Preparing Maco windows for winter: how to set up, adjust, tighten and seal windows and double-glazed windows yourself

Before you start adjusting the window, it’s worth remembering the popular wisdom: if you don’t know how, don’t try it. This is exactly what I told my neighbor Vasya when he decided to independently adjust the window fittings in the room after the onset of warm spring days.

In response to my advice, to call the window company and call a technician to do everything right, Vasya waved his hand, saying, it’s bullshit - I’ll do it without any problems. Been busy all day. In the end, nothing worked and I had to call a repairman. And this gave me the idea to write a series of articles about adjusting window fittings from various manufacturers. I'll start with Maco fittings.

So how can you properly prepare Maco windows for winter yourself?

First, think about what bothered you last winter?
How are things going with Maco windows now? Do they open well? Were there any puddles on the windowsill during heavy rain? How does the window handle turn? With or without effort? As expected, does the handle go all the way down? Or not? As they say: cleanliness is the key to health! In our case, regular removal of accumulated dirt and lubrication, plus timely adjustment (adjustment) of windows, significantly increases the service life of Maco window mechanisms. The question arises: how to properly wash a Maco window so that it does not get damaged?

You can safely wash the Maco window with ordinary soapy water and a soft sponge. We soap the glass (glass unit), window profile, slopes, window sill, and then wipe it dry with a soft cloth. Check the drainage channels (they are at the bottom of the window frame), maybe they need to be cleaned? It is also important to know how to adjust Mako windows, but more on that below.

Checking the tightness of a Maco (Mako) window (how to check where the wind is blowing from the window?

If in summer the problem of blowing through Maco (Mako) windows worries us little, then in winter we don’t want to freeze at home. So, three ways to detect a blowing Maco window. We check the windows for ventilation, look for where the air is blowing from the Maco window.

• The first way to check the tightness of a Maco (Mako) window: using a sheet of paper, half an A4 is enough. We open the window sash slightly and expose half of the sheet to the street, close the sash, and lower the handle all the way down. Important! The sheet of paper should not fall on the locks that are installed on the window frame, otherwise it will simply be bitten and the experiment will be carried out incorrectly. We pull out the sheet. Three options: the sheet flies out with a whistle, the sheet comes out with difficulty, it feels like the sheet is about to tear.

Important! Thus, the entire perimeter of the window sash is checked. If in most places of such a check the sheet comes out freely (flies out with a whistle), the seal needs to be replaced.

If the sheet comes out with difficulty in most places of inspection, the problem of window tightness can be solved by adjusting and lubricating the window. If the sheet is about to tear in most places of inspection, you do not need to do anything with the Maco window. You won't be able to blow from this Maco window!

• The second way to check the tightness of a Maco window (Mako): using a soap solution. Do you remember how you were looking for a hole in a bicycle tube?))) We make a soap solution. Apply Maco around the perimeter of the window. Where the bubbles appear is where it blows.
• The third way to check the tightness of a Maco window: using a candle flame. Carefully move a burning candle around the perimeter of the window. Where the flame fluctuates is where the Maco window blows from.

Cleaning dirt and lubricating Maco window fittings

Start insulating your windows for the winter by inspecting your Maco window fittings.

Remove dirt, especially from the top of the window sash. All folds must be cleaned of deposits and dirt, especially cement and plaster residues. Direct exposure of the fittings to moisture and contact with cleaning agents should be avoided. Then lubricate the window hardware. Lubrication points are marked with special markings.

How to lubricate a Maco window? The most common ones are WD-40, machine oil, grease. Do not under any circumstances lubricate with sunflower oil or olive oil or anything else! Edible oils dry quickly into a sticky substance that will break the Maco window mechanism. After this, rotate the fittings in different modes several times to distribute the lubricant. Wipe off excess oil.

Frequently asked questions about preparing Maco windows for winter

We have collected here the most popular questions about preparing Maco windows for winter; we recommend that you read the answers.

Question No. 1

Preparing Maco windows for winter. How to prepare windows for winter?

Answer:

Preparing Maco windows for winter consists of: cleaning plastic windows from dirt, lubricating plastic window fittings and seals, adjusting plastic windows, putting plastic windows into winter mode (adjusting the window sash pressure, replacing the window seal, if necessary.

Question No. 2

Adjusting Maco windows for winter. Do I need to adjust my windows for winter?

Answer:

Hardware manufacturers recommend adjusting Maco windows twice a year.

Question #3

Adjustment of windows winter-summer. Do I need to set the winter-summer mode on Maco windows?

Answer:

A normally adjusted plastic window does not need to be switched from winter to summer. The winter-summer mode means pressing the window sash to the frame. A stronger pressure is “winter mode”, a weaker pressure is “summer mode”.

Converting fittings to summer or winter mode

Maco fittings have two opening modes. summer and winter. In summer mode, the sash is pressed weaker than in winter mode. Translating the fittings is quite simple. In order to switch the fittings to summer or winter modes, just turn the special oval pin on the side of the sash.

The trunnion is made in the shape of an oval and is located on the side of the sash. The larger the sash, the more counter pins it has. They can be located on the side, top and bottom of the sash. Switching the fittings to summer or winter mode is done with ordinary pliers. By turning the trunnion just 90 degrees, you will switch the fittings to summer or winter mode.

Also, the trunnions in Maco fittings have a longer stroke compared to other types of fittings. Thanks to this, your sashes are more protected from burglary, and also keep your windows in the closed position more securely.

What does plastic window fittings consist of?

We found out above that the fittings of plastic windows consist of a large number of elements, each of which is designed in its own way. Let's briefly go over each of them below:

Pen

The standard set includes a screw with fastening, an overlay and the handle itself. The materials are plastic, metal, wood. In addition to stationary ones, manufacturers produce removable handles. Some are equipped with a lock. There are anti-burglary handles that have a built-in mechanism that blocks the window if you try to get inside from the street.

Loops

They have several variations:

• Overheads can be detachable or one-piece, as well as rotary or tilt-and-turn.
• There are anti-burglary ones with special plates that cannot be disassembled when the sash is closed.
• There are screw-in hinges on threaded pins.
• Inconspicuous loop designs are appreciated by lovers of stylish interiors. Elements of such hinges are not visible from the front side of the window. Invisible hinges seriously improve thermal protection.

Seals

They conserve heat and provide the sash with reliable contact with the window profile. They resist deformation well, are elastic, and come in different colors and cross-sections. Made from modified plastic, rubber, rubber.

Brush seals, which combine a polypropylene-coated woven base with silicone-treated bristles, are popular in sliding windows.

If the window handle is jammed

You can often encounter a situation in which the handle jams and does not turn anymore. This occurs due to the incorrect position of the blocker. The handle jams due to the rapid opening or closing of the window, but it may also indicate a hardware malfunction. This kind of problem can be solved as follows:

1. You can try turning the handle while holding the lock or moving it closer to the sash.
2. There is a possibility that the lock was activated due to slamming on the scissors. In this case, you should also gently press it and try to turn the handle with your other hand. You need to be careful; it is recommended not to press the blocker with your fingers.

When performing the work in question, it should be taken into account that excessive force will not solve the problem, but will only lead to damage to the fittings. If you cannot return the handle to the correct position, then there is a possibility that the problem lies in a malfunction of the locking device or the design of the scissors. In such a case, the structure will have to be replaced; repairs should be entrusted to qualified specialists.

Kinds

Maco fittings are quite diverse, among which there are examples for both PVC windows and wooden options. Each copy is manufactured on modern equipment using the most advanced technologies, thanks to which the products have positively proven themselves in the world market and do not lose their relevance for many years. All models differ from each other in level of functionality, type of equipment, external indicators and cost.

The model range includes the following types:

• Multi is designed for tilt-and-turn windows and includes a frame system. The assortment includes products both with and without a child safety system;
• Rail-systems are used in sliding structures made of different materials;

• Espags are used on windows with external opening;
• Protect is designed for plastic structures equipped with locks and locking mechanisms;
• Emotion are modern handles of various types, among which there are examples with a special button or key that perform the functions of closing and opening.

Maco window fittings with corrosion protection deserve special attention, as well as models with the ability to pass cable sensors through them, while ensuring complete tightness.

Each type has individual features and equipment that should definitely be taken into account during the selection process. After all, the right fittings can ensure the full functionality of any window structure and create the necessary level of comfort in a particular room.

That is why manufacturers advise purchasing only the option that will fully match the type of window and become a harmonious addition to it.

Methods for adjusting the pressure of a Maco window sash to the frame

There are many manufacturers of window fittings, and each of them has its own way of adjusting the pressure of the window sash, but there are also some general principles on how to tighten Maco windows. Open the window sash. At the end of the sash, find the eccentric pins. Most often they can be adjusted using a hex or star wrench. Usually, there is a mark on the trunnion - a small strip. By default, it is set up - neutral position. By turning the trunnions to the left or right, you can strengthen or weaken the pressure of the window sash to the frame, i.e. change the winter-summer mode yourself.

Order repair of Maso fittings

Before you start adjusting the window, it’s worth remembering the popular wisdom: if you don’t know how, don’t try it.

If you are unable to adjust the Maco fittings yourself, then you can order this service from our company. Qualified specialists with extensive experience will repair the fittings, as well as lubricate or replace them, if necessary. All work is carried out as quickly as possible, because specialists arrive with the necessary set of tools. The offer is valid for residents of Moscow and the Moscow region.

To order, you need to call the phone number indicated in the header of the site or leave a request by email. You can also contact an online consultant for help.

Hidden hinges in Maco fittings

An innovation from Mako is hidden hinges. From us you can order plastic windows with hidden hinges. Windows with hidden hinges are a revolutionary innovation in the window fittings market. You will not see the hinges on the windows that we are all used to; they will be hidden. This will give your window originality, and will also increase its security, since windows with hidden hinges are very difficult to break into.

Windows with hidden hinges can open 110 degrees, providing almost full opening. In addition to aesthetic properties and increased safety, windows with hidden hinges will protect your windows from blowing in the hinge area. You will be surprised, but sometimes, in some cases and under certain conditions, this happens. Well, the last advantage of windows with hidden hinges is the ability to fix the sash in a rotary mode.

If you open a regular sash, releasing the handle will cause the sash to wobble in its position by a few millimeters; also, if the wind blows, the sash may slam shut, since it is not secured in any way in the open position. In windows with hidden Maco hinges, in the open position the sash comes into contact with the frame, thereby creating such a frictional force that the sash will be fixed in the open position.

Peculiarities

Austrian-made Maco fittings can be used for both plastic and wooden windows. The presence of galvanization, as well as chrome and wax coating provides these items with a high level of resistance to corrosion.

Impeccable product quality is achieved through the use of the most durable and modern materials, as well as advanced technologies. The fittings of this brand occupy high positions in the popularity rating, as they fully comply with international norms and standards.

It can rightfully be called a worthy example of a harmonious combination of excellent quality, functionality, presentability, versatility and affordable cost.

It is worth noting that Maco products have many advantages, such as:

• A wide range of. The model range allows you to select elements taking into account the individual characteristics of the windows, as well as personal wishes regarding color and material;
• Possibility of adjusting the window in several positions. Adjustment in one position or another provides the windows with high-quality opening, closing and tightness;
• Professional equipment. Well-thought-out equipment with anti-burglary elements significantly increases the level of security in the room and creates comfortable conditions for staying indoors;

• High quality. The use of the highest quality materials and advanced technologies contributes to the creation of impeccable quality window fittings;
• Affordable price. Prices for products are affordable, which is a big priority when choosing;
• Attractive appearance. A professional approach to the production process and the skill of highly qualified specialists allow us to create fittings that make the windows presentable;
• Versatility. The products are designed for different types of windows, which makes them universal and widely in demand.

The manufacturer of Maco elements uses only the most effective and advanced solutions in the production process, which contribute to the reliable protection of windows from accidental opening. The presence of a special blocker creates a safe environment for children while they are near the window. This feature makes these products widely in demand not only for home use, but also in various children's institutions. In general, Maco products are designed for 40,000 opening and closing cycles, but practice shows that they do not lose their original qualities even after this period.

The main parts of the fittings are equipped with a special stiffening rib, and a microlift is included with the main mechanism.

Each detail is made as carefully as possible, which positively reflects on the overall performance of window structures. All these features are considered important and necessary for the full functioning of windows. Among the disadvantages of Maco fittings, one can only note the tendency of the products to develop an unpleasant squeak over a long period of use.

To prevent such a defect from occurring, it is recommended that parts be adjusted in a timely manner.

Maco fittings are quite diverse, among which there are examples for both PVC windows and wooden options. Each copy is manufactured on modern equipment using the most advanced technologies, thanks to which the products have positively proven themselves in the world market and do not lose their relevance for many years. All models differ from each other in level of functionality, type of equipment, external indicators and cost.

Features of restoration and replacement of seals (rubber bands)

Unfortunately, over time, all elements of a plastic window fail, and in particular the elastic polymer seals. The cause of this problem is pollution, dampness, and lack of regular lubrication.

If the elastic bands are no more than four to five years old, then you can try to revive them. To do this, you will need to dismantle the seals, then take a few rags and thoroughly soap them. Products are wrapped in these rags and left in this form for several hours. Sometimes such an experiment allows one to achieve stunning results, so it is allowed to be carried out for the purpose of “prevention”.

The need to replace sealing strips arises in the following cases:

• loss of color;
• the appearance of “bumps” on the surface;
• multiple cracks.

A seal with multiple damages cannot be repaired.

In this case, all that remains is to purchase a new seal - usually its thickness is from 3 to 6.5 millimeters. Most often, manufacturers guarantee a service life of up to 10 years, but in practice the rubber dries out much earlier.

Note! A high-quality seal should not become an obstacle to the circulation of oxygen, so you need to look at its composition - it must be breathable.

Prices for seals for plastic windows

Sealant for plastic windows

Video - Replacing the seal

Adjusting the Maco window sash vertically and horizontally

A shift in the window sash or a slight bevel can be removed by horizontal adjustment. The position of the window sash is adjusted using the upper and lower fastening loops. This can usually be done using a hex wrench. The adjusting screw in the bottom hinge allows you to adjust the window sash from the outside and inside. If you turn the key to the right, the window sash rises. If you turn it to the left, the angle of the window sash lowers. Also, the top hinge is adjusted when the window sash is open. You need to move the window sash back and forth no more than 2 mm. If the window does not close tightly from the bottom, then you need to adjust the bottom hinge. If you need to press or move the window sash towards (away from) the lower hinge, then adjust the position of the sash when the window is open. There is a second adjustment screw on the bottom hinge to lower and raise the sash vertically. If you turn it clockwise, the window sash will rise. If it's counterclockwise, it will go down.

How to prevent sash sagging

Some people believe that the sashes can only sag when open. As practice shows, the problem can appear in any position, only, for example, in a closed state it is revealed much later.

At the moment of closing the windows, the trunnions are set in motion, which meet the counter strips. As a result, friction is formed, which leads to a sagging effect.

In order to avoid such a problem, manufacturers of the accessories in question install micro-lift blockers. The design has the following features:

1. The elevator itself is represented by a small lever.
2. When you use the handle, the lever moves.

Thus, part of the load created by the weight of the structure is transferred to the frame. The lever itself is responsible for partially blocking the handle so that it does not open the sash when accidentally pressed.

When carrying out installation work and during periodic maintenance, it is quite important to adjust the operation of this structural element. The blocker should be located 1-1.5 millimeters below the bar. To perform adjustment work, you will need a TORX 15 key. Using this key, the lock is unscrewed, after which it can be positioned in the desired position.

You can significantly simplify the work of adjusting the position of the blocker by applying a scale. Each step of moving the slider should be no more than 0.5 millimeters.

Sealing for windows Maco (mako)

The most popular window seals:

• Rehau, K.B.E.
• Shlegel Q-Lon

In most window designs, two perimeter seals are installed. The first sealing circuit is installed on the window frame - the frame seal. The second contour of the seal is placed on the window sash - the narthex seal. Premium windows have three perimeter seals.

Open the window. Use a damp cloth to clean the seal from visible dirt. Examine it carefully. On all contours, the seal must be elastic, without visible cracks or tears, and lie flat in the groove without any bumps. Pay attention to the corners. If everything is in order, then lubricate it with silicone grease. If not, the seal needs to be replaced. Otherwise, in winter it will blow from this window.

Why is adjustment needed?

When installing plastic windows, the technician can set any mode. Experts focus on the season, but it is still recommended to find out information regarding the clamping force, because this affects the degree of wear of the structure.

Window adjustment is a responsible process

Table 1. Adjustment modes for plastic windows.

Position of the mechanism for different types of modes

Of all the possible ones, only the “summer” mode is considered gentle - this means that it does not contribute to tire wear. Therefore, if residents do not experience discomfort, then it can be used all year round - this way it will be possible to extend the service life of the seal.

However, there are reasons why it is recommended to constantly change the seal pressure:

• draft - residents are unlikely to like the appearance of cold air from the window in winter and dust in the summer;
• problems when opening and closing the sash - if the mode is incorrectly set, the sash sometimes jams;
• sagging of the window sash - occurs as a result of wear of the hinges, this problem can be solved by switching to the strong pressure mode;
• loss of warm air - windows are adjusted to save money on heating;
• mold on the window frame and slopes - this problem is associated with excessive dampness due to poor sealing.

Incorrect adjustment may result in mold formation.

There are some rules for using modes:

1. Using a plastic window with strong pressure is only allowed for a short period of time. Most often, the seal is tightened at the end of November, and loosened by March.
2. “Winter” mode is strictly prohibited from being used in summer. Otherwise, this will lead to rapid wear of the rubber and the metal-plastic structure itself, because when heated, all parts expand, which is why the welded joints suffer.

   
   When using the “winter” mode in summer, the structure quickly deforms

3. For the first 12-24 months after installing the windows, it is recommended to constantly use the “summer” mode, because the new seal perfectly protects the room from drafts and other inconveniences.

How to check the tightness of windows?

How to extend the service life of window fittings: manufacturer's advice

In order for the sashes to open easily and the moving parts to last the entire required period, you must follow a few simple rules:

• do not leave windows open in strong gusts of wind or in drafts;
• do not let it hang over the balcony door;
• when switching the sash to another ventilation mode, you must first press the door tightly against the frame, and then smoothly move the handle;
• Clean and lubricate the entire mechanism at least once a year;
• Carry out timely adjustment and maintenance of the entire system.

Sealing window seams with thermal insulation materials

In case of improper installation, sealing the seams with thermal insulation materials may be the only solution. Sealing installation seams and joints with special heat-insulating materials is one of the most effective ways to insulate Maco windows.

How can I seal the street seams of a window?

• - polyurethane foam, which must be plastered or covered with strips
• - mineral wool, which must be covered with strips
• - polystyrene foam, which must be covered with strips
• — liquid rubber (STIZ)

How can I seal the internal joints of a Maco window?

• - silicone sealant
• - acrylic sealant
• — cosmofen (liquid plastic)

The described problems with Maco (Mako) windows can appear due to poor-quality installation of a metal-plastic structure or during a long service life - longer than 10 years. During installation, installers were required to familiarize them with the design properties of Maco windows and teach owners how to use the windows.

The end of summer, the beginning of autumn is the time to prepare your windows for winter. If you take care of insulating your windows in advance, you will definitely not freeze at home in winter!

Difficulties in adjustment

There are some mistakes that users often make when switching to “winter” mode:

1. It is not recommended to move a completely new double-glazed window into this position, because with strong compression the rubber can be irrevocably deformed.
2. The compression of the seal should be the same on each side, so this should be checked with the same sheet of paper - this is a common cause of rubber damage.

The problem with the window is not always related to the wrong mode

Sometimes, even with correct window adjustments, the following problems arise:

• drafts;
• condensation accumulation;
• hypothermia of the room.

Such troubles are preceded by reasons:

1. Factory design defect. This happens in exceptional cases, especially when ordering windows from suspicious companies.
2. Installation errors. Window installation should only be trusted by a qualified craftsman, because you will need to maintain the correct gaps, carefully connect all the elements, and also use polyurethane foam.
3. Lack of slope finishing. After installing the windows, finishing of the slopes will be required - the mounting foam loses strength when exposed to moist air or sunlight.
4. The seal has become unusable. Even if this is a relatively new window, the rubber may lose its elasticity within a couple of seasons (if used improperly).

If a manufacturing defect is detected, you should contact the company’s specialists to receive compensation.

Features of Austrian brand systems

A distinctive feature of the fittings from this manufacturer is the presence of special adjustment points for correcting defects. Knots that allow you to adjust the vertical or horizontal position of the sash are located on the lower and upper hinges. The scissors contain a unit responsible for the pressure density on the side of the canopy. The permissible adjustment step is 0.2-0.5 mm.

Along the perimeter of the sash there are cylindrical parts called eccentrics and corresponding strikers. They are necessary to change the pressing force of the sash. Depending on the model and level of burglary resistance, the trunnions can have different shapes: mushroom-shaped, adjustable with a hex key, or with an elliptical section, adjustable with pliers.

Sources

• https://remontokon-company.ru/kak-podgotovit-okna-maco-k-zime.html
• https://oknanagoda.com/okna/plastik/furnitura/kak-otregulirovat-maso.html
• https://glazingmag.ru/regulirovka-furnitury-maco/
• https://vse-okna24.com/okna/furnitura/plastikovye-okna-furnitura-maco-roto-siegenia.html
• https://stroy-podskazka.ru/okna/furnitura/maco/
• https://balkonka24.ru/regulirovka-furnitury-mako.html
• https://krovli-zabori.ru/harakteristiki/furnitura-mako-tehnicheskie-harakteristiki.html
• https://aniko-gas.ru/komplektuyushchie/regulirovka-furnitury-maco.html
• https://www.oknamedia.ru/novosti/sekrety-idealnogo-okna-s-furnituroy-mako-maso-50737
• https://dves.ru/maco.html