One key advantage that roof windows have is that they open easily, allowing for easy and thorough air circulation throughout your home or business. Yet knowing how to open a roof window might not be immediately obvious. In this guide, we’re going to have a look at how to open a skylight window and reap all the benefits that roof windows have to offer.
Whether you’re considering buying a roof window or are an existing owner, understanding the important steps that go into opening the window is a vital part of ownership. Are you ready to open your windows and open your home to fresh air? Then read on, and let’s get started.
The Different Ways to Open Roof Windows
Different roof windows open in different ways. In this section, we will examine the two main ways that you can use to open your roof windows.
Opening Manually With a Pole
The first, and traditional way of opening a roof window, is to use a pole to open the roof window manually. As no one wants to have to climb a ladder to open a roof window, a telescoping pole is the ideal solution, allowing you to reach different windows at different heights in your property.
However, you don’t simply push up on your window with the pole to open the window. Doing this could damage your window and probably won’t result in an open window, either!
To open the window, you need to find the small latch on your window and push it up to release it, the lever should flip to the other side to unlock the window. Then simply press up on the window gently with the pole to open it.
A Note on Window Pitch
Depending upon the pitch of the window, it may open to a pitch of anywhere from 45 to 180 degrees. The ideal pitch for each window, as well as its maximum open pitch, will vary from model to model. When purchasing a roof window, you will be able to see the opening pitch. A pitch of 180 degrees, as seen on this model, is ideal, as it allows for easy cleaning from the inside.
Electrically Opening Windows
If you choose an electric roof window, opening the window becomes far easier. You don’t need to do anything other than press a button and enjoy the air: the window will open by itself and you’ll be able to savour the fresh air.
Problems Opening Windows
Not every roof window opens. However, if you’ve brought an opening roof window and it’s not opening, something’s gone wrong! There are a few possible issues at play here, and in this section, we’ll take a look at the common causes of non-opening roof windows.
My New Roof Window Won’t Open
If you’ve recently purchased and installed a new roof window, and it isn’t opening, this could be a sign of a bad installation. It’s possible that whoever installed it made a mistake and it may need to be refitted. However, before you call the company that worked on your installation, we’d recommend taking a look at the other possibilities in this section.
An Electric Window Won’t Open
If you’re having issues with an electrically-opening window, it could be the result of a faulty remote or wiring. We’d recommend checking to see whether or not you can open the window manually, as if you can, that suggests the window itself isn’t at fault, but rather the mechanism.
Frame, Seal and Gasket Issues
Other issues that can cause problems with windows and prevent them from opening include issues with the frames, seals and gaskets. A warped frame can make it impossible for the window to open, as it may become jammed on the frame. Seals and gaskets can also become overly tight over time, which will prevent it from opening.
Now You Know How to Open a Roof Window
We hope that this guide on how to open a roof window has helped you. You should now know how to open your window, whether it’s manual or electrical. You should also have a good understanding of the most common issues that can stop your roof window from working as it should.
If you’re interested in purchasing a roof window, please take a look at our various options. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.
You can learn more about the types of roof windows and how to choose the perfect one for your home in our guide.
More rooflights
In addition to our impressive collection of roof windows, we also sell:
More helpful blogs:
- How to Stop Rain Noise On a Skylight
- Rooflight Sizes: A Complete Guide
- Flies in Your Roof Lantern: Causes and Solutions
- How to Clean Skylight Windows
- How to Make a Room Cooler
- 11 Benefits of Natural Light
How to Open a Roof Window: FAQs
Can All Roof Windows Be Opened?
Not all roof windows can be opened – some are designed to be permanently closed. These allow light into the room while keeping cold air out.
Can You Open a Skylight?
While skylights and roof windows serve different purposes, you can still open many skylights. These, like roof windows, allow for improved air circulation.