A dormer is a roofed structure that extends beyond the roof and includes a window. It’s a typical feature in a variety of home styles, from Cape Cods and craftsman bungalows to Tudors and colonials. A dormer is also a common addition for renovation projects, particularly when the goal is to create more usable space in a half-story or attic. And in a new construction home, a dormer can be a way to acknowledge the home is a contemporary interpretation of a particular architectural style or simply a way of adding character. In short, a dormer is a small design detail that can have a big impact.
Here’s what you need to know to pick the right windows for your dormer.
Dormers are named according to the shape of their roofs, so a gabled dormer has a triangular roof with two sides that meet at a peak. We’ll explain a bit more about the most popular dormer styles in this section, plus give some ideas about selecting the right windows for each style.
Gabled roof dormers are classic on Cape Cods where double-hung windows are typical. Of course, lots of different home styles include gabled dormers, and lots of different types of windows can work here. So, consider starting with this question: Am I going for a symmetrical or asymmetrical façade?
While symmetry is certainly characteristic of a Cape Cod, asymmetry is characteristic of a Tudor — another home style that typically features gabled dormers. If your home’s exterior style is more symmetrical, consider matching your dormer window to your first-floor windows. If it’s asymmetrical, you could go for a statement window in the dormer and maybe even choose an interesting shape.
Scroll down to “How to pick out dormer windows” for a step-by-step method that’ll help you through the selection process.
This series of three hipped dormers add lots of character and bring extra light into the upper level of this shingle-style colonial home. Featured here are A-Series casement windows in black with specified equal light grilles in a 2-over-2 pattern.
Hipped dormers are a common feature of prairie-style homes where casement windows are typical. But as with gabled dormers, hipped dormers are found on various home styles, which means the best choice of window will vary.
When selecting windows for a hipped dormer, ask yourself: Is my home more traditional or modern in style? Casement windows are a go-to style for creating a modern look, so they work well on prairie or midcentury homes, while double-hung window with grilles fit in well with the more traditional look of French eclectic or shingle-style colonial homes.
Scroll down to “How to pick out dormer windows” for a step-by-step method that’ll help you through the selection process.
As you know by now, in most cases, many different types of windows can work in a dormer. To help you pick the best option for your home — work through the following questions:
There you have it — your primer on dormer windows. Up next: Learn how to bring more light, air, and views into your home.
