What is the best way to install double-glazed windows to insulate a loggia? Which double-glazed window should be installed on the loggia and balcony?

Comfort is constantly permeating modern life. Everything around is being automated and improved. The space is being brought to higher quality standards. Likewise, the interior decoration of apartments and houses is gradually improving. This also applies to loggias and balconies.

In our sometimes very harsh climate, glazing a balcony or loggia is a necessity. Hinged and sliding window units are the most common in use. The process of selecting and installing them is multifaceted. You need to study all the details in detail to determine the appropriate option and figure out how best to glaze a balcony or loggia.

Single-chamber package with thermal insulation

The option of using a single-chamber double-glazed window cannot be excluded if a special heat-insulating layer is applied to one of the glasses. A coating of this type is fully designed to retain heat indoors, working on the principle of a thermal mirror, that is, it reflects heat. In this case, the ability to retain heat in a single-chamber window structure with an applied thermal insulation coating, in contrast to a two-chamber window structure that has conventional glass, increases by about 20%.

With all this, the thermal insulation coating has a good transmittance of sunlight, like the most ordinary glass.
Another advantage of this type of glazing is that it is approximately 1.5 times lighter than double-chamber glazing, which hints at increased strength and reliability and eliminates the possibility of unwanted sagging of the sash.
Of course, the price of plastic windows also decreases if a single-chamber double-glazed window with a heat-insulating coating is used.
The warranty service life with the existing thermal insulation layer varies within twenty years.

Which plastic windows to choose if you want to rid yourself of unnecessary noise. It is worth installing thicker outer glass (the thickness is not 4 mm, but 6 mm). This makes it possible to increase the noise insulation properties by approximately 1.5 times. A double-glazed window equipped with three glasses will not significantly protect against excess noise, and the solution to issues related to vibration will need to be thought out in advance, for which it is necessary to provide unequal distances between the glasses. Therefore, if your balcony faces a roadway that is not quiet and has few cars, then when choosing windows, consider the presence of thick glass when glazing with plastic.

When choosing a profile, you need to take into account the strength of the window structure and the appearance of the profile itself. Today, the market offers profile systems from various manufacturing companies that are responsible for the high quality of their products. These include Schuco KBE, Gealan, Veka, Alyplast, Rehau, Salamander, Thyssen. Each profile brand has several systems available with different chamber quantities (the number of which ranges from 3 or more).

How to choose a double-glazed window for a balcony

The quality and thermal insulation properties depend on the profile. Therefore, when choosing a double-glazed window, we pay attention to the following factors:

Number of chamber compartments.

The chambers create a buffer layer, and this allows the plastic elements to store heat. For residential premises, a three-chamber double-glazed window would be a good choice; for non-residential premises, a single or double-glazed window is sufficient.

Composition of materials.

The presence of certain components in the material affects environmental friendliness and safety parameters. Compliance with GOST standards is confirmed by the presence of certificates.

Profile thickness.

It should be in the range of 2.8-3.3 mm - this is how the structure acquires the necessary strength and rigidity.

Type of glass.

It can be reinforced, hardened, tinted and energy-saving.

Accessories.

Contrary to popular belief, this structural element is no less important than the entire structure. High-quality fittings extend the service life of the product and increase the level of sound insulation.

Functionality.

Advantages and disadvantages of PVC windows

Loggia glazed with plastic windows

The advantages of plastic windows installed on the balcony include:

Reliability and durability;
Warmth does not escape from the house through them;
Excellent sound insulation;
Maintenance of plastic frames is almost unnecessary;
Double-glazed windows can be combined in any way: make them all openable, or only one part. Thanks to various opening options – classic horizontal and vertical – it is easy to provide discreet or “aggressive” ventilation;
Plastic frames can be purchased in any color;
They have a reasonable price.

But there are also disadvantages to plastic double-glazed windows:

Without ventilation, the air in the apartment begins to stagnate;
Condensation may occur due to large temperature changes;
Due to wider frames, the glass unit area is reduced;
If installed incorrectly, windows wear out quickly;
PVC windows are electrostatic.

Classic glazing or panoramic (French)

The panoramic or French glazing option involves the installation of floor-to-ceiling windows and glass doors, which are protected by a forged parapet.

The main advantages of this option include the following:

good review;
plenty of sunlight;
attractive appearance.

There are also some disadvantages:

lack of window sills;
high cost of work and materials;
the need for additional ventilation in summer and heating in winter.

Classic glazing requires a high parapet with windows. In this case, the lower part is made deaf. This option has the following advantages:

the possibility of additional insulation of the loggia;
possibility of arranging a separate room;
saving;
variety of glass designs.

The only downside is the ordinary appearance. The French type of glazing looks much more impressive.

Types of double-glazed windows for balconies

There are three types of double-glazed windows: single-chamber, double-chamber, three-chamber and five-chamber.

Single chamber

Single-chamber ones have two glasses. They are separated by a frame. It looks like a sandwich. There are 3-4 mm indentations to the glass on both sides; there is an air chamber inside. Its width is 13-15 cm. It is possible to change the thickness of the glass by 4 or 5-6 mm.

Glass sheets are connected to a spacer frame. It is filled with a desiccant - the ability to absorb moisture. The dehumidifier is filled with argon - insulates a single-chamber double-glazed window.

Pros: low cost and ease.

Disadvantages: at frosts of more than 10 degrees, the glass sweats and freezes.

Single-chamber double-glazed window

Double chamber

Double-chamber ones have three glasses. This design is one and a half times warmer. Condensation forms in severe frosts - from 20 degrees. The outer glass cools, condensation forms inside the first glazing.

Double-glazed windows differ in the distance between the glasses and their thickness. Pros: suppression of noise from the street. The glass on the outside is thicker than the glass on the inside. You can install glass with different combinations - protection from the sun, shock, and heat retention from the inside.

A double-glazed window is a structure that consists of several layers of glass

Three-chamber

Three-chamber ones are used by people living in cold climates. Their width is about 80 mm. The double glazing unit has four glasses. Increased strength, ability to withstand low temperatures, hail and rain. The glazing cannot be broken.

Cons: high cost and weight, transmits less light. Load on the window frame.

More often chosen for loggias connected to living spaces. People will be able to save on energy resources.

Five-chamber

Five-chamber windows - the highest quality and technical parameters. The chambers between the windows are filled with air. This prevents cold air from getting inside, maintaining the optimal temperature on the balcony. Excellent sound insulation.

The central section is the basis for the profile. It provides structural rigidity. On the sides there are two chambers responsible for thermal insulation and noise protection.

The thickness of the metal-plastic structure is 70 cm.

Not all companies produce five-chamber windows, since such a product is not in wide demand

Comparison of the capabilities of PVC balcony windows

Below is a table showing the comparative characteristics of windows installed on a balcony:

www.azaoknom.ru	Double-glazed windows (warm glazing)	Sliding windows (cold glazing)
Glass (number of panels)	2,3,4	1
Profile (number of cameras)	3,4,5	1
Heat preservation	good, excellent	mediocre
Wind protection	excellent	excellent
Price	above average, high	low
Ease of use	average	high

Types of structures by installation method

Swing design

Double-glazed windows for loggias and balconies are also divided according to the method of their installation and use. They are hinged and sliding.

The advantages of swing structures include high quality of tightness, noise and heat insulation. The disadvantage of swing structures is that when open they take up a lot of space. This is especially inconvenient on small balconies. On such balconies, the best way is to install sliding structures.

It should be noted that sliding structures can only be installed with cold glazing. The properties of the sliding device include:

low degree of sound and thermal insulation;
low price;
ease of use;
little weight;
ease of installation.

Note that great inconveniences when operating the sliding structure appear in winter.
At low temperatures, ice freezes on the guides, which interferes with opening windows. Aluminum profiles are more susceptible to this drawback. The information presented in this article will help you make the right choice of double-glazed windows for your balcony or loggia. This way you can improve the quality and durability of their operation.

Balcony glazing turns this, often low-functional, part of the apartment into an additional living or utility room, significantly expanding the scope of its use

It is important to choose the right type of glazing depending on the purpose of the loggia or balcony, technical and financial capabilities

Popular types of window openings on balconies and loggias

When choosing a double-glazed window for a loggia, it is important to choose the right type of opening. The main systems include the following:

Rotary. Thanks to the presence of a rotating system, it is possible to gain access to the entire surface of the sash. This allows adjacent blind sections to be washed from the outside. However, the structure also has many disadvantages. In particular, when fully opened, there is a large air flow that is usually not required.
Folding. In this system, the lower part is horizontally fixed, and the upper part is tilted to a certain angle. The design is convenient for ventilation. At the same time, it is completely safe. The main disadvantage is the inability to wash the glass from the outside.
Tilt-and-turn. This is the most convenient and popular type. Although such systems have a higher cost, they are considered more preferable because they combine the advantages of folding and swing designs and have several opening modes.
Transom. Its design resembles a window. In this case, only the top of the sash is tilted. Such a structure is often installed with panoramic glazing for safe ventilation.
Sliding. The design features allow such sashes to be used exclusively for cold glazing. Thanks to this, it is possible to save space in a limited area. At the same time, the disadvantage is considered to be insufficient tightness in the area adjacent to the frame and freezing in winter, which causes difficulties with opening.

The tilt and turn system is considered the most popular option.

Glazing types

The choice of glazing type is determined by the goals that the owner sets for himself. If you plan to add functionality to the balcony room or insulate it, you will need a warm type of glazing. If the balcony remains a room that performs purely aesthetic functions, a cold type of glazing is suitable. Let's consider each of the options more popularly.

For a balcony, a double-glazed window with a cold type of glazing is especially suitable in situations where it is necessary to reduce the load on the balcony slab. For this purpose, special aluminum frames are selected. They are light weight, good strength and easy to install. True, in terms of heat preservation and retention, they are inferior to PVC windows.

With the help of cold glazing, the balcony area can be expanded by moving the structure beyond the boundaries of the parapet. Additional waterproofing can be created by closing the doors with brush seals. Sheathing with vinyl siding will create more or less effective thermal insulation. True, its level will depend on the condition of the walls, wind speed and direction.

The cold type of glazing is suitable for using the balcony as a place for storing things. Its advantage is quick installation and affordable cost. The work can be completed by two specialists in one day.

Warm balcony glazing is a more fundamental type that will reliably insulate the room on all sides and allow it to be used as a separate space with specific functions. All negative factors (precipitation, drafts, noise, dust, bright sun) are easily eliminated, and a year-round comfort zone is created. The balcony itself can be used not only as a warehouse, but also as part of a living room.

Warm glazing involves the installation of PVC profiles, as well as additional insulation of other surfaces. The main disadvantage of the warm type of insulation is that it is unacceptable for increased loads. In addition, hinged doors reduce the usable area of the loggia. And in general, this option is more expensive than cold glazing.

However, warm insulation is a more progressive option. The frame structure can consist of multi-chamber plastic profiles, aluminum systems with thermal break or wood.

Types of plastic windows

Plastic windows consist of a profile and a double-glazed window. They all have a different design. Windows differ in the way they open, they can be:

rotary;
folding;
tilt and turn;
sliding

For glazing balconies and loggias, frames with large sashes are used. Most of them are made non-opening. Only small doors are used for opening. Many people like sliding windows that open like wardrobe doors.

It should be noted that all windows are divided into “cold” and “warm”.

“Cold” glazing is a fairly cheap and quick way to equip a balcony and is made mainly of aluminum. But the Veka SunLine plastic window system can also be classified as a “cold” type. After such a renovation, the balcony becomes more comfortable and warm, street noise is heard less, but it will not be possible to use it as an additional room.
Therefore, it is recommended to glaze the balcony using a more expensive, but more attractive method - “warm” glazing . To do this, simultaneously with the thermal insulation of the entire balcony, plastic windows with two-, three- and even five-chamber double-glazed windows are installed.

Even on frosty winter days, it will be easy to maintain room temperature on such a balcony. This option is especially attractive for a one-room apartment, in which a second small room appears.

Do you already know how to adjust plastic windows? Read about the adjustment features in our article.
Read about how to cover a balcony with plastic panels here.

How does the cost of glazing work out?

Naturally, the greater the number of available profile chambers, the more expensive it will be, but this also increases the thermal insulation. Accordingly, the heat saving qualities of a 5-chamber profile are much higher than the same qualities of a three-chamber profile by approximately 40%. But, looking at the metal-plastic window structure, it becomes immediately clear that the profile does not take up much space from the total area (only 20 percent). Heat retention directly depends on the type of double-glazed window. Based on this, the number of cameras available in the profile does not play a special role, but will only increase the price. But, you need to take into account that wider window systems look more aesthetically pleasing.

The arrangement of a balcony or loggia begins with glazing. This is what allows you to create a comfortable space from an uncomfortable structure, which can even be made residential. Glazing will protect against temperature changes. It will be warm there in winter, and cooler in summer than outside. It will become an obstacle to noise and dust. Precipitation will stop falling on the balcony. Even if it is not insulated, protection from precipitation will significantly increase its service life.

Rice. 1 Plastic windows for balconies

There are several glazing options. Plastic and aluminum profiles, as well as wood, are used to make frames. Depending on the nature of the frame structures, the glazing can be warm or cold. Cold ones are usually made of aluminum. It turns out to be light, but does not insulate well. To make the space warm and comfortable, plastic windows are installed on the balcony.

PVC profile loggia windows have a number of advantages and some disadvantages. Such designs have many more advantages than disadvantages, which explains their popularity. When choosing which windows are best to install, you should evaluate the characteristics.

Plastic windows for loggias are reliable and durable. Strength is ensured by a metal frame located inside plastic elements. Polyvinyl chloride effectively resists any aggressive environment. It is waterproof, does not rot or corrode, and can withstand high and low temperatures without problems. As a result, the service life of PVC frames is several decades.

Rice. 2 Balcony plastic windows in section

PVC windows provide a high level of insulation. This is not only thermal insulation, thanks to which the balcony maintains a comfortable temperature all year round. The structures block extraneous sounds as much as possible. This is ensured by high tightness.

It is very easy to care for plastic structures. Frames do not require regular treatment. They only need to be washed periodically with soapy water. Maintenance is required only for seals and fittings. Seals are lubricated with special products to avoid cracking. The fittings are also lubricated and adjusted.

The traditional color of PVC frames is white. However, you can get designs of any shades. Typically, color variety is achieved by using laminating film.

Rice. 3 Colored plastic balcony windows

The cost of plastic structures is reasonable and affordable for most. In comparison, high-quality wooden frames are significantly more expensive.

PVC windows also have disadvantages. Significant tightness leads to stagnation of air and accumulation of water vapor. In some cases, high humidity leads to condensation.

The frames are quite massive and wide. The amount of light passing into the room is reduced. The significant weight of the structure does not allow it to be installed on old balconies. In some cases, it is necessary to strengthen the fence.

Incorrect installation can significantly reduce the service life of plastic windows. It is better to entrust it to specialists.

Plastic has electrostatic properties. Dust is attracted to it, and stabbing discharges of static electricity are possible when touched.

Glass type

The temperature on the balcony depends on the type of glass. The following types can be used.

Classic flat glass.
Triplex is a three-layer structure made of ordinary tempered glass.
The glass is shock-resistant.
Energy saving – provides additional protection against heat loss.
Tinting.
Multifunctional: can insulate and cool the balcony, keeping heat inside and reflecting the sun's rays outside.

Aluminum windows

A special feature of the aluminum profile is its low weight. This makes it possible to use such glazing on the balconies of old houses that have limited strength. In addition, due to the strength of the material, aluminum window structures have virtually no size restrictions.

The color range of polymer coating is very wide and varied, from various shades to imitation wood and natural stone. The coating can be matte and scratch-resistant, and it is also possible to have different colors on the outside and inside.

The durability of the profile is impressive, and maintainability is a unique property that sets aluminum windows apart from other types of glazing. High-quality coating protects the metal from environmental influences. The profile is completely safe for humans and does not emit harmful substances. No special care or coloring required. The main characteristics of aluminum glazing:

service life up to 80 years;
high strength;
small specific gravity of the profile;
resistance to weather factors;
the ability to make glazing of a large area and any shape;
the ability to use a heat-saving profile;
easy care;
fire resistance;
environmental Safety;
possibility of repair.

Types of aluminum profile

Using an aluminum profile, cold or warm glazing can be produced. In the first case, a rather thin profile is used, into which a single glass is inserted. Most often these are sliding systems that practically do not retain heat, but protect the balcony from precipitation, dust and wind.

This type of balcony windows is quite popular as it has an affordable price. But if you want to use the balcony as a living space, you need to choose warm glazing. Since metal is a conductor of cold, special production technology is used.

A heat-saving aluminum profile consists of two metal parts - internal and external - between which a polymer thermal bridge is inserted, preventing heat transfer. An important condition is also the high quality of the seals, which are usually arranged in two rows.

The methods for opening aluminum windows are almost the same as those for plastic ones. They can be hinged or with a tilt-and-turn mechanism. Sliding systems can be made from both cold and warm profiles with a special mechanism for tight closure. Of course, warm glazing is much more expensive than cold glazing (mainly due to fittings).

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Features of windows for balconies

Plastic windows are sealed, their installation does not require special preparation, and installation takes little time. They have the following features:

help create silence in the apartment, even with street noise levels up to 42 dB;
Provide additional thermal insulation, for which rubber seals are used;
They have tilt-and-turn mechanisms, sliding systems, and blind sashes;
You can choose balcony windows of any shape.

Craftsmen who decide to replace windows themselves are often interested in: which plastic window is better to install on a balcony or loggia, what kind of double-glazed window, fittings should be, and which manufacturer is better.

Double-glazed windows

A double-glazed window is a sealed structure consisting of several glasses. A perforated aluminum frame and durable insulation are laid between the glasses. They absorb residual moisture and protect windows from moisture penetration and fogging.

To increase the heat-shielding properties, argon or dried air is pumped between the chambers of double-glazed windows.

Accessories

The service life of plastic windows depends on the quality of the fittings, which include all additional elements: rods, hinges, brackets, handles, adjustment and connecting mechanisms.

They help the window design become functional and dynamic. Therefore, the fittings must be of high quality, preferably from well-known manufacturers. German companies are constantly improving it, introducing innovative elements into their products.

Five European companies produce high-quality window fittings: Maco, Roto, Siegenia-Aubi, Winkhaus and GU (Gretsch-Unitas):

When choosing windows, special attention should be paid to fittings

Fittings from the German company Winkhaus allow for multi-stage ventilation, and they also produce devices for remote opening of transoms.
The German company Siegenia-Aubi produces fittings for non-standard windows.
The fittings of the German company Roto are produced in a diverse range; with the help of all these parts you can provide various options for opening windows.
The German company GU (Gretsch-Unitas) produces reliable anti-burglary fittings with mechanical and electronic mechanisms for opening windows.
The Austrian company Maco produces electronic window control systems to maintain an optimal microclimate in the house. These systems can also be used as alarms.

Which manufacturer to choose PVC windows

When choosing plastic windows for a balcony or loggia, it is better to buy windows from well-known manufacturers in order to protect your balcony from various troubles due to the purchase of fakes.

The following manufacturers can guarantee the high quality of their products:

REHAU - this German company is considered a leader in the production of windows. Its products are reliable, have impeccable design and have high technical characteristics.
KBE - the products of this German manufacturer are suitable for all climate zones. Window profiles are not afraid of exposure to aggressive environments.
ALUPLAST – windows from a German concern provide excellent heat and sound insulation. Excellent for ground floor balconies, as they are provided with special burglary protection. Plastic profiles from this manufacturer do not lose their original color for many years.
VEKA - this company is a leader in the production of plastic windows, its products will be one of the best solutions for glazing a balcony.
Salamander Industrie-Produkte GmbH is a group of German companies, their products are distinguished by high quality and improved fittings.
PROPLEX is an Austrian company with a plant in Russia. Window systems are excellent for our climatic conditions; they have increased thermal insulation properties.
MONTBLANC is an English company; the plastic windows it produces are of impeccable quality and durability; they can last more than half a century.
EXPROF is a West Siberian company, its products are popular in all CIS countries. The windows are ideal for areas with harsh climates.
Laoumann is a Russian company that produces windows using Austrian technology. This manufacturer produces not only luxury windows, but also high-quality budget models.

And if you are planning to cover your balcony with clapboard yourself, then the details of this process are described on this page.

What is important to consider when choosing glazing

When choosing glazing to be used on a loggia or balcony, many factors and rules should be taken into account; let’s consider some points:

The condition of the surface on which the glazing is planned to be installed. Before starting the main part of the work, it will be necessary to determine the quality of the concrete slab and obtain the necessary permission to carry out the planned activities. Please note that there are situations when it is not possible to install modern glazing due to the age of the structure;
Warm or cold glazing. If work has previously been done to insulate a balcony or loggia, then it makes sense to consider double-glazed windows. Therefore, if you do not plan to use the space in winter, then it is enough to glaze the balcony using a single-chamber aluminum profile or conventional cold glazing.

Do not forget that each glass in a double-glazed window blocks some of the sunlight. The larger the glass, the darker the room.

Let's consider the transmission of visible light and solar thermal energy for various glazing options:

With single glazing of a balcony, the light transmission indicators are quite comfortable; when glazing the balcony with a single-chamber double-glazed window, they are acceptable; with double-glazed windows, the light transmission indicators are already uncomfortable - the room will be dark. These indicators will have a particularly critical effect on the comfort in the room if the side on which the balcony or loggia faces is shady.

A working option could be to use a double-chamber double-glazed window with a top coating on the balcony, and lighten the balcony block and install a single-chamber double-glazed window. This trick will help retain more sunlight in the room adjacent to the balcony or loggia.

To summarize, we note that regardless of the chosen design option and the method of opening the sashes, you should trust the installation of the window unit to experienced craftsmen who are guaranteed to complete the assigned tasks, taking into account all technologies and requirements. Only in this case can one expect that the glazing of the loggia will serve well for many years, guaranteeing additional comfort and convenience in the room at any time of the year, regardless of weather conditions.

Cold glazing

The frequent use of the cold method is evident in balconies, which are located in public places and act as a source of fresh air. Due to its reliability and durability, this method is often used in the improvement of ordinary residential apartments.

Cold glazing will be an excellent option for those for whom the issue of heat preservation is not at the forefront.

Aluminum profiles reliably prevent precipitation from settling in the room and tightly close the balcony opening. Their use in residential and other adjacent premises will provide a comfortable microclimate. In addition, aluminum is a fairly light metal that is quite resistant to damage, is fireproof, and installation of such structures is carried out in the shortest possible time.

Sliding, single, arched, round, trapezoidal, bay windows

Arched windows on the balcony are an excellent solution for the design of the façade of the house.
It is up to the buyer to choose single or sliding windows. If there is little space, then you should take sliding windows: they will significantly save space and you can place something close to the glass. This option is not very suitable for boot-type balconies because the glass becomes blocked and difficult to clean.

Modern technologies make it possible to install any type of opening. Here you need to take into account the point: from what material will it be more profitable to make products of the desired shape.

So, installing a round product of a combined type is very expensive. Due to the design features, such a product does not open at an angle, and making it also of an unusual shape is an almost impossible task.

Trapezoidal windows are quite rare on balconies.

To renovate a country house, you can make a round wooden product, but you should check several companies and find the most suitable option, because the companies have different equipment: for some it will be easy to make a round system, but for others they will have to change the production line. Round double-glazed windows can be installed with metal-plastic ones.

The French direction is very often used in design. It involves the use of arched structures made of wood. Such arched products look good, especially if the ceilings allow them to be made in a large size.

In sliding windows, the relay very often fails, so you need to make sure when ordering that the fittings are of really high quality!

Trapezoidal openings are not particularly popular: you won’t see them when renovating an apartment or loggia. Such systems are used in private homes. Their feature is the ability to open in several directions at once. In addition, such spaces look very original.

In new buildings, bay windows are often used. What windows are best to use in this case? Obviously, aluminum products will not work. When making repairs, it is better to use glazing with metal-plastic structures.

There are several options for sliding plastic frames

The question of which windows are best installed on loggias or used when repairing windows must be decided in each specific case. It is important to pay attention to the ceilings, calculate your financial capabilities, decide to use French materials or ours, metal-plastic structures or wooden ones in the repair of openings.

Features of plastic structures for glazing loggias

When figuring out what is the best way to glaze a balcony, you should pay attention to windows made of plastic profiles. Such structures are actively used for landscaping loggias.

They have significant tightness. As a result, the room is fully protected from precipitation and wind, moisture, dust and heat loss.

The use of frames made of metal-plastic profiles allows you to turn the loggia into a warm room. Glazing with PVC windows alone is not enough for this. High-quality insulation will be required. To maintain a comfortable temperature even in the cold season, heaters must be installed on plastic balconies.

Rice. 2 Warm plastic glazing

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic frames

When deciding which balcony glazing is better, you should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the options. Plastic profile structures have a number of pros and cons. Before choosing plastic for glazing, you should familiarize yourself with them.

The advantages of PVC windows include high tightness. It is due to the presence of high-quality seals that protect against drafts. As a result, plastic windows provide a high level of heat and sound insulation.

Polyvinyl chloride is a durable and reliable material. It does not collapse when exposed to moisture and temperature changes. If the frames are made of high-quality profiles, they will remain white throughout their service life and will not turn yellow or gray. If desired, the white surface can be laminated with special films to create a colored frame for the loggia. The service life of plastic structures is more than forty years.

The process of installing PVC windows is relatively simple. There are no complicated processes, but a number of rules must be followed.

Plastic windows for balcony glazing also have disadvantages. Polymer material is capable of accumulating static electricity. As a result, dust is actively attracted to the surface.

Mechanical stress leaves scratches on the plastic surface. Strong impacts lead to dents. Such damage cannot be repaired.

PVC window structures have significant weight. Double-glazed windows increase it even more. This must be taken into account when planning balcony glazing. The load on the balcony structure may be too high.

Installation of casement windows

When choosing which windows are better - sliding or casement windows, you need to consider the design of both options.

Hinged windows are traditional casement structures that are used for glazing apartments and houses. The basis of the design is a frame made of PVC profile, on which plastic doors are hung. The design of the fittings allows them to be opened completely or opened in ventilation mode. Single-chamber or double-glazed windows can be installed, which provides improved energy savings.

The profile can be manufactured in several design options:

regular white plastic;
mass-dyed plastic;
profile with lamination - imitates the color and texture of various materials, most often wood.

In addition to plastic windows, hinged glazing is performed using aluminum profile systems with thermal inserts (so-called warm aluminum). However, they are more expensive, so PVC windows are the most common.

Sliding windows

Sliding window blocks are made on the basis of an aluminum frame, much less often from wood and plastic. Thick single glass is installed in the sash. In such structures it is possible to install mosquito nets.

There are also ultra-modern frameless designs; they do not have a frame. The doors consist only of glass. Mosquito nets cannot be installed in this option.

Sliding windows, depending on the design, can be moved parallel, vertically, or in a rotary-tilt manner. Most often, a parallel type of movement is used, which repeats the movement of compartment doors.

Installation of blocks of sliding glazing systems can be done on loggias and balconies. On the balconies, blind structures are installed at the ends. And the sliding system itself is in the middle, just like on the loggias. Along the entire length, at the top and bottom, special runners are mounted, along which the doors move on wheels.

Application of casement and sliding windows

After understanding what the different types of window blocks are, you can decide which windows are best to install on the balcony: hinged or sliding.

The better the connection of the sashes, the higher the tightness of the entire enclosing structure. If you want to make an absolutely warm option, then it is better to glaze the balcony with a plastic profile and multi-layer double-glazed windows. An option with hinged windows is suitable for this. The double-glazed windows installed in them will reliably prevent the penetration of cold and will also significantly reduce the noise level.

If you do not need to use a balcony in winter, it is advisable to use sliding window systems. These window units are perfect for use in spring, summer and fall. They are really convenient and easy to manage.

It is worth noting that these systems can look decent even in winter. In various designs, they are quite airtight and will perform their enclosing function efficiently. To learn how to choose windows, watch this video:

To understand which balcony is better with hinged or sliding window units, you need to evaluate its purpose, what it is used or will be used for. The purpose of the room determines what elements should be used to improve it.

Which windows are better to install in a private country house?

The requirements for windows for country houses differ in many ways from the requirements for windows for an apartment.
Firstly, in this case there is a wider choice of frame material: you can install both wooden and plastic windows. Secondly, the thermal protection of the window is more important than sound insulation. In private houses it is recommended to install plastic or wooden windows made of laminated veneer lumber.

A wooden profile made of laminated veneer lumber has high thermal protection and sound insulation. Glued laminated timber consists of several carefully processed boards glued into a single package. Unlike ordinary timber, it is not afraid of moisture and fire.

You should carefully consider the choice of wood. In the modern market for wooden windows, oak, larch, spruce, pine, teak and meranti are especially popular. The best choice would be larch windows. This wood has medium density and relatively light weight; it is well impregnated with natural resins, making it easier to withstand high room humidity, heavy precipitation and attacks by harmful insects.

If you decide to install plastic windows in your home, opt for multi-chamber profiles with enhanced sealing and additional means of thermal protection, for example, filling the air chambers with foam materials.

Choose a double-glazed window with inert gases and energy-saving glass. Such glass will retain up to 90% of the heat inside the room.

Pros and cons of window systems

Let's start with swing options:

Many variations in the choice of frame materials and fittings.
Glazing is possible not only with ordinary window glass, but also with multilayer double-glazed windows.
Used for cold and warm glazing methods.
Hinged windows are combined with blind ones.
It is possible to install horizontal blinds.
Quite a wide range of prices, from the most economical systems to quite expensive ones.

Designs of this type also have disadvantages:

To freely open the sash inside the balcony you need a lot of space;
warm glazing option, exclusive fittings can be quite expensive;
in places where the window opens, the window sill, if there is one, must be free.

As you can see, the advantages of swing window systems are much greater than the disadvantages.

Sliding windows have undeniable advantages. They

save space;
are light in weight;
do not slam shut when strong wind blows;
provide more opportunities for balcony ventilation;
very wear-resistant;
in the standard version they have an acceptable cost;
look more modern;
safe: special glasses can withstand heavy loads, they are resistant to mechanical stress, and during normal use they practically do not break, even if this happens and no sharp edges are formed.

Let us also note some disadvantages of sliding systems:

This is basically a cold glazing method;
during operation, the runners can become deformed over time, which will immediately affect the quality of operation of the sashes, be it their movement or abutment;
Dirt and moisture may collect on the lower guide rail.

The use of sliding systems is practical, convenient and economical, and they also have a modern look.

Types of windows by frame material

If in the case of cold glazing the optimal choice is aluminum structures, then with the warm option the number of points that need to be taken into account expands significantly. This list opens with the choice of frame material

Tree

Modern wooden double-glazed windows have many advantages:

good sound insulation;
low thermal conductivity;
long service life;
excellent hygienic properties;
an irreplaceable feeling of warmth, homeliness and comfort.

However, they are rarely used for balcony glazing for a number of reasons:

High price. For most standard apartments, it is not practical for economic reasons to install wooden double-glazed windows on the balcony.
Regular painting is required to prevent deterioration. In the case of balcony glazing, doing this from the outside is quite problematic.
Heavy weight. In most cases, it is necessary to seriously strengthen the slab, which requires effort and expense, and in many cases is technically impossible.

Aluminum

The material has an impressive list of advantages:

lightness - there is no need for capital strengthening of the slab and parapet;
strength and durability;
fire resistance;
not exposed to harmful environmental factors;
Thanks to thin frames, the luminous flux entering the room increases.

Warm double-glazed windows made of aluminum are equipped with thermal inserts, which compensate for the high thermal conductivity of the metal. In terms of heat saving indicators, such windows are very close to plastic ones, so they can be safely chosen by residents of regions with mild and temperate climates. The main disadvantage is the high cost.

PVC

This is the most common type of material for warm double-glazed windows. Plastic structures have virtually no disadvantages and have an optimal performance/price ratio:

excellent noise and heat insulation;
high strength;
sustainability
simple installation;
low maintenance;
various color and design solutions.

The only technical limitation for installing PVC double-glazed windows is the weak balcony slab in old houses, which cannot be loaded with relatively heavy systems.

The legal part of the issue of installing new frames

Installation of glazing on balconies, if it was not provided initially, is regarded as a change in the appearance of the building facade. Therefore, in some regions, work must be coordinated with various authorities. Otherwise, you may be fined and required to dismantle the illegal glazing.

How to fill out papers correctly

Each city determines its own rules for obtaining permits, but there is a standard algorithm that can be followed. You will need to do the following:

We ask the company from which you order new glazing to make a calculation and design drawing. The BTI must approve this project.
You must present the received papers to the Architectural and Planning Department and obtain approval for them. If the APU is not satisfied with some point in the documents and you receive a ban on work, then you will have to repeat step 1, taking into account the instructions given to you. The most difficult thing will be to arrange the glazing with removal.
Now ROGPN - this organization must evaluate the fire safety of the new glazing.
Now we go to the SES. Here they must confirm that all sanitary standards have been met.
At the DEZ you will receive papers confirming that the installation of the structure will not cause harm and will not interfere with the operation of the house.
With all the collected papers you need to contact the housing inspectorate. Since the companies involved in the installation of glazing are mostly private, I lived. the inspection can carry out an examination of the project for compliance with SNiP, as well as operating standards.
If there are no problems with the housing inspection, then we contact the MVK, they will issue the same permit with which you can safely begin work. And please note: the MVK has simplified the issuance of permits for the following types of houses: P44T, P55M, P3M, P3, and P44T.

All these actions can take quite a long time. If you do not have the opportunity to go through the authorities, then you can enter into an agreement with a company where, for a certain fee, they will collect all the necessary papers for you.

By the way, if you want to do your own balcony glazing, the video below will be very useful. From it you will learn what you should pay attention to when choosing a glazing system profile and fittings for it.

[su_youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYIIoXE7hbc”]

Sealant

There is a rubber seal along the perimeter of the junction of the sashes to the supporting frame, in the mounting areas of double-glazed windows and on the glazing beads. Its main purpose is to ensure the required level of tightness of the structure and prevent the penetration of noise from the street.

A high-quality seal must have the following properties:

Maximum elasticity with sufficient strength.
Maintain properties in hot and cold.
The seal does not evaporate toxic substances and does not emit strong odors.
Does not fade when exposed to ultraviolet light.

For the manufacture of seals, materials such as:

Installation features depending on the type of window ↑

If you have already chosen which profile to choose for your windows, it’s time to think about installing them. To install this or that profile, you need to carefully prepare; the installation itself takes a little time .

Tip: first you need to take measurements of the height and width of the old window. Then choose a window company and profile.

After you decide on the company and the price, you can be prepared that upon the arrival of the installers, within three to five hours, you will receive one new window.

Installation of wooden windows is a rather complicated process. It is important to ensure tightness and not to disturb the installed window frame. The easiest way to install PVC windows. The whole action takes a little time and does not require special preparation.

Types of double-glazed windows

Single-chamber double-glazed window
glazed window is a structure that consists of several layers of glass. The space between them is usually called chambers. The type of device depends on their number. Let's look at the features of each of them.

Single chamber

The device of a single-chamber double-glazed window consists of two glasses, the thickness of which reaches 6 mm. Between them is a chamber, the width of which is usually from 14 to 18 mm. In total, the width of the single-chamber structure reaches up to 30 mm. Despite the simplicity of the device, this design has its advantages:

Light weight, which entails the possibility of using inexpensive accessories. Thanks to its low price, it is possible to install glazing over large areas.
Accessibility for people who cannot afford expensive designs.

Impossibility of fully insulating the balcony.
Has shortcomings in sound insulation.

Double chamber

To ensure comfort, you can use double-glazed windows on the balcony. First of all, this type of construction is more durable, since it has three glasses and two chambers. Moreover, the cameras have different volumes. But despite this, its total thickness does not exceed 30 mm. Its main differences from the single-chamber view:

The cost is a quarter higher than that of a single-chamber device.
Has higher thermal insulation materials.

If the fittings are chosen correctly for all this, then their durability is quite high.

Content:

Glazing of a loggia, which profile is preferable?
Options for opening the doors on the loggia, balcony
What is important to consider when choosing glazing
Use of sliding and swing systems

Loggias and balconies in apartments are small in size, so when organizing space, not only the type of glazing is of great importance.
The comfort and ease of use of space in the future also depends on the method of opening the doors. The most popular today are sliding and swing doors. Each of these options has its own characteristics and advantages. Let's look at both of these options in more detail.

What types of glass are there?

For balcony glazing, it is recommended to use K- or L-glass, as they are energy-saving and low-emission. If we talk about such an indicator as light absorption, then K-glass has more of it. It also has greater emissivity.

Metal oxides are sprayed onto these glasses, which makes them more durable and also increases their insulating properties. But they are more expensive than regular glass.

The likelihood of glass vibrations directly depends on their thickness. In order for the window to provide maximum noise insulation and heat insulation performance, the distance between the glasses must be the maximum permissible. To further increase these characteristics, the space between the glasses is filled with krypton or argon.

Installation of sliding and swing systems on the balcony

In swing blocks, the frames can be wooden, aluminum and plastic. For glazing, ordinary glass is used, as well as sealed double-glazed windows.

The principle of operation of swing doors can be rotary or tilt-and-turn. Today, windows are most often equipped with a tilt-and-turn opening mechanism. The fact is that in order to implement the rotating function, the space near the opening doors must be empty. That is, this is not the best solution for small balconies, for which saving space is a significant factor.

As for the option with a tilt-and-turn mechanism, the doors in such a system not only open, but also recline, creating a gap. At the same time, it reclines not only in the upper part of the window unit, but also in the lower part.

The folded frame can have two positions. Whether the ventilated gap will be maximum or minimum depends on the selected position. Therefore, in the room of a glazed balcony, you can achieve the most favorable air movement regime.

Sliding systems usually have an aluminum frame, much less often - wood and plastic. The window is glazed with single glass of large thickness. Unlike swing options, it is possible to install mosquito nets here.

Today there is also a more modern solution - frameless structures with glass doors without frames.

In various designs, sliding windows can be moved parallel or vertically or in a tilt-and-turn manner. The most common option is parallel movement based on the principle of movement of a compartment door.

A system of three structures is installed on the balcony: two solid structures at the ends and a sliding system on wheels, which is placed between them. To move the sashes along the entire length of the sliding structure, special runners are mounted at the top and bottom.

The main stages of installing PVC windows

High-quality installation of window structures is very important for the future performance of a glazed balcony. The frames must be selected to match the features of the loggia or balcony, and the selected structures must be firmly secured. Glazing is subject to internal and external loads. The latter include wind and some other influences. The glazing structure must effectively withstand all types of impacts.

First, prepare the space. To do this, old structural elements are removed. The frames will be installed on the fence, so it will need to be reinforced. In some cases, the necessary structure is erected from foam blocks.

The balcony canopy also needs to be reinforced with anchor bolts. The frames are secured with anchor bolts or special reinforced plates. They are leveled, and all cracks are filled with polyurethane foam.

The frames are installed on the fence closer to the inner edge. This will reduce heat loss and reduce the likelihood of condensation on the surface of the windows. A drain is attached to the bottom of the frame.

After installing the main structure, the sashes are attached to it. Double-glazed windows are installed in the sashes. Window installation is almost complete. All that remains is to fix the window sill. This completes the installation of balcony glazing. You can begin further repairs, carry out insulation and finishing.

Number of sashes

Their number is mainly determined by the length of the balcony and, of course, the feasibility of use. Let's say if:

if they are too narrow, then the insolation of the balcony, as well as the adjacent room, is significantly reduced. In addition, the installation of a multi-leaf plastic structure may excessively increase the load on the balcony slab, which will cause its collapse; If in a swing system the window sash is too wide, then when open it will “eat up” quite a lot of space. They will not be particularly good in sliding structures, since the opening created when they open will be small.

On balconies in standard apartments, the following designs are usually used:

single-leaf – as a rule, these are opening systems; double-leaf - one of the doors in the design is solid, and the second is folding. tri-leaf - usually for convenience, two opening windows are installed on the sides and one blind window in the middle. When the price factor plays a significant role in the choice, you can assemble a structure of two blind doors with one opening between them.

The process of choosing window systems and installation is multifaceted, so first you need to carefully study the features of each option and determine the optimal one. You should consider which type of sashes is most suitable for your balcony, choose the material, and more.

Glazing options

Today's market offers a lot of options for glazing balconies and loggias with frames made of plastic, aluminum, wood, and so on. But how can you choose the most suitable option that meets your requirements?

Not so long ago it became fashionable to glaze balconies and loggias; today it is a necessity to maintain warmth and comfort in the apartment. Therefore, in modern high-rise buildings, glazing is provided for by the design in advance.

Glazing options may vary. Often frames made of plastic, metal or wood, for example, are installed, and glass can be regular, tinted or stained glass. This method involves increasing room temperatures by 7-8 degrees from normal, as well as reducing noise coming from the streets. So is it better to glaze a balcony with plastic or aluminum?

Conventional glazing requires a method that meets European standards. But it is somewhat expensive, but nevertheless of higher quality, as a result of which the glazed structure acquires a unique and beautiful appearance. This option involves installing an imported profile - double-glazed windows, so that everything is hermetically sealed.

When installing double-glazed windows, it is necessary to use polyurethane foam, which repels moisture and retains heat inside the room.

Also, for a comfortable temperature in winter, it is necessary to install additional insulation, for example, a “warm floor” system.

Choosing PVC windows for a balcony

The installation of windows on loggias, as well as the general insulation of the structure, is carried out with the expectation of a long service life. This can only be achieved by choosing high-quality plastic windows with optimal characteristics.

When choosing, carefully inspect all components. They should not have even the slightest damage or defects.

The loggia must be glazed with a profile of sufficient rigidity so that it can maintain its shape without relying on the window opening. An internal steel insert with a thickness of about one and a half millimeters provides rigidity.

To equip a warm balcony, you will need profiles with high thermal insulation characteristics. They must have at least three cameras. Double-glazed windows are installed in two- or three-chamber ones with a glass thickness of four millimeters or more.

An important component of plastic windows for loggias is the fittings. It allows you to open and close the doors, lock them, providing the necessary tightness. Since parts of the fittings are movable and can wear out, become loose and deformed over time, you should choose the highest quality option.

When choosing accessories, do not forget about micro-ventilation. In winter, this function will be convenient; it will allow you to ventilate the room without cooling it too much.

The choice of windows for a balcony includes design calculations. It is not at all necessary to make all the doors openable. This will increase the cost of the design, but will not greatly affect its convenience. It is better to install opening and blind doors one after the other. If the loggia space is quite large, then part of the glazing can be replaced with sandwich panels.

When choosing window designs, it is necessary to select the opening method. There are many options, but of the entire range, the most commonly used are tilt-and-turn and sliding options.

A tilt-and-turn window that opens into the balcony can be installed if there is enough space. Otherwise, even the best product will be inconvenient to use.

The second popular option is a sliding window that opens to the side. This is the best design for small balconies. The sash does not require space, because it moves along the frame.

Hinged balcony windows

The frames of casement window units can be made of wood, aluminum and plastic. Glazing is made using both ordinary glass and sealed double-glazed windows. Mosquito nets can be installed in such structures.

Hinged windows can be made with sashes in the usual turning version or with a tilt-and-turn mechanism. This mechanism can be used to tilt the sash both at the top and bottom of the window block. In various designs, window sashes can be manufactured with opening inward or outward. Installation of casement windows is possible both on balconies and loggias. Depending on the components, window units can vary greatly in weight.

Therefore, during installation, it is necessary to take into account the load that the window unit will exert on the base. Glazing on balconies can be done with at least three window blocks. You can glaze the loggia with at least one block.