Soft windows for gazebos and terraces: selection and installation, features and photos of the best solutions

Any owner of a private house, cottage, or even more so, an estate, knows exactly what a miracle it is to sit outdoors on a summer evening, enjoying the songs of cicadas and a light breeze on the open veranda or in the gazebo.

However, often everything is not as rosy as it might seem, because in the evening the ubiquitous mosquitoes begin to bother you, the wind can simply throw leaves, dust and dirt in the guests’ faces, and as soon as the sun drops a little lower, it becomes uncomfortable to sit outside, even wrapped in a warm blanket.

But how can you prolong this pleasure and protect yourself and your guests from external factors, for example, weather?

The best way out of the situation would be to purchase and install soft windows.

Advantages and disadvantages

Flexible windows are made from polyvinyl chloride film, which has a dense structure and excellent technical characteristics. They perfectly replace glass materials for creating transparent fencing in various rooms: verandas, attics, gazebos, terraces. The owners of summer restaurants and cafes were the first to appreciate soft windows.

This product can be used all year round. Thanks to this installation, comfortable conditions are created in the summer when it rains. In addition to rain and wind, the film can protect the structure from snow in winter.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

Polyvinyl chloride film is not 100% airtight, but when using heating sources (electric fireplace, heat lamp), you can hold any event in a room where flexible windows are installed.

Due to the fact that flexible window structures are made of high quality PVC, according to user reviews, they have a lot of advantages that deserve a detailed description.

Advantages:

• Acceptable product price. The cost of soft windows is 2 times less than that of classic glazing with a wooden or plastic frame.
• High resistance to deformation (tensile, tearing).
• Product safety. If the material is torn or cut, it can be easily replaced, this is important if there are small children.
• Quick installation and dismantling of the material. The structure can be installed and dismantled within a few minutes. The main thing is to purchase the necessary fasteners and tools.
• Attractive appearance . Such windows do not hide the structure, and also allow you to admire the surrounding nature while being in a comfortable room.
• Long service life, more than 10 years. The durability of the product is determined by the technical characteristics of the building material, which is resistant to aggressive environments.
• A wide range of products, from which you can choose the appropriate variation of windows of the desired design and color.
• The product can withstand temperatures in the range of -40… +80 degrees without losing quality characteristics.
• Easy care. Flexible window structures can be maintained either manually or automatically.
• The material is non-toxic, as a result, it does not cause allergic reactions. At high temperatures it does not melt and does not emit harmful substances.

In addition to a large number of advantages, flexible windows have certain disadvantages that need to be taken into account:

• If you use this product carelessly, there is a risk of deformation of the canvas, which cannot be repaired. Such material must be replaced with new one.
• High thermal expansion rate. At low degrees, the material compresses, which can lead to rupture of the fabric at the point of stretching.
• The material does not allow air to pass through, so in poorly ventilated areas there will be a high level of humidity and temperature.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

To avoid creating a greenhouse effect, it is better to install structures with a built-in window that can be opened if necessary.

Purchasing material for installing soft windows makes it possible to protect the space from strong wind, dirt from the street, cold and rain. And to ensure optimal protection and fresh air in the room, you can use rolled mosquito nets. The functionality of such a mesh is identical to what we are used to seeing on plastic windows, while it can be quickly removed and does not damage soft windows.

In addition to the above, it should also be noted that such windows cannot be broken and, accordingly, cannot be injured. Using such windows, a gazebo or terrace can become a full-fledged outdoor playroom for children.

Modern manufacturers of windows of this type today produce film curtains with a large selection of colors. Using the right color, the frame of the building will look not only neat, but also stylish. Ready-made curtain options can be presented in different designs, and this will not necessarily be a monochromatic option; there may be a beautiful binding, lace or the logo of a specific organization. It should also be noted that such PVC windows can be decorated, which allows this type of decoration to be used not only in suburban areas, but also in cafes on the central streets of the city.

Creation and installation on the veranda, gazebo, terrace

To install soft windows, you will need measurements (tape measure, ruler, tailor's yardstick, pencil to make marks):

• Openings “in the light” (width, length). If there are curly, semicircular shapes, then they also need to be identified as accurately as possible, this is sometimes difficult to do, therefore, if an order is made, then sometimes it is advisable to invite a professional measurer.
• Parameters of the enclosing frame, that is, beams, pillars, supporting structure onto which fasteners are fixed. The width of the fabric framing of the film segment depends on this, the standard is 70 mm, but it can be increased, for example, sometimes they make a fabric apron covering the window sill.

It is necessary to make calculations to determine the number of fasteners installed at a certain pitch:

You need to decide on the type of fastening: What
you will need to create and install soft windows with your own hands:

• A screwdriver and self-tapping screws to secure the fasteners to the opening frame. If the base is stone/metal, then use a hammer drill and dowels.
• In specialized stores they buy special kits, which include film, edging made from special fabric with an answer for the selected type of fixation and fastening parts (accessories).
  Or they purchase these products separately; instead of fabric for edging, you can buy wide slings (we will look at the options below). And instead of more expensive fasteners (locks), ordinary cheap eyelets will suffice, through which the fabric will be secured directly to the base with self-tapping screws (but this is the simplest method).
• A construction hair dryer with a special flat attachment to it to solder the film to the edging and weld together. You will also need a spoon to lift it during the process and a hard roller to press the materials together (these 2 tools can be replaced with homemade devices).
• If the material will be stitched, you will need a sewing machine.

Full information about the necessary materials and tools is here.

Production technology

Let us describe the creation of flexible transparent film fencing in production conditions :

1. The company orders film (roll width 1.40 or 1.80 m) and fabric for reinforcement around the perimeter. Specialists mark these materials and cut them.

2. Individual segments are soldered together, with a minimum overlap of 3 cm. Sometimes a connecting tape made of the same PVC, TPU or the same as the edging can be used, its width is usually 6.5 cm. The film is pushed into it (it covers it from two sides), welded. That is, the seam can be transparent or opaque.
   For soldering there is a special moving module - a hair dryer or an iron; its dimensional roller wheels ensure smooth movement. At the same time, to protect the edges from excessive melting and prevent divergence, they are covered with regular yellow masking tape.

3. Then the fastening elements are installed.

The zippers are sewn on, this is the only such detail secured in this way. However, this is not always the case - they can be soldered, but it is believed that in this case they are more likely to come off when the window is under strong tension.

For other fasteners (eyelets), holes are made into which they are pressed in a special way, for example, like rivets.

More information here.

How to make windows with your own hands?

An option on how to create a structure with your own hands using a completely purchased kit :

1. We measure the opening (preferably with a margin).
2. We buy a special kit with film, edging with already made holes for the selected type of fastening.
3. We adjust the indicated segments to our calculations and cut them off.
4. We push the edge of the film into the edging (this material is folded into a pocket).
5. We set the construction hair dryer to +420° C (soldering at temperatures in the range of +400…+450). The main thing is not to burn it out, but, on the other hand, it is necessary to ensure good diffusion of materials.
6. We supply hot air inside the pocket: lift the edge of the edging (the edge of the film is already placed between its two layers) with a spoon. Close and smooth the hot layers firmly with a hard, hard roller.

Another method is more artisanal:

1. We buy a roll of PVC film from 500 microns and slings (ribbons made of synthetic material, reminiscent of the straps of laptop bags and the like).
2. We sew it on, but leave a fairly large extension of our fabric reinforcement, on which, after a certain step, we punch round holes (in our case, a kind of punch was built - the concrete anchor body was placed on a screwdriver) for the grommets. We melt the edges of the holes with a gas burner.
3. We buy and install eyelets (blocks, piccolo rings). These are round rivets with a hole in the center that are pressed into the hole to grip and reinforce its edges with metal. One part (bushing) is inserted into the reinforced opening on one side, and on the other, a counter element (washer) is put on and clamped. There are special pliers, but in our case we lightly hit the plumb line attached to such connected elements, then finished off with a hammer.
4. We attach it to the frame, screw it with self-tapping screws through the eyelets to the beams and posts of the opening.

For more information on self-production, follow the link.

Installation of structures

Installing a soft window in stages:

1. Markings on the posts and beams of the opening.
2. The upper fastening line is determined, checked according to the building level, and places for fasteners are outlined. The eyelets are installed on the canvas with equal spacing (usually 40 cm on the sides, 30 cm on the top), so it will be easy to mark them. And also on top, regardless of the type of main fasteners, elements with straps are placed to hold the canvas in a twisted state.
3. Staples and locks are secured to the marking points on the base.
4. The canvas is stretched and attached to the top of the opening. If you fix them directly with self-tapping screws through the eyelets, then when dismantling the product you will have to unscrew them, so it is more practical to use fasteners that can be left on the base (locks, etc.).
5. You can save on eyelets - although this is not recommended due to the high risk of tears, it is acceptable - and secure the fabric directly through the edging fabric. But at the same time, it is necessary to make a pocket in the upper part, where to insert a metal strip, which will strengthen the clamps and prevent sagging.
6. A pocket is also made at the bottom, which is weighted with the above element. Moreover, they often make a small overlap (dust cover) so that the edge covers a small part of the room - this will improve the tightness, insulation from dust and wind.
7. Fix the sides and bottom.

A good solution is to use straps pulled through eyelets , since they can adjust the tension at any time without dismantling the fastenings. These elements are sometimes replaced with ordinary plastic ties.

If the installation is carried out at high temperatures, then there is no need to stretch the fabric too much, as it will shrink in the cold; accordingly, in cold conditions this can be done as much as possible. With these clamps, you can make adjustments (tighten/loosen them) when the material narrows/expands.

Detailed article about installation here.

What do soft windows look like? Photo

Bugs and difficulties

When manufacturing and installing soft PVC windows, beginners often make mistakes. To avoid them, experts advise taking into account the following nuances :

• Before applying markings, the corners of the film unwound from the roll should be fixed in such a way as to smooth out all the folds.
• Cutting should be done slowly, carefully following the marking line.
• When fusing the edge, it is important not to overheat the material so that it does not collapse from high temperature.
• It is recommended to fasten the brackets for fixing the side and bottom parts only after the panel has sagged after its installation at the level of the opening lintel.
• To create eyelets, you should not use a construction knife - the hole should be circular, which will prevent it from lengthening over time.
• When installing steel parts, stainless steel products should be used, since traces of corrosion on PVC film are almost impossible to remove, and they greatly spoil the appearance of the finished structure.

When installing windows, you should also consider the windward and leeward sides. If the structure is mounted in one or two parts of the exploited space, the risk of sail formation increases in strong winds, which contributes to the rapid destruction of the product.

Differences in manufacturing technologies

The technology for manufacturing soft windows is carried out in two ways:

• Stitching. Flexible windows of various configurations are sewn together using a sewing machine. To sew such a fabric, synthetic water-repellent fabric and lavsan threads are used, which are resistant to temperature changes.
• Welding. Korean-made polyvinyl chloride material is used.

Windows for gazebos are made of film material, which has a thickness in the range from 500 to 700 microns. The second variation of the film is a more durable building material. The width of the product is 140 cm. If the width of the opening turns out to be wider than the film, then the pieces of film can be soldered using a hair dryer. A stream of hot air connects several pieces of film material, and an overlap of 3 cm will form.

Thanks to the material they are made of, they are flexible and durable at the same time. There is no need to remove them from time to time and put them back in place. They will survive strong winds and tree branches knocking on the surface.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

Soft windows are a kind of film that has a gradation in thickness from the thinnest options of 500 microns to options of 700 microns and thicker. When installing such PVC curtains, they require advance edging, which acts as a frame.

This layer of PVC windows completely blocks insects from entering the room and at the same time helps maintain a comfortable air temperature. And most importantly, flexible windows perfectly retain their structure both in severe frost (up to -390 C ) and in severe heat ( up to +500 C ).

Installation of soft windows is much simpler and faster than glazing, and the service life on average varies around 10 years.

Kinds

If the opaque inserts are large and located not only at the edges, then such a product is called “combined”:

The building is covered entirely with a tent, a combination of film windows and polyester fabric:

Opaque (polyester, fabric), but this is more like an awning:

Somewhat conventionally,
the types of flexible structures include mesh and awning , since they are opaque, at most translucent. But let us also remind you about these options, since sometimes they are positioned this way and are often combined with film:

A combination of separate and integrated segments, that is, a whole canvas with them:

Tinted soft windows can be easily found on the market, but colored ones are quite difficult to find. In terms of fabrics and edging, the situation is much better - there are quite a lot of shades on sale.

There are no warm soft windows; on the contrary, they are also called “cold”. Film thickness does not affect the heat capacity; the difference is so insignificant that it can be ignored. Still, they create a certain level of insulation, and it is quite noticeable, so sometimes the use of these products is called “insulation of a veranda, terrace, etc.”

Automatic windows with electric drive and remote control are similar to roller blinds (protective screens for gazebos and verandas). The principle is the same.

Components:

• The canvas is fixed in the side guides fixed in the opening.
• A winding drum with an electric drive and a control module with a receiver of the UK signal from the remote control is fixed at the top.

In automatic flexible windows, films thicker than 500 microns are usually not used: the larger this figure, the more difficult it is for the material to be wound, it will creak and get stuck in the guide rails. Shrinkage will increase and, with temperature changes, narrowing will occur, as a result of which the device will become inoperable.

Automation is an elite product with an exorbitant price:

Differences in material

The construction market offers many variations of soft windows for decorating verandas, gazebos, and attic spaces. Experienced builders know that it is better to choose synthetic building materials that are highly resistant to aggressive environments.

Soft windows are made from several materials:

Polyvinyl chloride

PVC is mainly used for the manufacture of flexible windows. Such structures will serve for quite a long service life without requiring replacement of material. After all, this building material has high technical characteristics.

These include:

• High level of strength and ductility.
• Wear resistance.
• Resistance to humidity, UV radiation, temperature changes. The appearance of mold and mildew on the surface of the material is excluded.
• The material is fireproof, which allows it to be used next to the barbecue.

These structures can be completely transparent or partially transparent: the upper part is darkened, and the lower part remains visible. PVC windows can have different thicknesses.

Polyurethane

Soft windows can be made not only from PVC, but also from polyurethane. They are thinner, but are not inferior in their performance characteristics to PVC material. Due to the high level of elasticity, these products are difficult to tear or pierce. They can be used in sub-zero temperatures and can withstand up to -80 degrees without losing their appearance or deforming.

Polyurethane does not allow ultraviolet rays to penetrate into the room; on the contrary, it reflects them. But it is not an obstacle to the penetration of sunlight. At the same time, an optimal temperature is created inside the room both on hot summer days and in the winter season.

Polyester

Canvases with different strength indicators are made from this material. Like previous types of materials, polyester has a number of advantages.

Let's list them:

• long service life;
• high resistance to moisture and temperature changes;
• excellent indicator of strength and elasticity;
• the material is fire resistant;
• easy care;
• it is possible to paint the window product in various color shades and apply images;
• resistance to deformation.

Polyester is mainly used to make windows, which are opened by screwing the material onto a special shaft, open or closed, and secured with a special strap. This feature allows you to open windows to the required height.

Advantages and disadvantages

A soft window should not be considered as a replacement for a full-fledged product; it is pointless to compare these two designs. The flexible partition is intended only to provide shelter from wind and dust, so that precipitation does not get inside the object.

It is most clearly characterized by the following purpose: for inherently open architectural forms such as gazebos and terraces, which sometimes need to be covered, for example, from rain, so as not to sweep away the snow every time. At the same time, the film will provide a certain level of thermal insulation, for example, the veranda can be used in cold seasons.

Advantages and disadvantages of soft windows:

• Versatility . You can sew up openings of any geometry and make segments with zippers. For a large number of types of buildings: verandas, summer outbuildings, gazebos, gazebos, street terraces, tent-kiosks. But the list has this limited range. They are definitely not suitable for apartments or housing; the same can be said about change houses, adjoining garages, extensions, where there is a need for high-quality insulation and strength.
• Insulating properties . Limited. They protect only from precipitation and splashes, and tinted and colored materials - from the sun. As a rule, such a curtain is not fastened hermetically, so moisture and dust can seep in around the perimeter. Other insulating qualities are extremely low.
• Resistance to environmental conditions , durability. We talked above about resistance to damage and changes in transparency - as for a film, this is a very good level. Let's add that the material will not become cloudy due to micro-scratches from wind and sand, you can lean on it with reasonable effort without fear of tearing it off (the fasteners are solid, on reinforcing fabric, there are many of them).
• Durability . The service life of the product is 10 years, which is quite a long time.
• High level of practicality . Installation is quick, simple, and convenient to store (in rolls). The material can be quickly rolled up and secured with straps, including as curtains. And if necessary, you just need to undo the laces, then fasten them around the perimeter in a few minutes. You can create segments with lightning bolts.
• Cleaning, care .
  Easy to clean with a damp soft cloth. They do not accumulate static electricity, so they do not attract dust, etc. But they require some care. Can only be washed with chemically neutral agents (soapy water and the like). Alcohol and solvents (gasoline, kerosene) that create irremovable rainbow stains are strictly prohibited. You can’t rub not only with hedgehogs, but also with hard sponges. You cannot bend it in the cold (at -10 and below), such a crease will remain forever.
• The ability to significantly expand /contract at different temperatures can be regarded as both a plus and a minus: because of this, irregularities are straightened, the shape is restored, but it can sag or become overly stretched.
• Heat resistance . The substance does not burn on its own, it extinguishes itself, but with an external source of fire it will maintain a flame. That is, fire resistance is still not ideal.

Consequences of using a product with a solvent on PVC film: If we consider the advantages for our range of objects, then the disadvantages are insignificant :

• The aesthetics are sometimes not very outstanding: such a canvas is not always stretched to the state of glass, so there is waviness and sagging. In addition, the fastenings are visible, especially the straps.
• It is difficult to find color options on the market.
• It blows a little from below and near the fastenings, but this is a kind of plus, since ventilation is provided; without this, there would be nothing to breathe in the room due to the ideal tightness of the film.

There is no point in describing the pros and cons of using soft windows for areas that are not intended for use, for example, for residential and non-residential rooms, industrial premises - the window is simply not intended for them at all.

Reviews from users and owners

We have made a concentrate of comments from reviews from owners of plastic flexible windows:

• After 3 – 4 years, no deterioration of the film (transparency, etc.) was noticed.
• We did not find a single review about frost cracking or yellowing.
• Ease of use is high. For the summer you can roll it up to the ceiling, secure it there with straps, and roll it out on rainy days. This is more convenient than dismantling polycarbonate sheets.
• It is difficult to stretch enough to tear; the potential for such deformation is large.
  There are some concerns that if you give the glass a semblance of glass, then in the cold season the film will tear due to narrowing. This is difficult to achieve - only with clearly abnormal efforts, when you stop just before the rupture. That is, you can pull it tightly in the summer so that the product is without waves, but you need to know when to stop. In cold weather it is recommended to weaken it a little, in warm weather - to increase it a little. In addition, it will be more difficult to remove highly stretched material. But the problem is completely eliminated if there is a fastening made of straps that can be released/tightened as needed.
• If you do not make an overlap at the bottom (boot), along the edges, then snow and dust will blow in. The same will happen if there are jams.
• Creases are not always smoothed out without a trace, but fractures with damage to the internal structure never happen.
• You can fix it yourself - there is no point in overpaying for installation.
• The straps may have defects, delamination at the edges, or cracks.
• The price is comparable to polycarbonate sheets (without fittings).
• They don't make noise.
• Removal/installation is very easy - just unclip the fasteners and remove the hooks. Except in cases where the product is not screwed through the eyelets with self-tapping screws.
• There is no need to clean it after rain - there are no streaks. You can wash with plain water and a drop of detergent. Often there is no need to clean at all.
• You need to take a thickness of 650 microns, it is advisable to check it, since there are cases of slipping 500 microns. Preference should be given to Japanese brands (considered the most reliable), European, and Korean. A Chinese product may be of quite high quality, but the risk that it will turn yellow or crack in the cold is somewhat higher.
• Particular attention should be paid to frost resistance: the better the quality of the film, the higher it is.
• The material is more like silicone rubber than polyethylene or oilcloth.
• Polyurethane, for all its advantages, is prone to darkening.
• Aesthetics sometimes suffer due to visible fasteners.
• It allows air to pass around the fasteners, so there is no shortage of air inside the room, that is, a kind of ventilation occurs.
• An excellent option for those who are tired of shoveling snow from terraces and gazebos.
• Often zippers come apart and come off, but this is due to excessive tension. Self-tapping screws are torn out by the wind, but this also indicates the strength of the material, since it does not tear.
• You shouldn’t buy home-soldered products from small businessmen - often they are made almost with an iron on the knee, and accordingly, tears occur, edging and eyelets come off.

The contraction and expansion in warm/cold seasons is noticeable. Some users solved the problem: they improved the fastening with springs (for example, you can buy those for car clutch pedals), to which the grommets were hooked.

Below in the first photo you can see the flaws: creases, waviness. On the second, raindrops look completely different than on glass. The third image shows a nice improvement in aesthetics:

Reviews can be read here, here and here.

With or without drawing

There are two types of soft windows:

• Transparent. They perfectly transmit light and air, creating a wonderful atmosphere around them, as if the room was breathing. Such structures do not fade in the sun. But the density of such windows is much less, because they do not contain lavsan thread.
• Colored. Such products are made from PVC in various color shades; there are even variations of colored windows with a printed or image applied. Curtains create an intimate atmosphere in the room, hiding everything that happens inside the room from prying eyes. In some cases, colored windows are used in combination with conventional glass products.

If you look at photos of structures that use soft windows, you will notice that the material differs in transparency. However, this is not done for aesthetics - this is due to the fact that the material is different in its structure.

If you need to purchase a more durable material, then it is recommended to turn your attention to dense PVC , which includes more lavsan fibers in its composition. The usual type of curtains will only resemble a transparent film. However, this does not mean at all that transparent windows will fulfill their direct obligations worse, since modern options fully meet all requirements related to operation.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

It would be ideal to harmonize a soft window with a color matched to the building; this will help maintain harmony in the design of the exterior of the facade. In this case, even a metal frame may be suitable.

Not so long ago, combined type windows were popular, where the top was transparent and the bottom was colored, but single-color solutions are still more popular.

Scope of application of flexible windows

Let us outline the general characteristics of buildings and cases where and when flexible plastic partitions are suitable :

• On non-substantial, light, temporary objects, in the absence of walls suitable for installing full-fledged heavy PVC windows. In some cases, installing these and wooden products is too expensive, time-consuming, costly, and impractical for reasons of practicality, saving financial investments, and avoiding waste on a structure whose potential will be unclaimed.
• When there is no point in glazing with a full frame, when you just need to protect the building from the wind, precipitation, so that the wind does not blow inside, snow does not blow, or rain does not detect (a problem familiar to all owners of terraces, verandas, and open balconies).
  This is especially the case when the structure is open by nature (gazebos, gazebos, verandas, etc.), where there is no need for tightness or special insulating qualities. In these conditions, there are very few alternatives to soft windows (except perhaps polycarbonate), since there is a need for quick dismantling, for example, during the warm season (the canvas is simply unfastened from its fastenings and clips).

Flexible windows are a solution only for a narrow, but in their range, a very wide range of objects :

1. verandas;
2. terraces;
3. gazebos;
4. summer areas;
5. kiosks-tents;
6. similar outbuildings and small open houses. They are also appropriate where you need to use an awning structure, but transparent.

The task is to serve as an obstacle to precipitation, dust and the like, or, if there is tinting, then from the sun. They are definitely not suitable for residential premises, and no special explanation is required about this: they do not seal the openings hermetically (there are gaps near the fastenings and where the joints are), low heat capacity, noise insulation, and protective qualities from threats from the outside.

You can use flexible windows to build a greenhouse, but there are cheaper materials for this. Of the residential premises and those closest to them, the maximum for which they can be suitable are summer kitchens, open balconies, loggias, parts of outbuildings that need to be sewn up during cold weather or during rain.

More specific examples where soft plastic windows are used are:

• Summer areas, terraces, patios, spans in garden buildings with stoves and verandas, similar segments of street restaurants or small cafes, including mobile, prefabricated ones, assembled from frames.
• Gazebos, gazebos, similar garden buildings and similar objects for recreation and leisure.
• Windows in kiosks, booths, if there are no requirements for security, anti-burglary qualities and high-quality insulation. For example, tents on frames similar to those used in election campaign events, for presentations at exhibitions, and for mobile laboratories.

The ability to use tinted material expands the scope of application. But, unfortunately, while such products can be found on the market without any problems, films with different shades are almost never found. But there is an abundance of edging and opaque inserts in any color.

Film and opaque fabrics are not suitable as partitions indoors, for example, between work cells in offices. It is impossible to lean on such products; it is easy to burn through or pierce the material with a sharp object, even accidentally, since in essence it is an improved oilcloth.

Definitely flexible plastic film/fabric partitions are not suitable for insulation and insulation of housing . Such a curtain will provide little protection from noise, and also from cold, since it is not sealed, and its functionality is minimal (it does not swing open like a sash, etc.).

But as a barrier against wind, dust, precipitation, splashes of water from puddles and the like, the product is quite practical for the buildings and structures we have listed, although not ideal, since there are gaps near the fastenings and overlaps. For housing, such a structure can only be considered as a temporary partition, for example, during renovations.

You can darken a flexible transparent partition by stretching a mosquito net from inside the room . In the same way, you can increase the aesthetics, for example, by hanging tulle or plastic oilcloth of different colors and prints.

Examples of terraces, verandas, porches:

This architectural form is similar to a veranda or terrace on the second floor:

Example of a tinted product:

Below in the photo are gazebos, gazebos, and open garden houses. The area near the cafe can be left for the winter with this design; sometimes separate houses for clients are placed near such establishments, in which case this material is indispensable for using them in cold seasons. Balconies in a residential building require particularly high-quality insulation, which film cannot provide. However, in cases like the photo below, these parts of the house were obviously initially planned to be left open. And there is no alternative (polycarbonate will be much more expensive and more difficult to remove, and will require space for storage). A loggia is better suited for this framing, as it is more closed.

A greenhouse, or rather a protective tent:

To cover the pool, you can use a special polycarbonate structure (second photo), but you can also save money and cover it with warm windows on the frame (pay attention to the dimensional anthers near the floor), such a tent will be easy to remove for the summer, or you can simply roll up and secure the rolls at the top straps.

Where is it better to install soft windows?

Windows of this type are very popular among owners of private houses, cottages and restaurants with a summer terrace. This is due to the fact that the material has a large number of positive qualities and unique properties.

Firstly, they can protect the premises from external adverse conditions. And secondly, the film is very durable and reliable, and due to the fact that it has the ability to stretch, its service life increases, and the question of repair does not arise soon.

It should also be added that such an installation would be an excellent solution for unheated rooms . Thanks to its thermal insulation properties, the film is able to maintain an optimal temperature inside for a long period, and if necessary, such a room can be used even in winter.

Soft windows for the veranda

Soft windows can significantly transform the appearance of any veranda. However, the main task of such a window is to protect the interior space from various adverse weather conditions. It can also be noted that such curtains made of polyvinyl chloride retain heat well. Therefore, they can be used not only in spring, summer or autumn.

Soft windows are often used even in the cold season. But it is advisable to use a heater to heat the veranda. The advantages of soft windows include the fact that their use allows you to keep the room bright and the surroundings visible.

Soft windows for gazebos

Today, country gazebos can be used even in the cold season. And at the same time, the owner of a summer cottage does not need to carry out expensive glazing using plastic windows with double-glazed windows. To do this, you can use an alternative option - soft windows made of polyvinyl chloride. To install such windows, it is necessary to carry out preliminary measurements. This can be done by both specialists and the owners of the summer cottage themselves. Installing soft windows for a gazebo will allow you to spend time with maximum comfort and coziness in a country gazebo in the company of family and friends, even in late autumn.

Soft windows for cafes

Relatively recently, most domestic cafes and restaurants began to use so-called soft windows to decorate their outdoor areas. Such structures are used almost all year round. PVC curtains allow you to insulate an open area, while protecting your visitors from the negative influence of the external environment. In particular, soft windows effectively protect the cafe area from cold/heat, rain, snow, dust, wind and other unpleasant mechanical influences. In addition, soft windows for cafes can be used to zone the premises of the establishment.

Repair

Cuts and punctures on the flexible window film, although not particularly high quality and effective, can be repaired:

• If you simply coat the edges with glue and connect them, they will separate under any more or less serious load or tension.
  Scotch tape and adhesive tape will give a temporary effect, since they will not repeat the deformation of the canvas during compression/expansion. Therefore, they use soldering: you need to take pieces of the same film, apply it to the cut on both sides and weld it with a hairdryer or perform this manipulation with a hot iron, but on a non-synthetic fabric previously installed in this place. If it is not possible to apply thermal influence, then you can use the same scheme, but glue a piece of the connecting cut with rubber glue - it tends to stretch.
• Apply the same method as for sealing cuts in suspended ceilings - using a “liquid patch” (the same PVC, but with a solvent that evaporates when the composition hardens).
• In the same way, as described above, you can use the same reinforcing fabric, that is, insert the edges of the cuts into it and make a solder.
• Install eyelets around the perimeter of the cut, thread laces through them, and tie them. You can reinforce the edges with the same reinforcing fabric, that is, combine this method with the previous one. Solder/sew a zipper instead of eyelets.

If the zipper is damaged, the old one is simply torn off, and a new one is welded in its place, that is, there is no need to cut off a piece of material with it. Below in the first photo you can see the segment where the broken part was, there is a trace where it was torn from, and a working part has already been attached in its place.

In the second image it is welded. You can also use a construction hair dryer (you need to provide +400...+450), but you will need to prepare a hard, hard roller to immediately press the material.

The most common repairs involve replacing fittings (eyelets, straps) and edging. For example, if a fastening part has fallen off, place and clamp a new one in the same place. If the fabric on which the element stood is damaged, then they also change it - the standard method: tear it off and weld a new one.

What to look for when purchasing?

In the production of soft glazing, very dense, modified polyvinyl chloride is used, which, according to its formulation, is much closer to stretch ceilings than to those unreliable film coatings that Soviet summer residents used when arranging greenhouses.

The main suppliers of material are:

• France
• Korea
• And China

Korean products that are in greatest demand , but most often people buy them from China anyway. The secret of this nonsense is simple: European goods are relatively expensive, Chinese goods are traditionally unreliable, and therefore products from Ban Ki-moon’s homeland turned out to be the golden mean. But it is impossible to visually distinguish film made in the Middle Kingdom from French or Korean analogues, which is what its sellers take advantage of, slipping Chinese goods to customers instead of the chosen one. And this, unfortunately, happens in 90% of cases. But this is not too scary, the quality of Chinese PVC curtains is much better than their reputation.

That is why, if you are dealing with an unverified supplier, you need to pay attention not so much to the place where the product is manufactured, but to its thickness. For elite products it is 700 microns, while for awnings a film of 500 microns is produced and its properties differ from those declared.

The second determining factor that you should pay attention to is the quality of the fittings . All those latches and rotating mechanisms that allow you to secure the material to the gazebo posts. So, despite the apparent diversity, there are only 3 types of them.

1. Small brass or nickel plated locks. They are used when arranging spans no wider than two meters.
2. Stainless steel swivel brackets. It is used when closing spans from two to five meters.
3. Silicone straps. These are used at all technically permissible distances.

In addition, the fittings should include a door-snake lock, one centimeter thick, and an oxford edging. This is a special type of polyester fabric that has water-repellent properties and has proven itself when sewing awnings. In the design of curtains, its width is strictly 5 cm. Less is not possible. There is no need for more.

And if we are talking about sizes, then it would not be amiss to note that the width of the PVC sheet itself is also limited by the standard and is only 1400 mm. That is, if you purchased a soft window for a gazebo two and a half meters wide and did not find a weld on it, then it is a fake.

Advantageous characteristics of PVC windows

Flexible windows, which are becoming increasingly popular, have a number of advantages. Among them are the following properties:

• Strength. These products can be used many times.
• Safety. Soft glazing protects against the penetration of ultraviolet rays and does not ignite. And they are also impossible to break.

Soft windows are not afraid of a soccer ball Source tent-prof.ru

• High wear resistance. They are made of dense and flexible material that does not tear or fray. This allows the product to serve for many years.
• Waterproof. The quality of the material protects against the penetration of rain, snow, and hail. It is resistant to rot and mold.
• Landscape view. Soft windows allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature.
• Thermal insulation. The products are able to retain heat during cold periods.

See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in the construction of small architectural forms.

Options for fastening to the opening

Using special fasteners, soft PVC windows are securely and firmly fixed to the frame base.

There are several variations of fastenings :

• With swivel brackets. The simplest method is using spring brackets and eyelets.
• With brackets and straps. Inexpensive fastening method with adjustable fasteners. In order for the canvas to be fixed evenly, it is necessary to first perform a calculation for the location of the staples. Putting the soft fabric on the bracket, it is fixed with a strap, and this completes the fixation.
• With sliding mechanism. Attractive mounting method with frame roller system. To fix such fastenings, the canvas is attached to specialized frames, the movement of which is carried out on rollers, thereby creating the possibility of opening or closing the window without dismantling the entire structure.

Fastening elements for soft windows are installed in two variations. The first is that fasteners are mounted on 4 sides of the frame, which allows the structure to be dismantled in the summer. The second option is to install fasteners on the sides and bottom of the frame. Eyelets for mounting windows are fixed in the upper part using self-tapping screws.

Finished goods

You can buy soft windows ready-made. Typically, the manufacturer equips them with self-tapping screws and special brackets for fastening. They are a transparent film with a border and eyelets in it.

The brackets are screwed with self-tapping screws to the wall or frames (pillars, bricks, foam blocks). The soft window is installed so that the holes fit onto the brackets with a slight stretch, and are secured with latches.

Some manufacturers offer, instead of snap-on brackets, a mounting device with a rotating mechanism. It also holds the product well. However, its price is twice as high.

How to install it yourself

Before installing soft windows yourself, you must perform certain sequential steps.

1. Order a qualified measurement of the openings where the soft windows will be located, or take the measurements yourself.
2. Select edging building material.
3. Decide on the fastening method.
4. Proceed with installation of the structure.

In order for the structure to have a long service life, it is necessary to take correct measurements of the window opening. First, measure the height and width of the light opening, and you will also need the height and width of the beams that are located between the light openings. To these indicators it is necessary to add 5 cm on each side where the fastening elements will be installed.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

If there are protrusions on the structure, it will be quite difficult to take correct measurements; in this case, it is better to seek help from professionals.

Installing one soft window generally takes about 20 minutes. Mounting is carried out by marking the location of micro-holes along the contour of the window on the base to which it will be fixed. After applying the markings, fittings are installed in the indicated places. The window system is mounted on a prepared base structure. The standardized distance between the side fastening elements is 40 cm, in the upper part the range between fastenings is about 30 cm.

Equally important is the edging when installing flexible windows , which consists of strips made of various materials: fabric, film, PVC. They can be of different colors and at least 5 centimeters wide. This allows you to choose the appropriate edging to match the overall appearance of the room.

On wide areas of the window product - more than 1.5 meters - you can install a lock on the edging for the entire size of the panel, this makes it possible to open and close the window as needed. There are 2 types of edging for soft windows: awning and moisture-resistant (PVC) . Both varieties are of high quality.

PVC edging is usually soldered to the window, so there is no risk of breakage in this case. PVC material does not fade under the influence of UV rays and does not deform under the influence of temperature changes. The awning edging is attached to the window by stitching, which is not always effective. Available in various colors: white, red, brown, beige, black, light green.

There is also a simple and inexpensive variation of making your own gazebo from 4 pillars that will securely hold the roof. The space between them can simply be covered with rolled film material.

How to choose the size of soft windows?

When the task is to install soft windows in a gazebo or veranda, you must first decide which openings they will cover. You also need to decide on the attachment points.

Adjacent panels can each be attached to their own brackets or to common ones at the points of their contact.

You need to measure the size of the window along their outer contour. For example, if the task is to glaze an opening between two pillars, then measurements should be taken from their outer edge. Then, 1-1.5 cm is subtracted from the resulting figure in order to ensure good tension of the material.

Tips for use and care

The basic rules that must be followed include the following.

1. Window care involves washing . They need to be washed when they become dirty. You should not use products that contain abrasive substances; warm water and soap are sufficient for cleaning. If there is stubborn dirt, you can use a sponge or soft brush to remove it.
2. There is no need to remove windows during cold weather . The material is designed in such a way that it can withstand sudden temperature changes down to -70 degrees. If you want to receive an influx of fresh air, take care of the timely installation of the opening mechanism. This will allow you to roll the curtains and fasten them with a special belt.
3. Although windows are safe, possible mechanical damage must be avoided . Remember that any impact with a sharp object will irreversibly damage the material. Of course, it can be restored using a patch, but the overall appearance will be spoiled, and over time, the presence of the patch will affect the quality of the window.

The material should be stored rolled up, without bending it or squeezing it. Soft windows are stored in a dry, warm room so that there is a heating source. Metal eyelets can rust when exposed to high humidity, leaving traces of rust on the film.

Expert commentary

Vladislav Dobronravov

Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company

If the polyvinyl chloride sheet comes into contact with the ground, experts recommend installing anthers that protect the room from dust and various contaminants. To protect window structures from insects, manufacturers make mosquito nets that can be easily cleaned from any type of dirt.

Functional and original solution - flexible windows for a gazebo

Soft windows, being a functional accessory, make your vacation more comfortable. They have many advantages:

• high quality;
• increased density;
• environmental friendliness.

They are also durable and not susceptible to fungi and mold, and are also safe for health.

For soft windows, both transparent material and opaque multi-colored material impregnated with acrylic can be used. To improve the appearance, colored edging is applied to the structure. You can also print on the film if desired.

Operating rules

It is important to know the following:

• Experts do not recommend folding flexible windows into envelopes; the most suitable folding variation is roll-up.
• You should not remove the structure in sub-zero temperatures; sudden temperature changes can lead to deformation of the fabric (rupture along the seam of the product, fracture of the fabric).
• Soft windows should only be stored in a ventilated, dry area.
• After installing flexible windows, do not roll up the structure for 1.5–2 weeks. This is necessary for the product to take the correct shape.

Tools and consumables

To independently manufacture and fix soft plastic windows, the owner of a summer cottage will need the following tools and consumables, which are present in the pantry of almost every home craftsman:

For taking measurements of openings and marking the canvas

This type of tools includes:

• Laser or mechanical roulette.
• Construction level to control the correct installation of windows.
• Steel ruler 1 m long.
• Carpenter's angle for measuring right angles.
• Permanent marker for marking PVC film.

For cutting material

Necessary if you purchase a simple film instead of a ready-made set:

• Household scissors.
• A stationery or construction knife with a retractable blade.

To assemble the structure

Devices for assembling and installing the finished product in the opening include:

1. 
   A drill with a set of drills for wood, concrete, brick or metal.

2. A jigsaw or a hand saw with a fine tooth for cutting wooden planks of the future frame.
3. A screwdriver or screwdriver with a set of bits for fixing hardware.
4. Hammer with a hammer weight of 300 g.
5. An awl, if you intend to fasten the product to belts and staples.

Consumables

List of consumables:

• Nails.
• Self-tapping screws.
• Silicone or acrylic sealant.
• When attaching the product using adhesive compounds, use a can of liquid nails.
• If it is necessary to paint the product, use wood stain or varnish.

In addition to the above tools, the home craftsman should also stock up on protective equipment, which satisfies safety regulations when performing work in this category. The set of such products includes a respirator, safety glasses with clear lenses and coated work gloves.

Not only useful, but also beautiful

Outdoor curtains will give your country house or cottage an elegant and exclusive look. They will be an excellent replacement for textile curtains due to their practicality and budget cost, as well as the ability to install them yourself, easily and quickly.

In gazebos and verandas with soft windows you can enjoy outdoor recreation from spring to late autumn. By installing them quickly and without complex installation operations, you will protect your family and guests from precipitation and gusts of wind.

From a large assortment, you can easily choose the structures of various sizes and shapes that you need: soft windows for gazebos, curtains for terraces and verandas, PVC awnings, roller windows.

PVC fabric can be used to build enclosing structures around a swimming pool, a building with a barbecue, a summer kitchen, or a children's playground. Using soft windows it is not difficult to make a canopy or awning canopy for cars. Any open space in a country house, cottage or country house can be decorated so that relaxing outside the city is comfortable and cozy at any time of the year.

Advantages of soft windows

The main advantage of soft windows is that they are the most cost-effective way to glaze rooms. Moreover, these products are able to maintain the required temperature conditions even in the cold season. Soft windows retain their quality characteristics in the temperature range from -40 to +80 degrees Celsius.

As mentioned above, the advantages of PVC curtains include their long service life. With proper use and regular maintenance, the service life of soft windows can even reach 20 years.

Speaking about the advantages of soft windows, of course, it is worth mentioning their protective function. Polyvinyl chloride film perfectly protects the interior of terraces, gazebos and verandas from street dirt, dust, strong wind and precipitation. In addition, a pleasant pastime in a room glazed in this way will not be spoiled even by midges and annoying mosquitoes.

You can also note the material used to make soft windows. Due to the fact that PVC is distinguished by its strength and flexibility, such windows cannot be broken. In addition, even if you hit this structure, you can avoid injury. In general, soft windows are an ideal option for glazing verandas and gazebos, which do not require special time and financial costs.

Rice. 7. Soft windows.

Why else should you choose soft glazing?

Sometimes it is not possible to install standard glazing. Such restrictions arise when it is undesirable to additionally load the balcony. Soft windows weigh almost nothing at all. Another reason to choose this glazing method is if there is furniture on the balcony or loggia. The film partially reflects the sun's rays, which means that objects will not fade. This is especially true if you choose a tint film. Many people choose soft windows also for the reason that they want to feel an open space when entering the balcony, because massive glass and frames create the impression of complete separation from the outside world.

Ordering and installation of curtains

“Soft windows” are produced to order, with a production time ranging from 2 to 9 weeks. If you have decided on a company, you can call a surveyor to the site with samples of materials. If you want to find the best deal, you should stock up on a drawing of the veranda facade, contact several companies for a quote, and then compare prices.

Installing curtains takes very little time. It is necessary to screw the top edge to the strapping beam of the veranda frame - for this purpose, they use “capercaillie” fasteners, for which the curtains usually have holes reinforced with grommets; if there are no such holes, the fasteners are placed in increments of 30 cm and washers with a diameter of at least 20 mm are used. After this, all that remains is to mark the places for the locks or belts and attach them to the posts. The product warranty is usually 1 year.

Photo: COUB Group (3)

The principle of fastening curtains: the edging is equipped with stainless steel eyelets or belt loops, and rotary fasteners or metal brackets are screwed to the posts and railings

In some cases (for example, when installing an entrance or window), zippers are necessary

Proper care of soft windows

The popularity of soft windows is not least due to the fact that this glazing option does not require any special care. In order to keep soft windows in order, you just need to regularly wash this structure with plain water. In the event that polyvinyl chloride curtains have been heavily soiled, it is necessary to additionally use any available synthetic detergents. You don’t have to worry about the integrity of soft windows. The surface of the polyvinyl chloride film is absolutely resistant to the negative effects of detergents.

In addition, it is worth saying that to care for soft windows, you can use both manual and automatic washing methods. The first option is relevant only if maintenance of soft windows installed in small gazebos and summer areas is necessary. In this case, PVC curtains can be washed within a few minutes using an ordinary sponge. And for the care of large rooms glazed in this way, it is advisable to use diffusing watering cans. The use of such an aid will significantly speed up the washing process.

Rice. 8. Soft windows.