ENERGY SAVING FORUM › Forums › PASSIVE WINDOWS › PASSIVE ROOF WINDOWS
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Hi everyone, I’ve been thinking about installing passive roof windows. What are your experiences with them? Do these types of windows have any downsides?
Hii,I have two passive roof windows and from my experience I can say that in winter you can really feel the difference at the glass – it doesn’t feel cold like with double-glazed ones. I also noticed that less water vapor condenses, and the attic itself has a more stable temperature. The downside is the price of such windows and the fact that they are a bit heavier to operate. Overall, I’m satisfied and would recommend them.
Hi, I’ve had these windows for a few seasons and overall they work well. The biggest difference is in winter — there’s less draft from the window and you don’t get that feeling of a cold pane. It’s also easier to maintain a stable temperature in the attic.Downsides? Definitely the cost, as it’s quite a big investment. You also have to expect that they are heavier and not always as convenient to use on a daily basis as standard windows. But if someone cares about comfort, then in my opinion it’s worth it.
Hi, I’ll add my observations as well, because I’ve had these windows for a few years now and there are a few additional “nuances” that only show up in real use.
In winter, the biggest difference is definitely comfort near the window—the glass feels noticeably warmer to the touch, and you don’t get that “cold draft” effect that often occurs with older or standard roof windows. There’s also significantly less condensation, especially in the mornings when indoor humidity is higher. Another plus is that the temperature in the attic is more even, with fewer sudden changes when the weather shifts.
But it’s also worth mentioning summer, because here things aren’t quite as perfect. With strong sunlight, the attic can still heat up a lot, so “passive” glazing alone doesn’t solve overheating—external blinds or good shading are often still necessary. Without that, the effect can be limited.As for the downsides, apart from the price and weight already mentioned, installation is another factor—these windows require a more careful setup, and it’s really important to have a skilled installation team, because mistakes in insulation can reduce the benefits. Also, the opening mechanisms can sometimes feel less smooth in everyday use, especially with larger sashes.In summary—the thermal comfort in winter and lower energy losses are a big plus, but they should be treated as part of a whole system (roof insulation, ventilation, shading), not a magic solution to all attic problems. If someone approaches it with that awareness, they’ll most likely be satisfied. -
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