Thinking about refinishing your attic but need more floorspace? In “How to Unlock Hidden Floorspace with Dormers” you got great information on how these architectural additions can really upgrade your home.
But there are many types of dormers!
How do you know what’s best for your home’s style? Or your budget?
This article is a quick guide to identifying styles of dormers for homeowners who want to have a clear vision when they plan their attic remodel. Let’s dive in.
#1. Gable Dormers
What to Know:
The “gable” of the roof is between the gutter and the roof’s peak. Gabled dormers get their name from their location of installation.
Gable dormers are the most common design- and for a good reason! They’ve been rising in popularity since the 1950s. Why? For one, they’re easy to install- which cuts down on the overall price. They’re also great for adding floor space and light to your attic.
What’s the Cost of a Gable Dormer?
Your home’s structure and style can make a big difference in the cost of adding any type of dormer. You should always contact a contractor to get a quote that dials in on your needs. But, just for the sake of making these styles easier to compare in this article, you can expect a gable dormer addition to run anywhere between $6,000-8,000 for an 8’x8′ size.
#2. Flat Roof Dormer
What to Know:
Flat roof dormers are fantastic for adding floorspace and light to an attic. They’re often large additions to a space (think: adding an entire room on top of your house!)
Traditionally, flat roof dormers were considered the ugly step-sister of the dormer family. But recently? With the popular rise in rustic design and repurposed commercial properties, we’ve seen more of these showcased on HGTV.
The “boxy” appearance might be too modern for some homes. But if you’re repurposing a pole barn into a guest house or converting an old downtown store into a AirBnB? Flat roof dormers add just the right ‘workhorse’ style with functionality that can’t be beat.
The biggest downside? They truly do have a ‘flat roof’. That means shedding water can be an issue…and you know how much rainfall we get here in Pennsylvania.
What’s the Cost of a Flat Roof Dormer?
As mentioned, usually flat roof dormers are big. Still, if you don’t have the space to build out a tradition addition (or want the style look of adding “up”), flat roof dormers are a wonderful way to achieve maximum floor space. A 16×14′ flat roof dormer typically runs in the $20-25k range.
#3. Eyebrow Dormer
What to Know:
More ‘window’ than dormer, these attractive sloping architectural additions won’t add much floor space to your upper level…but they do increase curb appeal.
But beauty comes with a price: these dormers have the highest cost for their size.
What’s the Cost of an Eyebrow Dormer?
A small 3×7′ eyebrow dormer can cost between $3,000-6,000. Want to know more about adding one to your home? Take a look at this article here on This Old House.
#4. Hipped Dormer
What to Know:
Hipped dormers look similar to classic gable dormers but have a little bit of an architectural upgrade. Instead of two sides and a peak, hipped dormers have a third side that adds a little extra pizazz to the roof.
These modern dormers are great for new builds- adding beautiful contrast along the roof and, of course, great functionality in the upper level.
What’s the Cost of a Hipped Dormer?
An 8×8′ hipped dormer will run in the range fo $7-10K- or about $2-3k more than a traditional gabled dormer.
#5. Recessed Dormer
What to Know:
A recessed dormer is built into the gable of the roof. They require less in materials to build than other dormers, so they do tend to cost less to build.
The downside? They don’t add a lot of floorspace to your attic. But they do add light to your attic, as well as great design to both your home’s interior and exterior. If you’re refinishing your attic and you’re lucky enough to have plenty of space, adding a recessed dormer is a great way to add the natural light you need to make your space feel bright and airy.
What’s the Cost of a Recessed Dormer?
A 4×6′ recessed dormer will cost between $4,000-6,000k.
In our “Attic Inspiration” article, we mentioned that no style is “one-size-fits-all”. That’s why you need a contractor who can assess not just how your space can be used, but give you choices based on your lifestyle and budget needs.
Looking for a great contractor who can make your Pennsylvania home a dream come true? We’re right here.
Learn more about our roofing and remodeling services here!
Or get to the top of our schedule and give us a call at 570.345.0406 to get a bid for your project. We’d love to help you create a great home for your family.
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2 Comments. Leave new
This is beautiful. Thank you so much. God bless you. Evangeline
Nice work