Velux company is one of the active leaders in the production of roof windows. These structures have become a decoration for a large number of homes around the world. The main advantages of this series of roof windows are weather resistance, a well-thought-out package, reliability and quality. Customer reviews will confirm this, Velux windows have already been appreciated by many.
Northern conifers are the basis for the manufacture of frames, which are supplied with dormer windows. These are durable structures that can retain heat to the maximum.
What does the use of three-layer lamination contribute to? The use of energy-saving double-glazed windows with inert gas is also typical. There is an official site for Velux, where it is described in more detail about the features of the technologies.
The buyer receives a complete package suitable for installation work. Each window has a dedicated ventilation valve. It attaches to the top of the frame. Detailed step-by-step instructions are an important application. It is enough to adhere to the basic steps so that the operation is not a hassle, as is the installation. The Velux Optima Comfort series is no exception to the rule.
Pros and cons of roof windows
It is believed that there are two types of roof windows: those that leak and those that will leak. This is not a true statement, but it is derived from a kind of truth. No, not all skylights will leak, but many will, and many will look like they are leaking even if they are not, as they are notorious for causing condensation problems.
The problem is not necessarily a malfunction or defect during installation or manufacturing, but is a physics problem. Disregarding aesthetic appeal entirely for a moment, the reality is that skylights are more likely to become a high energy waste in any climate (due to additional heating or cooling needs) and less durable as you move north.
Before I list the problems, let me first say that I love skylights. I love natural light in general, and given the amount of time people spend indoors, I welcome features that make you feel a little better than outdoors; skylights are great for this. If they are operational and within reach, they can also function as an exhaust vent in summer to release stale warm air.
The advantages of roof windows are obvious. It's very nice to sit by a skylight in someone else's house, but what if you want those windows in your house.
The problem with installing skylights in the roof of a house is that it is a partial dismantling of the existing roof without compromising its strength.
Since the skylight will be installed on the roof surface and the ceilings are thick enough compared to the window, this usually results in a deep cavity in the ceiling where the skylight is installed. This adds a pleasant effect, but also provides an ideal spot for collecting warm air.
Wherever there is a concentration of warm and humid air in the house, the rate of heat loss increases in winter.But the problem doesn't end there - when you get warm and humid air collected by a cold surface (glass), you run the risk of condensation.
So, here we come to the question of the leakage of dormers; just because you see water droplets running down the wall from a skylight does not mean it is leaking, it could just be condensation.
Every house should be warm and cozy, this is one of the main points of every renovation. Comfort is provided by the best equipment in the house: high-quality furniture, beautiful wallpaper on the walls, warm windows that do not let heat out of the room. The question is, which windows will last longer and will not cause problems in operation? To create cozy conditions in the attic, you need to choose large windows that will provide the room with the right amount of heat and light. In the current construction, brands such as Velux and Fakro are often heard. Let's see which is better?
Production and lineup
Both companies manufacture roof windows. Both Velux and Fakro have been on the market for a very long time. Velux roof windows
are made in Denmark, while Fakro windows are famous for Polish production. The lineup of both companies is quite large. Models from the two companies differ in: functions and needs, rafter step, roof, interior, customer desires, and price.
The Fakro company presents a wide range of models, including:
- windows with a middle turn of opening;
- remote control models;
- two-chamber windows;
- options with a combined opening system (both conventional and plastic);
- cornice;
- hinged with thermal insulation;
- with a raised pivot axis;
- evacuation windows;
- hatch window;
- arc system window;
- tunnel window for rooms where it is impossible to install a conventional window.
Choosing an option for the attic will not be difficult with such a huge selection.
Attic windows from the Velux trademark also have a wide range of models:
- classic wooden windows with a pivot in the center,
- window with remote control and rain controller,
- wooden window with bottom opening,
- wooden window with 2 types of opening: from bottom to top and in the center,
- windows for light interiors or rooms with high humidity, with 2 types of opening,
- models with a water-resistant coating, opening in the center,
- window exit to the roof,
- skylight for non-residential buildings,
- eaves, which must be installed together with dormers,
- balcony window,
- window for cold weather with insulation,
- tunnel window for light entry,
- window terrace,
- smoke extraction system (for a flat roof house).
The lineup from the Velux company is also rich and varied. Even the most capricious client can buy a window: he will certainly choose something from the proposed options.
Specifications
Windows from the Fakro trademark, as well as roof windows
Velux,
are made using tempered glass with high resistance to various irritants. The energy-saving glass unit is filled with argon. The angle of inclination of the windows allows you to illuminate the room much more efficiently than front windows.
Ventilation of the premises is provided at a high level, even if the window is closed. The ventilation device is installed in such a way that it has high filtering and sound retention parameters. Both manufacturers use such a room ventilation system.
Velux uses a whole wooden board for frames with several layers of varnish (2-3, depending on the model). Fakro is famous for the use of a first-class glued wooden base made of Siberian pine, the base is smooth, impregnated with an antiseptic solution, with several layers of polyacrylic.
Ease of use
Exploitation roof windows Fakro
has slight differences from using Velux windows. The Fakro brand installs the handle at the bottom of the window, this makes it possible to place the structure a little further from the floor level. This arrangement of the window guarantees more room illumination. It's more convenient than climbing up: the Velux trademark installs a handle on top. But it is easy to use, despite this location.
The ventilation valve is at the top of both brands, only Velux combined it with the handle. But unlike its competitor, Fakro installs a valve in every model, with the exception of Thermo-windows.
In some variations, a self-cleaning glass unit is used. Both companies use this feature. This is ensured by a special coating. The window remains clean for a long time.
Both Fakro and Velux have a mid-swing system. Models with combined opening types are available from both companies. For each, these are certain options, the convenience of which remains at a high level.
An obligatory and very important element of windows is an insulating flashing, which ensures the tightness of installation in each type of roof. Internal and external flashing has different characteristics: the Fakro brand uses an external flashing with high waterproofing and steam penetration. A frame with a high vapor barrier is installed inside. For greater thermal insulation, a special belt is placed. It is the perfect combination of fittings that guarantees warmth in your home.
For waterproofing and heat resistance roof windows Velux
a circuit for thermal insulation, a waterproofing apron and a drainage groove are installed. The pleated apron ensures a snug fit to the sheathing. Windows are protected from condensation, vapor barrier characteristics are achieved thanks to a special set of flashing.
Installation and maintenance
Installation
windows Fakro
is performed on the rafters and on the battens, while the Velux company installs windows only on the rafters. There are 3 options for planting Fakro windows with different planting depths. Velux uses mounting plates for window mounting.
The guarantee from both brands is 10 years of their use. Fakro gives a guarantee for all models only with the purchase of a complete package: window, flashing, insulation. All parts are provided free of charge, regardless of the source of damage and the time of purchase.
Velux also provides a guarantee with the purchase of all parts. But the parts are not provided to customers for free. So Fakro is definitely better here. Window maintenance is no problem - all windows have a pivot axis. This does not make washing difficult, but only improves the cleaning process without even leaving the room.
The choice is only yours. Both Fakro and Velux have many positive qualities. But there are downsides everywhere.
You can view the models of Fakro and Velux windows by clicking the corresponding link below
Roof leaks near skylights can form condensation
Since condensation occurs when warm, humid air meets a cold surface, heating that surface reduces the amount of moisture that condenses on it. The rise in glass temperature must be due to the presence of a third glass panel, well-insulated frames and gas-filled chambers between the glasses.
Relative humidity is also a factor - condensation is worsened by higher humidity levels in homes. Lowering moisture levels should make a difference. To further mitigate these risks, it is best to avoid installing skylights near wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms.
If you already have windows installed and feel like they are leaking, before you hire someone to hire a roofer and start solving problems that may not exist, try some internal expertise first. Is there a lot of condensation on it? Does it only seem to "leak" during the colder months, even when there is no snow?
These are signs that a solution can be found inside, not outside. Covering with plastic, directing the fan, this can prevent moisture condensation, and for indoor conditions in general, lower temperatures and lower humidity will certainly help. These are some interior solutions; if that doesn't solve your problems, then you need to get busy on the rooftop.
Choose quality
If you decide to install a roof window in your house or cottage and want to avoid the manifestation of their negative sides, you should take care of choosing a manufacturer or supplier. So, you can buy high-quality and reliable roof windows in the "First Trading Company". The company has been on the market for over 10 years and is one of the leading suppliers of building materials. The company offers a wide range of products:
- Facade materials,
- Armature,
- Mounting foams,
- Everything for the roof (components and guiding materials, ondulin, shingles and so on),
- Facade materials,
- Films,
- Thermal insulation and much more.
"First Trading Company" works only with trusted manufacturers and brands. All products presented on the site have the necessary documents and certificates confirming their quality and safety.
You can order goods with delivery to your home or office directly on the website. And if you need a specialist consultation or you have questions, call the number in (8352) 38-68-68
or by calling the toll free line
8
, and our managers will advise you, help you choose the necessary materials and components, and, in case of difficulties, will assist in the formation and registration of an order. Contact us! We are always in touch and will be happy to help you find everything you need for repair and construction.
Skylights and their energy efficiency
In any case, windows are not installed for energy efficiency. They add a little warmth on sunny days in winter (with the correct orientation and angle), but the heat they lose when the sun goes down will far outweigh any heat they receive.
Unfortunately, the real heat gain occurs in the summer when you don't want it. The most common roof angles are lower slopes, which don't work well with the winter sun angle. Thus, windows receive much more direct sunlight in the summer than in winter, and many more hours per day. This added heat will put additional stress on your air conditioning system.
What other work is required for the profile?
Fastening to rafters or lathing is done so that later you can easily carry out vertical interior decoration. In this case, the outer one is carried out in the horizontal direction. Installation on rafters is considered more durable, but most often a crate is chosen to do the work. Then the installation of Velux windows is simplified, because the parts of the structure are easier to align.
Choosing a window company
You can find a suitable window company for you. The rating is made up of reviews on our website and other similar sites, the position in the rating is also mainly influenced by prices, additional services, quality of installation, promotions and many other indicators.
| A place | Company | Rating |
| 1 | Proplex windows | 189 |
| 2 | Favorite | 178 |
| 3 | Alcor | 170 |
| 4 | Oknoff | 141 |
| 5 | Window Legion | 139 |
| 6 | Reference | 138 |
| 7 | Glassland | 134 |
See the entire rating "
Performance properties
Wood
Wood is a "breathable" material that can maintain a unique microclimate in a room, even if the room is not ventilated for a long time.But because of the protective impregnations with which the product is processed, the properties of wood "to breathe" are reduced to zero. Therefore, the room with wooden windows will have to be ventilated, and it is better to install a ventilation valve.
Plastic
Absolutely sealed windows are a plus, but at the same time a minus, since the room should be constantly ventilated. Therefore, choose models with a built-in ventilation valve - this will solve the problem of rooms that are not regularly ventilated. Also, the ventilation valve fights against the formation of condensation, which prolongs the life of the windows.
Output
The main advantage of installing skylights is the organization of natural lighting of the under-roof space. Additionally, a source of heat is equipped, ventilation of the room, natural convection of air during the day. Plus, such an opening is an original decorative element of the roof.
Among the disadvantages is the high price. This applies to double-glazed windows, additional insulating materials, installation work. Condensation often forms and leaks occur. But more often they can be prevented on their own.
Installation in interiors with high humidity
Wood
Wooden windows treated with polyurethane can be easily installed in rooms with high humidity. Such windows perfectly retain all the properties of a wooden window.
If we consider standard wooden window systems (without polyurethane coating), then they are not suitable for greenhouses, bathrooms, toilets and swimming pools.
Plastic
Suitable for all interiors.
