Skylights: more light and space in your attic (Rotterdam)

Many attics in Rotterdam have the same problem: they are dark, stuffy, and often only used to store things you don't need on a daily basis. Boxes of Christmas decorations, old clothes, or perhaps a few forgotten moving boxes: they disappear into the attic and you hardly ever look at them again. That's a shame, because an attic can be so much more. With a few smart changes, it can become a bright and pleasant place where you enjoy spending time. Installing a skylight is the step that changes everything.

At Global Bouw, we see every day what happens when daylight and fresh air enter an attic. Customers are often surprised: “Why didn't we do this years ago?” It feels like a whole new floor has been added to the house.

Why a skylight makes such a difference

It sounds almost too simple: install a window in the roof and you're done. But anyone who has ever seen a dark attic before installation and then stepped into the room with a skylight knows that the impact is enormous.

1. First of all, there is the light, of course. In a city like Rotterdam, where the days are short and gray in winter, daylight is a valuable commodity. As soon as the skylight is open to the sun, the space looks bigger and more inviting. It no longer feels like a closed-off cubicle, but like a fully-fledged room.

2. In addition, a skylight provides ventilation. On hot summer days, the temperature under the sloping roof can rise considerably. An open skylight allows fresh air to flow through and makes the space much more livable. Ventilation is also important in winter; fresh air contributes to a healthy indoor climate and prevents moisture problems.

3. And finally: functionality. Where you used to stack boxes, you suddenly have a space with possibilities. An extra bedroom, a quiet workspace, a play area for the children, or even a small studio. We often hear families say after installing skylights: “We've just gained an extra floor.”

Different types of skylights

Niet elk dakraam is hetzelfde, en ook niet elk huis vraagt om dezelfde oplossing. Rotterdam kent een bonte mix van woningen: van karakteristieke panden in Delfshaven en Kralingen tot moderne huizen in Nesselande en IJsselmonde. Afhankelijk van de bouwstijl, de dakhelling en uw wensen, is er altijd een passend raam. 

Not every skylight is the same, and not every house requires the same solution. Rotterdam has a colorful mix of homes: from characteristic buildings in Delfshaven and Kralingen to modern houses in Nesselande and IJsselmonde. Depending on the architectural style, the roof pitch, and your wishes, there is always a suitable window.

A classic pivot window is often the first choice. It rotates around its center axis and is easy to clean. This type fits well in most attics and is affordable and practical.

Would you like more view and freedom of movement? Then a tilt-and-turn window is a great option. The window opens outwards, so you can stand directly underneath it and look outside without obstruction. This is a major advantage, especially for windows that are placed low in the roof.

Some residents choose to install multiple windows next to or above each other. This creates a sea of light and gives the space an almost loft-like appearance. For those who want to turn a dark attic into a real living space, this is a wonderful solution.

If you want not only more light, but also more space and height, a dormer window can offer a solution. This creates extra headroom and multiple windows in one go.

For those who dare to think big, there is the panoramic skylight. This type covers a large part of the roof slope and turns your attic into a place with a panoramic view. We often install these types of windows for people who want to use their attic as a living room or studio.

And then there are innovative variants, such as a balcony skylight. This is a window that folds out into a small balcony. In a matter of seconds, your attic window is transformed into a place where you can step outside.

There are also choices in terms of operation. An electric or solar-powered skylight can be opened at the touch of a button or via an app. This is useful if the window is high up in the roof. There are also windows with ventilation grilles, so that fresh air can enter even when the window is closed.

For comfort and safety, there are extras: windows with sun blinds or blackout blinds, ideal for bedrooms; fire-resistant skylights, which offer extra safety; and soundproof windows, which are especially useful in busy urban areas such as city centers or along the A13 highway.

In short: there is a solution for every situation. The most important thing is that the skylight suits your home and how you want to use the space.

What you need to consider in Rotterdam

Installing a skylight is often easier than you might think, but there are a few things to consider.

1. First of all, the permit. A skylight can usually be installed at the rear of your home without a permit. This may be different at the front, especially in protected cityscapes or near monuments. We always check this for you, so you won't be faced with any surprises.

2. Insulation is also important. A well-installed skylight keeps heat inside in winter and outside in summer. That is why we only work with materials that meet current insulation standards.

3. And then, of course, there is craftsmanship. A skylight must be installed so that it is watertight and draught-free. That requires experience. We ensure that the window not only looks good, but also functions problem-free for many years.

How does installation work?

Many people expect a major renovation, but often a skylight can be installed in a single day.

We always start with a consultation at your home. Together, we look at what is technically possible and which solution best suits your home. We then take care of the preparations and any necessary permits.

On the day of installation, we make the opening in the roof, install the frame and window, and ensure a watertight connection. We then neatly finish the interior. By the end of the day, you can already enjoy the result.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about skylights 

How long does it take to install a skylight? In most cases, a skylight can be installed in a single day. If you have multiple windows or a complex roof, it may take a little longer. You can usually enjoy the results by the afternoon.

Can I combine multiple skylights? Yes, this provides much more light and a spacious effect. In Rotterdam, we often see this in attics that are converted into bedrooms or workspaces. Multiple windows next to or above each other create an open and light atmosphere.

What kind of skylights are suitable for older houses in Rotterdam? For older or characteristic homes, we often recommend tilt windows or windows with a raised axis. This keeps the window functional and safe, but also fits in with the look of the house.

Can I also have a skylight operated electrically or by solar energy? Absolutely. Electric and solar variants are ideal for high roofs or hard-to-reach places. You can easily operate the window with a button or app and enjoy comfort without any hassle.

How do I maintain a skylight? Skylights require little maintenance. Regular cleaning of the glass and checking for leaves in the gutters is usually sufficient. For pivot windows, you can occasionally lightly lubricate the pivot point and hinges to keep them opening and closing smoothly.

What if my attic remains too dark after installing one skylight? Sometimes one window is sufficient, but for large or deep attics, it may be wise to install multiple windows or combine them with a dormer window. We always advise on what works best for your specific situation.

Can a skylight also be soundproof? Yes, there are special soundproof skylights. These windows are ideal in busy neighborhoods or along roads and significantly reduce traffic noise.

Why choose Global Bouw?

A skylight literally and figuratively opens up new possibilities. Your attic is transformed from a dark storage space into a light, fresh, and fully functional floor. Whether you want to create a bedroom, office, or hobby room, a skylight lays the foundation. We have been working in Rotterdam for years and know the houses and the rules. Whether it's a modern roof in Overschie or a historic building in Kralingen, we know which solution is right. What customers often appreciate is that we don't just install a window, but really think along with them about how the space can be better utilized. We make clear agreements, work with sustainable materials, and ensure that everything is finished neatly. And even after installation, we remain available for questions about maintenance.

Do you live in Rotterdam and want to know what is possible in your home? Feel free to contact Global Bouw. We would be happy to show you how a skylight can change your home.