Design
Dormer windows must be proportionate and stylish. Common but relatively expensive designs include gabled, hipped, and shed. Show your contractor your design expectation by sketching it. You can draw ideas from taking pictures of your house. After you design it, you contractor will take care of the details, and check if it is feasible according to local codes. Permit to construct is sometimes needed.
Architects charge for consultation ranges from $50 to $150 per hour. Additional 5% to 20% of project’s final cost is charged if they do complete drawings of the whole attic remodeling project. The same applies to drawings required in securing a permit from the local building department.
Design Execution
In executing the design, the contractor will cut a hole in the roof, add the frame and install windows. Roof and sides are sealed and finished to blend with the rest of roofing and siding. Galvanized metal flashing is installed to seal the dormer. Schedule the project on a sunny week since your roof will be open during construction. Otherwise, have your contractor put a temporary cover at the end of each work day.
Dormer Construction Costs
A dormer window cost ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the size and quality. Cost includes electrical outlets, insulation and finishing. Simple shed dormers are the cheapest to construct, paying 40% less than constructing gable roof dormer with same materials.
Windows should cover ¾ of the wall they are installed into. Designs should blend with the existing design of the house. The operable part of the window is perfect for emergency exit, and universal building codes require a minimum of 5.7 square feet and 20 inches wide and 41 inches tall. It should also have an escape ladder. Fold-up ladders cost $70 to $100, and ladders with wall cabinetry can go up to $300.
Search for energy-efficient windows for heating and cooling your attic room. Choosing depends on the climate in your area and the side that the windows are facing. US Department of Energy’s Energy Star gives information as to the energy-efficient windows you should buy. Storage can be made on the knee walls or by building a window seat that doubles as a lift-off lid.
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