Types and role of window sashes: fixed, active and false sashes

A blind window sash is a widespread element that is found in most modern structures made of plastic, wood and aluminum profiles. It is a completely static element without the possibility of opening in any way. The shutters of this type perform a decorative function and divide the window into parts, due to which the structure acquires a symmetrical appearance. Also, in the manufacture of windows, another structural element is sometimes used - a false sash. It is not used as often as its blind counterpart, but some clients choose this option for equipping windows.

What is a tri-hung window?

In modern construction, there is a trend towards large windows in both multi-apartment and private housing construction. Triple-hung windows make rooms brighter and airier.

The lower or upper transom does not change the name of the windows, except for the additional prefix “with a transom”: three-leaf window with a lower transom, three-leaf window with an upper transom.

Photo: options for three-leaf windows

When determining the type of window, sashes include opening and “blind” parts. If a window in the 1st row has 2 opening sashes and 1 fixed sashes, this will be considered a 3-sash window.

Dimensions

Most window units intended for installation on civilian sites have the following typical dimensions :

1. The minimum size of a sash is 300 x 300 mm, and a double-hung window is 600 x 300 mm.
2. The maximum permissible width of one leaf is 1200 mm. Windows with 2 identical hinged elements – 2400 mm.
3. The maximum size of a double-hung window cannot exceed 2400 x 2400 mm, provided that each opening sash weighs no more than 70 kg.
4. The typical dimensions of double-leaf windows are from 1500 x 1200 to 2400 x 2400 mm.
5. The dimensions of sliding portal structures with integrated double-glazed windows can reach a width of 1500 mm and a height of 3000 mm.

Many of the standard window units can be found in stock at retail outlets. Also, it should be taken into account that standardized products are easy to repair and are interchangeable designs.

For panel buildings

Panel houses in our country are built in strict accordance with serial documentation and are objects of repeated use. For such buildings, as a rule, there is an individual nomenclature of translucent structures :

1. When installing a window unit in storage rooms, bathrooms or other utility rooms with an area of ​​less than 6 m2, its dimensions are 900 x 1200 - 2100 mm.
2. When installing a window in a kitchen with an area of ​​6 - 8 m2, the frame dimensions are 1200 x 1200 - 2100 mm.
3. For rooms with an area from 9 to 18 m2 – 1200 – 1500 x 1200 – 2100 mm.
4. For large halls with an area of ​​18 m2 – 1800 – 2400 – 1200 – 2100 mm.

Note. Many companies that produce window units initially explain in the specifications for the catalogs which specific series a particular standard size is suitable for.

What types of three-hung windows are there?

3-hung windows can be of different types:

1. In the direction of opening the doors:

• rotary;
• tilt and turn;
• sliding;
• non-opening;
• combined and so on.

2. According to the geometric shape of the window:

• rectangular;
• figured (triangular, polygonal, arched, etc.).

Photo: three-leaf window block with a non-opening arch

There are other types of 3-leaf windows according to GOST, which differ in material, fillings, etc.

Maximum overall dimensions of products made from colored profiles

The width of the structure is no more than 3000 mm for glazing with a sash and no more than 2500 mm for fixed glazing.

For large areas, several separate parts are often made and connected using connecting elements; in this case, it is necessary to take into account the possible expansion of the plastic and use thermal compensators, and for a large height of the structure, jumpers will have to be made, since the upper windows can crush the lower ones with their weight. Also, restrictions may arise as a result of the specifics of delivery and installation of ready-made metal-plastic windows.

Which sashes should I choose for a 3-hung window?

Let's look at the most common standard rectangular 3-hung window. There is a GOST requirement for the presence of non-opening sashes in the window:

This requirement is a safety requirement and must be fulfilled. Failure to comply may result in falling out when washing the window.

Photo: This method of cleaning a 3-hung window can result in a fall out resulting in serious injury or death.

The figure shows various schemes for opening a 3-hung window with a valid and invalid solution.

Photo: diagrams for opening a three-leaf window: the top row is incorrect (X), the bottom row is correct (V). In the bottom row, the 2nd option is more preferable: if you need to ventilate the room more, then it is better to install 2 sashes at once with a tilt-and-turn mode . Tilt and turn ventilation is 500 rubles more expensive than rotary ventilation, but it has more advantages.

Advantages of tilt-and-turn ventilation over rotary ventilation:

• Possibility to ventilate the apartment in a safe manner;
• You can leave the flaps folded and leave the house, provided that you use special anti-burglary strikers that maintain burglary resistance when ventilated (described below in the article);
• The sash is fixed in the folding position and will not “dangle” from the wind. There is no need to install an additional comb or “stopper” to fix the sash;
• The sash will not hit the wall slope and will not injure a person;
• Will not overcool the apartment;

  
  Photo: ventilating a room in winter using a swing flap leads to hypothermia in the room

• You can add micro-ventilation to the tilt-and-turn mode and get comfortable ventilation in winter;
• You can put a child lock or a handle with a key on the swing-out flap and calmly ventilate the apartment without threatening the child’s life;
• There is no need for vents, which increase the cost of the window and reduce the light opening;
• Less prone to sagging. The design of the tilt-and-turn sash allows it to rest when ventilating on one side on the window hinge, and on the other on the striker, which protects the sash from sagging;
• Less load on window hinges in ventilation mode, which means a longer service life.

Installation of window blocks with 2 sashes

When installing double-leaf windows, it is necessary to observe a number of important technological nuances :

1. Before installing the frame, it is necessary to remove all movable sashes from it.
2. Installation should be carried out exclusively in the dew point formation zone, which is determined by thermal engineering calculations.
3. To effectively seal the frame, it is necessary to provide an installation gap around the entire perimeter of the opening.
4. The joint size is at least 15 mm on each side.
5. To avoid the formation of condensation, after installing the polyurethane foam, it is recommended to seal the gap around the perimeter with a vapor-permeable membrane.
6. Immediately after installing all the sashes, it is recommended to check their opening, and then make fine adjustments to the fittings.
7. It is not recommended to carry out installation work at temperatures below +5 °C.

Important. If the technological map is violated, the window will no longer meet the thermal and functional requirements imposed on it.

Installing a double-hung window with your own hands:

Roto NX fittings are the best option for three-leaf windows

In 2022, the world leader in the production of fittings for windows and doors, the German company Roto Frank, launched the new 6th generation of window fittings - Roto NX . These are fittings for the manufacture of tilt-and-turn and tilt-and-turn windows. It replaced the well-known and loved by window owners - Roto NT .

The new fittings have received a number of significant advantages:

• More reliability. The new standard hinges in Roto NX can withstand 30% more loads - up to 130 kg per sash, and reinforced hinges - up to 150 kg. Modern windows are becoming larger and heavier, so the new model of fittings is the optimal solution for any apartments and houses;

  Photo: Roto NX fittings have increased reliability and an attractive appearance*

• New coating and stylish design . The stylish silver finish of the fittings is a decoration for any modern window;
• Anti-corrosion coating Roto Sil Level 6 belongs to the highest resistance class 5 with a guarantee of at least 10 years, which provides reliable protection against corrosion. Roto NX fittings can be installed in regions with extreme harsh weather conditions and maritime climates;
• Smoother and softer opening due to the use of polymer materials in the hinges - even a child can open a heavy door;
• Micro-ventilation as standard will allow you to comfortably ventilate the room during the cold season;

  Photo: standard scissors on the frame of the Roto NX fittings provide the possibility of micro-ventilation*

• Anti-burglary in ventilation mode - a new option (special anti-burglary strikers) will increase the security of the house even in the absence of residents. There will always be fresh air in the room.

  Photo: Roto NX anti-burglary fittings: 1) anti-burglary striker, 2) anti-burglary striker for ventilation mode, 3) the window in ventilation mode is protected from intruders*

  Read also:  Glass freezes from the inside: is it possible to solve the problem?

  In 2022, the model will completely replace the Roto NT.

Pros and cons of use

Windows with two sashes are in very high demand among owners of civil real estate, due to the presence of many advantages :

1. Possibility of a successful combination of fixed and opening sashes on each window.
2. The moving mechanisms for each leaf are independent of each other, which allows the consumer to independently choose the number of degrees of freedom.
3. Easy to clean translucent surfaces on the front side.
4. Ease of adjusting the fittings in case the sash sag.
5. The ability to switch between winter and summer modes, which provides automatic supply ventilation, without the need for slot ventilation.
6. High level of window maintainability - the ability to replace the entire sash, without dismantling the entire window frame.

Despite their undeniable advantages, such window designs also have several disadvantages:

1. High cost of products due to the presence of several types of fittings.
2. If there is a third blind sash on an extended window, maintenance will be difficult.
3. The complexity of the initial installation and sealing of joints with your own hands.
4. The need for periodic maintenance of each sash with adjustment of fittings.

Note. All the disadvantages are subjective, which is why the demand for such translucent structures is growing every year.

What is the difference between three-leaf windows in a multi-storey and private house?

Three-leaf windows in apartment buildings and in private housing construction differ in their functionality (“filling”).

Triple-hung windows in a multi-story building

Dimensions

In an apartment building, you cannot change the size of the window opening so as not to disrupt the overall architectural style of the building's facade and not create a threat to reduce the strength of the building's structure. 3-hung windows do not require static strength calculations, despite their large sizes. The dimensions and strength of such windows are calculated by developers at the design stage. You can simply replace such a window with a similar type of material (plastic or aluminum).

Architectural solutions

Basically, rectangular white windows are used for glazing an apartment building, but recently colored windows have begun to occupy an increasing share. When replacing windows from the developer, it is necessary to maintain the same color as the window on the facade of the house. The division of the window cannot be changed (for example, a 3-leaf window into a 2-leaf window), otherwise there may subsequently be problems with supervisory authorities or the management company. The appearance of the facade must be preserved.

Energy saving

On June 6, 2022, the Ministry of Construction requirements for standard housing came into force, according to which the energy saving class of an apartment building must be at least “B”. Windows must provide this class. Economy class housing is becoming a thing of the past.

The new edition of SNiP “Thermal Protection of Buildings” has increased the regulatory requirements for thermal protection of buildings. In many regions of Russia, it is now necessary to install windows of the following configuration in apartment buildings:

• window profile: at least 70 mm wide, 5 chambers;
• double-glazed window: 2-chamber (3 glasses) with energy-saving glass.

The heat transfer resistance of windows can reach 0.7 m2 ◦ 0C/W.

But in terms of heat efficiency, windows in apartment buildings are inferior to windows in a private house.

Soundproofing

The level of sound insulation in apartment buildings is middle class.

The sound insulation of a standard double-glazed window with 4 mm ordinary glass is 31 dB,

Double-glazed window formula: 4-10-4-10-4 (4 – glass thickness, 12 – distance between glasses).

If there are sources of increased noise near the house: highways, noisy streets, playgrounds, then the design of the windows includes elements with increased noise protection: external glass of greater thickness (not 4 mm, but 6 or more mm), triplex or acoustic triplex for higher sound insulation . Filling the space between the glass with an inert gas, such as argon, also improves sound insulation.

To understand the effect of thick glass, triplex, acoustic triplex and argon on noise protection, you can consider the following designs of double-glazed windows:

Sound insulation of various double-glazed window designs

In these formulas: Ar – argon, VGS – triplex, (VGS44.2) Akusttic – acoustic triplex.

The higher the number of dB in the formula, the better the double-glazed window protects against noise.

Hacking protection

It is advisable to install windows with increased burglary protection in an apartment (burglary-resistant fittings and, possibly, triplex) only on the first and upper floors, where intruders can reach. For other floors this is not very relevant.

Standard sizes of 3-hung windows in apartments

3-hung windows vary in size in different series of houses. Examples of sizes of 3-leaf plastic windows for various types of multi-storey buildings are presented in the table below. They differ from GOST ones, because GOST gives the dimensions for Soviet “joinery”.

Approximate dimensions of 3-leaf PVC windows for various types of multi-storey buildings

The above window sizes are among the most common.

Photo: 3-hung window with dimensions marked by width and height

Window openings in houses have wide tolerances, and the sizes of 3-hung and other windows can vary by up to 15mm from each other in the same house.

Triple-hung windows in a private country house

Dimensions

The sizes of 3-hung windows in a private house may be larger than in an apartment. Calculation of the strength of large windows is required if the windows are one of those presented below.

Windows that require strength calculations

Failure to calculate the strength of large windows can lead to the following window problems:

• unsatisfactory performance;
• failure;
• destruction of the structure.

All this can not only complicate life, but also lead to more serious consequences - a threat to the health and even lives of people.

If during the construction of a house it becomes necessary to change the design of windows, the owner of a private house has the right to make changes to the design of the windows. But it is necessary to work out some issues related to the security of decisions made:

• Contact the design organization to obtain a conclusion that the design of the house itself will not have to be modified, or that new technical solutions will need to be developed.
• Contact a window company to make the necessary calculations for new window designs.
• Otherwise, untested changes in window designs can lead not only to problems with windows, but also to an emergency situation with the house - its collapse. It must be remembered that:

The window is not a supporting structure of the house

Architectural solutions

Professional architects and designers are increasingly being attracted to build modern private houses. The windows of such houses are much superior to their “brothers” in an apartment building in terms of the variety of architectural solutions. These can be different solutions in shape, color, material, filling, etc.

Window color

White windows do not always fit into the architectural appearance of the house. Many owners of country houses often try to change the color of windows during operation. Once you install white windows, it will be impossible to qualitatively change their color. Why?

If the windows were ordered colored, then lamination or painting of the profile was done industrially. The service life of such a coating will be counted in decades.

Photo: colored windows must have an industrial coating

It is impossible to do lamination “on site”, and painting a window “on site” will not provide the same level of quality and can lead to disastrous consequences. The metal inside will remain thin, and the window profile may become deformed due to the heating of the sun.

The difference in price when ordering white and colored windows with one-sided lamination or painting is no more than 15%.

Energy saving

The owner of a private house himself chooses the level of energy saving of his windows, based on the planned indicators for reducing heating costs and creating comfortable living conditions.

In such a house, windows of the following configuration are increasingly used:

• Window profile: from 80 mm wide and 6 chambers;
• Double-glazed window: 2-chamber (3 glasses) with 1-2 energy-saving glasses with filling of the inter-glass space with inert gases.

The heat transfer resistance of such windows can reach 1 m2 ◦ 0C/W and higher.

Soundproofing

The level of sound insulation of windows of a private house is chosen by the owner himself. For a comfortable stay, windows can be equipped not only with ordinary, but also with acoustic triplex. Loud music from neighbors can interfere with relaxation in your own home.

Opening methods

In addition to traditional casement and tilt-and-turn windows, homes may use various other types of openings, such as sliding doors. Windows with automatic opening and integration into the smart home system are also increasingly being used

Hacking protection

Private houses are mainly owned by people with average or high incomes. The houses are located on a separate territory, behind a closed fence, which gives intruders who enter the territory the opportunity to remain unnoticed. Therefore, protection against hacking is very important. The windows on the first floor must be equipped with anti-burglary fittings, and laminated glass - triplex - must be used as part of the double-glazed windows. Such windows are more expensive than standard ones, but not more expensive than lost property.

When and where is installation possible?

Installation of double-leaf window units is possible on the following types of civil facilities :

1. 
   Apartments in multi-storey residential buildings.

2. Private cottages.
3. Balconies and loggias.
4. Attached terraces, verandas, porches and vestibules.
5. Class A or B office premises.
6. All openings in the external walls of residential or public buildings, the width of which varies from 1300 to 2400 mm.

At the same time, in some situations, installation of such window structures is not recommended :

1. For openings with a width of less than 1300 mm.
2. Cold circuit, provided that the flaps will interfere with the normal operation of the narrow balcony.
3. Any window openings of civil buildings, if the location of the double-leaf window imposts violates the architectural appearance of the facade.
4. According to current regulations, each sash of a window unit in apartment buildings must open. Thus, if two vertical imposts are planned in the opening, then the double-leaf structure ceases to satisfy these requirements.

Important. Before ordering and installing windows with two sashes, it is recommended to work out a detailed design with specifications in advance and perform a thermal engineering calculation.

Average prices in the Russian Federation

The cost of a fixed plastic window is affected by its size, the presence of double-glazed windows or PVC inserts (sandwich panels).
For example, a structure measuring 500x500 mm will cost an average of 900 rubles, and with installation - 1200 rubles.

At the same time, a product measuring 2100x1300 mm, three-leaf, will cost from 7,080 rubles without installation, and from 10,300 rubles with it. If instead of glass a sandwich panel is used in the design, then a product measuring 840x1560 mm will cost 3,500 rubles.

Double-glazed window

A double-glazed window is the transparent part of a plastic window, which is installed in the frame and hermetically “packed”. This part performs the following functions:

• increases the thermal insulation properties of plastic windows;
• serves as an almost insurmountable obstacle to unauthorized entry into the premises;
• gives the structure high noise insulation performance;
• protection from negative climatic manifestations.

The weight of the entire window will depend on how many glass sheets are used to make the window. If you are planning to install a plastic window, you should find out how much the entire structure weighs before placing an order: you need to calculate the maximum possible weight and, if possible, it is worth increasing the number of glass inserts in the package - the quality of the product in question will increase. A double-glazed window is a single structure that consists of several glasses, profiles and air space between them. Some manufacturers put special granules in the space between the glasses - they keep the interior absolutely dry. Although standard plastic windows also have a special “cushion” installed, which serves as an absorber of excess moisture.

The quality characteristics of double-glazed windows may vary depending on the number of glass sheets used.

Single chamber

The design contains two glasses, which make up a double-glazed window - they are combined with a metal-plastic frame, and there is air between the panels. Glass in a single-chamber package can be used in a variety of ways: regular, tinted, protective. At the same time, the thickness of a plastic window also depends on the thickness of the glass used - the standard size does not exceed 4 mm.

Double chamber

The design uses three glasses, with two air spaces between them - this significantly improves the quality characteristics of the plastic window.

Three-chamber

The highest possible noise and heat-insulating properties of metal-plastic windows. Some manufacturers also offer customers four-chamber double-glazed windows with a high glass content. But experts question the feasibility of purchasing and installing such products - the price/quality ratio is unlikely to satisfy consumers. Inert air gas or a hexafluoride sphere can be pumped between the glasses into the bags. The cheapest option is regular dry air. The more expensive two subsequent options will probably improve the quality characteristics, but from time to time it will be necessary to add additional funds to the space. It is worth noting that the design of a plastic window may contain the following types of double-glazed windows:

• energy saving;
• frost-resistant;
• shock-resistant;
• sun protection;
• noise-proof.

But it is worth noting that each plastic window has the listed properties - perhaps not to the fullest, but this is quite enough for people to be comfortable in the room.

Experts recommend taking into account the climatic conditions in the place of residence when choosing the type of double-glazed windows - for example, for northern regions, frost-resistant and energy-saving double-glazed windows will be optimal, but in the southern regions - sun protection ones.

Fastening closed curtains

Several years ago it was believed that the closed type of fastening was applicable only to plastic windows. In fact, such a device for curtains on plastic windows is also used in structures made of wood and aluminum. The system has different sizes, but this does not affect the attractiveness and functionality. The main difference of this design is the presence of a box. This piece contains side caps and gives the configuration a clean look.

The size of the box plays an important role. Installing roller blinds with a mini-system on plastic windows does not interfere with the closing and opening of the sashes. When using heavy roller blinds, it is necessary to use a large box and a strong shaft. Such mechanisms are not always placed above the opening, especially if the window is located high. In this case, the system is installed on the ceiling. In this case, guides are abandoned. If possible, it is recommended to install them. The devices will prevent deformation of the curtain fabric, help avoid displacement, and provide the system with the necessary movement.

Additional equipment

There are elements that are not directly related to the product itself, but are very useful and are widely used. These are the following additions.

• A mosquito net attached externally with loops, hooks or other devices.
• Blinds and roller blinds regulate the amount of light. They are installed on top of the frame or on the sash using cassettes.

Many people consider plastic window products to be comfortable designs. They are installed to preserve heat in the house and protect against street noise. But not everyone knows how these complexes work. Awareness of this issue will be useful when selecting, purchasing and using products.

Basic elements

A window made of metal-plastic is significantly more complex than its traditional wooden counterpart. But in fact, it is easy to study such a product if you understand the principle of operation and the main principles: what the window consists of, how the basic elements are placed.

The key feature of a product with a PVC profile is its modular structure. It is assembled from independent blocks with their constant number and location. But these parts themselves may vary within technology standards.

Basic elements that make up the structure of window blocks.

1. Profile frame with internal metal reinforcement. The design of the window frame is the base into which “solid” glazing or opening sashes are inserted.
2. Filling the openings: double-glazed windows or single glass. In some cases, opaque materials are used, an example of which is a sandwich panel. This option has low thermal conductivity and provides excellent thermal insulation.
3. The fittings are a set that represents the mechanism of a plastic window. With its help, products are closed and opened. In this case, various modes can be set. Composition: handle, hinges, shut-off valves, drive parts, ventilation system components.
4. Necessary details such as window sill, strips, drainage strips. In some cases, slopes and various profiles are used: basic, connecting, extensions. The set of parts depends on the design, as a result of which significant differences may be observed in different models.
5. Accessories. Ventilation valves, insect screens, blinds or roller blinds. They are not included in the main set; they can be dismantled if desired.

In addition to the list of main parts, their detailed description, which is discussed below, is also important.

Profile

The basis is a PVC profile, inside of which a reinforcing belt is provided to ensure strength.

A special feature is the presence inside the cavity, hollow channels along the entire length.

Precisely calculated technical parameters determine their number, location and size. These several air-filled chambers increase the thermal insulation of the structure.

Other grooves are intended for fastening, fittings, and bead installation. The product is selected based on specific tasks. For example, this is improved thermal insulation and reduced noise levels.

Depending on the type of premises, the specific case applies.

1. In apartments - with the maximum possible number of chambers to preserve heat.
2. In buildings with temporary residence, this amount is minimized to save money.
3. A country cottage with permanent residents requires protection from wind and cold, therefore it is optimally insulated.

If we take 2 chambers as an example, the heat will not be retained sufficiently even in the south of the Russian Federation, not to mention Siberia. But this is determined not only by their number, but also by the mounting width of the profile. Another criterion is the thickness of the outer walls.

If you save on its optimal value of 3 mm, even a multi-chamber design will not save heat.

Frame

Manufacturers mainly make profiles using metal. Namely, inside each there is galvanized steel - a reinforcing component.

This is a rectangular pipe with a U-shape. Thanks to it, the plastic window structure is stably located in the opening.

That is, it is a frame that provides rigidity. In multi-chamber systems it takes on the main load.

There are structures without reinforcement. The product is not fragile even under such circumstances, and its strength is enhanced by inter-chamber partitions.

According to one opinion, metal creates heat loss, representing a bridge of cold. But profiles without frames are made of fiber material, which provides the entire block with the proper rigidity.

Mounting Parts

Such components are necessary for the smooth functioning of the window unit.

• A drainage system is a metal cornice or window sill located on the outside, designed to drain rainwater.
• Slopes are finishing elements that cover part of the wall on the sides and top along the perimeter of the window opening. The appearance becomes complete, and the frame is protected from the outside.
• The window sill is a traditional element located below. You can place indoor plants or other objects on it, and heating radiators are usually placed under it. It is made according to the width of the protrusion using boards: laminated MDF, chipboard.

Important Features

The characteristics of closed PVC windows include::

• Intended only for the first floors.
• Made from polyvinyl chloride.
• Can be single or separate.
• They do not have an opening mechanism.
• Single-chamber or double-glazed windows.
• Use of plastic beads.
• The profile width is on average 70 mm.
• The width of the outer wall is 2.7-3 mm.
• Type of plastic – frost and ultraviolet resistant.
• Factory service life is at least 40 years.

It is worth mentioning separately about the dimensions of blind structures. Often these dimensions are 500x500mm, 600x1300mm, 1300x1300mm, as well as 2100x1300mm and 1600x2100mm. The latter option is used in a high opening and has a T-shaped division.