Introduction

Do you want to make your storage shed brighter and more spacious? Consider adding a dormer! Sheds with dormers are an excellent addition and can enhance the shed’s overall design and appearance while providing more space and light to the interior. In this article, we will explore dormers in detail and help you decide whether you should add one to your shed.

What is a dormer?

A dormer is a structural element that serves multiple purposes, including creating interior space, allowing for more natural light, and increasing ventilation. You can recognize a dormer by the unique style that it adds to the roof of a building. As you will find out, dormers come in many styles, but typically a dormer has a small window that protrudes from the shed’s roof, sticking out from the primary slope of the roof.

Shed with Dormers: Styles

While all dormers add or extend the roof of your shed, four different styles of dormers are commonly seen: the gable, transom or shed dormer, and the eyebrow dormer.

Gable Dormer:

The most common style, the gable dormer, extends from the shed’s roof, creating an additional part of the roof that extends in two directions. You can recognize a gable dormer by its iconic triangular shape.

Setback Gable Dormer:

The setback gable dormer has a triangular shape similar to the regular dormer but has one distinct feature. Unlike the traditional gable dormer extending to the exterior wall, this style is set back into the roof. This means the setback gable is positioned towards the middle of the roof.

Transom Dormer:

The transom dormer is a unique, eye-catching style of dormer that features a horizontal window (or several windows) that extends outward from the main roofline. This horizontal window not only creates natural light but also adds extra space to the shed’s interior. On the exterior, the transom dormer serves as a visual focal point, enhancing the overall appearance of your outside office or storage shed.

Eyebrow Dormer:

Perhaps the least common of the four is the eyebrow dormer. The eyebrow dormer has a curved roof resembling an eyebrow shape. These dormers, while adding a unique look to your building, are also difficult to build due to their curved construction.

Do dormers on storage sheds need gutters?

In fact, dormers do not need gutters. Rain that falls on the dormer’s roof runs down to the gutters on the main roof of the shed. For some designs, gutters may be recommended. For example, depending on the size, a gable dormer with a shorter roof may require a spout or gutter system to prevent water from running into windows or through the roof.

In the end, gutters are likely not required for a storage shed since the overall size of the roof is smaller.

How much does a dormer cost?

The cost of adding a dormer to your shed depends on many factors: the size of the dormer, style, materials used, and any customizations. The larger the dormer, the more expensive the addition is. But generally, adding a dormer to your shed or house roof will cost anywhere from $2,500-$20,00. You could always refer to this handy shed dormer cost calculator. Or check out prices in our shed builder.

Should I put a dormer on my shed roof?

Adding a dormer to your shed roof is a great idea. Dormers bring a touch of elegance to any structure and provide several benefits that can greatly enhance the usefulness and charm of your outdoor building.

With this in mind, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks to adding a dormer shed. Realizing the advantages and disadvantages can help you make an informed decision about stylizing your shed.

Benefits of a dormer:

• Natural Light: One of the biggest benefits of adding a gable to your shed roof is the extra natural light it provides. In addition to the natural light from the exterior walls, a dormer provides natural light from the roof. Natural light is known to provide multiple health benefits, a boost of Vitamin D, improved mood, and sleep being a few.
• Storage and Space: While limited, a dormer on a storage shed roof will add a small amount of storage space. You may need the extra height to store larger items. Depending on the size, a dormer can add several feet of height to sections of your shed’s roof.
• Unique Style: Shed Dormers create a unique look for your shed roof. If you want your shed to stand out, consider stylizing it by adding a shed dormer.
• Increased Airflow: Experience enhanced air circulation in your shed or outdoor office with the extra windows in the dormer. Open the windows on your dormers and enjoy the fresh air.

Concerns of a dormer:

• Added Expense: If you are buying your shed on a tight budget, perhaps this add-on is not best for you. Dependent on sizing and other factors, it can add up to $300 – 500 to your total cost.
• High Maintenance: While dormers are a beautiful addition to your outdoor shed, they alter the standard roof construction. Some poorly constructed dormers are notorious for leaking.
• Added Height: A shed dormer may not suit you if the extra height is a problem because of trees or a tight fit. A dormer on a shed can add around 2 – 5 feet of extra height, depending on the style.

When deciding, recognize that different styles have their own pros and cons. For example, the pros of a gable dormer are the added space and headroom. While a shed dormer may not add as much headroom, the natural light and curb appeal are an added benefit. Either way, a dormer is a great way to enhance your storage shed’s overall look and functionality.

Conclusion

Dormers are a great upgrade to any shed. They add style, create interior space, and increase natural light and airflow. So, pick your ideal style and elevate your shed to new heights with the addition of a dormer! To learn more about sheds, check out our Ultimate Guide to Sheds. Or, if you are interested in learning about other ways to add style to your shed, check out Shed Porch Ideas and Inspiration! If you are thinking about the Rent-to-Own option, check out this article. And, if you want a fully customizable shed (maybe with a dormer!), we are here to help