You can never have enough light. It warms us, helps us to see, and improves our mental health. That’s why humans invented windows soon after they built the first house: They’re an essential part of any home.
Our love of windows even extends to dormers. Those extensions give homes an added aesthetic, of course, but they also give us another excuse to install a window. Moreover, dormer windows allow greater ventilation on a warm day.
For all of the reasons noted above, dormer windows are an excellent choice for a new construction home or renovation project. And thanks to innovative designs and top-notch engineering, modern dormer windows are available in a plethora of styles, which we’ll discuss in the following sections.
What Is a Dormer?
Dormers are extensions on the roof of a house that give homeowners a little more space. This extra space can be used in a variety of ways, including a bedroom loft, a children’s playroom, or a mancave.
The definition of a dormer window, then, is a window that’s set in this extra space. What really sets houses with dormer windows apart is their curb appeal. Because, no matter what you use the space for on the inside, the outside provides a certain charm that many potential home buyers appreciate.
Architectural Styles of Houses with Dormers
Dormers can be found in a variety of architectural styles, such as Craftsman, Tudor, and Victorian. They give houses a homey feel while also allowing for more interior space and windows.
Types of Dormer Windows
Double-hung and single-hung styles are often ideal for dormer windows. They have movable sashes, and they have the traditional look that people usually associate with dormer styles. However, the style you choose can depend on where you’re placing the window and your personal preference.
Shed Dormer Windows
Similar to other types of dormers, a shed dormer’s distinguishing feature is that it slants at a slight angle. A shed dormer can accommodate your needs whether you’re thinking of installing small dormer windows or large dormer windows. Plus, numerous types of windows complement shed dormers.
Attic Dormer Windows
Attic dormer windows can really give your home a traditional look. But depending on your home’s architectural style, the design of the dormer, and the type of window installed, you could complement that classical look with a modern design aesthetic. That’s one advantage to having dormer windows on a roof: It’s such an eye-opening look that it gives homeowners a vast array of styles to work with.
Arched Dormer Windows
A roof with dormer windows certainly adds curb appeal, but arched dormer windows can pack a “wow factor” too. The arched look perfectly complements unique window configurations, such as octagons, half-moons, and trapezoids.
Gabled Dormer Windows
Similar to an attic dormer, gabled dormer windows are also found on a roof. They usually have a basic design – a triangular shape with two equal sides flanking the window – and either stand alone or form part of a row of dormer windows. Gabled dormer windows are highly valued because of their curb appeal.
False Dormer Windows
Also called fake dormer windows or decorative dormer windows, false dormer windows do not actually allow light or fresh air into the home. This is because the windows and window frames are built on top of the roof.
These windows are installed with aesthetic purposes in mind because, from a distance, you can’t tell that the windows don’t open to a room. If you’re looking to add dormer windows to an existing home but you don’t want the expense of putting an opening in your roof, then you might consider fake dormer windows.
Pros of Dormer Windows
Dormer windows provide a certain aesthetic charm. They have a traditional design, which many homeowners today crave. By redesigning your home so that it’s a house with dormer windows, you give the appearance of a classical home without sacrificing the benefits of modern construction.
What’s more, by installing dormer windows, you increase the number of windows in the house, which in turn means more natural light and ventilation for your space. The air circulation is especially appreciated, as many dormer windows are installed in attics, which can get very hot during the summer months.
The added sunlight is also a bonus. The extra windows usher in more light, allowing homeowners to keep the lights off for longer portions of the day and thus save on the electric bill.
Cons of Dormer Windows
There are downsides to dormer windows. For one thing, they require higher ceilings, which aren’t to everyone’s taste. And, if you’re building a new home, installing dormer windows will add to the cost (more on that in the next section).
It might be difficult to implement window treatments, too. In fact, many people opt for shutters on dormer windows because they’re easier to use.
You could also have issues re-selling your house if you’ve installed fake dormer windows. These kinds of dormer windows look like the real McCoy from afar, but some potential buyers might be put off if they see that their potential new home doesn’t have real dormer windows on the inside.
Finally, it can be expensive to replace dormer windows. It’s often a more complicated renovation project, and it’s definitely a task that you should leave to the professionals.
Dormer Window Cost and Installation Considerations
If you want to add a dormer to a new home, it can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $30,000, although most homeowners pay $12,000 to $15,000. Fitting a dormer replacement window alone costs about $2,000 to $6,000. This is higher than a typical renovation or replacement because the installation can be a bit complicated.
If you’re looking for dormer windows for sale, remember that installation is especially important. Dormer windows are, by definition, built into the roof. As a result, it’s not unusual to have leakage problems if the windows aren’t installed correctly. We always recommend professional installation.
Get Started with Dormer Windows
Homeowners around the country have installed dormer windows. It’s not hard to see their allure: They’re classical and modern all at once, giving your home a nice dose of curb appeal while bringing ever more sunlight into your space. Whether you’re renovating your home or building a new one, a MILGARD Certified Dealer can help you find the perfect dormer windows.
