Is it really necessary to have french windows in your loft conversion?

[MumofAJB]

I need to decide quickly whether to have french windows or a normal window in my loft conversion. I'd rather a normal window as i can fit the radiator underneath and personally I prefer the look. There will be the velux on the far side of the room so there will be lots of light. But I am worried about heat in the summer so I'd love to hear if people think that the french doors are essential to keep the room cool in summer. Any advice gratefully received!

Forgot to add that the 'room' in question is to be our bedroom!

If you prefer the normal windows get them.

My bedroom has french doors (its not a loft conversion though) and we rarely open them.

It is the only 'window' in my room but we still don't use it, I would prefer a normal window. You will be able to keep the room cool enough without one.

We're about to start our loft conversion too; I think French doors are a waste unless you have a lovely sunny balcony which you'll use a lot. Otherwise they waste valuable space!

Agree with the others - you don't need french doors, and it sounds like a waste of money.

The best way to get the room cool is to have a flow of air - so open the velux at the same time as the windows, and open windows/doors downstairs in the house so that the air can flow all the way through. Much more effective than opening one bigger window anyway.

I don't like french doors in a loft. Agree they are a waste of space and restrict what furniture you can place around the doors. Also, you can't really leave them open a crack for fresh air like a window. In our loft I actually wanted really big windows as we look over a park and went with a sliding patio door, which is floor to (a low) ceiling. If you want a radiator there, get a window.

We have french doors with a juliet balcony and absolutely love it. Often have it open in the summer but luckily we have a lovely view and not overlooked.

Wouldn't bother if surrounding houses can see straight in or short on space/storage.

what was it that made you think French Windows might be needed?

Everyone seems to get French doors round here which is why I began to think they were seen as essential, but I think a window is more practical. Leaning towards window now.

French windows in lofts give me the heebie jeebies. They're so high up they give me vertigo, and I can just imagine a child getting over-excited and climbing up and falling right over the Juliet balcony.

Juliet balconies are pointless IMO.
Either have a proper balcony with railings designed to be anti-climb, with French doors, or a larger room and ordinary window.

Planning regs have got sniffier over balconies, too.

A proper balcony has been great for letting the toddlers bounce around while MrNC and I lie in bed debating whose turn it is to get up. They can see dogs, chickens, neighbours, trains, birds and love it.

Thanks for all the advice. Told builder I want a window.