Want to make your boring old attic into an awesome new space? Dormers might be just what you need! These cool additions can make your attic brighter and more useful, plus they make your house look great from the street.
There are different types of dormers to choose from. Maybe you like the classic look of a gable dormer or perhaps you want lots of extra space with a shed dormer. Each type has its own benefits and considerations.
But here’s the thing – dormers aren’t just about making your house look nice. They can also increase the value of your home.
Before you get too excited, though, there are a few things to think about. Dormers can be expensive to install, and you’ll need to take care of them over time. But don’t worry, in this blog post, we’ll help you figure out which type of dormer might work best for your home.
What Is A Dormer Roof?
Dormers are architectural features that extend from a sloping roof, usually with a window. They provide natural light, can add more living space, and add a touch of character to your home.
Dormers have been around since the 16th century, originally used to brighten spaces before electric lights. They became trendy in the 17th century, thanks to French architect François Mansart and his stylish roof designs.
When it comes to dormer roof materials and design, homeowners have various options. Dormers should complement your home’s architecture, while materials like asphalt shingles, metal, or slate can be chosen to match or contrast with the main roof.
Different Types Of Dormer Roofs
Let’s look at the most popular types of dormer roofs to find the best fit for your home.
Gabled Dormer
Gabled dormers have a triangle-shaped roof that matches your main roof’s slope. They boost curb appeal and make more room in your attic, turning it into usable space like an office or reading nook. You can choose siding materials like wood, vinyl, fiber cement, or metal to complement your home and shingles, metal panels, or tiles to match your existing roof. Usually placed above living areas, gabled dormers bring in more light and space without needing much upkeep.
Shed Dormer
Shed dormers stick out from the roof with a flat, sloping design, creating lots of extra room. They’re great for adding bedrooms, offices, or storage spaces, giving your home a fresh look. Materials like wood, composites, and metals ensure they look good and last long. Having them installed by professionals makes sure they’re sturdy and can handle bad weather, making shed dormers a good choice for adding space and improving the look of your house.
Flat Roof Dormer
Flat roof dormers add a modern look and give you plenty of headroom inside, making attics or lofts more useful. You can also add large windows to let in lots of natural light. Roofing materials like EPDM, PVC, and modified bitumen keep water out and last a long time. While they fit well with newer house styles, you need to check on them often and make sure rain drains well to avoid pooling water and keep them in good shape.
Eyebrow Dormer
Eyebrow dormers have gently curved roofs that stand out from the straight lines of most roof designs. Put above bedrooms or living rooms, they bring in extra light. You can choose materials to match or stand out from the main roof. Because of their curved shape, you need to check on them regularly to stop water from collecting and causing leaks. With proper care, they make your house stand out and look nicer.
Bonneted Dormer
Bonneted dormers have arched windows that add charm to any property. They let in more light and fresh air, making attic spaces more livable. These dormers look good on both old and new houses, possibly adding value to your home. Making the dormer’s curves match your roof creates a neat, attractive look.
Nantucket Dormer
Nantucket dormers mix two gable dormers with a shed dormer in the middle, giving you a unique and useful design. This style adds extra space and natural light, perfect for turning attics or lofts into bedrooms or offices. It combines old New England style with modern usefulness, giving your home an updated look that lasts.
Lucarnes
Lucarnes are tall, thinner dormers often seen on old church-style buildings. They add interesting roof details while letting light and air into the upper floors. They’re more than just windows, with pointed tops and fancy details. If you’re adding one, make sure your roof can support it. Regular checks for water damage and cleaning out debris are important to keep them looking good and working well.
Blind Dormer
Blind dormers, also called false dormers, are roof decorations that make your house look better without changing the inside. They sit on the roof edge, looking like real dormers and making your house more eye-catching. Based on old-style buildings, they add balance to roofs and might increase your home’s value. Since they don’t change your house’s structure, you usually don’t need permits or major renovations to add them.
Pros and Cons of Dormer Roofs
Pros
- Increased Natural Light: Dormers allow for more windows, improving natural light in upper levels of a building.
- Enhanced Space: Some designs create additional usable space in attics or lofts, making these areas more functional.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Dormers can significantly enhance the architectural style of a home, adding character and charm.
- Ventilation: They can improve airflow in upper rooms, contributing to better indoor air quality.
- Timeless Beauty: Dormer roofs have a rich history dating back to the 16th century, blending the charm of the past with modern needs.
- Curb Appeal and Value: They add significant curb appeal, potentially boosting your home’s value.
- Straightforward Maintenance: Just like your roof, these only need regular inspections and proper sealing to keep water out, ensuring longevity and preserving your home’s look.
Cons
- Cost: Installing dormers can be expensive due to the materials and labor involved.
- Potential for Leaks: Poorly constructed dormers may lead to roof leaks if not properly sealed and maintained.
- Planning Regulations: In some areas, constructing dormers may require planning permission, which can complicate the process.
- Energy Efficiency Concerns: Dormers can lead to heat loss if not well-insulated, increasing heating and cooling bills.
- Aesthetic Considerations: It’s important to make sure a new dormer matches your home’s style to avoid clashing designs.
Thinking About Adding Dormers?
- Check Your Structure
Before starting the project, make sure your roof can handle a dormer. A structural engineer can assess the strength and stability of your existing roof, saving you from potential issues later on. - Budgeting
Adding a dormer isn’t cheap, so prepare for costs including materials, labor, and potential extras like roof strengthening. It’s wise to have some extra funds set aside for unexpected expenses. - Design
Your new dormer should look like it’s always been part of your home. Match your house’s style with a gabled or shed dormer to make sure it fits in perfectly and enhances your home’s appearance. - Permits and Regulations
Check local building codes and zoning laws, as most places require permission before you start building. Getting this approval is important to avoid legal troubles later on.
How Are Dormer Roofs Installed?
Adding a dormer is a great way to upgrade your home. Here’s a simple breakdown of how it’s done:
Getting Ready
- Plan It Out:
- First, decide what kind of dormer you want, how big it’ll be, and where it’ll go.
- Don’t forget to get the okay from your local building office!
- Check Your Roof:
- An expert might need to look at your roof to make sure it’s strong enough for a dormer. This is very important to avoid problems later.
Building the Dormer
- Mark and Cut the Roof:
- The workers carefully mark where the dormer will go on your roof.
- Then, they remove the shingles and wood in that spot.
- Build the Frame:
- They build the dormer’s walls and roof.
- Connect to Your Roof:
- The tricky part is joining the dormer to your existing roof. They do this where the dormer’s walls meet your roof and where the two roofs come together.
- They use flashing, often made of aluminum or steel, to keep water out. They also add extra waterproof sealant in these spots.
- Install the Structure:
- They add a layer of boards over the frame.
- Then they put on shingles or roofing materials to match your house.
- Finish It Off:
- Windows and siding go on the dormer.
- Inside, they make the new space comfy and livable, potentially adding flooring, painting walls, and framing the window.
Things to Remember
- Keep Water Out: Making sure the dormer doesn’t leak is super important.
- Get Help: While some people might try to do this themselves, it’s usually best to hire professionals to make sure everything’s safe and done right.
By following these steps, you can add a dormer that makes your home look great and gives you more space to enjoy. Always check with experts to make sure you’re doing what’s best for your house!
When Should You Think Twice About Adding Dormers to Your Home?
1. Check Your Budget
Adding dormers can be pricey. Consider the cost of materials and labor, and remember future costs like repairs or maintenance. If money is tight, you might want to pause and reassess.
2. Consider Your Roof’s Strength
Your roof needs to handle the extra weight of dormers. If it’s not up to the task, you could face serious structural problems. Have a professional inspect your roof to make sure it’s strong enough.
3. Consider the Look
Dormers can change your home’s appearance. If they don’t match your home’s architectural style or the neighborhood’s look, they might stick out. Make sure the dormers blend well to maintain visual harmony.
By considering these points, you can make a well-informed decision about adding dormers to your home.
How Much Does Dormer Roof Installation Cost?
Adding a dormer roof can cost anywhere from $4,000 to $30,000. The price depends on a few things:
- Type of dormer: Different styles cost different amounts.
- Size: Bigger dormers cost more.
- Materials: Higher-end materials mean a steeper price tag.
- How tricky it is to install: Some dormers are harder to construct than others.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Simple dormers (like gabled ones) might cost around $4,000 to $10,000.
- Fancier designs (like Nantucket dormers) can go from $10,000 to $20,000.
Remember, other aspects affect the price too:
- Paying for professional workers
- Getting permits
- Delays due to weather
- Shipping of materials
Pro tip: Don’t just go with the first price you hear. Ask a few different contractors for quotes. This way, you can find the best deal for your dormer project!
Final Thoughts
Dormer roofs are a great way to upgrade your home. They add beauty and enhance functionality, providing a brighter, roomier attic and increasing your home’s charm.
While they come with costs and maintenance, the benefits are well worth it. However, not every house is suited for dormers. It’s important to consider all the factors discussed above before making a choice.
Ready to discuss your dormer roofing project? Contact OConnor Contracting in Buffalo, NY for expert advice and quality service at (716) 600-7663. We’re here to help you make the best choice for your home.
