How do you know which will be the best option for your home?

Whether you are purchasing your first-ever roof window or have done several times before, it can be diffuclt to choose the perfect solution. Should you get a centre-pivot or top-hung? Manual or remote control? Concerned about rain noise or uninvited guests?  We give a simple and helpful 6 steps guide to help you choose the right roof window:

Step 1: What do you want to achieve?
Before choosing roof windows and deciding on their layout, you must consider the function and the personal needs of the occupants of the room. What kind of room is it? Bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, living room or other? 

When you know the room type, you should consider how much daylight and view you want. Then consider the shape and volume of the room in order to decide on the number and position of the windows.

Step 2: Select the type and operation method
Select how the window should open.

Top-hung
The top hung roof window is operated with an elegant handle at the bottom. The top-hung roof windows are the perfect choice for loft conversions with roof windows in easy reach and gives you the added benefit of an unobstructed skyline view and maximises the amount of natural daylight that can be allowed in.

INTEGRA®
INTEGRA® is an innovative system of remote controlled windows. Driven by a motor and powered either by electricity or solar cells, the INTEGRA® windows are ideal for out of reach situations or if you are simply looking for ultimate comfort. Open and close with just one touch of the control pad - from anywhere in your house.

Centre-pivot
The centre-pivot roof window is top-operated. The innovative top control bar allows you to install the window lower than an equivalent bottom-operated window to get an excellent view while standing and when seated and makes it easy to open, even with furniture underneath.

Step 3: Select the internal finish
Depending on the type and operation of the roof window, you must decide on the internal finish:

White painted
High quality pine wood with water-based long-lasting white paint with discrete wood grain. Perfect for almost all rooms.

White polyurethane
High quality moulded polyurethane protects the timber core and is easy to wipe clean. Ideal for humid rooms, such as kitchens or bathrooms.

Lacquered natural pine
Warmth of natural pine with long lasting triple coat finish. Ideal for a traditional interior.

Step 4: Consider the glazing options
The glazing is the easiest way to increase the performance of your roof window. The different types of glazings available have different added benefits such as heat insulation, sound insulation, added strength and protection from the outside elements. The best glazing option to choose will depend on what you want from your roof window and it is therefore important that you consider whether you are looking for noise reduction, improved thermal insulation or increased safety to your home.

For more information on glazing options, click here.

Step 5: Choose flashing and installation products
To further improve energy performance it's important to insulate around the edge of the roof window, it is important that you choose compatible flashing and installation products. VELUX and Solstro offer a wide range of installation products to make it quicker and easier for you to meet building regulation requirements and provide a more comfortable indoor environment.

For further details on flashing and installation products, click to see the range here.

Step 6: Add the finishing touch
VELUX and Solstro blinds and roller shutters is not only deisgned to complement your room and interior - they also play an important role in managing heat, light and shading in a room when it gets too sunny. Most blinds also have the added benefit of heat prevention. 

Take a moment to learn more about our wide range of blinds here to help you decide.