Roof Dormers vs. Skylights: Which Is Right for Your Home?

August 2, 2022

When it comes to adding more natural light to your home, two options you may consider are roof dormers and skylights. Both can provide more brightness and ventilation to your living space, but they have a few differences that make one better suited for your needs. Here we’ll explore the differences between these two home improvement options and help you determine which is right for your home.

What are Roof Dormers?

A roof dormer is a structure that projects vertically from the roofline, providing a window to the sky. It can be built into an existing roof or installed as part of a new roof, and can be designed in a range of Roof dormers shapes and sizes to fit a variety of housing styles. With a roof dormer, you get the benefit of both natural light and additional headroom in your living space.

What are Skylights?

A skylight is essentially a window situated in the roof of your home. They are typically rectangular or square, and ideally installed in a flat roof. They work great for smaller spaces, such as a bathroom or closet, where a roof dormer may not be practical.

Pros and Cons of Roof Dormers

Pros:

– Adds height to your living space, making it feel more spacious
– Provides additional natural light
– Creates an architectural detail on your home’s exterior
– Increases your home’s overall value
– Can be designed to fit the style of your home

Cons:

– Can be expensive to install
– May require the building permit
– May affect the structural integrity of your roof
– Depending on the size of the dormer, it may require significant work to the inside of your home

Pros and Cons of Skylights

Pros:

– Provides additional natural light in smaller spaces
– Easy to install
– Can fit a variety of roof styles
– Can be energy efficient with proper installation

Cons:

– May not provide enough ventilation in the living space
– Can increase the temperature inside the home during hot months
– May not be suitable for larger living spaces
– Requires proper maintenance to prevent any unwanted leaks or damages from outside elements

Which is Right for You?

The choice between roof dormers and skylights comes down to your personal preference and the space you want to brighten. If you have a larger space that needs additional headroom and natural light, a roof dormer may be the right choice. Dormers also add to the curb appeal of your home since they are visible from the exterior. If you have a smaller space and don’t require the extra height and ventilation that a roof dormer provides, then a skylight may be a more practical option for you.

Both options have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, so your decision ultimately depends on your needs, budget and the best option for your roof. You can always contact a professional to help in your decision making to ensure that you choose the right product for your specific space, location and roof type.

Final Thoughts

Roof dormers and skylights both provide an excellent way to add natural light to your home. Which one is right for you ultimately depends on the size and style of your home, as well as your own personal preference. Both choices come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to find the right balance of natural light, ventilation and cost to get the most out of your home improvement project. So weigh your options, and choose the one that will transform your living space into an inviting, bright and ventilated place to call home.