Until recently, the main area of application of triangular windows was considered technical - they were equipped with attics and non-residential attics in apartment buildings or private country houses. As a rule, such non-standard windows were small in size and were used for ventilation and at least some lighting in the technical area.
Today, the role of attics and attics in residential buildings is changing dramatically, and, accordingly, the attitude towards the windows installed in them is changing. As before, due to the design features, these rooms are equipped with triangular windows, but their sizes have increased significantly, and the range of functions has expanded significantly. For many years now, light-transmitting plastic systems have remained the most popular.
It should be noted that the production of such triangular products is very labor-intensive, requiring non-standard equipment and the use of special technologies. During production, quite a lot of waste is generated. For this reason, such windows are always more expensive than standard designs of similar sizes.
Types of triangular windows
When selected correctly, triangular PVC windows will highlight the features of your home, make it expressive and stand out from other buildings. For installation, you can choose one of two types of windows:
- with right angles (rectangular).
- with two equal sides (isosceles).
Rectangular windows are mainly located closer to the edges of the pitched roof. They can be opened in the usual way and tilted back for ventilation. Their opening handle is located on the inclined part of the sash profile.
Windows in the form of an isosceles triangle can be solid or consist of several individual elements. Most of them open in a transom way using a handle located on the side profile of the sash.
Triangular windows and 4 problems associated with their operation
Photo of a triangular attic window
The facade of the attic, as a rule, has the shape of a triangle, therefore, the window opening located on it must have similar outlines so that the entire building ultimately looks harmonious and beautiful.
And here many problems arise that need to be solved: how to choose the right curtains for triangular windows, what geometric parameters to use to order a frame of such an unusual shape, and how, in this case, to realize the possibility of opening the sash.
I encountered a similar situation when arranging the attic floor of my private house, and this is how it happened.
Options for opening triangular windows
Options for opening triangular windows:
Window with two blind (non-opening) sashes
System with one blind leaf
Design with vertical blind sash
Single opening sash system (tilt and turn)
Design with two opening doors. On the left there is a swivel and tilt position, on the right there is only a swivel position
A window with a complex triangular shape, with the sash opening in a rotary or tilting position
At the corners of the system the doors are blind, in the center - opening to the side and in a folding position
Isosceles triangular plastic windows that open in different ways are divided into the following categories:
- Deaf - do not open at all. The simplest and cheapest designs. They do not allow the room to be ventilated. They serve only to let light into the room, and can also serve a decorative role.
- Hinged - the doors (or sash) open in the usual way.
- Transom windows - the window opens only in the “ventilation” mode. The window sash can open from the top or bottom, rotating around a horizontal axis.
- Tilt and turn - windows that open in both normal and tilt modes. Rotation of the valves is possible in both horizontal and vertical planes.
Expert commentary
Vladislav Dobronravov
Leading technical specialist at Okna-Media company
Window handles, which control the fittings, are usually installed on the beveled side of the sash.
Advantages of triangular windows
pros
original and aesthetic appearance
let in a lot of light
a full-wall model will give the illusion of panoramic glazing
this shape fits perfectly under the roof of the house
You can choose many window decoration options
If previously the windows under the roof were small and hardly illuminated the room, and therefore the attic was used only as an attic, now the situation has changed dramatically. Most often, in house construction projects, large roof windows of unusual shapes are initially installed.
Dormer windows
Many dormers rising above the main roof have a triangular shape. These gable structures can be part of residential under-roof spaces, and therefore should allow the maximum possible amount of light to pass through. However, even when a triangular dormer window leads to the attic, it is recommended to glaze it over the entire area so as not to spoil the appearance of the roof. Depending on the dimensions of the opening and the operating conditions, different models can be used for these purposes.
Disadvantages of triangular window systems
Minuses
it is important to take into account the load-bearing capacity of the floors of the house, since large solid windows can cause them to collapse
Most often, windows need to be made to order - with measurements of dimensions, roof angle, etc.
triangular windows are more expensive than standard ones
for them you need to use special cornices, window sills, fittings and other elements
the maximum number of chambers in a double-glazed window for such windows is three, since a larger number is problematic for manufacturing
The main problem is the high price of custom designs. Therefore, even at the stage of building a house, it is important to include their cost in the estimate. When repairing and replacing old windows with new ones, simply calculate your available budget in advance.
In general, triangular windows have many more advantages than disadvantages. If you decide to create a truly cozy place on the top floor, this glazing option will definitely help in this matter.
Limit dimensions of the corners of the structure
Another interesting nuance associated with triangular windows is restrictions on the degree of their corners. The most successful project from an aesthetic point of view includes a roof window, the side edges of which are parallel to the roof slopes. But is it possible to achieve such a result in all cases?
First, let's define what triangles are:
rectangular - one of the angles has a value of 90°. Such windows are located in the wall so that a right angle serves as the base. To create symmetry, two mirrored windows are installed at right angles to each other;
isosceles - two angles have the same size. In this version, the base is the side that connects the same corners. The design looks symmetrical in any case, but it is for it that there are restrictions on the size of the base angles
equilateral - all angles are equal to 60°. In this case, the window already meets the requirement for the size of the angles.
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So, after choosing a window design, you should consider the size of its corners in such a way that this is feasible in the project, and so that the window fits well under the roof slope.
The corners of a triangular window should be:
- in the case of a fixed window - at least 30°;
- in the case of an openable one - at least 45°.
If these values are not taken into account, the window may collapse either during installation into the wall or during operation. At the same time, for different profiles and different numbers of chambers in double-glazed windows, these values may deviate, so the exact data must be obtained from the manufacturer.
The most successful and problem-free option is to think through the design of the window when drawing up the attic construction project.
But if you are installing a window in an already finished room, most likely there will be no problems, since most houses have standard roofs with certain angles, at which specialists will be able to select a safe window model.
Related articles:
◾Arched windows
◾Fixed plastic windows
◾Corner windows
Varieties
Attic spaces can be divided into separate rooms, zones, have a common area without partitions, but any type requires good lighting.
The right window will improve the interior of the attic or building. When installing from the facade, it is recommended to use symmetrically located structures.
When selecting a window:
- take measurements from the opening;
- take into account the parameters of the room;
- determine the type of roof.
If the roof has a gable or multi-slope shape, a broken window will do.
Broken triangle
Attic windows
Blind windows are often used for placement in attics. A common shape is an equilateral triangle.
If equipped with an opening system, there are no anti-burglary fittings.
Peculiarities:
- The angle is no more than 45°.
- If the structure is blind, the angle is reduced to 30°.
- If there is a large opening, divide the window structure into two parts. One is in the shape of a trapezoid, the second is a triangle.
Fully opening
Installation is carried out in a house with a gable roof. There is a conditional division of the facade into several parts. This creates an overview window.
Fully opening
Gives off a lot of heat, but is unable to retain it. The advantage is a view from above.
When installing, take care of the multi-chamber double-glazed windows, otherwise heating costs will increase.
Ventilation options
Compact, limited functionality. For example, the window does not open completely. Installation is carried out in the attic.
Layout on glass
As a decorative element, complex triangular plastic windows are decorated with a grid of false frames or a layout located inside or outside the glass unit. Triangular windows are beautiful in themselves - they give an original look to the house, make it more modern and elegant, and are also able to emphasize the chosen architectural style of the building.
Curtains for triangular windows: Playing with geometry (29 photos)
Decorating windows of non-standard shape is not easy: classical approaches often either do not work or give an unexpected effect (however, sometimes a very interesting one). But in the practice of modern designers, non-standard window openings are found quite often: for example, triangular windows are now found in every second cottage and even in some attic apartments. Perhaps you also have a room with such a window? Then it will be useful for you to get acquainted with a photo selection of ideas for decorating triangle windows with curtains.
Features of attic glazing
A triangular window in the attic can be used as part of a complex system, organically complementing rectangular or trapezoidal models, or as an independent structure that occupies virtually the entire opening in the under-roof space. Various methods of integrating such models expand the capabilities of designers and architects, and also make it possible to perform glazing, including on objects with complex roofs.
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Accessories for triangular windows
The selection of the main elements for the manufacture of triangular-shaped products is carried out on a general basis. Window blocks are traditionally made from PVC profiles with different numbers of internal chambers or euro-beams if the structures are wooden.
To complete them you can use:
- any double-glazed windows, including energy-efficient and shockproof;
- laminated or body-painted profiles;
- Mosquito nets;
- supply ventilation valves.
When it comes to blinds for triangular windows, it is best to use pleated blinds, although other shading methods are available.
For example, you can install reflective double-glazed windows or a more economical option - sun protection films. Related articles:
◾Round windows
◾Folding windows
◾Non-standard windows