Home extensions are one of the famous projects many homeowners do around the UK. Roof windows have become famous for bringing sunlight into your home extension, creating an inviting and open atmosphere. But how many windows are enough for your extension project?
In this blog, you will explore the required number of roof windows in various spaces around your house. Whether you're planning to expand your living area, create a dreamy kitchen extension, or construct a stylish home office, understanding the guidelines for roof window placement is crucial.
Recommended Number of Roof Windows
The number of roof windows you should aim for in your home extension depends on several factors, including room functionality, size, layout, orientation, regulations, design preferences, and energy efficiency.
1. Expanding Your Kitchen Space
When extending your ground floor for a larger kitchen space, consider what type of windows you need. Natural light is crucial for any kitchen, and roof windows can be a fantastic way to maximise light in your new space.
The recommended number of skylights for a kitchen extension depends on various factors, including the extension's size, orientation, and your personal preferences. A general rule of thumb is to aim for a total window area of at least 20% of the floor to ensure your kitchen is well-lit and airy.
Roof skylights are precious for introducing light from above, especially in compact kitchen extensions. Choose from various finishes and elevate the look of your kitchen extension.
Casement and sliding windows are considered one of the best options for kitchen extension spaces.
You must ensure your design adheres to local regulations and consult a professional to balance aesthetics, functionality, and compliance.
2. Expanding Your Living Room Space
For extending your ground floor to create a larger living room, it's generally recommended that windows make up 20-25% of the floor area of the extension. This balance ensures the room is bright and airy without sacrificing heat.
It's best to use corner and double-hung roof windows for your living room extensions.
Factors like your room’s layout, privacy concerns, and overall design should influence your window choices. Flat roof windows or skylights can be a perfect addition to your living room extension, with various types available to match your style and requirements. At JJ Roofing Supplies, we stock a variety of roof windows, such as flat roof domes and roof lanterns.
3. Adding a New Bedroom:
Pitched Roof windows are a great choice when adding a bedroom as the home extension. When selecting the window type, consider privacy, operation, location, and size factors.
In the UK, a standard-sized bedroom often benefits from two large windows or one substantial roof window. This provides ample illumination and fresh air circulation. While additional windows can enhance the view and brightness, they may reduce available wall space for furniture. Thus, careful planning is crucial to balance and create a serene and functional bedroom.
You may also install sliding doors, sash and bay windows, and tilt-and-turn windows for your ground-floor room.
JJ Roofing Supplies stocks roof windows from renowned brands such as VELUX, FAKRO, Coxdome, Korniche, Atlas, Mardome and Duratech.
4. Establishing a Home Office
A home office requires enough light to feel fresh and energised to get through the day in a relaxed environment. Having at least one roof window in a home office is generally recommended, with two or more being ideal. This approach ensures natural light and ventilation, improving mood, productivity, and overall well-being.
Consider installing a fixed roof, sliding and casement windows for smaller home offices to maximise light. If your office gets hot, opt for windows with energy-efficient features like double-glazing and low-emissivity coatings. If you have a scenic view, more oversized windows can allow you to enjoy it while you work.
5. Extending or Converting Your Loft Space
A loft conversion typically aims to create more space to make it a home bar or library. A typical loft conversion includes at least one or two windows for natural light and ventilation, including roof windows (e.g., Velux) or dormer windows extending from the sloping roof.
Larger loft spaces or those intended as bedrooms often have more windows to maximise daylight. It's essential to consult a local architect or builder to determine the precise window count suitable for your loft conversion.
How do you convert your loft? Check out our loft conversion guide to help you better understand the steps required.
Do I need building regulations to add a window?
You might need building regulations approval to add a window in the UK. New windows are considered 'controlled fittings' under Part L1B of the Building Regulations.
New windows must meet several requirements to comply with building regulations, including.
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To install a roof light, the roof structure will generally need to be altered to create the opening.
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Ensure the roof can support the load of the new roof light; strengthen it if necessary.
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Verify the rooflight's energy efficiency by assessing its insulation against heat loss.
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Consider the fire performance of the roof light if it is near a boundary.
You can use a registered installer to fit your new window, and they will be able to certify their work without the involvement of building control.
It is important to note that building regulations approval is separate from planning permission. You may also need planning permission to add a new window to your home, depending on the location and type of window. You can check with your local authority to see if planning permission is required.
We hope we have given you ideas for your home extension from the above guide. Need roofing supplies for your project? Shop online or in-store to bag the best deals.
Need help with your order? Our customer service staff are highly knowledgeable and will assist you throughout your buying journey. Call us at 0333 700 1111 or drop an email to web.sales@jjroofing.co.uk.
