Not so long ago on the NTV channel were shown two programs "Dachny Answer", dedicated to the reconstruction of the attic in the country house. Both projects were implemented largely thanks to the use of Velux roof windows.
The authors of the programs have chosen a relevant topic. Country attics - premises, as a rule, are very neglected: dark, dusty and traditionally filled with all sorts of rubbish. However, now the topic of reconstruction of the attic floor is becoming more and more popular among those inhabitants of suburban areas who value their living space and are ready to effectively use the entire available area of the house as really helpful. In addition, from the second floor, landscape views often open up that are completely impossible on the first.
The first thing you should pay attention to when rebuilding an attic is how to let more into its space natural sunlight (so necessary for everyone for a good mood and correct biorhythms). A worked out and guaranteed solution to the problem is skylights. Velux offers many options for these windows and how to install them.
In this case, the TV shows included the GGL and GGU models and demonstrated all the stages of their editing. These are the classic and most popular Velux models. They are made from quality glued timberimpregnated with several layers of water-based varnish. The GGU model is additionally protected outer polyurethane layer, which also allows the use of windows in rooms with high humidity. Both models have self-cleaning coating from the outside of the window. They use durable double-glazed unit with safety triplex inside glass and tempered outside glass, which perfectly copes, among other things, with the snow load on the roof.
We emphasize that the reconstruction of the attic floor was shown using the example of two ordinary country houses, quite typical for the Moscow region. Outside, they still remain characteristic summer cottages, larger and smaller, but inside the space has changed beyond recognition.
The authors of the projects for arranging the attic, invited to the Dachny Answer program, proposed to arrange the attic windows in such a way as to accentuate zones with different functions in the under-roof space. In the project for a young couple, as conceived by designer Ekaterina Bulgakova, windows became part of a public area: a combined living room, chill-out and mini-kitchen.
Thanks to the roof windows, the room, which the designer managed to increase from 50 to 75 sq. m, managed to saturate with natural light. In the renovated attic, all windows of the GGU model have been modernized with a single electronic remote control system. Now from the remote control the opening and closing of windows is regulated, the ventilation system is switched on, the positions of the curtains and roller shutters are changed. Special sensors react to weather changes and automatically close windows in case of precipitation.
In the project for the two brothers, the architect Vera Kazachenkova proposed making skylights the basis of the logic of space zoning. Each part of the attic received its own function: there were two sleeping areas, two workmen, a music lounge and a place for watching the stars by the stairs.
In total, 12 windows in vertical combinations were used in the TV project (models GGL, mechanical and automated, and GPL in the area near the stairs). During the installation, special flashing was used, which made it possible to place one window above another. All windows are equipped with blackout curtains and awnings.
The Dachny Answer projects clearly and in detail demonstrated to the audience how an unsettled attic can become a comfortable attic. As a result of the reconstruction, the place under the roof has become an elegant and cozy space, light and warm. And this was achieved largely thanks to the proven and varied technologies of Velux roof windows.
*** Velux windows can be embedded in any kind of roofing; they are hermetically mounted in the attic insulation "pie" without disturbing its general outline. Outside, on top of the under-roof waterproofing membrane without gaps, a waterproofing apron is glued, and a vapor barrier apron is mounted from the inside. Thermal insulation loop made of foamed polyethylene eliminates possible "cold bridges". The company also offers several options for window flashing: double, allowing you to install windows close, at a minimum distance from each other; flashing to increase the angle of installation of windows; flashing for eaves and additional lower façade elements.
The optimal microclimate inside the attic is provided by a ventilation system integrated into the design of Velux windows: a vent valve and a filter serve to refresh the air. Through a special vent valve, air exchange takes place in a volume of 39 cubic meters per hour at a pressure of 10 Pa, and a removable washable filter prevents dust and insects from entering. The design of the vent valve is such that even with heavy rain, drops do not fly inside, the ventilation system continues to function smoothly, renewing the air in the room.
Equally important is the ability to regulate the degree of illumination of the attic. Curtains and blinds, roller shutters and awnings from the Velux catalogs, if necessary, can dim, gently diffuse the light or completely darken the room, and their design options will satisfy a variety of approaches to the design style.
