.
F
Förster-1
26 Nov 2008 14:10
Hello,
If the attic area is really going to be used as living space, I can clearly only recommend dormers. Of course, they are more expensive and more complicated to build. However, a dormer increases the living space somewhat, and the window can be better utilized because it also creates a window sill, for example, for plants.
A tilt window would be the cheaper, simpler option if the budget is tight. I would definitely choose dormers.

Best regards,
Förster