How to Pick the Best Roof Windows for Your House – Velux

No matter whether the roof windows you are selecting are for a new property or to replace the existing ones in your home, there are certain key considerations. First among these will often be the cost most people have a budget for the job and this helps them decide what windows they can choose. The physical dimensions of the space for the window is another major factor and in most houses, energy efficiency is also key. There are many brands of windows available and currently, one of the top manufacturers is Velux. But why are their windows considered to be the best of the best?

Window basics

Roof windows generally come in either a wood finish or in uPVC and the choice between these may be steered by what the frames of the other windows in the house are made from. If you have dark wood windows in the house, you probably don't want a white uPVC frame on the roof window.

The type of window is the next consideration and there are a number to choose from. One of the factors in making this decision is based around what the loft space is user for. If the space is a storage space, then a simple skylight will be sufficient but if it is a frequently used part of the house, then one window at least will need to offer a means of escape. Other options include top hung, one-third opening, side hung or a balcony or terrace style.

Who are Velux?

Velux was founded in 1954 in the UK but has now spread to over 35 countries around the world and employs some 10,000 people. The company creates its products around the idea of creating better living environments for people by introducing sunlight and fresh air. The company still has its headquarters in Glenrothes in Scotland as well as sales people based around the country.

Velux are renowned by professionals for constantly evolving and improving their products, with upgrades and updates coming along frequently. This means that the company are constantly testing new technology and techniques to find the perfect products for their customers and ensure that all the standards are met to the highest level.

Another element that makes Velux stand out is the coordinating items they provide. As well as the windows, they make all the flashings and other elements needed for the perfect roof window system. This means that should something need replacing or amending, it is simple to continue using their products.

Ranges of Velux Windows 

The centre pivot window remains as one of the bestselling Velux products because theirs are the only window to have a top operation. This means that the window is easy to operate and simple to install plus once in place, furniture can be placed beneath it and the window will still open without issue. These windows are easy to clean once installed as the sash rotates 180 degrees and the low installation means there are more locations that these windows can be used.

Top hung windows can be operated with just a handle that is found on the bottom of the window frame and opens outwards to give an unobstructed view. For people wanting to enjoy the sights from their roof window, this style is ideal. They are also perfect when the window needs to be in a high position such as connected to a high knee wall.

Integra is a range of Velux windows that are special because they are either electrically or solar powered. This means that there is no reaching up and down to get to the window operations and will also operate accessories such as blinds or roller shutters. They even come with a pre-fitted sensor that realises it is raining and shuts the window for you to avoid damp rooms below.

Balcony windows allow access to a roof space or even gives the illusion of a balcony without the space needed for a full-scale door. The Velux Cabrio range features a top opening window that looks like a normal roof window, combined with a section that stands out from the roof. This means you can stand with your upper body outside the line of the roof and enjoy the summer breeze or a full panoramic view.

For houses that have a safe roof space that can be ventured onto or even a balcony, the Velux roof terrace is perfect. This is a fully opening pair of windows, one opening to the side and the other above to allow full access to the roof space beyond.

Special windows

In addition to the shape and opening of a window, sometimes extra features are the difference between one brand and another. One feature that Velux provide on their windows is a burglary resistant system to give extra peace of mind to the homeowner. The windows combine a toughened glass and laminated panes along with reinforced construction and even extra locks to be certain that they cannot easily be broken into.

For people living near airports, motorways and other high noise level features, the super sound insulation window is a perfect addition to whatever style window is chosen. These windows can reduce the noise inside the room by as much as half in comparison to a normal Velux window and are ideal for people who need to sleep during the day as well.

Extras and accessories

Once you have selected the type of window and any extra features you want adding to it, the final choice is an accessories you may need. One example is a ventilation bar and the ones on the Velux windows offer three options locked, vented and open rather than simply just open and closed.

When it comes to putting up a blind to a window, getting the right fit can be a nightmare. However, by combining Velux windows and Velux blinds, this random factor is removed from the equation. The brand feature an impressive range of roof window blinds including blackout blinds, venetian blinds and even roller shutters for security. By simply taking the special code from the window, you can be certain that you are buying the corresponding blind and never have to worry about cutting to size again.

Conclusion

Velux offer one of the most comprehensive ranges of roof windows and associated products currently available and all are made to the highest standard. When you want to consider a product that will last the test of time, then Velux will definitely merit a look.