Both styles light a loft room, but they open differently and suit different spots. Here is how to choose for a Filton house with a hipped roof or a converted loft.
VELUX and similar roof windows are mostly centre-pivot or top-hung. The two look similar from the street, but inside they behave differently. On Filton's inter-war and post-war homes, where lofts are often converted and rooms sit under the slope, the right choice depends on where the window goes and how the room is used.
Centre-pivot windows
A centre-pivot window turns on a pivot near the middle of the sash. The top swings out and the bottom swings in, so the window can open wide and be turned round to clean. The handle sits at the top, which suits a window set low enough to reach. It works well where headroom is fine and the slope is moderate. For a loft room, a window within easy reach is usually the better choice.
Top-hung windows
A top-hung window is hinged near the top and opens outward from the bottom, like an awning. The handle is at the bottom, easy to reach. It tends to suit rooms with steeper slopes or where the window sits higher, and it gives a clear view out when open. The sash does not sweep into the room, so furniture below is not in the way.
- Handle at the bottom edge for easy reach
- Does not swing into the room
- Suits higher or steeper positions
- Clear outlook when the window is open
What decides it
Roof pitch, height of the sill above the floor, headroom and what the room is for are the main points. A bedroom window you want to lie and look out of is different from a landing window that brings in light. Where the window sits on a hipped slope also matters, since hip slopes are shorter and may favour one type. We check the clearances before we order.
Practical points
Either type needs a flashing kit matched to the roof covering, rafters trimmed and doubled where needed, and lining, insulation and vapour control around the opening. Poor sealing causes more leaks than the window style does. Fitting a new opening may need planning or Building Regulations checks — we advise before work starts. Sealing and flashing details matter more than the label on the frame.
Choosing on site
We look at the room, the roof and the proposed position, explain how each option would open and what you would see, and help you choose. We replace old windows as well as fit new ones. If a window has misted between the panes, we explain whether the glass unit or the whole window needs replacing. It is worth asking about blinds at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type is easier to clean?
A centre-pivot can be turned round so the outside glass is cleaned from inside. A top-hung window opens out, and its outer face is harder to reach. If cleaning matters to you, say so.
Is one type better for a bungalow loft?
It depends on the pitch and the room. Both are used. We assess the roof slope and headroom, then suggest the style that fits the layout and how you will use the room.
Can I swap one style for another when replacing?
Often yes, if the opening and flashing kit match. We check the size, the covering and the lining first, and tell you what changes the swap would involve. We will talk through how each would look in the room.
Talk to our team about VELUX and roof window installation in Filton
Every roof is different — the fastest way to get an accurate answer is a quick chat with our team.