Plugs for plastic windows can be external or internal. Regardless of their location, they serve to protect the structure from moisture and dirt not only inside, but also on the connecting elements. In addition, they make the appearance of windows more pleasant, as they hide holes, hollow parts, and fasteners.
How are the products used?
External plugs for plastic windows perform two functions:
- Protection against dirt getting on fastening elements inside technological holes.
- Improvement of the appearance of the structure.
Most often, the plugs are sold as a set along with the window structure; they are selected in the same color and texture as the frame, so they are completely invisible in appearance. If the plug is lost, you can purchase it separately, but it will take a long time to select if you have windows of non-standard colors or textures.
In order for the window to have a finished look and prevent dirt from getting inside, which can cause mold and other unpleasant phenomena to form, it is necessary to close even the smallest grooves. Insects can settle in the voids of windows on the street side; for example, wasps are often interested in cracks, so installing a plug will ensure the absence of such an unpleasant neighborhood.
Installing drain plugs
Such elements are used for absolutely all types of windows and doors made of plastic. Most often, plugs for PVC windows are installed during the assembly and installation of the window, but some craftsmen forget about them or the element is lost during the operation of the structure. In this case, it must be replaced. Installation will not cause any difficulty; even an inexperienced user can handle it, since it is enough to simply insert the element into the hole. It has special ridges to help it stay in place. It is not recommended to use glue or sealant, since if you need to get to the fastener element, you will not be able to easily remove the part.
Using plugs provides the following advantages:
- The grooves do not need to be cleaned of dirt, since it does not accumulate in them.
- The windows have an attractive appearance, their surface is absolutely smooth without technological holes.
- The device is easy and convenient to install.
- It's inexpensive.
Why do we need drainage channels for plastic windows?
- Water disposal . Moisture penetrates into the PVC frame through leaking sashes. And to remove the liquid outside in order to avoid freezing and damage to the system, a special mechanism is required - drainage. It is designed quite simply, but is able to prevent water from entering the reinforcing profile. When a sufficient volume of moisture accumulates, the liquid exits onto the window surface through a drainage slot. The latter is milled in the production of window profiles.
- Ventilation inside the cells . Drainage parts serve as ventilation holes in plastic windows. They help ventilate the chambers - they let air into the profile. And moisture freely escapes to the surface of the windows.
Use for window sill
The end cap for a window sill is an important element, since without its use the window sill will not have an aesthetically complete appearance. The end parts of the product are hollow, have only stiffening ribs, so they look, to put it mildly, unattractive. In addition, they can become clogged with dust and various debris. To avoid this, special plugs are used, thanks to which the window sill takes on its usual shape. In addition, the plug blocks the passage of cold air and prevents warm air from escaping. When using such an element, the window sill will not only acquire an attractive appearance, but will also become completely sealed, reliably protected from any contamination inside and moisture.
End caps for window sills
How to clean drainage holes in windows?
The drainage design, which is extremely important for the functionality and durability of the windows, is practically invisible thanks to the drainage plugs that match the profile. The covers protect the drainage channels from blockages and moisture. They still need to be cleaned periodically. Blockages in the drainage system can lead to disastrous consequences. In winter, the water in the plastic will freeze - it will let the cold through, and the profile will collapse. To avoid such troubles, it is necessary to remove dust from the drainage channels at least 1-2 times a year when washing windows. Finding them is easy. Open the window sashes. At the bottom of the frame you will see ventilation ducts. To clean them, it is convenient to use a brush with plastic bristles or wire. It’s easier, faster and more effective to remove dirt with a vacuum cleaner.
What are the elements?
Caps for plastic window sills can differ significantly from each other. The main difference is this:
- Product form. The bend of the plug is called kapinos. Depending on the shape of the window sill, it can be different, in addition, the width of the product, which is selected individually, depending on the tastes of the buyer, can have significant differences.
- The color is selected, as a rule, similar to the color of the window sill. The plugs are available in all colors; they can be single-color, replicate the look and texture of wooden products, or be designed to look like marble or other noble materials. After all, the main task of the plug is to create a feeling of solidity of the structure and in no case be conspicuous.
- The length of the product may also be different. Its selection also depends on the size of your window sill. The standard side plug for a window sill is 700 mm long, but it can be divided into two, usually this is done during installation. There are also longer models that are used for wide window sills.
When choosing caps, you need to consider the length, width and shape of your window sill. Usually they are standardized; there may be narrow or, conversely, wide window sills, but their parameters will still be absolutely certain. It is most convenient to purchase plugs together with the window sill board. However, they are not sold as a set, so the selection of products occurs separately, often after installation of the window sill.
To accurately select a decorative element, take measurements of the window sill board, otherwise there is a risk of making a mistake and buying the wrong thing.
It is advisable, but not necessary, to buy the accessory from the same manufacturer that produced the window and sill.
Advantages of glazing bead groove plugs for plastic windows
The groove and surface of the frame in the design does not look very aesthetically pleasing when dirt, debris and other foreign particles get packed into the groove. In this regard, manufacturers have created special decorative plugs.
Rice. 3. View of a window without a seal in the window profile
Such an element of a window block as a plug for a glazing bead groove undoubtedly has its advantages:
- Neutral to ultraviolet light throughout the entire service life;
- Not exposed to the negative effects of dust and dirt;
- Resistant to moisture, does not swell, and at the same time does not dry out in hot weather;
- Meets the requirements of sanitary standards;
- Its strength properties do not disappear during the entire period of operation;
- Has an affordable price;
- Is a decorative element;
- Environmentally friendly product.
The material is elastic and elastic, so it is easy to change if necessary. The clean and white surface of the part not only simplifies the work of the housewife, but also makes the double-glazed window aesthetically perfect, which is beneficial when it comes to the interior of the room.
Rice. 4. A two-groove seal protects the surface of the window sill from dust and dirt on large windows.
What characteristics do the plugs have?
The plastic end cap of the window sill has the following technical features:
- The material must have sufficient hardness; only high-quality hard plastic should be chosen; it shouldn't bend.
- The high strength of the product ensures its reliability and durability. The plug is not afraid of mechanical stress and detergents.
- The material is not afraid of moisture, so you can safely wash the window sill and place pots of flowers on it without fear that they will leak.
- Can be used in areas with high humidity, including bathrooms and basements.
- The material is not afraid of exposure to ultraviolet rays, so it is suitable for windows located in the sunny part.
- Over time, the element will not fade, no matter what color it is.
- Does not require complicated maintenance: you can wipe off dust with a cloth, or deal with more complex stains using detergents.
- The material is impervious to aggressive chemicals.
- It is firmly fixed on the window sill without the use of mounting elements.
- Installation is simple and takes a few seconds.
- Fungi and other biologically active pests do not grow on plastic.
- Low price available to any buyer.
How to install?
The PVC window sill plug does not require complicated installation and can be installed by the residents of the premises. To do this you will need a simple set of tools and some free time. If the size of the cap is chosen correctly, it will not need to be cut, and it will quickly and easily fit like a lid on a jar, but if it does not fit tightly, liquid nails, glue or a stationery knife may be required.
In order for the installation to be of high quality, it is recommended to prepare the installation site. To do this, you need to clean it from dirt, remove dust, traces of detergent and dry it. The plug is then cut to the required length. It is advisable to first measure the window sill and check the dimensions of the product locally. Plastic is easy to cut; for this you can use either scissors or a stationery knife.
After this, glue is applied to the edges of the window sill or to the inside of the plug. Liquid nails are most often used, but PVA is also suitable; it will have to be applied with a brush; Suitable stationery for drawing. The plug is carefully placed on the cut of the window sill, pressed and glued. Excess glue must be removed immediately, otherwise, when it dries, it will not be easy to get rid of it.
Corner plugs for window sills
What technology should I use to install?
Installation of the plug occurs after all other elements of the window structure have been installed, including the window sill. It is most convenient to cut the plug to the required size after the window sill itself has been cut to size. Rarely does a window sill board have the required dimensions initially. Most often it is customized on site; the plugs can be installed immediately. Installation is carried out as follows:
- You will need to measure the distance from the edge of the window sill to the wall and mark the part according to size. Since the plug has a left and a right side, it is important not to confuse and mark on the correct side.
The distance may differ by several millimeters or even centimeters, so each part is cut in place, otherwise a gap will form.
- After this, use scissors or a knife to cut the plug along the mark.
- The inside of the product is lubricated with glue.
- The plug is placed on the part and pressed for a short time until the glue sets.
