Facade glazing with aluminum profile: types of structures, types of profiles, pros and cons of systems

Windows and doors are one of the most noticeable ways of heat loss in the house, so their choice must be approached as responsibly as possible. And given that this is not the smallest part of the estimate, special attention should be paid to their quality and durability. Next, we will consider one of the optimal solutions - windows, doors, stained glass windows, winter gardens and other structures made of aluminum profiles.

And if previously aluminum frames were considered “cold,” modern technologies make it possible to fully use them for glazing private country houses. To find out first-hand whether there are any specific features of using aluminum profiles, we contacted Aluminum Solutions, which provides a full range of services - from standard glazing to the creation of custom-made winter gardens.

Glazed facade of a cottage Source al-solution.ru

Why façade glazing with aluminum profiles is becoming more popular

Facade glazing means not only the creation of translucent openings of various sizes and purposes. This is also an element of the complex architectural design of a building in a particular design style. Today there is a tendency to add originality to a building through panoramic or non-standard shaped windows and entrance areas. And the use of aluminum profiles allows us to implement projects of almost any complexity.

Benefits and Features

A few decades ago, aluminum profiles were considered suitable only for cold glazing. Today, the products have been modified and presented in a wider range, taking into account constructive, design concepts and requirements for thermal insulation performance. These innovations have made the aluminum profile a worthy competitor to traditional wood and metal-plastic.

Variety of aluminum profiles Source al-solution.ru

There are several undeniable advantages of modern aluminum structures compared to alternative materials:

Resistance to aggressive phenomena that provoke corrosion processes.

Frames, frames and boxes made of aluminum profiles do not require periodic renewal of the protective coating. Wooden products must be coated with varnish or paint.

High compressive and tensile strength.

This technical indicator exceeds the characteristics of reinforced plastic and wood. This makes it possible to produce structures with a smaller thickness with equal requirements for mechanical endurance, which means that the area of translucent filling can be increased.

With analogues, the situation is different - to strengthen the frame or binding, it is necessary to increase the size range and carefully select wood species.

Solid wooden frames for the entrance area Source al-solution.ru

Minimal risk of deformation of aluminum profile frames, frames and frames.

The profile is formed with mandatory consideration of the safety margin for double-glazed windows and fittings. Therefore, sagging of the sashes or deformation of the supporting systems is virtually eliminated.

Light metal weight with good density.

As a rule, mass directly depends on the density of the material. However, aluminum profiles belong to the group of lightweight products that have minimal vapor permeability and optimal rigidity for creating critical translucent structures.

Ease of assembly with maximum precision in forming node connections.

The profile is made of all metal. In production, geometric data is strictly observed, which virtually eliminates discrepancies in workpieces and non-compliance with specified parameters.

An example of assembling a stained glass glazing unit Source al-solution.ru

Environmental friendliness.

This also includes the absence of harmful emissions when heated. The same cannot be said about combustible wood and polymer materials.

The malleability of metal in the manufacture of certain parts, polishing and forming holes.

Aluminum structures can be brought into the desired form directly on the construction site without the use of special equipment in the shortest possible time.

For facade glazing with an aluminum profile system, the manufacturer's warranty reaches 50-80 years.

This also explains the resistance of aluminum to temperature changes in the range from -80 to +200 degrees Celsius. With timely replacement of sealing and sealing materials, the service life of structures will be significantly increased.

A wide range of.

This means choosing a profile for glazing with different levels of insulation and configuration. The possibility of installing structures and doors, doors, designing entrance areas and buildings in general is also being considered.

Manufacturers offer fittings that, if necessary, can be replaced without disassembling the facade. The range also includes a choice of anodized elements or painted according to the RAL catalogue.

We use special powder paint that meets sanitary requirements, that is, environmentally friendly.

This is what a painted aluminum profile looks like Source al-solution.ru

During profile production, magnesium and silicon are added to the aluminum alloy. This technological innovation enhances product rigidity and corrosion resistance. Also, increased strength makes it possible to produce thinner strips without the risk of deformation during operation.

What are the disadvantages of aluminum profiles?

There are several points that are identified as disadvantages compared to analogues made of wood or PVC. First of all, this is a higher cost, which is especially evident in insulated structures. The second disadvantage is the vapor permeability of the metal - skeptics say that such a window “does not breathe.”

We can partially agree with the first disadvantage - aluminum is really more expensive. But if you compare the durability of the products and the time they will last without the need for additional processing, then the comparison will be in favor of aluminum profiles.

As for the second question, the area of the window profiles is negligible compared to the entire wall. Whether the wall “breathes” or not, the vapor tightness of the profiles will not affect anything. But in the second case, a high-quality mechanism for ventilating the premises is important.

Ventilation of the room Source al-solution.ru

Normative documents

Aluminum is one of the most popular building materials for the construction of metal structures. In this regard, when designing, manufacturing and installing aluminum window structures, as well as when obtaining certificates, manufacturing companies must take into account the requirements of the following regulatory documents :

GOST 21519-2003 “Window blocks made of aluminum alloys”.
The main regulatory document regulating the main characteristics of aluminum windows in terms of minimum strength, thermal parameters or deviations from the specified geometry during production. This regulatory document is an updated version of GOST 21519-84, which is no longer relevant today.
The chemical composition of metal profiles, the amount of alloying additives during production, as well as the basic properties of alloys are regulated by GOST 4784-97 “Aluminum and wrought aluminum alloys.
Stamps." This document allows us to determine the dependence of the basic physical and mechanical properties of products on the chemical composition of the alloy from which they are made.
SP 128.13330.2016 “Aluminum structures” - the document replaced the SNiP 2.03.06-85 of the same name. Takes into account the features of the use of aluminum structures in the construction of buildings and structures, including their calculation, selection of the necessary sections from the conditions of 2 groups of limit equilibrium.

Important. Before receiving a certificate for a product prepared for sale, the manufacturer is required to subject it to a series of laboratory tests.

When checking aluminum windows, it is taken into account to what extent the actually achieved strength, thermal and other parameters meet the requirements of the regulatory documentation given above.

Video description

This video shows how aluminum windows look in a private house:

Variety of technical solutions

The aluminum profile is characterized by lightness, but the glass sheet in total puts a noticeable load on the base, plus, for example, one must take into account the likelihood of condensation.

These factors are necessarily taken into account when creating a project - specialists calculate temperature conditions, evaluate the load-bearing capacity of the supporting part of the building, and, if necessary, offer reinforcement solutions.

Also, before making a decision on this or that façade glazing, you should familiarize yourself with other comprehensive solutions that the company offers:

stained glass or structural glazing involves installing a profile inside the building, and a monolithic translucent sheet is created outside by filling the seams with a special sealant;
semi-structural allows the installation of clamping strips and fasteners from the outside (here the windows practically do not stand out against the background of the general facade).

Sample of an aluminum clamping strip Source al-solution.ru
Upon closer examination of the design of façade glazing, several methods of fastening glass and double-glazed units can be identified:

Frame made of aluminum posts and crossbars.

The glass sheet is mounted from the outside and fixed with metal clamping strips. The latter are subsequently decorated with aluminum plates. This is the easiest assembly option.

Post-transom design Source al-solution.ru

Why is it important to know technical indicators?

When ordering an aluminum window, technical characteristics are a determining factor for the following reasons :

Selection of a design that provides adequate resistance to heat transfer of walls to increase the energy efficiency of the building.
Ensuring the proper level of sound insulation.
There is no risk of making a mistake when determining the load from glazing elements on supporting structures.

Any accurate information about aluminum windows allows you to put the finished object into operation upon completion of installation work without the need to replace products or eliminate gross errors.

Classification of aluminum profiles

Glazing is required for premises for various purposes. The design solutions for window or door frames are also different. Therefore, several options of aluminum profiles are used to implement various projects. There are several criteria for choosing planks. Let's look at each in more detail.

Shaped cross-section

There are several options for solid-cast metal profiles in cross-section made of ductile aluminum. However, two main groups of materials are used in facade glazing work. The table provides a brief description of rolled samples (without cavities).

Form	Description
P	Otherwise, the product is called a channel. Used for assembling frames, partitions, and decorating end edges.
T	The brand (from the Greek - “bull”) allows you to simplify the installation of hanging structures.
N	The I-beam is used as a connecting element or guide profile due to its increased strength.
Sh	More often, such aluminum profiles are used to mask narrow gaps and hold glass.
WITH	This profile is relevant for creating geometric transitions and creating decorative accents.
F	The profile is often used to design joints between an opening and a double-glazed window and to assemble partitions.
L	Corners are used as a profile to increase the strength of a structure, a supporting, corner-forming, connecting or decorative element.
Z	This aluminum profile is used to design multi-level structures relative to one or another plane.

Solid hollow profiles are presented in the form of a box or pipe. The first ones have a quadrangular cross-section. They are used, among other things, in the assembly of frame covers and supporting frames. The latter, in the case of glazing, make it possible to implement design ideas and extend utility lines.

Materials, tools and consumables

When installing aluminum windows, it is impossible to do without the following basic materials :

All components and parts of an aluminum window block - frames, sashes, double-glazed windows, single glasses, sliding mechanisms.
Window sill board.
Plastic, aluminum or galvanized slopes and strips.
Low tides.
Mosquito nets (if necessary).

Installation will also require a certain set of tools.:

Hammer or drill with the ability to switch to impact mode
Screwdriver with function of changing the tightening force.
A set of flat and Phillips screwdrivers for adjusting fittings and installing handles.
Mallet for straightening the position of the profile in the opening.
Building level.
Tape measure, ruler and square for making control measurements of the window position.
Construction knife with a retractable blade for removing excess hardened polyurethane foam.
Spray gun for spray foam.

Also, before installation you should stock up on some consumables :

Fastening elements for sashes, profiles and frames produced by the window manufacturer.
Mounting plates required to fix the window in the opening.
Sealants and polyurethane foam for filling installation gaps.
PSUL sealing tape for sealing the frame along the contact surface with the end of the opening.
Spacer plates for installing double-glazed windows in the profile.
A set of self-tapping screws and dowels for attaching the profile to the opening.
Lubricants for processing polymer seals installed in recesses.

All tools and consumables must be of high quality, in good condition and free from signs of defects.

Accessories

Door hinges and shutters are attached to the aluminum profile in two ways. The budget option involves using screws to screw into pre-formed holes. The second is considered more technologically advanced. This is justified by the use of clamp terminals, which are installed without violating the integrity of the metal structural elements.

An example of installing hinges on an aluminum frame Source al-solution.ru

Price

Which windows are cheaper, plastic or aluminum? Usually they answer that they are aluminum. This is only true for cold systems. They do not require insulation, so the price is lower. When a profile is insulated with a thermal bridge, this increases its cost. The characteristics are approximately comparable to plastic ones, but at the same time more expensive. Therefore, such systems are not in great demand. In the production of high-quality plastic structures, proven materials and fittings are used. But overall, the price remains reasonable. For a dacha, you can choose an inexpensive model, and for an apartment near a busy highway, a window with increased protection from noise and dust will be suitable.

Sealant

For any type of glazing and with sashes and doors, an important element of the fittings is the sealing tape. It is responsible for preventing drafts, eliminating mechanical damage to the aluminum profile, and preventing moisture penetration.

There are only three types of seals:

TPE is characterized by high quality, but there is a high risk of cracking in severe frosts.
VMQ is resistant to temperature and humidity changes. Experts recommend using it in harsh climates.
EPDM is technically slightly inferior to the previous model, but due to its lower cost it is more popular in the middle zone.

Variety of rubber seals Source al-solution.ru

Features of plastic windows

PVC models were created for a wide consumer audience. Inexpensive, practical profiles are easy to install both in a country house and in a high-rise building. Designs have strengths and weaknesses that you need to be aware of.

Advantages of plastic

Thermal insulation is the main advantage of PVC windows. A PVC profile in closed mode creates a sealed space in the room. Sealing contours in the window prevent drafts from entering the room. Even the most inexpensive models will maintain a comfortable 23 C in the room at -20 C.

Due to their design features, plastic types provide owners with better noise insulation than aluminum counterparts. The PVC profile consists of several chambers with internal partitions that prevent extraneous sounds from the street from entering the room.

Advantages of models Source zen.yandex.com

A few words about the manufacturers

Products from both domestic and foreign manufacturers are widely represented on our construction market. It is generally accepted that the standard of quality is imported products, which has often been confirmed in practice. However, it is worth noting two important points in favor of Russian brands. In 2003, GOST 21519 was introduced, which was compiled taking into account world practice. That is, domestic products in terms of quality, which is strictly regulated, are actually no different from foreign ones.

The second important point is the adaptation of products to local climatic conditions. Not all lovers of imported goods take this into account and often make a mistake. As a result, at a minimum, you have to change the fittings, and at maximum, completely reinstall the entire structure.

Another plus in favor of the native manufacturer is the cost. Here you don’t need to overpay for transportation, customs or global reputation. Russia has its own sources of aluminum production, a modern technical base for mass production of certain products and a developed transport system. The lower price is justified only by these three points, but not by worse quality.

Production of curved structures Source al-solution.ru

Types of structures

The design of the sashes is selected so that, firstly, the window is easy to clean, and secondly, there is enough free space when opening.

Rotary

The system holds the hinges on the left or right. It opens more often inwards. One of the disadvantages is that it takes up a lot of space when the sash is open. If the opening is large enough and the fittings are of poor quality, they may sag or become deformed.

Tilt&Turn

Similar to the previous one, but there is a position for ventilation. The sash tilts back and the distance can be adjusted. Convenient to wash and wipe.

Sliding

In terms of space saving, this is the best option. The doors move along guides, moving one after another. On the terrace, small loggia, wherever every centimeter of usable space counts. Due to the design features, aluminum sashes freeze in winter, since the brush seal allows water to pass through. A sharp jerk can damage the guides. Plastic does not have such problems.

Transom

Usually this is a small door that folds inside the room. Installed in garages, basements or attics. If the window is large, for example in Stalin-era houses, the upper part is sometimes made with a transom for convenient ventilation. And to wash it, you will have to remove the “scissors” in the sidewall and then put it back in place.

Deaf

This window does not open. It is usually mounted in a balcony block. Then it can be easily washed on both sides, and ventilation will take place through the folding door flap.

How long does assembly take?

As a rule, aluminum windows are installed in standard openings within one working day. However, during the execution of work a number of problems and nuances may arise that significantly delay the standard deadlines, namely:

If there is a manufacturing defect in the product.
If it is necessary to dismantle the old window structure.
When adjusting or modifying the opening.
If it is impossible to carry out the standard installation procedure for any reason.
If any consumables or tools are missing.

Also, you should pay attention to the time of year when the frame and glass unit are assembled, and weather conditions. In rain or freezing temperatures, installing sealant or filling gaps with foam can take a long time.

Step-by-step instructions for DIY replacement

Despite the fact that large manufacturing companies offering aluminum window structures to consumers provide installation services, some homeowners prefer to do the installation themselves.

When installing glazing of this type, the following technological map will be required:

The opening is cleared of construction debris and remnants of the old window.
The master checks the dimensions of the opening and finds out whether it requires modification.
The frame is freed from sashes, fittings, double-glazed windows or single glasses.
When installed through anchor strips, the elements are fixed along the outer contour of the frame.
The finished window frame is placed in the opening, wedged and adjusted so that the installation gaps on each side are the same.
Using a building level, compliance with the geometry and deviation from the vertical and horizontal axes is checked.
The master makes holes in the end of the opening using a puncher, strictly coaxially with the perforations in the mounting plates.
Dowels are driven into the holes, after which the window is fixed with self-tapping screws through the anchor plates.

Once the mounting of the supporting aluminum frame is completed, all mounting gaps are carefully filled with self-expanding foam from a spray can using a mounting gun.

How to install a double-glazed window into a frame?

When the foam hardens, its remains are cut off, and the technician can begin installing the double-glazed window. This procedure is performed in accordance with the following algorithm :

The geometry of each landing opening in the frame is checked.
Along the perimeter of the grooves for installing double-glazed windows, mounting plates are placed, designed to compensate for the coefficient of linear expansion of the glass.
The glass unit is installed in the frame so that its end has contact with each mounting plate.
The structure is pressed with glazing beads, which snap into the grooves of the frame.
At the final stage, opening sashes are fixed into separate openings on the frame, which after fastening are subject to adjustment for comfortable operation and meeting GOST requirements.

When all work is completed, it is necessary to verify the correct installation of the structure. To do this, the swing door is opened slightly and left in a free position. When installed correctly, it should remain motionless.

Prices for work

As a rule, the installation of window structures is ordered from the manufacturer, who often includes the cost of installation in the final contract price of the products.

However, many organizations differentiate these services so that the consumer has the opportunity to choose the most suitable conditions by analyzing the prices of other companies. Today, the installation of aluminum windows, depending on the type of construction, characteristics of the property, as well as the amount of work, is carried out at the following prices :

Installation of a frame in a typical opening – from 2 – 4 thousand rubles.
Installation of double-glazed windows – from 0.5 – 2.5 thousand rubles.
Installation of slopes, ebbs, window sill boards - from 0.6 - 1.5 thousand rubles. for 1 m.p.
Sealing of joints – from 250 – 400 rubles. for 1 m.p.
Installation and adjustment of hinged sashes - from 500 - 800 rubles.

The prices shown are current as of May 2022 and are indicative. The final cost of installation is determined by calculation and budgeting, after taking measurements and analyzing the complexity of the work to be done.

Possible mistakes

Installation of aluminum window structures in external walls is a responsible procedure that requires the master to have extreme concentration, experience and follow the technological map. Otherwise, the following errors and problems may occur :

Poor preparation of the opening - equal edges, crumbling plaster. When installing a window in such an opening, uneven settlement and distortion of the frame may occur, as well as blowing and freezing of the wall in places where cracks form.
The installation gap is too small - insufficient amount of foam will reduce the thermal properties of the window.
Installation gaps that are too large - the structure may be subject to vibrations under the influence of wind load.
Poor or insufficient frame fixation - uneven settlements or vibrations.
Poor quality sealing materials - blowing through the structure, peeling of the insulating layer, loss of tightness.
Poor adjustment of the sashes means uncomfortable operation, failure of locking mechanisms and fittings.

If problems arise, it is necessary to carry out emergency repair work, since the further condition of the structure depends on this, and there is also a risk of its destruction.