If you’re searching for a way to add curb appeal to your home, an eyebrow window may be the perfect solution. These curved windows, resembling a raised eyebrow on your roof, can bring additional natural light into your home while improving ventilation. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of eyebrow windows and provide insights on how to incorporate them into your home design.
What Is an Eyebrow Window?
An eyebrow window is a low, curved window that protrudes from a sloped roof, creating a wave-like shape in the roofline. These windows are designed to bring natural light into attic spaces or upper floors while adding visual interest to a home’s exterior.
These windows can be either fixed or operable. Fixed windows do not open and are primarily used for their looks and to bring natural light into a space. They’re also easy to maintain. Operable eyebrow windows can be opened to allow for ventilation.
Eyebrow windows can be incorporated into several architectural styles. They can be found on a wide range of buildings, from traditional shingle-style homes to contemporary beach houses and even converted structures like garage guest houses.
The first eyebrow windows appeared on medieval thatch-roofed cottages. They were popularized in America in the second half of the 19th century by Boston architect Henry Hobson Richardson, the father of the Shingle style. As architect Stephen Holt noted in This Old House Magazine, “Richardson’s eyebrows—sometimes called eyebrow or eyelid dormers—were long, narrow slits with short windows.”
Choosing the Right Eyebrow Window
The size of your eyebrow window should be proportionate to your roof and the overall scale of your home. A window that’s too small may look out of place, while one that’s too large could overwhelm the roofline. Proper sizing is important for achieving a balanced and harmonious look.
Choose materials that match or complement your existing roof and window treatments. Common options include wood, vinyl, and metal for the frame, with glass options ranging from single-pane to energy-efficient double or triple-pane varieties. Selecting the right materials can enhance both the appearance and performance of your window.
Check that the style of your eyebrow window aligns with your home’s architectural design. For example, a more traditional shingle-style home might benefit from a classic, narrow eyebrow window, while a contemporary house could feature a larger, more dramatic curve.
Pro Tip: Architect Nick Bensley, who puts eyebrows on many of his residential projects, emphasizes the importance of scale: “Small eyebrows on a large roof seem like a detail, while a large one on a smaller roof becomes a real standout feature.”
Installing Eyebrow Windows
Installing an eyebrow window is a complex process that typically requires professional expertise. However, understanding the process can help you choose the right contractor for the job.
Norm explained his reasoning for choosing an eyebrow over other options: “Skylights were out because I thought they would let in too much heat. Also, I wanted to be able to see who was coming up the driveway while sitting at my desk.” Norm was initially considering a shed or gable dormer when designer Jock Gifford came up with a twist: a 4-foot-high, curve-topped window that broke the eaves line of the front of the building.
Cost Factors for Eyebrow Windows
The cost of installing an eyebrow window can vary based on several factors, but typically costs about $4,000, according to Angi. The size of the window and any modifications needed to your home to account for it can make the project more expensive.
Window Materials and Size
Custom-made eyebrow windows are typically more expensive than standard windows due to their unique shape. The materials chosen for the frame and glass will also impact the overall cost.
Labor and Installation Complexity
The intricate nature of eyebrow window installation often results in higher labor costs. “Anytime you build something that breaks away from a straight line, it costs more,” says This Old House general contractor Tom Silva. Skilled labor is required for proper installation, which can add to the overall expense.
Additional Structural Modifications
In some cases, additional structural work may be necessary to support the new window, which can increase the overall project cost. This might include reinforcing the roof structure or making alterations to accommodate the window’s curvature.
Integrating the eyebrow window with the existing roof requires also skill and attention to detail. “Because of the curve’s geometry, courses of roofing shingles get shorter as they go up the eyebrow from each side of the main roof,” Silva says. “It’s a little tricky to figure out.” Proper integration prevents leaks and improves the window’s durability.
Eyebrow Window Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance will help extend your window’s life and performance. Clean the glass and frame regularly using appropriate cleaning products. For hard-to-reach exterior surfaces, consider hiring a professional window cleaning service.
Inspect the window periodically for signs of wear or damage — particularly around the seals and flashing. Address any issues promptly to prevent water infiltration and maintain energy efficiency.
Benefits of Installing an Eyebrow Window
Adding an eyebrow window to your home can enhance curb appeal, light filtration, and ventilation.
Curb Appeal
Eyebrow windows add character and visual interest to a home’s exterior. Their curved shape breaks up the monotony of a straight roofline, creating a softer, more organic appearance.
Natural Light Enhancement
Eyebrow windows are designed to bring additional natural light into upper-level spaces. This can be particularly beneficial in attics or rooms with sloped ceilings, where traditional windows might not be practical. Natural light can improve the ambiance and make spaces feel larger and more inviting.
Improved Ventilation
Operable eyebrow windows improve ventilation for upper floors. By allowing warm air to escape, these windows help regulate indoor temperatures and can enhance overall air quality in your home.
Eyebrow Window: Potential Challenges and Solutions
While eyebrow windows offer many benefits, they also present some challenges that homeowners should be aware of. Addressing these hardships can help you achieve a successful installation.
Structural Considerations
Make sure your roof can support an eyebrow window. Working with a structural engineer can help address these concerns. Proper structural support is essential for the window’s stability and durability.
Weather Resistance
The curved shape of eyebrow windows can make them more susceptible to leaks if not properly installed. High-quality materials and expert installation are essential for long-term weather resistance.
Building Code Compliance
Eyebrow windows must meet local building codes, which may have specific requirements for size, placement, and energy efficiency. Consult with local authorities and work with licensed professionals to meet compliance.
Eyebrow windows require custom-made sashes — either fixed or hinged — and all involve tricky framing and roofing. Because the curved dormer must integrate seamlessly with the main roof plane, the intersection of the eyebrow’s wave shape and the surrounding shingles demands precision craftsmanship to prevent water intrusion at every seam.
Pro Tip: Tom Silva, This Old House general contractor, warns that curved window work comes at a premium: “Anytime you build something that breaks away from a straight line, it costs more.” Most window companies routinely make true half-round windows, but a more traditional eyebrow — a semi-oval or a small segment of a circle — will have to be custom made, adding to both lead time and expense.
Eyebrow Windows: Our Conclusion
Adding an eyebrow window to your home can help improve your property’s curb appeal and energy efficiency. While these windows require careful planning and can be more costly than traditional windows, the visual impact and functional benefits can make them a worthwhile investment for your home. Before you reach out to a window installer, speak to an architect or contractor to confirm this window style is a good option for your home. With proper planning and execution, an eyebrow window can become a distinctive feature that adds both charm and value to your home. Read more about Victorian era window designs in our guide.
