If you do not plan to live in a country house on a permanent basis, you can afford to save a lot when choosing double-glazed windows, profile systems and fittings. This does not mean that windows for a summer house should be from the lowest price category, but in this case it simply does not make sense to pay for many functions. At the same time, there is a necessary minimum of requirements that cannot be neglected under any circumstances. The list of mandatory criteria is usually supplemented by various special cases. This review material with practical recommendations will help determine the optimal window model for a country house and provide answers to the most pressing questions regarding their choice.
Safety of country windows
One of the main requirements for these products is the ability to ensure safety. Since the dacha is often empty most of the time, and many families come there on vacation with small children and animals, it is recommended:
- take care of children's safety;
- ensure a high level of burglary resistance of windows;
- install special mosquito nets for animals.
To protect children from accidents, it is necessary to install double-glazed windows with triplex and install special fittings, the types of which can be read in the feature article on OknaTrade. These recommendations are doubly relevant for owners of two-story dachas. As for burglary resistance, an alarm system can provide the maximum level of security, and the most effective way to detain intruders until the security guards arrive is with the help of metal bars or shutters.
The absence of animals is not a reason to refuse mosquito nets. You should not save on these elements of window structures and give preference to fumigators. After all, people go to their dacha to enjoy the fresh air, and not breathe in household chemicals in the evenings with the windows closed. In addition, the total cost of insect repellents will exceed the price of mosquito nets in a few years, so it makes sense to immediately install these protective elements on the windows.
Preparing to install a window structure
After you remove the old window, you will need to inspect the resulting opening, remove all parts that may fall off or collapse; if there are protruding elements, they should be knocked down. Then clean the opening from construction debris and dust. If there are large depressions, it is better to cover them with cement. You can also treat everything with primer.
The base will need to be cleaned before installation.
Having finished working with the opening, you need to prepare the PVC window, which is to be installed. To do this, you need to remove the window sashes; if it is solid, double-glazed windows. If your frame has small dimensions, then you can install it without removing the double-glazed windows and sashes. The outer part of the frame should be freed from the film that protects it.
Double-glazed windows for country windows
For country houses in quiet areas, where people relax mainly from late spring to early autumn, a high level of sound and heat insulation of windows is not so important.
These parameters should be paid attention only when, for example, one of the neighbors has a restless dog or is planning a regular and long-term vacation at the dacha, including in winter. In such situations, it is better to play it safe and choose double-glazed windows with inert gas pumped inside. In all other cases, standard single-chamber models are perfect. At the dacha, it is more rational to solve possible problems with the level of thermal insulation as they arise. Today, effective and affordable energy-saving films have appeared on the construction market, preventing heat in summer and retaining heat in winter. These elastic polymers can be glued to windows yourself at any convenient time. Heat-saving, sun-protection and universal films are available for sale. Depending on the circumstances, you can quickly buy the desired type and do the gluing of double-glazed windows yourself.
Selection of profile width and thickness
The most widely used option for windows is the classic profile for residential premises with a width of 58 mm. In particularly harsh climatic conditions, material with a parameter of 70 millimeters is in demand. And finally, the “premium” group profile has the highest sound and heat insulation characteristics. But few manufacturers use such products in their work.
The thickness of the selected profile is from 2.5 to 3.0 mm. However, it is unsuitable for weighted window structures, since the welding site will be weakened. Accordingly, the entire frame will have less reliable strength.
When to choose wooden windows for a country house
Most often, such models are purchased for installation in houses made of logs or timber. In this case, such a choice is completely justified. Also, wooden windows for a dacha are ordered when the owners are lovers of eco-style and try to use as little synthetic materials as possible when building a country house. In such situations, models made of euro-timber with double-glazed windows are the best option. In terms of functionality, they are absolutely not inferior to PVC profile windows. The only disadvantage of such products is that it is necessary to update the paintwork on the outside of the frames and sashes from time to time. In some cases, to save money, Euro timber is replaced with a laminated PVC profile, which imitates the texture of natural wood. This measure will also avoid restoration work.
Lattices
This is one of the most effective ways to protect your home from thieves. Previously, gratings were welded independently, using metal corners or fittings. Modern manufacturers offer custom-made production of any configuration. These are beautiful forged products, decorated with intricate curls and patterns, having any shape. Such a grille will not only protect the house, but also decorate it.
The grilles can be installed from the inside or outside. External ones are considered less reliable, as they are easy to tear off with a metal crowbar or a car cable. Therefore, internal ones are considered the most reliable, and the most optimal option is a sliding design; it meets fire safety measures, but at the same time protects the home, and if you want to enjoy a beautiful view not through the grille, it can be easily removed.
The most popular models of plastic windows for the country house
Cheap windows for summer cottages, which belong to the economy class, are being purchased less and less often.
The drop in demand is due to the fact that many manufacturers of inexpensive models use low-quality profiles and fittings. Such products quickly turn yellow, the frames “lead” and warp in the sun, and the locking mechanisms become covered with rust, creak and jam, which is why the tightness of the structures suffers. As a result, summer residents have long stopped saving on quality and prefer proven models and manufacturers. Today, the simplest and most reliable plastic windows for a summer residence are popular:
- deaf;
- tilt and turn;
- shulpovye.
You can often find both tilt-and-turn and fixed windows in one building. If the rooms have several openings, thanks to this combination it is possible to save a lot on fittings and profiles for the sashes. In sanitary rooms with window openings, you can also safely install blind models, since now such rooms are usually equipped with a separate ventilation system, and there is no need for an opening sash.
How to glaze a house: types of glazing
Various types of windows are appropriate in the cottage.
Swing
This is a traditional option, consisting of a frame and hinged doors. The fittings allow you to open them wide or put them in ventilation mode. For such structures, double-glazed windows with one or two chambers are provided. The profile of swing systems can be made of plastic or warm aluminum.
The opening system can be:
- Rotary - the most popular classic option. The doors move inside the room. Partial and complete ventilation is possible (depending on the type of fittings).
- Folding. The upper part of the frame leans back, allowing access to fresh air. This solution saves interior space and does not interfere with objects placed on the windowsill.
- Tilt-and-turn. Combines folding and rotating mechanisms. Makes it convenient to ventilate the room and maintain the structure.
Sliding
Such systems save useful space, so they are often installed in small rooms. This is the most popular option for glazing balconies and verandas.
The sliding opening system allows for the implementation of panoramic solutions. The operation of the sliding structure is based on the same principle of moving the doors as in sliding wardrobes. The door slides along a guide profile.
Panoramic
Floor structures help compensate for the lack of sunlight. The best option for such a solution is double-glazed windows made of laminated or tempered glass or triplex. They provide maximum structural safety and allow you to glaze openings of any size. There are also disadvantages. The main disadvantage is the high cost. Such products are difficult to wash, and this must be done often. Installation can only be trusted by highly qualified specialists.
The PVC profile can be used to create fairly large openings measuring about 2.7 x 6.5 m. But to create windows that are huge in height and width, it is necessary to use an aluminum analogue.
Panoramic windows are not suitable for timber buildings.
This construction technology eliminates the possibility of their installation. When the building shrinks, they will inevitably be damaged. Installing panoramic systems in timber houses means taking a huge risk and violating architectural norms.
Portals
They have a spectacular appearance and let in maximum daylight. In the private sector, such systems are often used to design additional exits. In combination with blind panoramic structures, they are convenient for glazing verandas, terraces, and permanent gazebos.
The most practical and functional option for a summer house is lift-and-slide HS portals.
They are durable, wear-resistant windows that are equipped with durable fittings. This system allows you to glaze large openings. There are no small parts in it, so this mechanism is not subject to loosening. The doors open easily and smoothly.
The FS system is compact in size, but it is very unstable. Another disadvantage is the complexity of management. But only this window will provide the effect of a disappeared wall. This is the best choice for a winter garden and greenhouse.
Attic
These are windows for a country house that are installed in a residential attic.
When designing and ordering attic systems, it is necessary to take into account some aspects:
- in length, the window block should not occupy more than half the length of the roof slope;
- the translucent structure must occupy at least 10% of the room area;
- the window must be positioned so that its lower edge allows for a view of the street;
- it is necessary to pay close attention to the tightness of the glazing;
- insufficient thermal insulation properties of the attic block can significantly increase heating costs;
- it is important to pay attention to the level of sound absorption: extraneous noise, especially in bad weather, can cause severe discomfort;
- To avoid condensation, products must be equipped with additional ventilation.
Arched
Plastic arched windows in private houses are not as common as rectangular ones. Non-standard shaped structures are installed if the specifics of the architecture require it. They give the interior of private homes a special atmosphere and sophistication. Pairs perfectly with the following interior styles:
- minimalism;
- modern;
- loft.
The minimum permissible arch radius of such a window is 35 cm.
When choosing plastic arched windows, you should check for reinforcement. Some manufacturers do not provide stiffening elements for curved profiles, as a result of which the strength of the movable sashes suffers.
Arched aluminum profiles are usually used for glazing large areas: greenhouses and winter gardens. Such systems are manufactured on roller machines. The aluminum profile is easily bent along a radius.
What else can you save on without compromising the quality of windows?
You can reduce the cost of windows for your garden by ordering models with standard sizes. Such products have a lower price due to the fact that during their production a minimal amount of waste is generated, and the entire technological chain of the production process has long been optimized. In addition, there is no need to pay for the services of surveyors. In order for standard windows to be suitable for a dacha, it is necessary to take care of this at the stage of designing the house, providing for the appropriate dimensions of the openings.
It is unacceptable to skimp on installation. Installation of windows must be carried out in accordance with GOST. Only in this case, experienced workers from reputable companies will be guaranteed to securely fix the structures, take into account possible shrinkage of the building (casing) and ensure the tightness of all openings around the perimeter of the frames.
Installation
You can install plastic windows in a country house using the services of the manufacturer. But the installation process itself is quite simple, and doing it yourself saves 10-20% of the cost. How to do this in a country house?
Old windows are being dismantled. In this case, it is best to remove the glass first. If the frames cannot be removed, they are sawed and removed piece by piece. If the system is being installed in an old house, it may be necessary to leave a wooden box in order to avoid movement of the walls.
If it is not possible to remove the entire frame, it is cut into pieces
Openings must be carefully inspected, all weak areas are cleaned and restored. When installing plastic windows in a panel or monolithic concrete house, as a rule, cement mortar is used. The surfaces are coated with a deep penetration primer and allowed to dry (up to 30 minutes).
Window installation for a country house is carried out in two ways. The first is on metal plates, and the second is using self-tapping screws.
Installation on the plates is carried out as follows:
- The sash is removed from the window, and the frame is placed in the opening on supports to create a bottom gap of at least 20 mm.
- The plates are pre-fixed at the ends of the window using press washers or self-tapping screws. The number of plates depends on the size (up to 1 meter in height, two on the left and on the right are enough).
- When the frame is aligned and the level is checked, the plates are rigidly attached to the walls of the opening. The fastening must be strong. The choice of fasteners depends on the material of the walls: for brick or concrete you can use dowels, for gas and foam concrete you need to use special “crocodiles”, otherwise the fastening will be fragile.
- The window is firmly fixed, all gaps are filled with polyurethane foam and allowed to dry. Then the sash is hung.
The time for normal hardening of the foam is about 24 hours, only after this period can you begin finishing the slopes.
Installation of windows directly on self-tapping screws is carried out according to a similar algorithm. But the fasteners are carried out directly through the profile. This method allows you to install a plastic window in a country house with thin walls.
It is imperative that after installation is completed and the foam has dried, it is necessary to finish the window slopes for complete sealing and normal functioning of the window.
Properly selected and installed windows in compliance with technology will last a long time without any problems.
Source
Additions and applications for PVC windows
After installing PVC windows, the humidity in the apartment always increases, so if there is no other supply ventilation, it makes sense to equip the windows with built-in ventilation valves.
As a rule, mortise rebated valves are installed. At the place where they are installed, a slot is made or a series of holes are drilled in the frame and sash profiles. It is covered from the inside with a diffuser cover, and from the outside with an acoustic visor. The valve is equipped with a petal flap that responds to outside air pressure: when the wind increases, the petal partially blocks the ventilation hole.
In addition, the air flow can be adjusted manually. The throughput of such a device is up to 60 m3/h (this is more than enough for a bedroom or office). However, this type of valve does not have a filter (there is only an insect screen) and does not respond to the state of the atmosphere inside the building.
Automatic humidity-controlled valves can provide a higher level of comfort. The design is based on a sensor-drive made of synthetic fibers that responds to changes in air humidity in the room. A fabric filter provides dust protection. There is no point in installing valve models with a capacity of 5–20 m3/h.
Don’t forget about the mosquito net – framed (with latches) or rolled.
The first ones are practical and inexpensive (about 1,200 rubles per sash), but they need to be removed for the winter; the second ones are more convenient, but also cost 2–3 times more. In contact with
Rating of the best products and reliable manufacturers
Despite the wide variety, there are still leading options. Arrangement in descending order for different types of premises.
For apartments
PVC is the most advantageous option, especially in apartment buildings . Plastic windows allow you to maintain the overall decorativeness of the house. The design can be ordered in any color, with a different number of profile chambers and double-glazed windows. They have excellent sound insulation, light transmittance, thermal insulation, and attractive appearance.
The main manufacturers of quality products are REHAU, VEKA, KBE, PROPLEX, TROCAL. Price range from 3,750 rubles to 7,500 rubles per 1 sq. m. m.
Aluminum profile is very good for glazing a loggia or balcony . Advantages: light weight, good light transmittance, attractive appearance. Rating of manufacturers - Schuco (Germany), Provedal (Spain), Reynaers (Belgium), Profilco (Greece), ALUMIL SA (Europe), ACG Windows & Doors (China). The price indicator of the “cold” profile is from 9,000 rubles to 12,200 rubles per 1 sq. m, “warm” - from 12,000 rubles to 18,000 rubles per 1 sq. m.
For private houses
Tree.
The main advantage is the naturalness of the material. Also, wooden frames are much stronger than plastic and warmer than metal ones. Manufacturers: Dentro Windows, OknaBau, Fortali Windows, Skandiokna, Vinchelli, VitHouse. Prices from 10,000 rubles to 13,500 rubles per 1 sq. m. m.
Plastic windows. The main advantage is the lower price and a huge variety of product options . The main manufacturers are REHAU, VEKA, KBE, PROPLEX, TROCAL. Price range from 3,750 rubles to 7,500 rubles per 1 sq. m. m.
What are the consequences of making the wrong choice?
Choosing the right windows for your living space is important for several reasons. If the parameters are incorrectly selected, problems may appear immediately after installation. During operation they will only get worse. For example:
- the appearance of an unpleasant odor due to overheating;
- difficulty closing or opening the doors;
- condensation, mold and blowing;
- penetration of noise, dust and moisture;
- service life will decrease by 3-5 times.
If the window configuration is incorrectly selected, then first of all problems will arise with heat retention. To avoid these troubles, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing products.
