Owners of apartments with balconies or loggias have additional space that can be used to increase the level of comfort. Often, to increase the usable space in an apartment, sliding windows are installed on a balcony or loggia. The variety of modern materials, designs, and technologies gives freedom of choice and wide possibilities when it comes to glazing.
Reasons for glazing a balcony with sliding structures
There are several reasons for glazing a balcony or loggia. First of all, it is waterproofing, or protection from precipitation and bad weather. Balcony sliding systems provide sound insulation and thermal insulation of the apartment. Thanks to these factors, a balcony or loggia is used to increase the usable area of housing and expand the possibilities of its use.
Modern glazing methods allow you to choose sliding or casement windows. In rotating sash structures, windows open inward. Such systems are more familiar, are a more common and cheaper option, but at the same time less rational for saving space. Sliding windows for balconies are more modern, reliable, and attractive from the point of view of increasing free space, but also more expensive.
Hinged windows to the loggia - an alternative to sliding glazing
This option assumes the presence of doors that open in a folding, rotary or tilt-and-turn manner. When opened, they require additional space, but provide better heat and sound insulation.
For the manufacture of such structures, warm profiles made of plastic or wood or cold Provedal aluminum are used, which has a series with a similar option for opening the valves.
You can learn about other types of glazing and their advantages by clicking on the link.
Advantages and disadvantages of sliding window systems
The main advantage of sliding mechanisms is ergonomics. They are easy to use and significantly save space due to their design. No additional space is required to open the window. Thus, this glazing option is especially attractive in small rooms, where it is important to preserve the usable area as much as possible.
Another obvious advantage of such systems is good visibility. Due to the large dimensions that the sashes can have, the absence of partitions and imposts, the glazing of the window reaches the maximum area, which provides a good panoramic view and a high level of illumination. In addition, such windows look stylish and impressive, which allows you to make the balcony beautiful and cozy.
An important feature of sliding systems is that when open, the load is distributed evenly across the entire window, and not just on the hinge group of the sash, as in swing systems.
Among the functional advantages, the convenience of sliding windows for ventilation (the sash can be moved to any distance) and the use of a window sill (when the window is opened, the sash does not touch the window sill) is of great importance.
The disadvantages of sliding windows are associated with high cost and complex fittings that require regular care and maintenance. The disadvantages of sliding structures also include lower tightness compared to casement windows, low resistance to burglary and difficulty in cleaning glass from the outside.
How to choose
In order to make a rational choice, you should first be guided by your budget. Based on the cost of different profiles and the mechanism for their opening, the purposes of glazing are determined:
- Expand the living space of the room.
- Insulate the balcony and living space.
- Use as an element of a design composition.
- Make additional sound insulation.
Based on their assessment, you should make a decision on the choice of sliding windows.
If the window openings are large enough, from floor to ceiling, aluminum profiles will be optimal. They are lightweight, durable, and do not require special care.
a traditional balcony with a window sill for flowers and landscaping, the best option is metal-plastic sliding systems, in which both types of mechanical fittings can be used. It will be practical, beautiful, warm, and well protected from noise.
Types of window sliding systems
Depending on how the sash opens, there are several types of sliding mechanisms.
The doors of the lift-and-slide system open like compartment doors. The structure consists of at least 2 sashes, a load-bearing and movable one, and guides along which the displacement occurs. When the window is opened, the movable sash rises slightly in order to loosen the pressure at the bottom, and moves parallel to the profile of the supporting frame over its entire width. The tightness of the structure is ensured by a profile seal around the perimeter of the frame, double brush seals on the sides of the profile, and liningpipes.
Sliding cold glazing of loggias with Provedal aluminum windows
If you do not plan to turn the room into a full-fledged room or make it a functional continuation of the adjacent one, the inexpensive Provedal aluminum profile system would be an excellent option. It is resistant to negative external influences, undemanding in maintenance, durable, but is not able to provide a sufficient level of heat conservation.
When choosing aluminum glazing, you need to know that in winter there may be some difficulties when operating the windows, because the profile can become clogged with snow and ice, and this can interfere with the movement of the roller mechanism. Therefore, this glazing system is recommended for windows that are planned to be actively used only in the warm season.
Examples of sliding glazing of loggias in the photo
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How is aluminum windows installed? Clearly on video
About the features of aluminum glazing, its advantages and installation stages, watch the training video.
Profile material for sliding window structures
From a practical point of view, the material from which the profile is made is no less important than the type of construction. The choice of material will depend on the purpose of the glazing, the purpose of the balcony or loggia, the functional load, financial capabilities, and aesthetic ideas of the customer.
Sliding aluminum structures
The aluminum profile sliding system is a cold type of glazing for balconies. The reason is the fact that only single glass can be installed in an aluminum frame. In addition, the metal itself cools quickly during the cold season. Despite the emergence of new models with thermal inserts and increased thickness of the sashes, it is still not recommended to install windows with aluminum profiles on a loggia or balcony that is planned to be used as part of a room in the winter.
The undoubted advantage of aluminum frames is their lightness, strength, resistance to deformation, and high anti-corrosion properties. These properties of the material make it easier to install the structure and make it possible to glaze the balcony beyond the perimeter using brackets. In this case, a reinforced profile is used. Low cost is another factor in the popularity of this type of material.
Sliding plastic structures
Plastic structures are warm sliding windows, which are often installed on a balcony or loggia, which is planned to be used as additional living space. The most popular windows are made of PVC with metal reinforcement. This gives the structure high strength, durability, and resistance to deformation. The PVC profile allows the installation of two- and three-chamber double-glazed windows that do not allow cold air to pass through.
The main stages of installing sliding windows on a balcony
Since aluminum and plastic sliding windows have a similar design, their installation is no different. The only difference will be between the installation of such windows on the balcony and on the loggia. For those steps where these differences are present, you will see notes.
Separately, it should be noted that the dimensions for ordering sliding windows for a balcony are best determined with the help of specialists. Each company offers services for measuring the window space on the balcony. This will help you avoid major mistakes and wasted money.
Stages of installing sliding windows on a balcony and loggia:
- Mounting the base for the frame
For a balcony, the subframe is made of metal profiles, which are attached to the balcony railing with dowels. In the case of a loggia, a wooden board is used for the base.
- Frame assembly
It will be necessary to assemble the structure on site only in the case of aluminum windows. All parts are always numbered, so connecting them in the correct order using the included screws is easy. Plastic frames are delivered already assembled.
- Temporarily fixing the frame using perforated tape
Features of installing sliding structures
All sliding windows have a similar design, consisting of a profile, glass unit, fittings and additional parts. The process of installing sliding systems goes through several stages, but depending on the type of structure and material, there are specific features of installing sliding window systems. In general, window installation looks like this:
- Preparing the support for the frame . The main requirement is a flat and durable support surface on which the window frame will be installed. In the case of a “warm” finish, a supporting wall of foam concrete blocks is installed, which is carefully sealed on the sides and at the base. A layer of cement mortar is laid on top of the supporting wall and balcony railing and carefully leveled, which will serve as a support for the balcony frame. In some cases, it is possible to install additional support in the form of a wooden block or metal profiles.
- Frame assembly. This step is necessary in the case of aluminum profile windows. The frame parts are numbered and assembled using screws in accordance with the instructions. Sliding plastic windows for balconies are supplied assembled.
- Installation of window sill and ebb. The window sill can be solid or consist of several parts. It is screwed to the support. The drip is necessary to remove moisture from the frame to which it is attached. Silicone is used to ensure tightness. When installing aluminum structures, this stage is one of the last.
- Frame installation. Before installing the frame on the loggia, temporary fixation is required using perforated tape. If sliding glazing of balconies is performed, then this stage is absent. Plastic or wooden wedges will help you achieve a level horizontal surface. Anchor plates are installed on the top and sides of the frame for fastening to the wall surface and the top of the opening. The lower part of the frame is attached to the subframe. For glazing in several designs, the frames are fastened together using self-tapping screws or an additional profile with double-sided latches.
- Installation of the visor. If the canopy is installed on a balcony, then it is mounted on top of the subframe, and if on a loggia, then to the top of the frame.
- Sealing. After the sliding frames have been installed, it is necessary to seal all cracks and joints with foam or silicone sealant.
- Installation of sashes and installation of limiters. At the last stage, the sliding sashes are installed first in the upper part of the frame, and then in the lower part. To protect the moving sashes from damage, limiters are installed at the ends. They are attached using self-tapping screws.
- Checking the system operation. The final stage will be checking the functionality of the system: the absence of distortions, the ease of movement of the doors, the reliability of the latches - everything that allows you to protect the room from adverse external influences or the penetration of strangers.
Installation
The installation of sliding aluminum windows on the balcony is carried out by the manufacturer of the structure or a service organization that has a license for such construction work. Before installation, preparatory work is carried out , which is aimed at preparing the installation site:
- dismantling old glazing;
- repair of adjacent walls;
- strengthening the balcony structure.
When it is planned to partially remove the new frame beyond the boundaries of the balcony, the structures are welded together, the fences are strengthened and a metal base is installed for laying and fastening the new frame. If the project requires internal and external cladding, this is also carried out before installing the frame.
After completing the preparatory work, install the aluminum frame, aligning it horizontally and vertically, fixing it with wedges made of hardwood, pre-treated with protective compounds and securing them to the base with anchors with dowels, at a distance of no more than 600 mm. The joints are sealed with foam and after drying , the seam is plastered to prevent moisture from penetrating into the joints.
After the frame is strengthened and securely fixed, the doors with fittings are installed. To do this, at a slight angle to the opening, the top of the sash is inserted into the frame rail and lowered onto the lower guide. Next, adjustment work is carried out to ensure the accuracy of operation of all window components and ensure its tightness.
The roller fittings of the sliding frame have the ability to adjust the sashes. To do this, turn the adjusting screw, which changes the position of the wheel that raises and lowers the sash. When adjusting the locking mechanism, position the mating part of the lock slightly below the retractable tongue of the handle.
Maintenance of sliding structures
One of the advantages of sliding window systems is their long service life, from 20 to 50 years. In order for windows to last their intended period, they must be properly used and properly cared for. For easy operation of mechanical elements, it is necessary to lubricate each mechanism once every 2-3 years.
All cavities, guides, and rubber seals should be cleaned. To do this, you will need to remove the doors and clean them with a vacuum cleaner. Brush seals on aluminum windows require annual cleaning. In winter, during severe frosts, if the sashes freeze, you can use a special defroster or wait for warmer weather.
Reasons for replacement
It is necessary to regularly inspect the window and check the operation of the system. To avoid the situation leading to a complete replacement of the window, you should pay attention to:
- Sagging of the sash. This defect causes drafts and incorrect operation of the guides. The part is not cheap, and the lack of smooth running of the rollers can lead to serious problems in the system. If the adjustment does not produce results, it is necessary to change the element.
- Installation of a low-quality part. In this case, the service life of the guides is significantly reduced, especially with active use of the system.
- Excessive effort when moving the sashes. This may cause the rails to bend.
- The lower element is dirty or foreign objects have entered.
To replace a part, you must first dismantle the system , then repeat the installation process.
Tools and Process
To replace the guides, you will first need to remove the flaps, then unfasten the element.
You need to prepare a screwdriver. If you don't have such a tool, you can use a screwdriver. The dismantling process begins by removing the sashes . The action option depends on the design of the guides:
- Take the sash by the sides and lift it up. You need to remove the bottom from the guides, then remove the sash.
- If there are notches on the guide, then the edge of the sash should be brought to them and then removed.
- If there are grooves, remove the sash only after they are aligned.
- If blocking plugs are installed, remove them first and then proceed to dismantling the sash.
- Then unscrew the screws with a screwdriver or screwdriver.
- Remove the guides.
- Replace with new parts of the same size.
- Attach with new screws.
- Insert the sash.
The replacement process is complete.
Cost of sliding structures
The cost of sliding window designs varies greatly. Windows made of aluminum profiles are considered the most budget-friendly, and wooden ones are the most expensive. As for the type of design, there is no big difference in price between the parallel-sliding and rotary-sliding systems. In addition to these factors, the total cost of sliding windows consists of several components:
- glazing areas;
- thickness of glass, double glazing;
- quality of fittings;
- the presence of a mosquito net;
- additional functions;
- self-installation or with professional assistance.
The final cost will be formed only after the configuration has been clarified and calculations have been carried out.
Step-by-step technology for glazing a balcony with sliding aluminum structures:
Advantages of the company plasokna
By contacting plasokna, customers can not only purchase products at low prices, but also receive other important benefits.
The plasokna company uses only certified components. Installers involved in the installation of structures are required to undergo training at the Rehau Academy. To see certifications and customer reviews, follow the links below:
What's the idea
The classic version of an open window is horizontal or vertical sashes set to the sides. Transoms attached to awnings interfere with passage, prevent furniture from being installed, protrude into the room, and create the risk of injury.
To avoid problems, you can use sliding windows on the loggia. Their design is clear and convenient. They are very functional and easy to use. To move the doors, they are equipped with rollers that move gently along guide rails. The movement is carried out parallel to the floor, the lower edge of the window.
Because the dynamic properties are adjusted, the movement is silent. It's smooth and reliable. To prevent precipitation from getting into the holes, seals are installed along the entire perimeter of the sashes.
In case of strong gusts of wind, the models are equipped with limiters.
