Converting your loft can be an ideal way to add some extra space to your home.
Not only can it save you the upheaval of moving house, it can also add value to your property.
Getting your lighting and ventilation right are crucial in ensuring that your loft conversion becomes the light airy space you're hoping for, and fitting a Velux window can transform a dark attic into a beautiful, useable space filled with potential.
Fitting a Velux window is arguably best left to a professional roofer! If you're keen to have go yourself, however, here are some tips that may help: The first decision you'll need to make is the size of window you require and the preferred positioning for the window.
It is essential that the dimensions for the opening in your roof are measured exactly.
To create the opening for your new window you'll need to remove the slates or tiles from the appropriate area of your roof and cut through the rafters underneath.
It's important to ensure that you have sufficient support between the floor and the roof beams to take the weight until the cross beams (also known as dwangs) are cut and fitted.
The smallest of the Velux window range can usually be fitted between trusses without having to cut the beams.
If the window is larger, it's advisable to consult a structural engineer; drawings can easily be provided and will cost between £100 and £200.
•Your Velux window should be laid flat to unpack and opened with care •You'll need to remove the glass from the frame for fitting; do this by pushing in the 2 small pins located in the hinges •Fit the brackets to the 4 corners of the window frame using the screws provided •The window frame should then be placed on top of the batons and fixed in place using the screws supplied •The window must be fitted flat in relation to the roof; if necessary, use the black wedge supplied under one of the corners in order to ensure that the window is stable •When this stage is complete, you are ready to install the flashings around the window.
Ensure that the flashings used are correct for your roof type; this stage is critical in ensuring that there are no leaks.
The lower flashing should be fitted first.
The soakers should then be fitted up each side of the window and fixed to the roof covering.
The soakers are joined to each other using a fold-over tab.
They also have a serrated top edge which helps to keep them in position.
The top flashing is fitted last •When the flashings have been installed, the slates or tiles can now be replaced •When you are ready to reinstall the glass, the window should be passed upside down through the roof opening.
Position the hinges into their openings and as the window is closed, the lugs will automatically open and hold the window in place.
The window can then be rotated and closed.