Could you use more headroom in your attic or second story space? Do you need a little more natural light or ventilation in the upper floors of your house? Would you like to increase your home’s curb appeal and overall value?
Then you may want to consider having a dormer installed. We’ll explain everything you need to know about dormers, the types of benefits they provide, the types of dormers available, and the installation process below!
What Is a Dormer?
You’ve almost certainly seen a dormer, though you may not have realized what they are called. Dormers are structural elements that stick out from a roof’s slope, and they usually feature a window. And though they are often included in a home’s design from the outset, they can also be added to existing roofs.
Dormers come in several different architectural styles, and they can provide a number of benefits to homeowners.
What Are the Benefits of Adding a Dormer?
Before we share some of the most common dormer types seen in the Sugarcreek, Ohio area, it’s important to understand the benefits dormers provide. This will help you understand the purpose of dormers and give you the chance to pick out the best dormer style for your home and needs.
- Because they feature (sometimes large) windows, dormers provide more natural light. This can not only improve the aesthetics and feel of your home’s interior, but it can also provide health benefits to the residents.
- Dormers provide more usable space, which increases the overall square footage of your home. In addition to making your home more enjoyable to live in, this may increase your property value substantially.
- Assuming the windows used in them are completely functional, dormers increase the amount of ventilation in your home. This can help prevent stale air and even give you the chance to use your air-conditioning less during the late spring or early fall.
- Generally speaking, dormers improve the appearance of a home’s exterior. They not only help elevate the overall look, but they can help to give your house more personality. Just be sure that the new dormer matches your home’s architectural style for the best results.
Common Dormer Types
While most dormers will provide the benefits discussed above, there are cases in which some benefits are more desirable than others. Additionally, houses come in a variety of different designs, with varying dormer roof styles and layouts.
This means that dormers aren’t a one-size-fits-all home addition; they come in several different forms, which are suitable for different situations.
1. Gable Dormer Window
Gabled dormers are the most common type incorporated into homes, and they’re what most people think of when envisioning a dormer.
Gabled dormers are installed perpendicularly to a roof’s slope, and they have a triangular roof shape, which slopes down to the left and right. Gable dormers feature a single window.
2. Shed Dormer Window
A shed dormer is typically much larger than a gable dormer, as most include multiple windows. This provides much more usable space in an attic or upper-level room than a gable dormer does, making them quite popular for homeowners conducting significant renovations.
Shed dormers have much flatter pitches than gable dormers, and the pitch slopes toward the front of the home, rather than the sides.
3. Hipped Dormer Window
A hipped dormer is very similar to a gable dormer except that the dormer’s roof slopes on three sides, instead of two. This means that the roof slopes down toward the front as well as each side.
Most homeowners find that hipped dormers look best in homes with hipped roofs.
4. Eyebrow Dormer Window
Eyebrow dormers aren’t as popular as some other dormer types, but they’re a fantastic option for some situations. Eyebrow dormers feature a curved roof, and they usually feature a low profile.
This low profile means that they don’t provide a ton of additional interior space, and they’re primarily included for aesthetic appeal.
5. Wall Dormer Window
Unlike gable, shed, or eyebrow dormers, which are bordered by the home’s existing roof below them, wall dormers align with the wall. In other words, when looking at a home with a wall dormer, you will see the home’s exterior wall extend beyond the roof, while the roof will sit along each side.
Wall dormers are quite eye-catching, and they’re often incorporated as part of the home’s original
6. Flat Roof Dormer Window
Flat roof dormers are most commonly seen in modern or contemporary homes; they’re not very common in more traditional architectural styles. Flat roof dormers are like typical dormers, except that their roofs are flat.
This provides not only a unique appearance but also more headroom than traditional dormers.
7. Arched Dormer Window
Arched dormers are like gable dormers, except that instead of having a straight, sharply angled roof, they have a rounded roof. This adds quite a bit of aesthetic appeal, as well as a moderate amount of additional headroom.
However, arched dormers are more complex and often require specialized materials and techniques to install.
8. Recessed Dormer Window
A recessed dormer is usually similar to a gable dormer, except that it is set back into a roof line. These dormers don’t increase the usable space inside a home as much as some other types, but they can provide a lot of natural light.
Recessed dormers (which are also called inset dormers) require fewer materials to construct than some other dormers, which helps make them more affordable to install in some cases.
9. False Dormer Window
A false dormer looks like a typical dormer from the outside (they’re usually modeled after gable dormers), but they aren’t functional, as they feature faux windows. This means they don’t allow any additional light into the home.
False dormers may not be functional or allow more natural light to enter the home, but they can still add a bit more space and help improve a home’s exterior aesthetics.
10. Flared Gable Dormer Window
A flared gable dormer is essentially like a gable dormer, except for the bottom portions of the dormer’s roof, which flares out in a reduced slope. This doesn’t provide much more room or allow any more natural light to enter, but it is often aesthetically pleasing.
One important benefit flared dormers provide is additional shade and precipitation protection for the windows beneath them.
11. Polygonal Dormer Window
A polygonal dormer is a very interesting design choice that’s not seen as often as some other architectural styles. Featuring a more complex shape, a polygonal dormer would look like a partial octagon extending from a roof, if viewed from above.
These types of dormers often add a ton of interior space, as well as the ability to take in panoramic views, thanks to the windows, which face different directions.
12. Pyramidal Dormer Window
One of the rarest types of dormer, a pyramidal dormer typically extends from a roof at a 45-degree angle and features four rooflines, which all come together at a central point.
These dormers provide incredible visual interest, and they often work well near corners and in other locations where typical dormer styles would prove challenging to install.
13. Pedimented Dormer Window
A pedimented dormer is similar to a gable dormer in many ways, but it features architectural design elements that borrow from Greek and Roman architectural styles. These dormers usually have a triangular face above the window, and they have column-like molding on each side.
Factors to Consider Before Installing a Dormer Window
Dormers are certainly an appealing option for homeowners interested in a new renovation project, and they provide a ton of benefits. However, they aren’t right for every situation, and you’ll want to carefully consider the benefits and potential drawbacks before having dormers installed in your home.
Some of the most important things to think about when considering dormer installation include:
- Your main roof’s pitch: While it’s theoretically possible to install dormers in roofs with relatively flat pitches, doing so is challenging and provides less headroom or interior space than when dormers are installed in steeply pitched roofs.
- Local building codes and permits: You’ll almost always need to obtain a building permit to install a roof dormer, but you’ll also have to follow any local building codes or restrictions. You may also have to obtain approval from your HOA before installing one.
- Return on investment (ROI): If you’re likely to sell your home in the near future, you’ll want to consider the degree to which the installation will increase your home’s listing price and compare this with the cost of the project.
- Matching your home’s aesthetics: If you do decide to have a dormer installed, it’s important to do so in a way that matches your home’s style. This helps prevent the dormer from looking like it was just tacked on to an existing structure.
- The purpose of the interior room: Keep in mind the type of room you’re installing the dormer in. For example, if you’re installing it in a bedroom, you’ll have to allow for egress; meanwhile, bathrooms will have to leave room for plumbing and electricity.
The Dormer Installation Process
While every dormer installation project will vary in several different ways, most will involve the same basic steps. We’ll outline the general dormer installation process below.
Consultation and Design
You’ll begin your dormer installation process by having a roofing professional visit your home, provide a site inspection, and develop a preliminary design (often little more than a sketch at this point in the process).
During this step, you’ll discuss things like your budget, aesthetic preferences, and overall goal for the project.
Structural Assessment
Before the plans can be finalized or the work can begin, your contractor will need to assess your roof, the existing HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems present, and the type of insulation materials in your attic and walls.
By examining these things, the roofer will be able to verify that your main roof is structurally sound and suitable for such a big project.
Permit Acquisition
Either you or your roofer will then have to submit full architectural plans for the project. This step in the process may take as long as six weeks, so it is important to plan ahead – especially if you are concerned that you may face zoning issues.
This is also the step in the process during which you should reach out to your HOA and obtain permission, if needed.
Site Preparation
Once the permits have been obtained (and HOA approval granted, if necessary), the contractor will begin preparing for the job. This will entail ordering materials, securing the necessary labor, setting up scaffolding, and installing protective materials to prevent damage to your home’s siding or landscaping.
If any interior demolition is necessary to complete the project, it will likely be carried out at this time.
Framing and Roof Cutting
With the site ready and any interior demolition carried out, the contractor will begin cutting into the roof and house frame. They’ll then frame out the new dormer and roof and integrate any necessary rafters.
Because the home will be exposed to the elements during this time, this step in the process must be completed quickly.
Window and Exterior Installation
At this point, the dormer windows will be installed and flashed to prevent rain infiltration. The roof will then be covered in the appropriate materials (typically, though not always, asphalt shingles), and the siding and exterior trim will be installed.
If the siding must be painted, that portion of the job will be completed at this time.
Interior Finishing
With the dormer’s exterior completely finished, the contractor will move back inside. An electrician or plumber may be required to visit the site and install any wiring or plumbing, and then the interior walls will be finished.
Flooring, lighting, and trim will be addressed once everything else has been finished.
Cleanup and Inspection
Once all of the work is completed, the contractor and his or her team will clean up the job site and review the work with the client. Then, a final building inspection will be required to ensure code compliance and safety.
How Much Does a Dormer Window Cost?
Because there are so many different kinds of dormers, and each home will present a unique set of challenges, dormer installation costs vary pretty significantly. However, they’ll usually cost between about $5,000 and $35,000 each.
Among other things, the type of dormer (and dormer roof) you choose will play a large role in determining the total cost you pay. Typical prices for different types of dormers are as follows:
- Gable Dormer: $8,000 – $20,000
- Shed Dormer: $12,000 – $30,000+
- Hipped Dormer: $10,000 – $25,000
- Eyebrow Dormer: $7,000 – $15,000
- Wall Dormer: $10,000 – $25,000
- Flat Roof Dormer: $9,000 – $20,000
- Arched Dormer: $12,000 – $25,000
- Recessed Dormer: $6,000 – $12,000
- False Dormer: $3,000 – $8,000
- Flared Gable Dormer: $9,000 – $18,000
- Polygonal Dormer: $15,000 – $35,000
- Pyramidal Dormer: $12,000 – $28,000
- Pedimented Dormer: $10,000 – $22,000
Other factors that may influence the overall cost or your dormer include:
- The extent of roof modifications required. Dormers that require extensive cutting, reframing, or structural reinforcement will cost more to install than simpler designs.
- The window style and size. Smaller, simpler windows are more affordable than larger windows that provide advanced energy-efficiency features or design elements.
- The amount of interior finishing required. Jobs that entail lots of drywall installation, flooring work, or rewiring will cost more than those that don’t need these things.
- The materials used. If your new dormer will require expensive shingles or other roofing materials, you’ll likely face higher costs than dormers that can be covered in affordable, 3-tab shingles.
- The costs associated with building permits. Different municipalities charge different rates for permits.
Dormer Types and Installation: FAQ
Still have lingering questions about having a dormer installed? Still not clear on the various types of dormers you can add to your home? We’ve rounded up some of the most common questions here!
Can I add a dormer to an existing roof?
In most cases, yes – you can add a dormer to an existing roof. However, if your roof is not structurally sound, it may require costly repairs in addition to the dormer installation. This may potentially make the project infeasible, once all factors are considered.
Additionally, some municipalities and homeowners associations may prohibit the installation of dormers or impose strict limitations on them.
How much does it cost to add a dormer?
Dormer installation costs vary widely, based on a variety of factors, including the type of dormer installed and your geographic area. With that said, they typically cost between $5,000 and $35,000. A small gabled dormer would likely fall around the lower end of this price range, while a large shed dormer will cost more, primarily due to the increased material requirements associated with constructing a large shed dormer.
Do dormers increase home value?
While every situation is unique, most well-designed and constructed dormers will increase a home’s value. However, it is crucial that the dormer matches the aesthetics of the home and that it doesn’t suffer from any moisture or leakage problems.
Can you install a dormer yourself?
No – dormer installation is not a DIY project, unless you are a roofing professional. It simply requires too many specialized tools and techniques for the average homeowner to tackle.
How long does it take to install a dormer?
There are a variety of things that’ll influence the length of time necessary to install a dormer, but the industry average is approximately five days. Very simple dormers (especially small false dormers) may take slightly less time than this, but large and complex dormers may take twice as long.
Will I need an architect to install a dormer?
The need for an architect will vary based on the complexity of your project. You’ll simply need to discuss the issue with your roofing contractor (and potentially, the building inspector overseeing the project) to know for sure. However, as a general rule, the more complex the roofing project is, the more likely you’ll need an architect.
Trust Asbury Roofing & Siding for All of Your Roofing Needs
Whether you’re having a dormer installed, your roof replaced, or just need some advice about your roofing options, you should always select a roofing contractor you trust. Asbury Roofing & Siding has built a strong reputation in Sugarcreek, Ohio for providing honest, efficient, and high-quality roofing services for local homeowners.
Contact us today to start discussing your roofing needs!
Resources
- Dormer Types – This Old House.
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/roofing/21018319/dormer-types - Dormer Additions: Raise the Roof – Angi.
https://www.angi.com/articles/dormer-additions-raise-roof.htm - 2024 Ohio Building Code Rules https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/com.ohio.gov/documents/2024%20Ohio%20Building%20Code%20Rules%20Effective%20March%201,%202024.pdf
- 7 Health Benefits of Natural Light – Healthline.
https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-light-benefits
