Roof window heat loss is one of the most common winter problems we see. When the evenings close in and the heating goes on, the rooms under your roof are often the first to feel it. Attic bedrooms, loft offices and kitchen extensions can feel colder than the rest of the house, and an older roof window is often the reason why.
The good news is that it is usually easy to spot. Here is what to look for this winter, why older windows lose heat, and what changes when you replace them.
Why older roof windows lose heat
A roof window sits in the most exposed part of your home. It faces the full force of Irish wind and rain, and over the years that takes its toll. Most heat loss comes down to three things.
- The glazing. Glass technology has moved on a long way. A window fitted 20 or 30 years ago simply was not built to the standard of the glazing available today.
- The seals. The rubber seals around the sash keep warm air in and cold air out. Over time they harden, shrink and crack, and that is when draughts start.
- The frame and surround. Gaps can open up where the window meets the roof and the inside lining. Warm air escapes through them, often without you noticing.
6 signs your roof window is losing heat
Take five minutes on a cold morning and check each roof window in the house.
- You can feel a draught when you hold your hand near the edges of the sash.
- Condensation forms between the panes. Fog trapped inside the glass usually means the seal in the glazing unit has failed.
- The room is noticeably colder than the rest of the house, even with the radiator on.
- The window is hard to open or close, or does not sit tightly when shut.
- There are damp patches or staining on the lining around the window.
- The window is 20 years old or more. If you are not sure of its age, the code on the plate at the top of your window will help us identify it.
If two or more apply to your roof window, it is worth getting the window looked at before the worst of the winter weather arrives.
What changes when you replace an older roof window
A new VELUX roof window is designed as a complete system, so every part works together to keep the heat in.
- Modern energy-efficient glazing, with a choice of glazing options to suit the room and your budget.
- Fresh seals and a tight-fitting sash, so draughts are dealt with at the source.
- A properly insulated surround, with insulation fitted around the frame and new flashing on the roof to keep the weather out.
- A clean new lining on the inside, finished neatly around the window.
We always recommend replacing the whole window rather than just the glass. A new pane in an old frame still leaves you with tired seals, an ageing frame and the same gaps around the surround. Replacing the full window solves the problem properly and comes with a 10 Year Guarantee.
Make your roof windows work harder with the right blind
A good blind adds another layer between your room and the cold glass on a winter night. VELUX blinds are made to fit VELUX windows exactly, and thermal and blackout options can help a room feel warmer and cosier. They are also a great way to keep a bedroom dark on bright summer mornings.
Why homeowners choose Roof Window Specialists
- Over 5,000 roof windows installed.
- Direct VELUX supplier, so you get genuine VELUX products and expert advice.
- We replace any roof window, not just VELUX ones.
- 10 Year Guarantee.
- Fitting normally within 4 weeks of accepting your proposal.
- Highly rated on Google by homeowners we have worked with.
- Not sure about your roof pitch? Our surveyor can come out and measure it. Whatever the pitch, there is a VELUX solution.
Roof Window Specialists Ltd is a registered contractor under the Better Energy Homes scheme.
Get ready for winter
If your roof windows are letting the heat out, now is a good time to act. Send us a photo of the code plate at the top of your window, or give us a call, and we will talk you through your options.
Call us: ROI +353 1 903 6583
Or request your free quote on our website at www.roofwindowspecialists.com
