FAQ

Install

Can I install a VELUX blind myself?

Yes. VELUX blinds are all designed to fit VELUX roof windows and can be installed in a matter of a few minutes. Most windows come with pre-fitted brackets to assist with the installation. However, if your window does not have these brackets, and you are ordering a new blind, the brackets will be included with the blind. 

The brackets are also available to purchase as a spare part. If you wish to order these brackets, please contact VELUX.

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Go to Installation Guides for VELUX Blinds

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Can I install a VELUX roof window myself?

No. A VELUX roof window is a product which we recommend is installed by a professional installer. Working with roof construction is a job for a skilled carpenter, not a do-it-yourself job. 
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Can I operate a VELUX roof window electrically?

Yes. VELUX has introduced the first complete electrical all-in-one roof window – INTEGRA. The window comes with a complete electrical system for easy and fast installation.
If you already have a manually operated VELUX roof window installed, you can still install the VELUX KMX conversion kit to convert your window to electrical operation. For further details, please contact VELUX.
Go to Electrical Operation

 

How do I measure my roof pitch?

The most accurate method is by using a roof pitch indicator placed on the roof itself. This gives an accurate reading of the degree of roof slope (a roof pitch indicator can be purchased at local building supply stores). The alternative is to measure the rise over the run or the Slope of a line. There are Pitch Calculators available on line to help you find this measurement.

For further information please contact VELUX directly.

 

Is installation of VELUX roof windows possible at any roof pitch?

Yes. Centre-Pivot Roof Windows are designed to be installed on a roof pitch from 15°-90°, depending on the roofing material and flashing selected. Top-Hung Roof Windows are designed to be installed on a roof pitch from 15°-75° (55°-75° with the use of special springs), again depending on the roofing material and flashing selected. VELUX also offer a range of flat roof solutions which can be installed on roofs with a pitch from 0°-15°.

Is installation the same regardless of the roofing material?

No, you have to be aware of the different kinds of roof materials. VELUX flashings are compatible with virtually any type of roofing material from standard covers such as slate and tile, to corrugated sheeting or even thatch.

Maintain

Can a VELUX roof window leak?

VELUX roof windows use flashing kits that are specific to roof pitch and roofing material. Provided the proper VELUX flashing is used and installed correctly, we will guarantee the product against leaks for the period specified in our warantees.

The unique construction of VELUX windows and flashings ensures the safe drainage of rainwater from the roof above the window, providing complete weatherproofing and preventing leakage. Because the roofing material covers both the top and the sides, VELUX flashings are largely unobtrusive.

VELUX flashings are compatible with virtually any type of roofing material, from standard covers such as slate and tile to corrugated sheeting or even thatch.

VELUX undertakes extensive testing to ensure that all products perform to the very highest standards.
Our windows and flashings are subjected to some of the worlds's most severe artificial rain and wind tests.

Can I apply a film to the glass to decrease heat and light?

VELUX does not recommend the addition of any standard commercial film to the glass of our windows. The addition of film or tint bought in a store will void the warranty on the glass. However, the glass is manufactured with a very energy efficient low-e coating. In addition, we also offer several sunscreening options that can be added to our roof windows to regulate light and heat.
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How can I reduce the noise from the outside, such as traffic or overhead planes?

Enjoy peace and quiet by upgrading to a window pane with extra sound insulation. These panes also have the advantage of additional safety with a laminated inner pane.

Read more about Replacement Panes

How do I open/close my out of reach VELUX blind?

We recommend the use of the ZCT 200 Rod Control and the ZOZ 085 Rod Adaptor if you have a manual blind already installed. This Rod Control is extendable from 100-180cm and can be used in conjunction with the ZCT 100 extension which is 100cm. To enable the correct use of the ZCT 200 on the blind we would also recommend the use of the ZOZ 085 Rod Adaptor which would be fitted to your blind to allow easy use.

Alternatively if you are in the process of purchasing a new blind for your out of reach VELUX window we would recommend the Solar option which comes with a battery operated remote control.

For further information on all of our blinds and accessories please visit VELUX Blind Shop contact VELUX directly.

 

How do I open/close my out of reach VELUX Roof Window?

For Centre Pivot windows we recommend the use of the ZCT 200 Rod Control.  This Rod Control is extendable from 100-180cm and can be used in conjunction with the ZCT 100 which is a 100cm extention for this Rod Control.

For use on Top Hung windows we recommend the use of the ZCZ 112 which is a 100cm Rod Control. This is not extendable as we would recommend Top Hung windows to be installed at a lower level.

For more information about planning with VELUX Roof Windows please read Choosing the Right Products.

How do I service my VELUX window?

Depending on appearance and condition, the air filter should be cleaned or renewed every year. Rotate the sash fully and secure by engaging the sash barrel bolt into the bushing at the bottom left hand corner of the frame. Remove the air filter from the filter rail. The air filter can be washed in ordinary household detergent and hot water.
You can also get a new air filter in the VELUX Maintenance Kit. The Maintenance Kit includes everything you need to make changing filters and lubricating fittings simple. Ideally, you'll lubricate your roof window fittings and closing mechanisms once a year. And you can also change the ventilation filter and gasket  - just make sure the window opens and closes properly once you are done. We recommend applying primer and varnish to VELUX timber roof windows regularly - at least once every four years. Regular household cleaning fluid is all it takes to care for our polyurethane roof windows, but if one gets scratched, simply use our filler and repair paint to restore it to its former glory.
Go to Maintenance Kit

My room lets in too much light or gets too hot in summer, what can I do?

Having a VELUX Blackout blind fitted effectively turns day into night. VELUX Blackout blinds have a special aluminium backing designed to reduce excessive heat build up in summer and retain warmth in the winter. VELUX blinds are available in a wide range of styles and colours. VELUX also offer Awning Blinds which are fitted externally and will reduce heat entering the room. Awning blinds can be fitted along with internal blinds or on their own.

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The data plate on my window is not longer there, how can I tell what size it is?

If you can provide the visible glass size (width x height) in millimetres we can match that with one of our window sizes. Please contact us.

What can I do about clouding/fogging between the panes of glass?

Clouding of an insulating glass unit occurs when there is a break in the inner seal, and as a result condensation forms between the two panes. If you encounter a problem with the seal of your glass, then read the serial number off the roof window and contact VELUX - we will be very happy to help you determine the status of your product warranty, and what action can be taken to correct the issue with the seal.
Read more about mist between the panes

What can I do about condensation on the outside of my window?

Condensation on the outside of the pane may occur for short periods on modern low energy panes. This is not due to defective panes. On the contrary, it is the natural consequence of the high insulation level of modern panes, as they do not allow the heat of the building to pass through the pane and warm the outside of the glass. 

What is the purpose of the plastic bushings in the side frame?

The upper plastic bushing in the frame of a pivot hung window is used for securing the window sash with the sash barrel bolt in an open position and thereby increasing the ventilation.
The lower plastic bushing is used for securing the window sash, when the sash is fully rotated and in the cleaning position.

Where can I find blinds for my roof windows?

You can see a full range of blinds and colours in our online Blinds Shop.

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Repair

Can a VELUX roof window leak?

VELUX roof windows use flashing kits that are specific to roof pitch and roofing material. Provided the proper VELUX flashing is used and installed correctly, we will guarantee the product against leaks for 10 years (excluding any blinds or electrical components).

The unique construction of VELUX windows and flashings ensures safe drainage of rainwater from the roof above the window, providing complete weatherproofing and preventing leakage. Because the roofing material covers both the top and the sides, VELUX flashings are largely unobtrusive.

VELUX flashings are compatible with virtually any type of roofing material, from standard covers such as slate and tile to corrugated sheeting or even thatch.

VELUX undertakes extensive testing to ensure all products perform to the very highest standards.
Windows and flashings are subjected to some of the world`s most stringent artificial rain and wind tests.

The sash suddenly locks - what can I do?

Apply grease to the hinges. Raise the sash while rotating to 180 degrees. Afterwards, apply non-acid grease to hinges and fittings - then close the roof window.

You can get the grease from VELUX in one of our Maintenance Kits.

Read more about Maintenance Kits

What do I do about clouding/fogging between the panes of glass?

Clouding of an insulating glass unit occurs when there is a break in the inner seal, and as a result condensation forms between the two panes. If you encounter a problem with the seal of your glass, copy the serial number off the roof window and contact VELUX - we will be happy to help you determine if your product warranty is still valid and what action can be taken to correct the problem with the seal.

Read more about condensation between the panes

Electrical products

Are VELUX io-homecontrol labelled products compatible with former generations of VELUX electrical products?

No, VELUX electrical products sold before 1 May 2006 are based on infrared technology, whereas new VELUX electrical products are based on a wireless technological standard denoted io-homecontrol®.

VELUX electrical blinds, awning blinds and roller shutters are, however, compatible with both the old and new technology, i.e. these can be used together with both new and old generations of VELUX electrical products.

Can I add an electrical blind or shutter to my INTEGRA window or the electrical conversion kit at a later occasion?

Yes, all VELUX electrical blinds and shutters are prepared for easy fitting on the INTEGRA window.

Your original remote control will automatically register the new additions and add them to the overall menu in a few seconds. Once the additions have been made, you can start using them.

Can I install more than one electric roof window at a time?

Yes, all electric roof windows are installed like manual roof windows.

After the installation has been carried out, you can register all windows in one remote control, or each window in individual remote controls.

How do I install VELUX electrical products?

VELUX INTEGRA electric Roof Windows are installed in the same way as standard VELUX Roof Windows. They come with pre-installed hidden motor, ready to just plug into a power supply, removing the need for linking of products with cables, changing settings, etc.

All VELUX instructions provide detailed information about the installation of the products.

How do I maintain the window GGL/GGU INTEGRA?

GGL/GGU INTEGRA is maintained just like a manual roof window.

For further information, please see the enclosed instruction guide for the window.

The window operator is maintenance free.

How many electrical products can be controlled by a VELUX remote control with display?

A VELUX remote control with display can operate up to 200 products in total.

Products can be controlled individually or all at once from anywhere in the house.

I already have a VELUX roof window and would like to obtain all the benefits of the INTEGRA roof window, what should I buy?

You should choose the electrical conversion kit KMX giving you all the same functions as the INTEGRA roof window.

The kit is available for pivot-hung windows (KMX 100) and for top hung windows (KMX 200).

I am about to buy a VELUX roof window, how do I choose the right electrical products?

The best choice is the electrical roof window GGL/GGU INTEGRA® with a rain sensor, a wireless remote control with display, and the possibility to add electrical decoration and sunscreening products and frame lights.

I only need a single electrical function, e.g. an electrical blind, what should I buy?

The single function control system KUX 100 is recommended for simple operation of a single electrical product, e.g. an electrical blind.

VELUX also offer Remote Controlled Solar blinds. These blinds are battery operated and controlled via a handy remote control. However, the batteries are recharged by solar power so you don't have to keep changing them.

What are the main benefits of electrical operation?

Through VELUX electrical operation you can obtain comfortable and flexible operation of your roof windows, decoration and sunscreening products, and frame lights from anywhere in the house.

You also have the luxury to relax in case of rain thanks to the rain sensor, and check the status of your roof windows at any time via the status display of the remote control.

Once you have familiarised yourself with the basic functions of your electrical windows, you can try the range of smart functions.

You can choose to personalise each window or group of windows using the timer function, the naming function, or the program function. For example, you can ask your windows to open and your shutters to rise with a time delay, and then use the program key to start the whole sequence. Making life easier for you.

What types of products come with a rain sensor?

 The electric Roof Windows GGL/GGU INTEGRA and electrical conversion kits KMX 100 and KMX 200 come with a rain sensor as standard to ensure that your electrical roof windows automatically close when it rains.

Smoke ventilation

Are VELUX smoke ventilation windows available in different sizes and variants?

• Two different standard systems are available providing 1m² ventilation area or 1.5m² ventilation area. Other options are available on request.
• A choice can be made between pinewood finish or white polyurethane finish

Can VELUX smoke ventilation windows be used in flat roofs?

• The smoke ventilation windows can be installed in roofs with pitches between 0 and 60°
• In flat roofs 0-15°, the windows are installed using a VELUX ECX flat roof kerb

Do VELUX smoke ventilation products live up to the latest EN product standards?

• VELUX smoke ventilation windows are CE marked and have been tested in regards to the parameters of EN 12101-2
• All VELUX smoke ventilation products are updated in accordance with the harmonized standards in the EN 12101 series regarding smoke and heat control as soon as the standards come into force

Does the EN 12101-2 standard cover sloped roofs?

• The standard lays out requirements for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators independent of whether they are placed in sloped or flat roofs.
• It also covers smoke ventilation for facades

Does the smoke ventilation system protect against power failure?

• An integrated battery back-up in the control system means that the system will still respond for 72 hours in the event of power failure

For which applications can a VELUX smoke ventilation system be used?

• The VELUX smoke ventilation system is a very flexible and cost efficient solution suited for a variety of applications, ranging from staircases in apartment buildings to large commercial buildings
• VELUX smoke ventilation solutions are effective in all roof window applications, providing great flexibility in positioning the window on the roof

How is a product CE-marked in accordance with the EN 12101-2 standard?

• The natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilator should be classified in regards  to:

1. Reliability: A requirement for the number of cycles the ventilator can operate safely
2. Snow load: A requirement for the maximum snow load to ensure full function
3. Low temperature: A requirement for the minimum room temperature to ensure function
4. Wind load: A requirement for the maximum wind suction that the ventilator can withstand without compromising the function
5. Heat exposure: A requirement for the temperature, under which the ventilator will maintain its function during 30 minutes of heat exposure
6. Aerodynamic free area: A requirement for efficiency of the ventilator for all wind directions

• The certification tests must be carried out by a certified test institute
• Window and smoke ventilation operator must be tested and certified as one unit
• The certification must be made by a notified certification agency
• The natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilator must be CE marked and the certification values must be displayed at the product

How is a VELUX smoke ventilation window installed?

• The VELUX smoke ventilation window is installed in roofs with pitches between 0 and 60°
• For a quick and easy installation, the compact smoke ventilation operator has been pre-mounted on the sash of the roof window, making it invisible when the window is closed
• Two discrete gas springs are easily mounted on the window to enable a stable and fast opening
• A wind deflector is installed depending on the application

Is it possible to connect the VELUX system to external alarm systems?

• Yes: The VELUX smoke ventilation system can be controlled by an external alarm system
• A module for connection to external alarm systems is delivered with the all-inclusive control system package

Is it possible to replace previously installed VELUX smoke ventilation operators?

In case of defect, the VELUX smoke ventilation operators can be replaced.

Is it possible to use the smoke ventilation system for comfort ventilation?

• Yes: VELUX smoke ventilation windows have passed the requirements of the reliability test in the EN 12101-2 standard, which requires that the window can operate more than 10.000 cycles
• For comfort ventilation, the window opens up to max. 200 mm, making it compliant also to the safety standard EN 60335-2-103
• The characteristics of the centre-pivot window in relation to comfort are favourable since the sash in a comfort-opened window protects against rain, falling leaves etc.

What is the EN 12101-2 standard?

• EN 12101-2 is a European product standard with the title “specification for natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators”
• Since 1. September 2006, all natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators must be CE marked according to the European product standard EN 12101-2.

What is the maximum ventilation area, which can be obtained?

• A VELUX control system package can be used to operate up to 2 smoke ventilation windows, giving a possibility to create a smoke geometric area of more than 3 m2 or an aerodynamic free area of 1,72 m²

Where is the proof for compliance with EN 12101-2 found?

• A product for natural smoke and heat ventilation cannot be CE-marked if it has not been classified in compliance with the EN 12101-2 product standard
• A declaration of conformity is delivered with VELUX smoke ventilation windows which includes the certification values

Why does VELUX use a centre pivot window that opens 90°?

• The centre-pivot symmetry at a 90° opening angle makes the effectiveness more even, meaning that the centre-pivot roof window allows for an effective smoke and heat exhaust independent of the wind direction
• According to the EN 12101-2 product standard, the effectiveness of the natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilator must be measured under wind exposure from different angles