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

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

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

Glazed facade of a cottage Source al-solution.ru

Why façade glazing with aluminum profiles is becoming more popular

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

Benefits and Features

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

Variety of aluminum profiles Source al-solution.ru

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

Resistance to aggressive phenomena that provoke corrosion processes.

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

High compressive and tensile strength.

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

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

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

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

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

Light metal weight with good density.

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

Ease of assembly with maximum precision in forming node connections.

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

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

Environmental friendliness.

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

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

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

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

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

A wide range of.

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

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

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

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

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

What are the disadvantages of aluminum profiles?

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

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

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

Ventilation of the room Source al-solution.ru

Production process

Most companies offering aluminum window structures are equipped with an automatic or semi-automatic conveyor line on which they are assembled. The product manufacturing process consists of the following stages :

Product design using specialized programs in CAD format.
Transferring design data to the conveyor line automation system, assigning a production algorithm to each CNC machine.
Cutting profiles to the required size with grooving and milling the ends.
Painting of profiles with powder compositions with high-temperature treatment.
Assembling the profile into a single flat frame of the required configuration and size.
Assembly of frames for sliding or swing doors.
Installation of polymer seals in profile grooves.
Installation of the necessary fittings in accordance with the order specifications.
Cutting glass and assembling double-glazed windows (for warm glazing).
Installation of double-glazed windows into profiles, pressing them into the “lock” with glazing beads.
Assembly of all elements into a single structure.
Adjustment and quality control of fittings, handles and other elements.
Packaging of products and transportation to the warehouse.

At the warehouse, the products are completed in accordance with orders, after which the window structures are loaded and sent to the client.

About production equipment in this article.

Video description

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

Variety of technical solutions

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

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

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

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

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

Frame made of aluminum posts and crossbars.

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

Post-transom design Source al-solution.ru

No. 7. Ventilation systems

High-quality aluminum windows have a high level of tightness; in fact, thanks to this characteristic, they are widely used in houses and apartments. Old wooden windows, due to the presence of cracks, ensured the flow of the required amount of fresh air, and when installing a new aluminum window, you will have to take care of the ventilation system. Typically, one of the following systems is used:

ventilation limiter with fixation in a certain position. This is something like combs that are used for plastic and wooden windows, but for aluminum windows the limiter has a slightly different shape, since ordinary combs are not suitable in design and method of fastening. As a rule, such limiters can be installed in 10-12 different positions, providing the required level of ventilation;
vents , which were used for ventilation everywhere a couple of decades ago, today can be part of the design of an aluminum window. This is a simple and reliable option, but due to the presence of additional profiles and sashes, the flow of sunlight into the room will be reduced;
ventilation supply valves Air-Box Comfort S type are located at the top of the window, allow fresh air to pass through, but trap dust and provide reliable protection from noise. This system is regulated by turning the knob, so you can control how much fresh air will enter the room.

Classification of aluminum profiles

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

Shaped cross-section

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

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

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

How to choose?

Considering the presence of a large number of aluminum window manufacturers on the market, making the right choice can sometimes be difficult. In order for the result to meet expectations, the owner of the premises should pay attention to the following nuances :

Manufacturer's fame. Large companies that have been operating in the market for a long time, have their own full-cycle production and an extensive customer base, as a rule, value their reputation. This means that the products of such a company meet domestic and international quality standards and are characterized by increased reliability and durability.
The presence of a large number of positive reviews about the brand’s products on the forums. The more advantages real consumers highlight, the higher the degree of confidence of the new buyer in the product.
Quality and profile thickness. Relevant when installing warm glazing. The thickness of the profile affects the number of air chambers, which increases the energy efficiency of the product.
The number of chambers in a double-glazed window - 2 chambers and 3 glasses - is considered the optimal design for a temperate climate zone.
The surface of the glass - the absence of glare and reflection distortion indicates the high quality of the product.
Reliability of fittings – the best products are considered to be those of the German brand ROTO. The handle should turn without effort. Sliding windows should move smoothly along the runners.
The softness and tightness of the junction of the seal - silicone inserts, which ensure complete tightness of the junctions and are not destroyed by frost better than classic rubber seals.

It should also be remembered that the ease of use and reliability of the finished structure largely depend on the quality of installation. In this regard, it is necessary to choose a company that has its own team of professional installers and provides a guarantee for this type of work.

Accessories

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

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

Characteristics

Aluminum windows installed in civil residential or public buildings have the following technical characteristics :

Mechanical spatial strength and rigidity. Depends on the thickness of the metal, the presence of stiffeners and the number of chambers.
Thermal expansion/contraction coefficient. This indicator affects the need for the device and the size of the compensation gap in the finished structure.
Thermal conductivity index, which, in accordance with GOST 22233-2001, can reach up to 0.75 m2oC/W.
The dimensions of the thermal insulating insert made of polyamide are from 24 to 32 mm, which affects the value of thermal conductivity.
The number of internal chambers that determine the level of sound insulation of an aluminum profile.
Quantity and composition of sealing materials.

The main characteristic that determines the scope of application of products is a warm or cold profile. All the characteristics listed above, as well as the profile thickness and the final retail price, depend on this indicator.

Additional information about the characteristics of aluminum windows is in the article at the link.

Sealant

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

There are only three types of seals:

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

Variety of rubber seals Source al-solution.ru

What does a window block consist of?

When contacting a company that produces and installs aluminum windows, the client is offered a variety of design specifications to choose from. In general, each construction of the category under consideration consists of the following elements :

Warm or cold profile of the supporting frame.
The same profile of the opening or sliding sash (if available).
Single glass or double glazing (single- or double-chamber).
Fittings, locking mechanisms, runners, rollers, depending on the type of design chosen.
Fixed, rotary or push handles.
Locks with key cylinders.
Seals for sashes and double-glazed windows.
Mosquito net.
UV protective coating on the façade glazing.
Ebbs, slopes, window sills.
Additional elements installed at the request of the customer - locking mechanisms, worm drives for remote opening and other options.

In addition to the configuration, the customer can also choose combinations of rotary and folding mechanisms, internal decorative layout, horizontal and vertical division of the translucent structure.

Read more about the design features of aluminum windows here.

A few words about the manufacturers

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

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

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

Production of curved structures Source al-solution.ru

No. 3. What type of glass should it be?

In aluminum windows, a particularly important role is assigned to the double-glazed window, which must reliably insulate the room from temperature and noise influences. That is why aluminum windows are often equipped with 3- and 4-chamber double-glazed windows , because the more chambers, the better thermal insulation and noise protection the design provides. Do not confuse the number of chambers with the number of glasses: a chamber is the space between the glass panes of a double-glazed window. Typically the glass thickness is 4 mm , but in double-glazed windows with two or more chambers the outer glass can be 6 mm thick to improve sound insulation . For the same purpose, double-glazed windows are used in which the distance between the glasses is unequal.

To make the window structure even more reliable protection from external negative factors, special glass can be used in double-glazed windows:

triplex consists of several glasses laminated with film. Triplex is difficult to break, it has good sound insulation properties;
Selective glass differs from ordinary glass in the presence of a low-emission layer, thanks to which it is possible to retain heat in winter and cool in summer;
Tempered glass receives additional strength characteristics due to thermal or chemical treatment. Even if such glass is broken, there will be no sharp fragments;
colored glass is colored in bulk and allows you to create a cozy atmosphere in the apartment. It is recommended to install such glasses when the window faces south, as they reduce light transmission.

Installation features

Installation of aluminum windows in 90% of cases is carried out by the manufacturer. All production operations come down to step-by-step execution of the following algorithm :

Cleaning the opening and, if necessary, adjusting its dimensions and configuration.
Installation of the supporting profile on the mounting plates.
Adjustment of the frame according to the angle of inclination and position in the body of the opening. Setting gaps.
Fixing the frame mechanically until the geometric immutability of the structure is achieved.
Installation of blind double-glazed windows with sealing of joints and fixation with glazing beads.
Installation of turning, tilting or sliding sashes.
Adjust the fittings until smooth opening is achieved.
Sealing gaps with foam around the entire perimeter of the window.
Installation of additional elements of flashings, slopes, ebbs, window sill boards.

When handing over the structure to the customer, the installation organization provides a special document - a checklist. According to this paper, the responsible representative of the contractor demonstrates the quality of the installation and the performance of the window.

The window installation process is described in detail here.

Structural assembly technology

Aluminum translucent profile structures are currently the most expensive elements. We strongly do not recommend designing, assembling and installing them yourself if you do not have experience in calculating structural elements. Mistakes lead to destruction of products, which is not only a waste of time and money, but also a danger of injury.

The assembly of structures must be done in strict accordance with the design documentation, which indicates not only the dimensions, but also the technical characteristics of the elements. If you can independently calculate the loads in each of them, taking into account the specific geometry, dimensions, installation location, wind and snow loads and other factors that exert forces, then do the documentation without the help of professionals.

Important. Do not rush to cut profiles to these sizes; check the accuracy of the measurements several times. Remember that you will never be able to lengthen a piece that is too short; you will have to throw it away. And this has a very negative impact on the final cost of products.

How to assemble a facade system?

Assembly diagram

Step 1. Attach crackers to the facade profile according to the specified dimensions.

Facade profile

Rusk

Pre-prepare a template; you need to use it to fix all the elements on one side. For the template, use a grinder to saw off a piece of profile up to one centimeter long. Fastening is carried out with strong metal screws; the size of the screws must be calculated or indicated in the documentation for the assembly of the structure.

Sample

Step 2. Remove the protective plastic film at the place where the crackers are attached. Place the template on the profile at the calculated distance from the end, insert a cracker into it.

Important. If during installation of the façade system the finished floor is not yet ready, then raise the block to its mark (zero level). The bottom of the vertical post will be filled with concrete, the finishing floor will be placed on it, the cracker should be on the same horizontal plane as the finishing coating. The same must be considered with the ceiling. If it is not ready yet, then fix the cracker below. How much depends on the specific ceiling design.

Insert the cracker into the template and drill four holes. Practitioners recommend using self-tapping screws with a hemispherical head; they can withstand increased forces. Press washers are inferior to them in these indicators. Tighten the screws without unnecessary zeal, do not turn the thread. If such a problem occurs, screw a self-tapping screw of a slightly larger diameter into the same place. If the glass unit is double or triple, then it is more reliable to fasten the crackers with bolts and nuts. Make sure that the cracker is pressed tightly, check that the fixation is secure.

Fastening the cracker

Fixing the second cracker

Fixed cracker

Step 3. After completing the fastening of the crackers on the opposite profiles, be sure to check their position. Place the two elements opposite each other, the edges of the crackers should be located along the same line. This is extremely important, otherwise the corners will not be 90°, and it will be impossible to insert double-glazed windows.

Rusks should be on the same level

Step 4. Attach the fastening heels to the special inserts; often the same crackers are used as inserts, only long ones.

Crackers for fastening heels

Responsible manufacturers supply them complete. If not, you will have to do it yourself, prepare the plates and cut threads in the end cavities of the crackers. The length of the heel crackers is approximately 6–8 centimeters. Attach the metal plate (heel) with anchors to a long cracker; later it is inserted into the hollow profile.

Screw the plate

The plate is longer than the profile and has two additional holes with which the stand is attached to the floor and ceiling. Two heels are attached at the top, and two at the bottom of the structure.

Mortgages, 4 pieces

Step 5. Proceed to install the crossbars. The crossbars are inserted into crackers, on the inner side surfaces of which there are special mounting sockets for self-tapping screws. To keep them in place, attach them with self-tapping screws. To ensure that the holes on the crossbars coincide with the mounting sockets, take measurements with a caliper. Find out the height of the seats and drill Ø5 mm holes in the crossbars at the same distance.

Marking and drilling holes

Holes

Practical advice. When drilling holes in aluminum profiles, make sure that the chips do not scratch the paint. Clean the drill from accumulated chips in a timely manner. Aluminum alloys have an unpleasant property - they constantly clog the grooves of the drill, it works poorly and overheats.

Step 6. Insert double-glazed window seals into the grooves of the profiles. They have different heights depending on the thickness of the glass units.

Seals can be of different thicknesses

Installation of seals

Seals

Rubber the crossbars with a reserve of sealants of approximately five millimeters. This is necessary so that during thermal expansion the sealant constantly fits tightly to the surfaces. Then, during final assembly, the protruding tip is compressed and forced into place in the groove.

Step 7. After preparing all the elements, assemble the structure into a single whole. Insert the crossbars into the vertical posts one by one; they should fit into the screwed crackers. Fasten the elements with self-tapping screws into the drilled holes. We recommend using self-tapping screws with a countersunk head. They hold securely, and in case of minor errors they will not interfere with inserting the double-glazed window.

Connecting elements

Step 8. To ensure that the outside aluminum does not touch the inside and heat is not lost, install a thermal bridge (thermal insert). It is installed in special mounting grooves of profiles, the grooves are located in the middle of the elements. Carefully place the thermal bridge, making sure that it fits in place along its entire length.

Assembly of the structure

Install a thermal bridge

Installed element

Prices for popular models of screwdrivers

Screwdrivers

Video - How the façade system is assembled. Glazing

Catalog

Alumark. Production and installation of facade structures. Instructions for downloading

Instructions

Prices for scaffolding

Scaffolding

Video - Installation of aluminum stained glass

Video - Installation of aluminum stained glass (part 2)

Video - Installation of stained glass, part 3

Restoration

Aluminum window structures, several years after the start of operation, may lose their original appearance. In addition, the opening mechanisms may become unusable, which significantly reduces the level of comfort when using windows.

In such cases, restoration work is required, which consists of performing the following algorithm :

Sequential window dismantling.
Disassembly of the structure into individual elements.
Cleaning and lubrication of fittings.
Cleaning the profile of old paint and reapplying a new layer of polymer coating on the metal.
Replacement of all old seals.
Reassembly of the structure in the opening.
Adjustment of fittings.

Aluminum structures do not corrode and, after restoration work, regain their original appearance. With proper care, windows in this category can last for several decades.

Pricing

The price of ready-made aluminum translucent structures installed at civil sites can vary several times. The final retail price of the product is influenced by the following factors :

Glazing type – cold or warm.
Glazing area
Profile thickness.
Dimensions of the structure and the need to install a reinforced profile or half-timbered supports.
The number of cameras in a double-glazed window.
Number of opening doors.
Type of fittings.
Quality of paintwork.
Type of opening of the valves.
Availability of additional options
Window complete set.
Internal pricing policy of the brand.

Based on these criteria, the cost of aluminum glazing can vary from 3-5 to 30-40 thousand rubles. for 1 m2. The final cost is always determined by design data and estimates, taking into account promotions carried out individually by each manufacturer.

A detailed article about the cost of structures for aluminum windows is here.

Painting features

Aluminum profiles are painted at the factory , in accordance with a proven technological scheme and using professional equipment:

The coating used is dry powder anodized paint, which is applied using a spray gun.
When applying paint, the aluminum profile is suspended so that the composition is evenly distributed over the entire surface.
After applying the composition, the profile is sent to a special drying chamber, where it remains at a temperature of 160 - 200 oC for 15 - 25 minutes. During this time, the paint and varnish composition is sintered and distributed evenly over the metal surface.
After drying, the profile is removed from the chamber and subjected to slow cooling at room temperature

In case of chips or damage that occurred during operation, the profile can be painted at home manually. Before performing this operation, it is necessary to dismantle the window, free it from double-glazed windows and seals, and also remove the old coating with abrasive materials. Painting is done with a thin brush, using special paints and varnishes for metal.

Problems and repairs

During the operation of aluminum window structures, a number of problems may arise related to the failure of individual structural elements . In such cases, it is necessary to carry out emergency repair work to avoid more serious damage:

The handle begins to turn with force - the latch head needs to be replaced or adjusted.
The sash began to close, touching the frame structure - it is necessary to adjust the fittings with the possible straightening of the deformed plate in the place where the greatest overturning moment is generated.
Violation of the geometry of the structure due to thermal expansion / contraction. It is necessary to free the frame from the glazing and level the empty frame frame using wedge spacers.
Deviation of the structure from the vertical axis, as evidenced by the spontaneous opening or closing of the sash left in a free position. It is necessary to remove the sashes, clear the junctions with the old foam, loosen the fixing screws and move the frame to its original position.

All repair work must be carried out by professional installers with appropriate experience and the necessary set of tools.