Tilt window or dormer?

Hello, we want to convert our attic and are now facing the decision whether to install regular tilt windows or go straight for dormers. What experiences have you had with this, which is better, and how do I bring more light under the roof? Thanks for your help, this is not an easy decision!

Hello, Dormers look nicer than tilt windows, but you need permission for them. Tilt windows let more light into the room, which is a point not to be underestimated. Fewer windows are enough for that, with dormers you have to install several to make it bright enough.

Hello, I also don’t have dormers because you need a permit for them here. Besides, it’s true that dormers only make the roof darker because the light doesn’t come in as well. Dormers do look nicer, but the effort is quite big because you have to build a small gable with everything that belongs to it.

That depends on where you want to build them? In CH, DE, or AT? In Germany, for dormers in the size range of roof windows, you do not need a permit. If you want more light, then take the roof lounge windows.

Hello, we want to convert our roof and are now faced with the decision whether to install normal tilt windows or to install dormers right away. What experiences have you had with this, what is better, and how do I get more light under the roof? Thanks for your help, this is not easy to decide!

Well, I can't imagine that you don't need a permit for dormers in Germany! It was required in our case, but it may vary from municipality to municipality. It's better to check beforehand, because afterwards you can't change anything.

Hello So if the attic area is really going to be used for living, I can clearly only recommend dormers there. Of course, they are more expensive and more complicated to build. However, a dormer somewhat enlarges the living space and the window can be used better because a windowsill is also created, e.g. for plants. A tilt window would be the cheaper simple option for me if the money is tight. I would definitely choose dormers. Best regards Förster