A Buyer’s Guide to Pitched Roof Windows

A pitched window is a roof window that is installed at an angle. On the inside, if the roof is serving as a wall, this may look like an ordinary window depending on the pitch. On the outside of the house, they’re still on the roof. They may blend in smoothly to the roof space or protrude out, depending upon the roof and which options you’ve selected. 

Pitched roof windows are ideal for extensions that don’t have much wall space. They bring natural sunlight into what would otherwise be a dark and enclosing space. In some rooms, such as loft conversions, they’re the only way to bring natural light in to the room.

Do I need planning permission?

Planning permission is not typically needed for installing roof windows in a house. However, it is always worth checking the listing to see if planning permission is needed. Although a loft conversion is considered to be permitted for development, there are some circumstances where it is needed. If your roof windows are going in an extension, they should have been included in the planning application. You don’t want to be in a situation where you have to apply for retroactive planning permission so it’s always worth doing your research and thoroughly checking the permissions.

What rooms are they best for?

A pitched roof window can be installed on a pitched roof. The room’s usage will determine the type of window and size. Anywhere a window is installed will benefit from the advantages of natural sunlight streaming into a room. It will also experience the consequences, such as the sun bleaching that occurs. Tinting is an option for roof windows, but a guest room that doesn’t see as much use as a master bedroom will want a smaller window. 

Roof

Once the room is considered, the roof itself needs to be thought of. Think about what materials you will be using and if they can accommodate a window. Not all roofs can handle roof windows. If this is a new installation, be prepared to adjust the size, shape and location of the window to suit your roof.

If you are unsure about the suitability and structure of your roof, then consulting experienced roof specialists will help you to determine the best approach you should take. Professionals will be able to assess the structural support materials as well as ventilation requirements before any installation is to take place. Proper guidance will ensure that the roof windows are all installed safely and that the integrity of your roof will not be compromised.

Adding Blinds 

Even though pitched roof windows are at an angle, they can still have blinds for additional privacy or to reduce the sun bleaching effect. Some people choose to install a curtain rail on the ceiling and have curtains hanging straight up and down. This does eat into the floor space in a room though. Blinds can be installed on runners for a pitched window. It depends on how much space you have and your personal style preference. 

 

Fixed Pitched Windows

 

Pitched windows that don’t open are available. These are ideal for inner hallways with roof access. They still let in all the sunlight but might be too high to benefit from opening the window. That doesn’t mean you can’t get opening pitched windows that are impossible to reach. 

 

Opening Pitched Windows

 

Some rooms are going to want windows that open, particularly the bathroom. Pitched roof windows come in manually opening and electronic types. Out of reach pitched windows can be opened with a pole. Electronic pitched windows can open at the press of a button and it’s always good to install windows that open fully to aid with air ventilation in your home.