Sliding windows for the veranda: can you do it yourself, varieties for the terrace, installation, prices for products and specialist services

Cold rooms for recreation, attached to a private residential building, greatly increase the comfort during the operation of the facility in the summer season.
In addition to porches, balconies and loggias, such premises include verandas and terraces.

They are included in the total area of the building and can be open or covered with panoramic translucent structures.

Sliding windows for verandas and terraces allow you to use these rooms not only in warm weather, but also in the autumn or spring seasons.

When is installation allowed?

Sliding windows for terraces and verandas attached to private residential buildings can be installed in any of the following situations :

It is necessary to ensure the transformation of the space being used, when open doors in the summer will not block part of the room.
Read also: Balcony 4 sq. m. - finishing and glazing options. TOP 100 photos of new designs and beautiful combinations
When glazing a terrace or veranda, there is enough free space to move the sashes.
As a rule, for normal operation of sliding windows, piers or blind parts of translucent structures of the same width are required.
If the space-planning solutions for the veranda space imply a direct connection with the street (for example, access to the backyard). In such situations, sliding window units play a role in sliding doors or pencil cases.
In the case when the load-bearing parts of the vertical posts of a terrace or veranda cannot withstand the impact of a couple of forces when installing a swing structure. Sliding windows ensure the transfer of vertical load strictly in the center of gravity of the section of the supporting structure.

At the same time, such designs of translucent blocks are not suitable for the following types of premises :

Impossibility of installing runners for sliding sashes.
Lack of free space (piers) for normal opening of such windows.
The need to insulate and seal the space of a veranda or terrace and transform it into a warm room.

Important. Before ordering, purchasing and installing window sides for terraces, it is recommended to develop a full working design, with specifications, and also provide additional structures that will allow the new sliding window units to operate normally.

Selecting a sliding window scheme

The dimensions of a balcony or loggia can have different shapes and dimensions. location. The home master should take into account in the design:

diagram of movement of the shutters along the guides;
type of window design;
method of moving and fixing the valves.

Ways of movement of the valves

According to this indicator, there are 2 main design options for sliding windows:

horizontal plane;
vertically.

For a balcony, the first installation method is better suited.

The picture shows seven popular schemes, but in reality there are many more. The principles of their construction are:

moving the sash into the pocket of the building structure (Figure No. 1 and No. 2);
moving one leaf to the location of another (Figure No. 3 and No. 4);
shift behind the fixed sash (Fig. No. 5 and No. 6);
combined method.

The design principle of sliding devices

The movable window sash moves along lower guides with supports due to rollers fixed at the bottom. The frame profile with a limiter on top holds the block in a vertical plane. Rubber and brush seals are used for sealing.

The design may use a retention assembly with a roller and a retainer located on top of the window assembly.

Profile mounting method

The principle of placement of the main elements is shown in the picture.

The stationary frame profile is mounted on the balcony wall support.

All voids are filled with mounting foam, which is located between the layers of diffusion and vapor barrier tape.

Requirements

the following requirements apply to sliding windows for terraces and verandas :

Mechanical strength of the profile and glass unit in the event of mechanical shock or static impact.
Durability - all elements of the translucent block must last no less than the period stated by the manufacturer.
Resistance against aggressive environmental influences.
Minimal water absorption, maintaining the integrity of the surface and structure under the influence of direct ultraviolet rays and temperature changes.
Reliability of fittings - depending on the category, the mechanisms should provide from 20 to 60 thousand complete cycles of opening and closing movable sashes without the need for repair or replacement.
Environmental friendliness of materials - when heated, paints and varnishes or plastics should not release toxic substances.
Aesthetic appearance - the decorative coating must have increased durability, not discolor or deteriorate over time.

Note. Each manufacturing enterprise officially registered on the market attaches a quality passport to its products, which indicates the technical characteristics of translucent structures that meet these requirements.

Maintenance of sliding structures

To ensure that the installed system lasts for many years and does not lose its newly purchased appearance, it is recommended to study and take note of a number of maintenance rules:

Once every 2-3 years, it is necessary to disassemble the sashes and clean them with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner from accumulations of dust and dirt.
If you have a “cold” aluminum structure, you need to thoroughly clean the gap seals every year, since a lot of dust accumulates there.
The mechanism must be lubricated to ensure good operation.
Handle the sashes extremely carefully, especially if a lift-and-slide system is installed.
During severe frosts, the doors often freeze and it is simply impossible to open them, but the use of brute force is strictly prohibited. Instead, you should keep a special product on hand - a glass defroster. If purchasing it is not possible, you can use a hairdryer to heat the required area.

There are very few rules, but following them you can significantly save money and time on calling technicians and repairing broken mechanisms.

Varieties

A terrace is an extension to a house that may not have walls or other enclosing structures.
The main feature of such a structure is the presence of a canopy, as well as a hard floor for the possibility of exploiting the space.

A veranda is a separate cold room, which most often has walls, covering and glazing elements.

Depending on the design, the following types of translucent blocks with a sliding mechanism are suitable for verandas and terraces.

For terraces

The following types of sliding windows are suitable.

Single glazing

Design Features:

Glass is made from tempered materials.
The frame is made of profiles with a thickness of 20 to 30 mm.
The roller mechanism is equipped with bearings.
The sealing tape prevents precipitation from penetrating into the terrace space.

What rooms are they suitable for?:

terraces attached to residential buildings;
equipped summer kitchens;
recreation areas in summer cottages with hard flooring.

Advantages:

Effective protection against wind and rain.
Possibility of temporarily increasing the temperature of the internal space by several degrees from outdoor heating devices.

Flaws:

Low energy efficiency indicators.
Poor sound insulation.
The risk of moisture entering the mechanisms, which necessitates their periodic maintenance.

Frameless

Design Features:

Translucent elements made of triplex or tempered glass are fixed to steel clamping hangers with roller supports.
The tightness of the glazing in the closed position is ensured by installing flexible seals made of transparent silicone between the sashes.

What rooms are they suitable for?:

terraces;
porch;
balconies and loggias, if, according to the architect’s plan, heavy frames of window blocks negatively affect the perception of the facade.

Advantages:

Safety – when broken, tempered glass does not form sharp edges or large fragments.
Attractive design appearance.

Flaws:

High retail cost.
Risk of damage to the window unit in winter due to temperature changes.
Poor wind protection.

With metal profile

Design Features:

The frame is made of aluminum profiles or black steel with a powder protective coating.
When installing glass into a frame, the metal beads are equipped with elastic inserts that prevent pressure on the translucent element.

What rooms are they suitable for?:

modern private residential buildings;
summer cafes;
winter gardens decorated in modern and high-tech style;
public spaces with high traffic.

Advantages:

The reliable design is characterized by mechanical strength.
Resistant to deformation.

Flaws:

Risk of corrosion;
Dents from impact loads appear on the plane of the hollow profile;
High cost of metal;
Increased thermal conductivity;
Risk of vibration transmission.

Soft designs

Design Features:

Polymer translucent films are framed in plastic or metal profiles, which, in turn, are installed on runners.
Can be dismantled in clear weather.

What rooms are they suitable for?:

terraces attached to the house, used exclusively in the warm season;
for temporary structures built to celebrate an event;
summer cafe designs.

Advantages:

low dead weight;
ease of installation and operation;
low price.

Flaws:

risk of mechanical damage;
the design cannot be completely transparent, which makes it difficult to see.

Rotary

Design Features:

Windows consist of several sashes connected to each other by rotary hinges.
In the corners of each translucent block there is a roller support, along which the structure slides along the rail runners.

What rooms are they suitable for?:

insulated panoramic exit from the house to the terrace;
strip glazing of a cold contour, if it is necessary to fully open the entire opening in the warm season.

Advantages:

Convenient opening of movable doors.
There is no need to erect a wall.

Flaws:

The design takes up a lot of space in the room, since the rotary sash is fixed orthogonal to the axis of the rail.
High cost of finished products.
The need for periodic maintenance of rollers, bearings and hinges.

For the porch

All types of translucent structures described above, as well as the following types of sliding window units, can be used.

Single chamber

Design Features:

Conventional translucent structures with a thickness of 4 mm or more can be used as glazing.
By insulating adjacent enclosing walls or ceilings, it is possible to transform the room into a heated space.

For what premises are they suitable: verandas of residential buildings, used all year round, with temporary or stationary heating devices.

Advantages:

increased heat transfer resistance;
improved sound insulation of window blocks.

Flaws:

heavy sashes require reinforced sliding mechanisms;
high price;
complexity of installation.

PVC

Design Features:

They are used for both cold and warm glazing of the veranda.
Available in thicknesses from 30 to 90 mm.
The internal number of cameras is from 2 to 6.
Can be reinforced with steel channel.

Suitable for which premises: any verandas attached to residential or public buildings, provided that the plastic materials do not contradict operational standards.

Advantages:

low price;
a wide range of models and sizes available for sale;
ease of operation and maintenance;
resistance to precipitation.

Flaws:

low environmental friendliness;
white products turn yellow in the sun;
difficulty in carrying out repairs when cracks form.

Energy efficient wooden frames

Design Features:

Profiles made of hardwood, which can be made by hand or purchased factory-made.
They can be equipped with both single glazing and sealed double-glazed windows.

Suitable for which premises: verandas of country houses, chalets and other real estate objects made from natural building materials.

Advantages:

the highest level of environmental friendliness;
the porous structure reliably insulates the room from cold and extraneous noise.

Flaws:

wood swells upon prolonged contact with water;
Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, the paintwork can wear off and require restoration.

Parallel sliding

Design Features:

Windows can consist of 1, 2 or several sashes, each of which is installed on several parallel runners.
When opening, the sections move parallel to each other.
If there are several sashes, the structures in the open position are stacked near the pier.

Which rooms are suitable for: verandas attached to the building, if there is strip glazing, or if it is necessary to install translucent doors.

Advantages:

possibility of integrating an electric drive with a photocell;
maintainability - the doors are independent of each other.

Flaws:

complexity of installation;
the need to maintain a safe gap between each section when opening;
the risk of blocking the runners, which causes distortion of the structures.

Note. If it is necessary to transform the terrace into a warm circuit, it may be necessary not only to install sealed double-glazed windows, but also to insulate the walls, roof and floor structures.

Types of sliding windows

Moving the sash along the window line along the guide rails allows you to save space on the windowsill and place decorations and indoor plants on it. They do not need to be removed when ventilating the premises.

For the manufacture of sliding frames, one of the materials is used:

aluminum profile;
wooden bars;
metal-plastic.

Each of them has individual operational properties.

Aluminum profile

A protective oxide film on the metal surface, reinforced by treatment with special compounds, gives the frames a decorative appearance and protects well from atmospheric influences. Due to this, the metal structure can be intensively used for decades.

The disadvantage of aluminum is its high thermal conductivity coefficient, due to which cold bridges are formed in cold weather. To reduce their influence, polyamide inserts are installed into the window structure. But even without their use, such a profile is popular among those apartment owners who do not intend to stay on the balcony for a long time in winter.

Wooden frames

Wood has long been popular as a building material and retains heat well. But under the influence of precipitation and solar radiation, it quickly loses its strength and size, and is susceptible to shrinkage and rotting.

Therefore, wooden frames are treated with special compounds and painted with durable paints. This allows them to be used for a relatively long time, but requires periodic inspection and maintenance.

Metal-plastic modules

Metal-plastic is a type of composite material consisting of several layers:

aluminum or soft steel alloys that can withstand the mechanical load of the structure;
protective polymer coatings.

Due to this, the window frame has high rigidity, is not subject to deformation and at the same time is well protected from corrosion, looks beautiful, and provides thermal protection in cold weather.

Double-glazed window or single glass

Window sashes can be made:

from one or more double-glazed windows;
or a single sheet of glass.

For balcony sliding systems, a second simplified installation option is usually ordered. It costs less and is more justified.

A double-glazed window, even in severe frost, reduces heat removal from the living room, working as an intermediate insulation for the main plastic window of the apartment. With this property, it better prevents the formation of condensation on the glass and reduces fogging of windows in the apartment.

Installation features

When installing sliding window units on terraces and verandas, it is necessary to take into account a number of important nuances .

The window sill block must withstand not only the weight of the movable sash, but also the dynamic loads that arise when it is opened.
When installing the lower and upper runners, it is necessary to take into account their complete alignment without the slightest displacement, which will ensure a strictly vertical position of each sash.
After installation, you need to make sure that the sliding sections are adjacent to each other without forming a gap, which indicates misalignment.
When installing, it is necessary to pre-treat the roller bearings with liquid lubricant to reduce the rolling friction force.
Rail guides are attached exclusively mechanically.
Considering that sliding sashes are in constant motion, it is necessary to ensure a tight connection of the translucent structure to the profile by pressing the bead.

To eliminate impact impacts on adjacent terrace structures - piers, columns, it is necessary to install elastic stoppers on the runners that limit the movement of the sashes .

Read more about how to glaze an open veranda and terrace:

Polycarbonate glazing in winter

If the task is how to make a sliding window from polycarbonate and at the same time retain maximum heat in winter, then it is important to understand that cold glazing systems, which include polycarbonate translucent structures, will help solve the issue only with an integrated approach.

In practice, this means that when using premises year-round, it is necessary to equip them with heating sources of sufficient power. They compensate for the shortcomings of cold glazing, and the gazebo or veranda will be cozy and warm even in severe frosts. Another way to preserve heat is to make polycarbonate frames with your own hands in such a size that the glazing area is small.

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Self-production

When deciding on glazing a terrace or veranda with sliding structures, the best solution would be to contact the official dealers of the factories and then order finished products, according to pre-made measurements. If this is not possible, you can make sliding windows yourself.

This method gives the consumer a number of advantages:

Possibility of manufacturing designs according to your own drawings.
Saving money on the assembly process.
Quality control at every stage of installation.
Selection of non-standard geometric parameters.
Acquiring a new skill.

At the same time, this solution also has a number of disadvantages :

Risk of marriage.
Impossibility of product certification.
The need to purchase or rent a professional tool.
Increased labor costs.
No warranty - all repair costs are borne by the user.

Note. Before making such windows with your own hands, you should also remember that the materials for the future structure should be purchased in full, which may not be much cheaper than the finished structure.

What types?

At home, the consumer has the opportunity to make the following types of window structures with sliding mechanisms:

Cold contour glazing in wooden frames made of pine and other conifers.
Read also: Balcony clothes dryer “Liana”: description, types and do-it-yourself installation instructions
Warm windows with wooden frames and single or double glazed windows.
Soft translucent structures framed from wooden blocks.
PVC window blocks, subject to the purchase of a ready-made plastic profile to be cut to length.

Experts do not recommend home craftsmen to make aluminum sliding structures, since mating profiles in an orthogonal direction requires argon welding, the use of which requires certain skills.

Frame and frameless designs

Before glazing your dacha terrace, decide not only on the material, but also on the type of frame.

Frame glazing has the following pros and cons.

Low price. The design is additionally equipped with frames, but due to the use of smaller glass, installation and transportation are easier, so it costs less.
Possibility to change individual elements in case of damage.
Possibility to glaze with your own hands.

There is no possibility to implement non-standard solutions.

Frameless glazing also has advantages and disadvantages.

Large selection of design solutions.
Creating a panoramic effect.
Beautiful view.
Increased light transmission.

Low thermal insulation.
High price.
Inability to install a mosquito net.
Low tightness.

Required tools and materials

To create sliding windows with your own hands you will need the following set of tools and supplies :

For taking measurements and markings:
a plumb line made of nylon cord with a weighting agent;
ruler with steel blade;
carpentry corner;
building level;
soft lead pencil or permanent marker.
For cutting profiles, single glass:
fine-tooth hacksaw;
cross-cutting machine with rotary bed;
grinder and abrasive disc;
a file with a large tooth for finishing the plane after cutting;
a router for shaping the cross-section of wooden blocks of the desired shape.
For surface treatment of wooden profiles:
sandpaper;
paint mixing tray;
roller and brushes for applying a layer of paintwork.
To assemble a finished structure:
slotted or Phillips screwdriver;
hammers with metal and rubber strikers;
pliers.
Consumables:
sealant;
anchor plates;
mounting angles;
paint, wood impregnation;
degreaser.

In addition, the master will need to purchase bars or ready-made profiles, glass of the required dimensions, as well as fittings for movable sashes.

Installation sequence of a sliding plastic window

Frame installation

Preparatory work

First, the geometry of the balcony opening is checked according to the level and if it is not maintained, then wooden wedges or metal plates are placed in the places where the dowels are attached.

The sliding system frame is connected to the profile. To do this, the internal cavity is inserted into the protrusion of the housing and set in place with light blows of a rubber hammer, which cannot deform the metal.

Then both structures are fastened with self-tapping screws into a common part. To do this, it is convenient to use a screwdriver or an electric drill.

On the reverse side, which will be attached to the ceiling building element, anchor plates are secured.

Their distance from the edge of the frame must be less than 200 mm, and the distance between the plates must be ≤70 cm.

Installation to the opening

The prepared frame is lifted into the balcony opening and mounted in it, with the obligatory check of the creation of a vertical plane on both sides.

For fastening in a horizontal plane, dowel-nails are used. They are placed at a distance of ≤20 cm from the edge and up to 70 cm from each other. Holes in the concrete are punched with a hammer drill.

Vertical installation is carried out in the same way. The distances of the dowels from the corners and from each other are the same.

Installation of the upper ebb

The prepared structure is installed from the street side and is located above the frame at an equal distance, ensuring reliable removal of moisture from precipitation.

The ebb is fastened with dowels and nails to the ceiling along both edges of the sheet and in the holes of all anchor plates.

Window sill installation

Preparation

The final dimensions are measured using a construction tape and the required length is cut using a grinder or a hacksaw.

Installation

The window sill, prepared along the length, is installed in its place and screwed to the frame with self-tapping screws.

Installation of the lower ebb

The assembled ebb is inserted from the street side under the frame and attached to it with self-tapping screws in several places in the center and edges.

Final work

PVC sticker for flashings

On the street side, it is necessary to protect construction foam from the destructive effects of ultraviolet rays. For this purpose, polyvinyl chloride tape with a special adhesive composition is used.

It is applied with the inside on top of the installation site. First, a small piece of the protective strip is removed from its adhesive part. The top of the tape is straightened in place, ironed by hand and removed from the protection in small sections. Due to this, it is glued between the frame and the wall.

This technique is performed from top to bottom on all sides where direct sunlight can reach the foam. If PVC stickers are not applied, then after foaming the cracks, all these areas must be plastered on the outside of the balcony.

Processing the edges of the casting with silicone

To prevent moisture from entering the balcony through the upper ebb, its upper edges on the inside are reliably treated with silicone glue.

Fastening elements to the sash

A cover and a connecting profile are placed on the top part. Fixation hooks are mounted on the side. The rest of the fittings are installed.

Measurements

Before making or installing a window unit with a sliding mechanism on a terrace or veranda, it is necessary to measure the opening :

The length of the opening between adjacent supports or partitions is determined at at least 3 points - in the upper and lower edges, in the center of the vertical structures.
For an extended opening, the height is measured at least every 1000 mm.
To control the geometry of the opening, it is necessary to compare the lengths of the diagonals measured in opposite corners of mutually orthogonal structures.

Important. At the final stage, to determine the exact positioning of the future window frame, the thickness of the window sill and lintel parts is measured, and the location of the rail runners is marked.

Practicality of polycarbonate windows

An excellent replacement for glass is polycarbonate. This is a worthy alternative to plastic double-glazed windows, as it has quality characteristics:

Increased impact strength and strength.

Polycarbonate is distinguished by its increased impact strength
Low specific gravity allows the foundation to be lightweight.
Fire and environmentally safe.
Temperature changes do not affect the quality of the material.
High heat and sound insulation properties.
Transparency and tintability expand the options for implementing design ideas.
Plasticity promotes the flexibility of a material without heating.
High resistance to aggressive environments and sunlight.
It does not transmit ultraviolet rays, but it blocks infrared rays.
Costs less than glass.

Creation example

To create sliding windows mounted on a terrace or veranda, you must adhere to the following technological map :

A drawing of the future structure is being developed, based on pre-taken dimensions.
The bars are fixed on the workbench with a vice.
Using a milling cutter, the required grooves are selected on the bars until a cross section with the desired geometry is achieved.
After processing, the profile is cut by a cross-cutting machine to the required length.
At the ends of the profile, grooves are selected to form a junction of mutually orthogonal elements using the “groove-tenon” method.
The bars are covered with a layer of paint.
The frame elements are mated to each other with preliminary gluing with epoxy glue.
Leave for 24 hours until the glue is completely polymerized.
To increase rigidity, the structure is reinforced with steel corners.
The glass is marked according to the internal contour of the frame, and then cut with a glass cutter.
The finished glass is installed in the frame, after which it is fixed with glazing beads.
Runners with roller supports are attached to the ends of the movable sashes, and rail guides are installed in the seats of the window sill and lintel parts of the opening.
At the final stage, handles are installed on the vertical imposts to control the movable sash.

Note. If it is necessary to manufacture several structures of the same type, experts recommend pre-assembling a jig or slipway, with which you can prepare modular parts with identical geometric parameters.

How to work with polycarbonate

After purchasing cellular polycarbonate, you will notice that its ends are sealed with tape. This is a temporary protection that needs to be removed. After cutting the polycarbonate, the ends with open cells will need to be sealed with sealing tape. The end profile is placed over the tape. To hold an aluminum or polycarbonate profile, it is placed on small droplets of transparent silicone.

How to cover the ends and make a frame on polycarbonate

In addition to the ends, the polycarbonate is covered with film on one (front) side. It is removed only after the installation of the sliding door made of cellular polycarbonate is completed. The only thing that needs to be done is to partially peel it off along the edges, where the frame profile will fit and the roller carriages will be attached. In addition, this will prevent the sides of the leaf from being mixed up if a sliding door of two or more leaves is installed.

Important! Before cellular polycarbonate is sealed and installed into the sliding door frame, it must be kept in a dry air environment. This will prevent the formation and accumulation of condensation inside the sheet cells.

To cut the material, use a jigsaw with a fine-toothed file, a grinder, or a stationery knife.

Possible difficulties

When making a sliding window design, beginners may encounter a number of difficulties :

Violation of the orthogonality of the frame - when assembling the structure, it is necessary not only to check the length of each profile element, but also to control the verticality of the imposts with a joiner's angle and, if necessary, adjust their position.
Rattling of the glass unit in the frame - the beads must be equipped with silicone seals for reliable fixation of the translucent element without the formation of stress concentrations.
The sash is skewed when opening - the upper and lower runners must be strictly installed in the sash.
Blocking of part of the roller supports when opening - while fixing these elements, it is necessary to monitor the axis of their installation - at the slightest distortion, the structure cannot be operated in normal mode.

Provided that all requirements and recommendations are met, the duration of use of sliding window units for a veranda or terrace will be no less than that of factory products.

Work plan

In both cases, polycarbonate sliding windows for the gazebo are installed in the following sequence:

The intended location of the window is pre-planned and the number of sashes is determined.
To install the structure, you will need a frame (or a frame, like a door). It is made from ready-made sets of aluminum profiles made in the factory, or wood, plastic, metal-plastic and various combinations of these materials are used.
Having the dimensions of the box, we begin to work with the sashes. A polycarbonate sheet of the required dimensions is placed in an aluminum, wooden, plastic or metal-plastic frame. Instead, edging fragments can also be made only at the top and bottom.
Special fittings for sliding windows made of polycarbonate are selected - roller, locking, locking, pressing elements.
They assemble and install the window structure. If necessary, install a window sill and ebb.

Assembly of frames and sashes

When wondering how to make sliding frames from polycarbonate, a related question often arises about where to get the components for making frames for the sashes. produces a wide range of components designed specifically for polycarbonate sheets of any type.

These include connecting (HP, HCP, GCP) and end profiles, hardware, sealing and perforated tape for cellular polycarbonate, metal and heat-resistant washers made of polycarbonate. Components are selected for specific brands of sheets based on thickness, type, and color. Full size compatibility guaranteed.

Frame installation procedure

Do-it-yourself sliding polycarbonate windows are installed according to the following scheme. The frame is inserted into the prepared opening and leveled relative to the horizon vertically and horizontally using a plumb line or spirit level. For long structures, it is convenient to use wedges, through which the frame is wedged and firmly fixed in a given position until finally secured.

Pros and cons of using

The popularity of sliding window designs among consumers is only growing every year, thanks to many positive aspects :

effective protection of the cold circuit from precipitation;
a reliable barrier from gusty winds;
slight enhancement of thermal properties;
improving the appearance of the facade of the house;
giving the extension a finished look;
reducing the risk of unauthorized entry;
the possibility of transforming the exploited space.

At the same time, some users note a number of negative factors when operating these structures :

the need for periodic maintenance of mechanisms;
risk of corrosion or failure of roller bearings;
high cost of products;
complexity of installation and adjustment;
window units are practically not required in the summer.

Note. Despite some subjective disadvantages, translucent sliding systems are in stable demand and always find their buyer.

Aluminum windows

Among the materials of profiles for sliding windows, aluminum is especially popular. It is most popular for small architectural forms, including gazebos and verandas. Such sliding systems are also suitable for glazing rooms that will be used throughout the year, provided that additional heating is provided. This creates a comfortable temperature for staying inside.

The advantage of aluminum systems is that they are applicable for both conventional and panoramic glazing due to their thin profile that does not interfere with the view. They are equally often used for glazing gazebos made of various materials, it can be wood, brick, metal, or plastic.

The advantages of aluminum sliding windows:

anti-corrosion properties;

strength;

long service life;
ease of care;
lightness of structures;
acceptable price.

Aluminum profile systems can have the color of natural metal or be laminated with a film of different textures and shades.

The cost of glazing services for small architectural forms will depend on many factors. These are the materials used in the production of windows, in the construction of the facility, the glazing area, the manufacturer and cost of the fittings, the availability of an individual project and some other professional nuances.

Prices for finished products

Considering that sliding window structures for terraces and verandas are on the market from many competitive manufacturers, prices for identical products are approximately the same :

Cold structures with single glass made of PVC profile – from 5 – 7 thousand rubles. for 1 m2.
Wooden profiles with single-chamber double-glazed windows - from 9 - 11 thousand rubles. for 1 m2.
Aluminum sliding systems – from 8 – 10 thousand rubles. for 1 m2.
Warm translucent blocks with a complex mechanism – from 12 – 15 thousand rubles. for 1 m2.

The final cost depends on the popularity of the manufacturer, as well as the presence of positive reviews about the company’s products on online forums.

Specialist services

When ordering the installation of sliding window systems for verandas and terraces, the consumer will be offered the following prices :

Installation of window blocks of standard height up to 1800 mm, with sash weight up to 70 kg - from 700 - 1000 rubles. for 1 m2.
Installation of strip glazing with heavy sashes with a height of 2 m or more - from 1500 - 2000 rubles. for 1 m2.
Installation of “book” or “accordion” type structures in an aluminum or wooden span – from 1500 – 3000 rubles. for 1 m2.
Replacement of windows with dismantling of old structures, preparation of the opening and installation of new windows - from 2,500 rubles. for 1 m2.

Important. The final cost of installation is determined on the basis of an estimate, which takes into account the base price list of the enterprise, as well as correction factors.

Purchase of consumables

When creating window structures of this category with your own hands, the home craftsman will face the following expenses :

Wooden blocks 40 x 40 – 70 x 70 mm – from 150 – 300 rubles. per m.p.
Single window glass with a thickness of 4 to 6 mm - from 400 to 700 rubles. for 1 m2.
Single-chamber double-glazed window - from 1000 rubles. for 1 m2.
Fittings for sliding sashes - from 1500 - 2500 rubles. for 1 set.
Fastening elements – from 500 rub. for 1 set.
Wooden glazing beads made of slats 20 x 20 mm - from 70 - 100 rubles. for 1 m.p.
Handles for ease of opening – from 300 – 500 rubles. for 1 piece
Paint and varnish coatings to protect the surface of wooden profiles - from 200 - 300 rubles. for 1 l.

To purchase the required amount of material, it is recommended to draw up a detailed specification for the project, as well as a materials consumption sheet .

Glazing options

The process of glazing the gazebo can occur in two versions - continuous and partial. Its choice depends on the design of the structure. In the first case, glass is usually installed from the floor to the roof, and the second option is mounted on a support in the form of a fence.

Solid

Polycarbonate for continuous glazing is attached to pre-installed structural supports.

When arranging such a gazebo, a number of features should be taken into account:

First you need to make a base and foundation, which is most often made columnar. Wooden logs are placed on it. Such columns are laid out of brick, and their height should be 35–40 cm above ground level.
The floor is equipped with timber logs. A board and moisture-resistant plywood sheets are laid on them.
The support pillars are placed vertically and then fixed with special corners and brackets.
To avoid strong pressure on the double-glazed windows, lightweight building materials should be used to construct the roof.
Polycarbonate with continuous glazing quickly loses heat, so it is necessary to provide heating and insulation of the gazebo during the cold period.

Partial

Experts recommend partially glazing gazebos that are used all year round. In this case, double-glazed windows are placed on top of a wooden or brick fence. These materials, especially wood, retain heat better. Such a fence can be up to 1.5 meters. Be sure to include insulating materials in the work, seal the cracks with polyurethane foam and sealant.

Important! It is better not to use metal tiles, as they will greatly weigh down the roof. If you still decide to use it, then be sure to take care of a reliable top frame made of timber.

What type of veranda should I choose?

According to the type of veranda design, there can be:

Open

Open veranda

Externally similar to a terrace, but has a foundation that is made separately from the main building
Used for protection from bright sun and rain, instead of walls, columns or small sides

Such buildings are often made semi-open. Their lower part is made of wood, brick or forged metal. The upper part of the veranda can be covered with a decorative lattice made of forged or wooden strips located vertically, horizontally or at an angle in the form of a lattice.

Open veranda with seating area

The distance between them is selected arbitrarily - the upper side parts can be made half-open or decorated in the form of frequently running panels (lamellas). It is better to treat the wood with colored stain and antiseptic with a shade of noble wood. To protect them from fungus and moisture, they are painted with drying oil or varnished.

As an inexpensive floor covering, as well as wall decoration, you can use a well-dried, sanded, and then twice coated with drying oil or varnish.

Which door to choose to exit to the terrace?

The door to the terrace must be transparent, the frame structure must not interfere with the view, the opening mechanism must be convenient and not take up much space when the doors are opened, and at the same time be isolated from the external environment in case of bad weather. Aluminum sliding doors meet all these requirements. The designs of these products are elegant, practically do not intersect the plane of glass up to 2.5 meters in size, and allow you to hold fairly large door leaves weighing up to 400 kg due to the strength of the material. The sliding mechanism saves room space and holds the canvas firmly.

A terrace in a private house or cottage simultaneously has access to the courtyard and to the interior; as a rule, a family gathers here in hot weather or, sitting in a warm house, admires the snow-covered garden through a glazed opening. Aluminum sliding doors meet these requirements perfectly: with the lightness of the structure itself, they reliably hold huge glass weighing up to 400 kg. Aluminum sliding doors installed on the terrace will create an analogue of panoramic glazing; natural light will be able to easily penetrate into the room.

Such doors do not require constant maintenance, like wooden ones, they do not need to be coated with protective agents, regularly repainted, or eliminate cracks from the effects of temperature differences and atmospheric moisture. The service life of aluminum sliding structures is significantly more than 25 years. In addition to excellent performance, these doors look more interesting than conventional swing doors, due to the departure from traditional door sizes. The size of the canvas is selected based on the overall interior design. These doors can be made in size from floor to ceiling, and in width from one side wall to another, which looks very advantageous in the architectural composition and is convenient when creating a winter garden or greenhouse.

Such doors are equipped with a roller mechanism that moves along two guides, which firmly holds the door leaf, unlike conventional door hinges, which sag over time under the weight of the door, the lower edge of the door begins to touch the floor covering and hinges need to be replaced.

The price of sliding doors depends on many components: the type of double-glazed window - regular glass, vandal-proof, energy-saving, what locking mechanisms are required, how the door will open - manually or from the control panel.

Glazing on PVC profiles

At first glance, it seems that the use of PVC profiles for glazing a terrace is clearly overkill, at least from a cost point of view. However, upon closer examination, it turns out that the bulk of the cost of a plastic window is a double-glazed window, which on the terrace makes sense to replace with ordinary glass with a spacer frame of a suitable size. Also, the load-bearing and heat-saving properties of the profile are not of decisive importance, so you can choose the cheapest frame.

Glazing systems on PVC profiles have an important advantage - the free division of openings into sections. Thus, the lower cells can have a blank filling, forming a kind of parapet. It is possible to separate blind and transparent transoms to adjust the insolation, as well as to save on the size and, accordingly, the fittings of the opening sashes. In general, plastic frames have a degree of manufacturability comparable to aluminum ones: they are easy to assemble yourself, the glazing front is almost completely sealed even in strong winds, and the profiles are massive and stable enough to be used for fastening window sills, tensioning clotheslines, etc. for similar purposes. When using reinforced profiles, they can also perform a load-bearing function, supporting the terrace canopy.

In terms of appearance, PVC windows are practically not inferior to aluminum ones. There is also the possibility of applying wood lamination for them and, although the profiles are not factory painted in arbitrary colors, this can be done independently using the cheapest aerosol paint.

Types and benefits

Sliding frameless systems for any openings are presented on the modern market in several varieties.

Their price is higher compared to analogues, but the functionality completely justifies the cost.

Lift-and-slide

The frame moves in the desired direction, although the owners do not make any additional efforts for this. The movement goes to the width of the frame located next to the main element.

The mechanism works as a pressing element when the device is closed. The following actions are carried out:

The frame is pressed at the bottom.
The seals are connected to each other.
The window falls into place.

Interesting. The structures are characterized by the use of rubber seals. They provide complete sealing of parts and retain heat inside the house. Penetration of moisture from the outside is practically excluded.

The assembly must contain at least two frames, one will be load-bearing and the second will be movable. The guides along which movement occurs are mounted on the supporting part. For movable mosquito nets, guide elements are also often installed.

Sliding windows for the veranda have the following advantages:

sustainability;
strength;
double-glazed windows of maximum size up to 2000 by 3000 mm.

Aluminum or PVC profiles are most often used in production. The threshold is kept low if installation is carried out along the entire perimeter.

Tilt-and-slide

This type is similar to ordinary PVC casement windows. The main difference is that during opening the sash moves towards itself and to the side, in two directions at once.

The sash is pulled towards itself when the window needs to be opened. The rollers move into the runners located nearby. After this, the parts are shifted to the required distance.

Such options are often complemented by locking parts, thanks to which the part is conveniently fixed in any position. It is enough to turn the handle on the clamping mechanism in the desired direction.

The seal is also made of rubber, which creates additional insulation for the following phenomena:

Warm.
Sound.
Moisture.

Interesting. Terraces, verandas and balconies can equally be finished in this way. The system is installed from the enclosing side to the ceiling in the case of balconies and loggias. It becomes possible to save some of the free space, because the sash itself, even when opened, does not take up much space.

Sliding-folding - accordion

It differs in that it includes several doors at once. When folded, they open the opening to the full width. The shift goes in one direction, the elements are then compactly installed against the wall.

For their manufacture, aluminum or PVC profiles are used. The aluminum-based option has become widespread.

Initially, this material is lighter than polyvinyl chloride. But at the same time, sliding double-glazed windows are protected from deformation and can withstand heavy loads.

But we must take into account some restrictions associated with the installation of accordions:

This is an exclusively “cold” type of partition.

The device is used for openings with dimensions of at least 2300 mm in height by 6500 mm in width.
These systems cannot have more than seven doors.

Frameless glazing

Interesting. The product is made on the basis of thick impact-resistant glass. This makes the structures easy to use and safe.

Glass blocks are alternately moved to one side when the product needs to be opened. Special guides, also involved in this process, are mounted at the bottom or at the top.

The location of the open elements is against the wall. Therefore, additional free space is not taken away if you install such windows for the terrace.

Both sides of the blocks are available for regular care and maintenance, which is very convenient. This option is often offered in the case of cold glazing.

Especially when it is important to create the effect of an “open” space

DIY installation steps

The basic rules have been announced, now it’s time to start installation, following these steps:

Clean the remains from the previous frame and get rid of debris, using plaster to level the slopes.
Install the frame and level it using wooden wedges. It is not the product frame itself that needs to be corrected, but its surface.
After leveling, check the distance from the outer edge to the opening, ensuring that it is no more than 5 mm. Otherwise, the gap is reduced using a polymer plate or wooden plank.
Using self-tapping screws and an anchor plate, secure the frame in the opening.
Foam the perimeter with a thin layer, after 2 hours (during this time the mounting foam should dry completely), remove the fasteners and fill the resulting empty spaces with polyurethane foam sealant.
After complete drying, cut off excess foam with a sharp utility knife.
Stick a vapor-permeable film onto the cleaned surface, which prevents moisture from entering the room, but allows air to pass freely.
Install slopes, window sills (if any) and ebbs.
Insert the double-glazed window into the frame, install the sashes and adjust the fittings.

Important! The installation procedure for aluminum and plastic windows is almost completely identical, and therefore does not require a description of both options.

Difference from swing

Doors with a sliding mechanism have many more advantages than similar swing models. Let us list the main differences between these two types:

Space saving. This factor is the key difference. When planning the installation, you won't have to add a few extra square meters to ensure that the door can be opened freely, so this door option is ideal for small spaces. You will be able to use the space as rationally as possible.
Guaranteed tightness. Sliding systems will not open due to a sudden gust of wind or strong draft. Such structures will be securely closed at any time of the year, regardless of the weather. The doors are securely fixed in any given position.

Convenience and practicality. Unlike swing doors, doors with a sliding mechanism do not scratch the floor or nearby furniture. Even curtains and blinds will retain their original appearance much longer, since the material will not constantly touch structural elements when opened.
Style and beauty. Of course, there are also attractive models among swing doors. However, sliding structures look much more modern. There are design options without frames and lintels, which means that nothing will block the view. Such doors add grace and lightness to the facade, making its appearance more attractive. They can be installed even on the second floor. The variety of models will also please buyers. On sale there are options made of polycarbonate, with glass, as well as aluminum and wooden doors and even soft PVC doors. You can easily find a design that suits your design.

Some may think that glass doors are very fragile and have a short service life. But this is absolutely not true. The structures are made of high-quality, thick impact-resistant glass. The design is resistant to temperature changes and mechanical stress. Do not be afraid of the established opinion that glass is a very fragile and impractical material.