How to choose and install a window sash opening limiter

SlavagodM
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SlavagodM October 14, 2016Specialization: master of interior and exterior finishing (plaster, putty, tiles, drywall, lining, laminate, etc.). In addition, plumbing, heating, electrical, conventional cladding and balcony extensions. That is, the renovation of an apartment or house was done on a turnkey basis with all the necessary types of work.

Restraints are important for the safety of our children

Let me start with the fact that a window opening limiter can imply not only different mechanisms, but also different functions - it all depends on what you are going to limit and why.

For example, you can block the function of fully opening the sash from children so that the child does not accidentally fall out of the window. Or you can install shut-off valves that provide micro-ventilation mode.

Let's look at this in more detail and learn about the types of child locks and devices for air exchange from the street.

Purpose of the window lock

A window restrictor controls the flow of air into the room and holds the sash in the selected position. The bar sets a fixed opening gap in the range of 1-10 cm.

Sash blocker

Tasks of the window sash stop:

1. Air supply adjustment. The required ventilation intensity is set in the room - the air flow circulates in a certain volume through a fixed slot.
2. Safety. The bar blocks the position of the window - it will not allow it to open wider than the specified level. This is very important for families with small children and pets.
3. Preventing drafts. The mechanism keeps the sash from suddenly swinging open. Thanks to this, the likelihood of unexpected drafts is reduced. In addition, there is no risk that nearby objects, flowerpots and expensive double-glazed windows will be damaged by abruptly opening the window.

For your information. Poor room ventilation is one of the main reasons why windows on the balcony and in rooms sweat.

What is a window comb

The comb for PVC windows is a lock that allows you to adjust the sash to a comfortable position. A typical limiter allows you to open a window opening up to a width of ten centimeters. When purchasing a plastic window, you will not be able to find the structure included in the kit, since it is not included in it. You can purchase the device separately. The real name of the latch is an opening blocker. It was nicknamed the comb because of its toothed base, which looks like a comb.

There are objective reasons to claim that using a comb has a number of advantages:

• it can be easily attached to any window;
• four locking positions available;
• the design of the equipment is simple and reliable; installation can be carried out by anyone without any skills in such activities;
• the cost of the comb is low;
• using the equipment, it becomes possible to open the window to a width of 10 to 120 millimeters.

A device has been designed for the following actions:

• ventilation of the room at the desired level, thanks to regulation, this makes it possible to ensure the safety of pets in high-rise buildings;
• When a draft occurs, the lock prevents the window from being damaged or hitting nearby objects.

There are a number of parameters by which combs differ:

• material of manufacture;
• color spectrum;
• number of teeth;
• attachment option.

Rice. 2. Four-prong comb

Components of the limiter

A typical blocker is called a “comb” or “crocodile” due to the appearance of the device. The latch has a simple design and operation scheme.

The simplest model of a window stop consists of two parts:

1. Comb. An extended bar with grooves and a hinged connection for raising/lowering the mechanism. The number of “notches” on the plate determines the opening range of the window. The most popular are four-position models.
2. Latch. The response part is located on the movable sash. A small metal pin holds the comb in position.

Window stop device

The use of a limiter involves selecting the window opening level and placing a pin between different positions of the comb.

Device

There are 3 types.

Crest

The limiter is a small bar with teeth on one side. Because of this, the second name is comb.

The limiter consists of:

Note: the comb is made of impact-resistant plastic or metal. Plastic - harmoniously combines with PVC structures, however, with strong gusts of wind it can burst.

Handle-lock

The system consists of a metal handle and shut-off valves. There is a lock on the outside. The lock is a blocker for tilting a plastic window. This type of limiter is considered the most reliable (especially against children). The plastic window can only be opened with a key.

Turning the key in the window handle locks it in the closed or tilted position. The mechanism involves installing the lock itself with a blocker in a mortise or overhead form.

Cable

The limiter consists of three main parts: fastening to the frame, a clamp to the profile and a cord connecting them. Sometimes manufacturers use a chain instead of a cable. The cable rarely exceeds 20 cm in length.

Attention: the cable differs greatly from the comb. It is not able to fix the position of the window, only to keep it from swinging open. But the strength of the cable is greater - it can withstand pressure up to 550 kg in force.

The object is a window position fixator.

Pros and cons of using a blocker

The main advantages of limiters for plastic windows are ease of use and the safety of operation of the sashes. Additional advantages include:

• affordable price;
• Possibility of application on previously installed windows;
• ease of installation - all work can be done by yourself without the involvement of specialists or the use of expensive equipment;
• simple maintenance of the mechanism and the ability to replace it yourself if it breaks down.

Locker on the window frame

However, this method of fixing a window sash also has disadvantages:

• non-compliance with installation technology is fraught with damage to the frame and deterioration of tightness parameters;
• fragility of the structure - active, careless operation can damage the latch or lead to the strip breaking;
• in the cold season, the use of a limiter is not relevant - the air inside the room quickly cools. One way to ensure ventilation in winter is to install a supply valve on plastic windows.

A simple comb is not enough to fully protect children. To ensure complete security, lock models must be installed.

Features of some types of Euro-comb

The peculiarities of Euro-combs are their durability, and in the event of a breakdown, low cost and the ability to replace them with a new one. It applies to any window.

This type of limiter will appeal to those who are used to keeping the window open in any weather and at any time of the year. If keeping the window open in winter is unreasonable and risky, then controlled ventilation provided by a comb will be an excellent alternative.

It is not recommended to purchase goods in places with a dubious reputation. In order for the product to last as long as possible, you need to buy a fixation lock in specialized stores.

Using extended combs on narrow window sills or near a walk-through area may cause injury. To avoid breaking the structure immediately after installation, choose one that has a vertical position. There are combs with an additional latch fixation; this is a good option for areas with regular winds.

Rice. 6. Euro comb for plastic windows

Types of window sash clamps

Window stops for PVC windows differ in the material of manufacture, installation location and mechanism of action. The listed parameters determine the strength of the bollard, its durability and reliability in terms of security.

According to the material of manufacture

For installation on PVC windows, three types of models are used:

• plastic;
• metal;
• combined.

Plastic. An affordable device that is perfectly compatible with PVC profiles. Limiters are produced in several colors, the standard number of positions is 3-4 positions.

Plastic limiter

Disadvantages of PVC blockers: low strength, short service life. It is not advisable to install such modifications on sashes facing the windy side - heavy loads can cause deformation of the plastic.

Metal. More durable and therefore wear-resistant blockers. The most preferred are brass stops with an anti-corrosion zinc layer. The color range of metal retainers is limited: golden, silver, grayish and copper shades. The downside is the high cost.

Metal limiter

Metal-plastic. Combination devices include: plastic comb and metal retainer. As a rule, the strip is white. Interesting multi-colored options - to order.

Combined type of blocker

By mounting method

There are 2 installation methods:

• installation under the handle;
• installation in the overlap of the sash.

The first option is conventional combs mounted on a fixed part of the frame. The bar rises or falls without taking up extra space or clinging to the curtains.

Placement of the limiter under the handle

The second option involves installation at the end of the sash. The pin is fixed with long self-tapping screws that pass through both sash overlap bridges. This type of fastening is more reliable.

The window sash opening limiter is suitable only for plastic structures. Installation on a wooden frame can lead to its deformation along the grain of the natural material due to significant forces occurring on the pin.

Blocker at the end of the sash

By mechanism of action

Limiters for opening plastic windows according to their design features and operating principle can be classified into the following groups:

1. External comb. A primitive “crocodile” for flaps. The model fixes the window for ventilation, but the degree of protection for children is insufficient.
2. Built-in limiter. An analogue of the external comb, the functionality corresponds to the previous device. Plus - aesthetics, hidden placement. The downside is that it does not provide security.
3. Constant brake. Blocks spontaneous opening and excessive swinging of the sash. A similar mechanism is used on the doors of offices and shops. Disadvantages: high cost, risk of breakage if the window is opened suddenly.
4. Handle-lock. Effective protection against children's access to windows. Externally, it is an ordinary handle, but shut-off valves are built inside. The downside is the limited choice of sash position and the need to keep the key safe.
5. Window limiter with cable. The capabilities are similar to a comb, but can withstand a tensile force of up to 550 kg. Installation on swing sashes is permissible anywhere; on tilt-and-turn frames – at the top of the structure.

Cable window rotation limiter

By mounting method

There are 2 methods of installing the limiter:

1. Installation under the window handle. The comb is attached to the fixed area of ​​the window frame. Its free movement is necessary. The limiter should not get caught in curtains or drapes.
2. Installation in the end part of the sash. Long self-tapping screws are used to secure the pin. They are firmly embedded in the sash overlap lintels. Installation of the mechanism at the end can only be done in a plastic profile. Wooden frames are deformed. Natural wood fiber cannot withstand the force of the pin.

For a reliable design of the entire system, technical operating rules must be followed.

How to choose a window comb

Before purchasing a window stop, study the characteristics of different modifications. When choosing, experts recommend adhering to the following rules:

1. It is better to install activated brake mechanisms on balcony blocks.
2. For attic double-glazed windows and large windows, it is necessary to select metal fasteners of increased strength.
3. For active use and frequent opening/closing of the sashes, it is advisable to choose a window limiter with a cable. An alternative option is a lock with a locking mechanism.
4. If there are often drafts in the apartment or the windows are located on opposite sides, give up plastic products.
5. To protect children as much as possible, it is necessary to install special restrictions for safe ventilation or a child window lock.

Child lock on the sash

Child protection on the balcony door

Many families have small children who, if not looked after, tend to go out onto the balcony or out of the window. To prevent this from happening, they put a lock on the balcony door, which will serve as a protective measure against children falling out. Most often, several methods of protection are used at once, since, due to his curiosity, a child can overcome the barriers set before him.

The cheapest way to limit a child’s access to the balcony is a mosquito net. But since it is made of fabric, the baby can easily cope with such an obstacle. Modern meshes have a greater degree of strength, but their cost is much higher. It is used together with other means of protection.

Since most of the balcony door consists of double-glazed windows, the best way to protect your baby is to use anti-vandal film. If a heavy object hits the glass, the child will not be injured by its fragments. This film is sold in the store and you can stick it yourself.

For very young children who have not yet learned to walk, a “safety gate” will be an excellent barrier. They are installed on the balcony in front of the entrance. This blocker is a low fence with a gate that can be locked with a key. But such a barrier will not deter the older child.

Child locks on the balcony door will help keep the little person out of the balcony. There are several types:

1. The handle with the lock looks nothing like a regular one. The difference is that it has a cylinder for the key and securely fixes the door both in the closed position and in the rotary position. Can be installed on both PVC and wooden doors. The handle is installed in place of the usual one, without additional work.
2. Lock with cable. This is another way to block the door from opening by a child. The sash can be opened exactly as much as the cable allows. The door can only be opened completely if the lock is opened with a key.

The advantages of locks on a balcony door include:

1. Reliable protection of children from entering the balcony area.
2. Installed on doors made of any material.

But such protective equipment also has a number of disadvantages, the main of which are:

1. The need to constantly use the key when entering the balcony.
2. Possibility of losing the key.
3. The need to ensure that the key is removed from the keyhole.

How to install a limiter on a window

The technology for installing a comb-type window retainer can be divided into three stages. The first is preparatory activities. The second and third are the installation of the clamp and the bar with grooves, respectively. Let's look at each of them.

Preparing tools

Prepare your tools in advance. Having everything you need nearby will help you stay focused on your work.

Required tools and materials:

• limiter with pin;
• screwdriver or Phillips screwdriver for fixing elements;
• self-tapping screws up to 10-12 mm long – larger fasteners can damage the window profile;
• construction or household knife - necessary for prying off the plug;
• pencil for marking - it is better not to use a marker on white plastic so that there are no marks left;
• drill and drill bits.

You should have a tape measure and instructions on hand, supplied complete with the limiter for PVC windows.

Required Tools

Installing the retainer

The primary task is to install the pin on the opening window sash.

Sequencing:

1. Pry off the plug on the handle and turn it 90° - access to the fasteners will open.
2. Fix the window in open mode and remember the position of the handle - perpendicular to the vertical of the sash.
3. Unscrew the upper and lower bolts and remove the handle.
4. Place the comb bracket so that the board is under the window handle. The pin should point towards the return door.
5. As a rule, the holes in the bracket coincide with the holes where the screws are located.
6. Attach the bar with the pin, reinstall the handle and tighten the bolts.
7. Return the handle plug to its original position.

Installation of the window stopper

Bracket Attachment

This is the most critical stage of installing a limiter on a window. Here it is important not to make a mistake with marking and preparing the holes for mounting the comb - it will not be easy to correct the defect. Illiterate actions can lead to depressurization of the glass unit.

Work technology:

1. Close the sash with the lock and mark the level of the bracket. The pin should be located opposite the comb, but not interfere with the free opening/closing of the window.
2. Mark the planned location with a pencil.
3. Holding the toothed strip in the designated area, try to fix the window and check the operation of the sash.
4. If the elements are well joined, the limiter does not interfere with the use of the double-glazed window, then you can finally screw the bracket to the frame with self-tapping screws.

Checking the operation of the sash opening blocker

It is not advisable to “set” the guide on glue. Constant loads will quickly damage the strength of the coupling and the bar will fall off.

The entire process is clearly demonstrated in step-by-step video instructions:

Mounting the comb under the handle

Installing a window stop on a window takes place in 7 stages:

• Drilling holes in a window frame. Don't try to screw in screws using your hands alone. So, it is impossible to avoid cracks. Only a drill can make neat sockets in a plastic profile. attach a thin nozzle and drill holes in the window. Their diameter should be suitable for the screws that will then be screwed in.
• Rotate the plug 90 degrees. To do this, you need to find a groove on its surface, hook it with a knife, and turn it at a right angle.
• Using a screwdriver, unscrew the two bolts found under the plug.
• Remove the handle and set it aside without changing its position. This way, its direction will be recorded without errors. It is located perpendicular to the window vertical.
• Place the bracket in the plane of the profile so that it extends further under the window handle. Perforations for screws should be visible in the holes of the bracket. The pin should be directed towards the return leaf. The handle is mounted on the bracket and takes its original position.

• Align the clamp with the axis of the bracket (correct fit into the grooves is required). Having found the appropriate position of the latch, you need to put the appropriate marks on the profile.
• In the marked areas, two holes are created using a drill with a thin gimlet. Afterwards it is possible to secure the limiter using self-tapping screws.

This completes the installation.

Note: you need to monitor the reliability of the comb fastening systematically, and tighten the screws according to the situation. Weakness of the coupling leads to breakage of the stopper and window profile.

Features of replacing an old element

Before installing a new limiter on plastic windows, you should consider several important points:

1. We need to find an analogue of the old comb. When purchasing, pay attention to the basic dimensions: the diameter of the pin and the distance between the mounting holes.
2. Even if only one element fails, the entire system must be replaced. Fasteners of different models may have dimensions that will not fit the new grooves of the strip.
3. To change the brackets you need to unscrew two screws.

Replacing the sash opening limiter

When rearranging the bar, a number of rules are followed:

• Remains of plastic on the screws must be removed - if this is not done, there is a risk of breaking the thread during tightening;
• it is advisable to get into the old, used thread - first turn the self-tapping screw counterclockwise, and as soon as the fastener “falls off”, change the force vector.

If the holes of the new comb do not correspond to the old ones by 1.5-3 mm, they can be bored out with a file, and the bar itself can be secured with self-tapping screws with wide heads and press washers.

Metal opening limiter, for aluminum windows.

This opening limiter is installed on “warm” aluminum windows and on casement windows made from PROVEDAL (“cold”) aluminum profiles and its analogues.
In terms of the number and “size” of possible fixations, it is similar to the USSR-comb. The limiter is steel, with 5 fixations, white. The pin is steel, white, installed under the handle. The following is important for the comb to be installed (please check):

- the appearance of the handle (shown in the photo), - the dimensions of the base of the handle, they are: width - 27mm, height - 135mm, - the principle of operation of the handle - when you turn the handle, the “pushers” converge and diverge (look from the other side of the open sash), — the free space (on the frame) for installing the limiter is the distance from the edge of the sash (opposite the handle) to the nearest something (wall, slope, adjacent sash, bay window connection, etc.). There should be at least 18mm of free space, since the width of the base of the limiters is 17mm. If the appearance or dimensions of the base of the handle (on your windows) are different, and, in your opinion, it is not possible to install a limiter, send a photo by email, maybe something will come up with.

The opening limiter is sold only with installation, the cost is 600 rubles, the minimum order amount is 1600 rubles.

If you haven’t noticed, we repeat that the comb itself can be plastic (as in the photo on the left), about it in detail...

Making a limiter with your own hands

For the windows of a country house, you can build a homemade device to regulate ventilation. You will need some simple materials:

• a piece of wire with a diameter of 2-3 mm;
• 2 small nails - will act as a pin;
• 2 large nails - for making staples and then fixing the limiting device on them.

Making a window blocker

Assembly algorithm:

1. Bend the wire in half, forming a loop in the middle and small curls along the edges.
2. Make an arch using long nails. Use pliers to give them the desired shape.
3. Drive staples from long nails into the fixed frame of the sash at a height convenient for adjustment.
4. Thread one end of the wire into the bracket.
5. Attach a small nail - a tripod - to the movable door.
6. To adjust and fix the position, the wire ring must be put on the clamp.

If the invention provides several turns of wire, this will expand the number of window opening modes.

A homemade device does not require financial investments, but in terms of strength it is noticeably inferior to purchased analogues.

Possible difficulties and errors

What difficulties might there be during installation:

1. When purchasing a comb, it is advisable to take the handle with you as a sample in order to select the correct mechanism.
2. When installing, you should calculate the distance from the center of the handle to the edge of the adjacent sash, wall, slope. It must be at least 41 mm. If both doors swing open in one direction, the pin may prevent the adjacent door from opening completely. It can only be opened 90-100°. If this is not taken into account, then in order to open the second sash, you will first need to open the sash with the comb.
3. To prevent damage to the window frame, it is better to make holes for the screws in advance with a thin drill, and the screws themselves should not be longer than 12 cm.
4. Some owners attach the bar to the frame with glue. But the glue will not withstand the constant load on the limiter, and the bar will come off over time.

Popular manufacturers of window clamps

The quality of the limiters is largely determined by the manufacturer. The following brands have earned a positive reputation among users:

1. Penkid. A Turkish company specializing in the production of steel window opening limiters with a cable. Metal models can withstand a load of 550 kg, the length of the cable is 200 mm. The blocker cannot be broken or cut with a knife.
2. Roto. German quality - the manufacturer provides a ten-year guarantee on some window fasteners. Metal models are reinforced with multi-layer anti-corrosion protection, plastic ones are made of safe polymers.
3. Rehau. Window fittings from a German brand are characterized by reliability and long service life.
4. Vorne. Turkish products are a balance of good quality and affordable cost. Buyers praise the limiters for their durability. One of the disadvantages is the tendency of plastic blockers to lose their original whiteness over time.
5. "Bertha". Offer from a domestic manufacturer. Budget series products with good performance characteristics.
6. Ikea. Window safety systems for children. Products of the “Patrol” series are equipped with double clamps and the required number of screws. An important advantage of the models is versatility. The clamps are suitable for plastic and wooden structures. The limiter can be installed on sliding sashes.

Ikea window blocker

Palladium sells decent products. The domestic company is engaged in the development and sale of window fittings. Metal stops have a high level of protection against thieves. Cable locks come complete with a key - a child lock.

Selecting window fasteners

Fastening elements used in the installation of PVC structures must meet the following requirements:

• Ensuring rigid fixation of the plastic window in the opening , taking into account wind and shock loads. Taking into account the impact of wind is especially important when installing blocks on the upper floors of buildings. Impact loads on the structure are most significant in large opening systems.
• Compensation of temperature loads arising as a result of seasonal changes. For example, in winter the profile bends into the room (1-2 mm per linear meter), therefore, the fastening should allow the structure to move by this amount.

Important! In accordance with GOST (30971-02), you cannot rely on polyurethane foam as fasteners (its function is exclusively sealing). Horizontal loads on the fastening are also unacceptable - the block is fixed in the opening using spacer materials (wedged). In fact, the fasteners must hold the structure perpendicular to its plane (prevent the window from falling out).

PVC window fastening scheme according to GOST

What determines the choice of fasteners?

When choosing a fastener, first of all, they look at what the opening in which it is planned to install a plastic window is made of. Openings are constructed from brick, concrete, decorative stone, wood, metal, cinder block, shell rock or light porous materials (foam concrete, aerated concrete and others).

The second important factor is the type of structure and technical features of the installation. Balconies, loggias, entrance doors, hallways and windows are installed from PVC profiles.

Tips for using the blocker

Restrictors do not require special care. Periodically it is necessary to tighten the fasteners and check the reliability and integrity of the comb. If necessary, you can replace the window retainer.

It is not advisable to use the comb in frosty weather; during heavy gusts of wind or heavy rain, you must close the windows in a timely manner and do not load the blocker. This is explained by significant pressure on the sash and the latch itself, which cannot always withstand it.

Using a Window Stopper

Read about other methods of micro-ventilation in our review.

Where and when should you use window combs?

There are many tips that will help you choose correctly and rationally apply this design. It is worth taking into account the following recommendations:

• when buying a comb, give preference to cast and monolithic structures, since those consisting of a large number of parts can last a short time and break;
• the design requires preventive intervention: by tightening the screws from time to time, you can prevent a decrease in the quality of fastening;
• during squally winds, the use of a comb is not recommended, as the structure may become unusable due to high pressure on the base;
• It is necessary to purchase a comb only in special specialized stores, since there is a possibility of purchasing a handicraft design of dubious quality.

Window combs can be used both in private homes and in public places. Thanks to a simple installation, there is constant access to fresh air and there is no need to worry about the integrity of the window in the event of a draft or gust of wind.

Additional installation video tutorials

Installation procedure for three types of combs:

Installation instructions for the Penkid child lock. This universal device is also used to protect window and door structures from burglary:

Installation of the GIESSE FRIZ aluminum clamp:

Blocking window openings is a convenient and practical solution for ventilating a room. Some models perform an additional task - they prevent children from opening the doors. Installing a limiter on plastic windows does not present any difficulties. The entire process takes about one to two hours and does not require expensive construction tools.

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Principle and nuances of work

Despite their small size and simple mechanism, limiters are responsible for a number of important tasks.

Purpose:

1. Securing the window in ventilation mode. The windows are fixed to the required slot size. This way it is possible to control the degree of ventilation of the room.
2. Plastic window clamp. Thus, the position set by the limiter will not allow the window to slam shut due to gusts of air in windy weather and hit the wall or its own frame.
3. Protection against falling out or slipping. The system prevents the window from opening wide. This blocks access for children and pets.

How to choose the right type of limiter:

Advice: when a limiter needs to be installed in skylights that open upward, then the choice is exclusively in favor of metal products.

The structure of the limiters is simple, so installing them yourself is quite simple.

Application and necessary equipment

The comb for plastic windows is not a tricky mechanism and is quite easy to install. It is very popular due to its simplicity and a fairly wide range of capabilities.

A comb for PVC windows is necessary so that the window can only be opened to a certain angle, and not to its full extent. This angle is determined by the number of allowable slots that are present in the comb.

Tools that will be needed when installing the comb:

• the window comb itself;
• fastenings and a bar for them;
• self-tapping screws;
• drills with a diameter of either 2 or 3 mm;
• Phillips screwdriver;
• writing instrument.

Usually, when purchasing the comb itself, there is no need to additionally purchase screws, since they should be included in the kit, but it is better to make sure of this initially in order to avoid unforeseen problems.

When choosing a comb, we recommend buying a metal comb rather than a plastic one; it will last much longer.

How to protect your baby from harm, read the article: “Children’s locks on windows - so that mother can be calm.” Find out about other ways to ventilate a room in our article here.

How to choose the best fittings, for example, a handle for a window, read here.