Frameless glazing of balconies is a unique system, the basis of which is tempered glass. Since this design is durable, you can avoid transverse and vertical finishing of the balcony, veranda or terrace.
Thanks to modern technologies, the usual balconies with double-glazed windows are fading into the background, giving way to frameless glazing.
Advantages and disadvantages of frameless glazing of balconies or loggias
This type of glazing has its pros and cons. Let's take a closer look.
Frameless glazing creates an elegant look for both the façade and the interior of the balcony
First, about the advantages:
- First of all, frameless balcony design is characterized by an impressive service life - up to fifty years.
- Since the design does not require a transverse profile or vertical posts, an excellent panoramic view is provided.
But an impeccable appearance is not the only advantage of such a system. It is interesting that, in contrast to many frame devices, in this case all the doors open, and the glazed space turns into an unglazed one.
- The system is intended for loggias, balconies, etc. of various sizes and configurations. 3 m or more is the possible height of sashes made of resistant glass. The frameless design is also easy to maintain (access to all glass surfaces ensures full opening of the doors) and is reliable.
- The lightness of the components that make up the structure does not require additional strengthening of the base, so its installation is possible in multi-story buildings of any type, even old ones.
- This system provides maximum illumination of the space: an increase in light transmission is possible due to the absence of transverse posts. The main thing is that this delicate glazing is convenient; it folds, so the balcony can be opened completely.
In frameless glazing systems, the fencing function is assigned to thick tempered glass
But any technology cannot be absolutely flawless, so there are some disadvantages in this case. They are:
- Low degree of noise absorption (half as much as double-glazed windows).
- Cold type of construction - this method does not provide optimal thermal insulation of the room, so it will be only a little warmer on the loggia or balcony than on the outside.
- It is not possible to install mosquito nets.
- The level of sealing is minimal. This affects the wear of the rollers and leads to loose fasteners.
These are the main pros and cons of panoramic balcony glazing today.
The main disadvantage of frameless glazing is the “cold” type of construction
The work pattern of our company’s specialists is convenient for clients
When ordering frameless glazing on a turnkey basis, you can count on efficiency, responsibility, a high level of service and low prices. To call a surveyor for free, just contact us by phone or through the forms on the website. After processing your application and choosing a convenient time for consultation, a glazing specialist will visit the site, assess the scope of work and announce the cost of installing tempered glass on a balcony, veranda or terrace. If you make a positive decision, then we enter into a contract for services.
From consultation with a specialist, taking measurements to the start of work on site, only a few days pass. Frameless glazing is guaranteed for 2 years; after this period, post-warranty and service maintenance is provided.
Selection of glazed structure
The structure of such glazing is similar to blinds - the system closes and opens, it can be moved to the side if it is necessary to expand the space. Several types of frameless systems have been developed. Read more about them.
Each type of frameless glazing has its own characteristics and advantages
Sliding
This opening option is characterized by space saving. All doors slide apart in one or both directions, creating an open space. When necessary, the sashes can be moved - and the room is again protected from weather surprises outside the window.
The doors of the sliding system open along parallel guides
This type of frameless glazing systems is highly reliable and has the ability to withstand gusts of wind. But the method is expensive.
Since such structures are an expensive structure and, if not of good quality, can be unsafe to operate and also cause discomfort, it is worth choosing products carefully and paying attention to proven and well-proven brands.
Manufacturers of sliding systems:
- The most famous manufacturer today in this market segment is (Spain). Its specialization is the production of systems with low-profile support.
- SKS-Stacusit (Germany) produces Panorama and Metropol systems. The first can be installed on any openings, the second - only on simple ones.
- “Cover” (Finland) is another representative of the above-mentioned production. Produces systems for various areas of use.
- In the Russian Federation there is a product whose products are distinguished by excellent quality and reasonable cost in comparison with analogues from abroad. Estel systems are used both in residential buildings and in offices in the form of partitions.
Examples of sliding frameless glazing:
Swing
This option is more familiar and affordable. Moreover, it is possible to combine hinged and blind sashes.
Scheme of frameless glazing with hinged sashes
A similar system consists of parallel “running” runners, on which the sash is installed. You can close or open the system by moving one leaf.
When fully open, the doors fold like a book
Popular brands from manufacturers:
- HansaGlass is a distribution company from the Russian Federation, a full representative of the Finnish brand Cover.
- Lumon (Finland).
- Sunflex is a German company.
- Delihome is essentially the name of the glazing technology; it is patented by IVL Design, which is registered in St. Petersburg. The technology currently has no competitive analogues.
All presented companies provide a huge selection of appropriate designs. All systems are divided depending on the location of the supporting profile:
Lower support profile Upper support profile
Many guides
System design
With frameless glazing of balconies and loggias, there are no frames or partitions. The system is secured using aluminum profiles at the top and bottom. The window sash is the glass itself. The first glass in the design opens like a regular window sash, the remaining glasses move to the place of the first. The entire system folds like the pages of a book.
Between the glass there is a layer of sealing that prevents dust from entering the room.
Criteria for choosing frameless glazing for a balcony
It is necessary to understand that when choosing materials and products for the corresponding work, you can end up purchasing a fake. To prevent this from happening, consider the following rules:
- The glass should not have any damage, pits, bulges, even stains are unacceptable.
- The thickness of the glass should be selected depending on the height of the opening; if it exceeds 2 m, the glass should be at least eight millimeters thick; if lower, six-millimeter glass will do.
- Make sure that the edges of the glass panels have high-quality processing and polishing.
- Profiles made of aluminum should be as smooth as possible.
- Make sure that the fittings are made of good materials, inspect them for bulges, potholes, cracks, etc.
Leaf sliding mechanisms
Folded window
So, if desired, the window can be easily removed by moving the sashes to the side. There are two types of folding mechanisms: you can slide the glass in the form of a book, or fold it parallel to each other. When choosing a mechanism, you need to consider where the window will be installed.
- The parallel system is more suitable for glazing loggias when only one side needs to be covered. It saves space by sliding the sashes along a guide, and costs about 30% less. Ventilation is provided only through slots.
- The “book” folding system is suitable for a balcony where three sides need to be glazed, since corners can pass through when folded. When opened, the shutters are tightly fixed so that they are not damaged in strong winds. Ventilation is carried out by opening the outer flaps.
Please note: Options for replacing cold glazing with warm glazing
Frameless glazing is perfect for balconies with a beautiful view from the window, will decorate the facade of any home, and will make the room light and spacious. And if you love indoor plants, you can make your own garden, where the flowers will feel great in the abundance of sunlight, and you will enjoy spending your time.
Ceiling finishing
In this case, finishing with PVC panels, which allow you to create perfectly smooth surfaces, can be an excellent solution; They are practical, moisture resistant and easy to clean. Available in matte or glossy finish.
PVC panels are produced in various colors and designs, but for the ceiling it is best to choose plain products
Photos of interesting design solutions for loggias and balconies with frameless glazing
To visualize the possible options for the design described here, we offer a number of photos on the topic:
