Fakro GB Ltd - Roof windows – see the light!

Despite the increasing popularity of loft space conversion and warm roof construction in new homes, among roof window options the traditional centre pivot is still the most popular. But today, acknowledgement of the roof window’s intrinsic design value is leading to use of a far wider range of products and accessories in more imaginative combinations. Awareness of product developments can, therefore, be invaluable for the installer, and not just from the perspective of installation technique. Indeed, consistent feedback to manufacturer Fakro confirmed just this - that roofers welcome details of product improvements and legislation just as much as factors affecting fixing.
In the early years of roof window installation, functionality invariably led to the most basic configurations. By contrast today, L-shaped and other combinations now provide scope for distinctive interiors which meet the most exacting requirements and diversity of style. Accessories ranging from blinds and motor drives to specialised items such as wind, rain and smoke sensors also do much to enhance overall window performance in keeping with the specific needs of the environment. But awareness of some installation opportunities remains limited.
If we take an extreme example of a roof in which a combination roof window might be thought impractical - a mansard roof - a module to join windows is now available, so that the upper element can be installed between 15 and 60° and the lower one between 45 and 90°. Utilising universal installation brackets, windows can be set at the depth required for any profile of tile or slate, providing similar scope to an L-shaped window, but without the limitation of the lower element being set at 90°.
Conversions of Dutch barns too would, until recently, have precluded use of roof windows. Curved windows, however, are now available to be used either singly or in combinations, providing scope for use with contemporary metal roof profiles in just the same way.
The more commonly used L-shaped combination window is often used with other roof windows to extend the overall glazing span and maximise natural light and view. Traditionally available with either centre pivot or non-opening options, Fakro has now added a tilt and turn lower vertical window to its range. And to make a strikingly distinctive design statement, triangular or semi-circular top windows can be used with L-shaped combinations or even a single window.
On a more traditional front, where a light source is required for a flat roof, the tendency is to install a traditional roof dome or rooflight. Use of flat roof windows, however, now provides scope to elevate the installation angle by 15°. Suitable for use with felts, single ply or asphalt, products such as Fakro’s EFW system provide good thermal efficiency at 1.5 W/m2k. With a 6.4 mm laminated glass inner pane and a 4 mm toughened outer, a high standard of safety and security is also provided. If needed in combination, they can be installed with just a 30cm gap between each window. On shallow pitches too, flashings can be used to enhance the installation angle by an additional 10°. Flashing elements are fully insulated, with weep flaps to drain away condensation and side sealing channels to protect against wind blown rain, dust and leaves.
Despite such developments, probably the most significant advance of recent years has come about in hinge design. Fakro’s FPP preSelect roof window can be used in either top-hung or centre pivot mode at the flick of a switch, a patented operating mechanism guaranteeing complete sash stability and security in any position. As with other Fakro windows, for user convenience the operating handle has been positioned in the lower part of the sash, an invaluable feature for the elderly or those in wheelchairs. It also provides a U-value of 1.0 W/m2K and between a 6 and 10% bigger glazing area over a traditional roof window of the same size.
Windows can now be produced with leaded pane effects and bespoke decoration of an exceptional standard.
Options now available offer roofers the opportunity to provide critical advice on site on key factors which ranging from venting and acoustics to thermal performance. Factors such as BBA and FSC accreditation, formerly unheard of in the roof window sector, now add further differentiation for the better products available. But whether for areas of high humidity, noise or extreme cold, and regardless of pitch, the roof window offers far greater practicality and quicker installation than a dormer, with none of the attendant problems. Added value for all concerned.

Email: sales@fakrogb.com