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Top 10 Roof Dormer Types To Use in 2020

A dormer is a window that’s constructed on a sloping roof. Every dormer has its roof that may be pointed, ornamented, hipped, flat, or arched depending on the construction. ​Again, a roof dormer doesn’t only add living space to your home; it also improves its architectural design. In this article, I will share with you the top 10 Roof dormer types to use in 2020. Even though roof dormers are built into roofs, they come in different shapes and sizes. And a dormer can either make your home looks ridiculous or improves its curb appeal, depending on when and where you add it. So, before you consider adding a roof dormer to your home, seek the advice of a professional. ​Essential Things to Consider Before Adding a Dormer to Your Roof I know you are passionate about adding a dormer to your roof. But before you make the final decision, here are some things you should consider. #1. Cost of Constructing the Roof Dormer The first thing you should consider before adding a dormer to your roof is the construction cost. Let me tell you the truth, adding a dormer to your roof is very expensive. Roughly, it costs around $4000 or more depending on the size. Again, dormers usually increase square footage. And may increase your homeowners’ insurance.   ​#2. Permits for Dormer Construction You can’t start a roof dormer construction without obtaining a building permit. Trust me; this is the most time-consuming aspect of the construction process. Depending on when you live, obtaining a permit may take a few weeks or several months. And you will be charged for the permits. I can’t give an accurate fee, but it depends on the municipality. Typically, it ranges from $200 to a few thousand dollars. #3. Style of the new dormer You also need to decide on the new dormer’s style before you proceed with the construction. There are several types of roof dormer you can choose from, we discussed some of them later in this article. #4. Size of the Dormer Addition Typically, roof dormer creates space inside your room when you think it’s not necessary to build out. Whether you want to add another window to your home or make your roof more appealing, a dormer will help you achieve the purpose. But you need to consider the size as well as your budget. If you don’t have an idea about the size, you can get your contractor’s professional opinion. Benefits of a Roof Dormer Adding a dormer to your roof has several advantages, some of them are; Roof Dormer Adds Natural Light Roof dormer adds more natural light to your home, especially if you are building it above the living space. Again, dormers could serve as a perfect reading nook, dressing areas, and kids’ play area. It Adds Architectural Interest, Accent, and Details When you add a dormer to your roof’s structure, it improves your home’s curb appeal. Roof dormers also improve how inside your home looks. The beauty of having roof dormers is that it gives your home an improved aesthetic. Also, dormers make your roof more appealing to buyers if you decide to sell it in the future. According to experts, you can always get a return on investment. Improved ventilation Roof dormers also enhance your home’s ventilation. Ordinarily, they are built on the upper floors of multi-story houses. At this level, heat rises, and the air is stale and stuffy. But constructing a roof dormer allows fresh air and airflow quality for improved ventilation and air quality. More room and headspace If you construct a large dormer, it could increase the usable space of your home. However, this works better for a shed dormer that sometimes runs the length of a bungalow. It Creates a Room with a view Roof dormers don’t only add more natural light to your home. It also provides a great view of the world outside. Imagine viewing the outside of your neighborhood via your dormer window. Of course, it’s a great experience. It Provides Exit Opportunity during Emergencies You may never know the real value of a dormer roof until you are in the middle of an emergency. Dormer provides exit opportunities, especially if it’s the only exit in an attic roof. It’s advisable to always keep a rope or chain ladder in a handy upstairs location if you have a multi-story home. 10 Roof Dormer Types and their Costs If you are planning on constructing a roof dormer, here are ten different styles you can choose from and their possible costs. The costs mentioned here are just estimation of the construction of each dormer’s frame, the average cost of siding, windows, and roof. Don’t forget that architectural and permitting costs can further increase costs. Again, the type of roofing material you select can also affect the cost. For instance, a tile roof will cost you more than a shingle roof. #1. Arched Top or Barrel Roof Dormer The arched top or barrel roof dormer features a small space on both sides and front. It adds a soft contrast to the sharp, straight lines of most sloped roofs. Sometimes, it’s called segmental roof dormer. However, barrel roof dormer doesn’t produce more living space. But you can use it for light or visual appeal. Also, it’s smaller than most other types of dormers. Furthermore, the arched top or barrel roof dormer cost about $4000 to $6000 to construct. #2. Eyebrow Dormer   Eyebrow dormer’s roof is also round like the arched top dormer. However, the eyebrow’s rounded section blends directly into the roof on both sides. Compared to other types of dormers, the eyebrow doesn’t have sidewalls. All it has is a small front wall, that’s why it’s a bit flat. Like arched top dormer, eyebrow doesn’t create living space. Instead, it’s installed for light and visual appeal. On average, the construction of eyebrow dormers costs about $2,940 to $4,480. #3. Flat Roof Dormer When you use this type of dormer on flat roofs, it tends to give them an unattractive boxy appearance. However, constructing a flat roof dormer is a bit costly. Also, the dormer’s shape maximizes space below the roof and gives room for larger windows. However, the challenge of using a flat roof dormer is the fact that it doesn’t shed rainwater or melt snow. So, there’s a high possibility of a leak. In other words, it may not be as reliable as a sloped roof. It costs about $80 to $125 per square foot to construct a flat roof dormer. #4. Shed Roof Dormer A shed roof dormer is built on a sloped roof that has no peak, no hip, and it isn’t rounded. This dormer gives room for more space beneath. It costs about $75 to $120 per square foot to construct a shed roof dormer. #5. Wall roof Dormer It’s a type of shed roof dormer that, but its front doesn’t always blend into the roof. The beauty of a wall roof dormer is that it’s an extension of your home’s exterior wall. Most homeowners opt for wall roof dormer because it creates square footage beneath. On the average, wall roof dormer construction costs $72 to $115 per square foot. #6. Gabled & Flared Gable Dormer The Gable roof dormer is the most common type of dormer. This type of dormer has a roof that forms a peak with a triangular gable of the wall above the window’s base. On average, constructing a gable roof dormer costs $110- $150 per square foot. #7. Hipped Roof Dormer A hipped roof dormer features sloped roof sheathing and roofing materials on the entire three sides. This type of dormer maintains consistency and adds visual contrast to your roof. On average, a hipped roof dormer costs $115-$135 per square foot. #8. Recessed or Inset Roof Dormer Recessed roof dormers feature sidewalls that are beneath your roof’s slope. The dormer also has a flat roofing section in front of the window. On average, a recessed roof dormer costs n$70 to $100 per square foot. #9. False or blind dormer A false or blind dormer can take many shapes. Even though it doesn’t penetrate the roof, it adds visual appeal to your home’s exterior. On average, false roof dormer construction costs $65 to $90 per square foot. #10. Pedimented roof dormer Ordinarily, most dormers are built into your roof’s structure. But the pedimented roof dormer extends away from the roof, and it’s usually supported by posts or pillars. On average, the construction of a pedimented roof dormer is $165 to $300 per square foot. Do you want to carry out roof replacement or repairs? If yes, we are the right roofers for the job. At Suburban roofing, we give our client 25 years guaranty in writing. You see, we don’t replace and repair roofs, we create values. Call us now on (860) 982-4345