Many companies are engaged in glazing of houses, apartments and balconies. Depending on the design and manufacturer, there are nuances regarding how to install a plastic window. The article addresses questions about what you need to know to avoid trouble in the future. Information is also provided on the design features of products, rules for taking measurements, and glazing technology with step-by-step execution.
Balcony glazing Source izhevsk.trade-services.ru
Design of plastic windows
Structurally, any window is represented by a frame, sashes, glass inserts and fittings with fixing elements. The frame is assembled from a PVC profile with reinforcement in the form of metal inserts. The element cavity typically has 3, 4 or 6 compartments. The more there are, the higher the rigidity and thermal insulation properties of the frame. The different wall thicknesses of the trim (in mm) are also considered:
- A – 2.8 (partitions – 2.5);
- V – 2.5 (jumpers – 2);
- C – less than 2.5 and 2, respectively.
Regarding quality indicators, class “A” products are considered the best option. Depending on the purpose, the profile is presented in different versions:
- A frame with a small protrusion on the outside to bridge the gap along the sash. Similar strips are needed to assemble the frame. The lower profile additionally has drainage holes to drain condensate or flowing water from the glass to the low tide.
- The valve is often presented in a zigzag shape relative to the cross section. The protrusions are adjacent to the frame or hold the double-glazed window together with the glazing bead.
Double-glazed windows and glazing beads Source interglass.lv
- The impost and frame are designed to ensure the connection of individual modules in one window frame. In cross section they have a T-shaped or angular shape, respectively.
Each profile, regardless of its purpose, has a technological side groove on the inside of the protrusions. It is needed for installing a sealing tape with a mounting longitudinal edge. The material is necessary to eliminate the impact of the sash on the frame, blocking access to cold, wind, moisture and dust.
Double-glazed windows can be represented by one or more glasses. In the second case, a spacer with perforation made of PVC or aluminum is installed between the canvases. An absorbent is located in the cavity of the element to absorb moisture.
Inside the glass unit there may be dried air, argon or krypton. Glass thicknesses are 4, 6 or 8 mm. The distance affects the thermal insulation properties and, as a rule, ranges from 10 to 20 mm. 16 mm is considered optimal.
Options for double-glazed windows Source www.ckr.delosite38.ru
The energy-saving version additionally has an internal coating of silver or tin. The film helps reduce heat loss in winter and penetration inside in summer. But it affects the increase in the final cost of windows and a decrease in glass transparency by about 30%.
Another option involves installing shockproof sheets. They have increased mechanical resistance and, if broken, do not turn into fragments. Such products are especially relevant for sports facilities, roof glazing and industrial enterprises.
Fittings for metal-plastic windows are presented in 15 different modifications. These are fixing elements, hinges with mechanisms and parts that control the shutters. A separate group includes anti-vandal and childproof products. This also includes a mosquito net, decorative trims, latches and sealing tape.
Mosquito net Source okna-vid.ru
Soldering the window frame
To fasten workpieces for welding, unique arms are used - one such arm can move along guide rails. To make the heating element, two burners from an electric stove were taken and covered with Teflon fabric. Heating can be adjusted.
After heating the workpieces, you need to press them one against the other using a pneumatic cylinder from a jack. Thanks to the stop system, the molten edges of the workpieces are not pressed into one another by more than 3–4 mm. Compressed air is pumped into a receiver made from an old gas cylinder using a car compressor (up to 4 kg/s).
When the seam has cooled, repeat the procedure with the next pair. Thanks to the clamping system, almost all types of profiles can be attached. To clean the weld seam in the plane, take a wide chisel and a knife from the ends.
Carrying out the necessary measurements
Not everyone knows how to install a plastic window in a wooden house with their own hands. But everyone knows where to start - take measurements. The calculation of the dimensions of the frame frame is based on the parameters of the technological opening. The window is installed in strict accordance with the horizontal and vertical levels, so the supporting walls must also be level. After identifying the discrepancies and installing the beacons, you can begin to determine the perimeter.
An installation gap of 10-15 mm is arranged between the side, top profiles and the base of the opening. It compensates for possible dynamics and shrinkage of the building. It is subsequently filled with foam. The lower bar rises by no less than 15 mm, taking into account the setting of the low tide.
As a result, based on the state standard number 30971-02, the following will result:
- the vertical profile is equal to the actual height minus 40-60 mm;
- the horizontal frame is narrower than the opening width by the same 40-60 mm.
Installation clearances Source oknadost.ru
Measurements should be taken relative to the internal and external planes. This is due to the possible difference between the results and this will affect the manufacture of the window. In addition, the location of the frame in the technological opening has a different effect on the insulating properties of the binding. So, if the double-glazed window is located closer to the street, then the room is quieter, but the heat leaves faster. Internal approach has the opposite effect. More often, ⅔ of the room is considered.
The solution to how to install a plastic window in an opening with projections lies in understanding what a quarter is. Previously, when laying a façade with bricks, to prevent windows from falling out, they formed edges around the perimeter of the window opening about 6 cm wide, which is equal to ¼ of the length of the brick. Today, a similar architectural technique has been preserved, but its dimensions may differ from those originally designed. Thus, the window frame should be hidden behind the projections without direct contact with the walls of the opening as follows (in mm):
- from the sides by 20-30;
- from above by 20;
- from below to 20.
Quarter in the window opening Source handspc.ru
See also: Catalog of house projects made from hand-cut logs with panoramic windows.
The width of the ebb is measured taking into account a similar parameter of the external slope. Additionally, an overhang of about 30-40 mm is considered. The length of the element is based on the size of the profile and the bends on the sides to form the tray. To do this, add 25 mm on each side. If you intend to install plugs, then minus 10 mm for them.
Regarding the window sill, the parameters of the area within the opening and the protruding part are considered. The width and depth of the canvas are taken into account. The latter cannot be less than 5 cm. To ensure that the warm air from the heating equipment does not encounter an obstacle, the limit value of the protrusion is monitored. It is equal to ⅓ of the radiator width.
Correct position of the window sill Source img.aviarydecor.com
Taking measurements for balcony glazing
The approach to the question of how to install a plastic window on a loggia with your own hands differs slightly from wall openings. The process also begins with taking measurements. It is difficult to install beacons on the balcony in strict accordance with the level. Therefore, the height and width are measured at several points. The main thing is that the tape measure has a horizontal or vertical position. The minimum value obtained is taken as the reference point. For plastic windows, 30 mm is subtracted from the results for each installation seam. Areas with large gaps will need to be expanded with plaster mortar or planks.
Extended opening Source designstil.info
Consequences of an erroneous measurement
How to insert a plastic window with exceeding parameters is a common problem due to erroneous measurements. There is only one solution - expanding the walls. The wood is hewn down, and the concrete, brick and blocks are knocked down, ground down or cut off.
Other options will also require subsequent infusions. Either you will have to increase the opening, or repair the mechanisms from frame distortions. Depressurization of windows, cracks in double-glazed windows, loose closing of sashes with damage to profiles may also occur. In winter, due to the significant installation gap, freezing, condensation, and damage to slopes are possible.
Preparation
If you are replacing windows, installing plastic windows yourself begins with dismantling the old one. Problems usually do not arise: breaking does not build. After dismantling, it is necessary to inspect the opening: remove everything that can fall off. If there are any protruding parts, they must be removed - using a hammer, chisel or power tool. When the plane is leveled, all construction debris must be removed. Ideally, sweep everything away, even the dust, otherwise during installation the foam will not “grab” well on the wall.
Preparing the opening for installation
If there are too large potholes or cavities, it is better to cover them with cement mortar. The smoother the opening, the easier the installation will be. If the wall material is loose, they can be treated with binding compounds: penetrating adhesive primers.
Stages of installing plastic windows
The answer to how to properly install a plastic window is simple - initially the glazing activity should be carried out in free space. This is necessary in order to prevent damage to interior items and household appliances, and injury from discomfort and cramped conditions.
Workplace for a window installer Source s10.stc.all.kpcdn.net
You will also need space for a dismantled window, a new disassembled structure, tools and quiet movement. The work is accompanied by dust and debris, so it is better to cover the remaining things and furniture with film or a damp cloth.
It is recommended to cover the working areas under the window and along the walls with plywood, hardboard or chipboard. These materials will not allow damage to the floor covering from the pressure of heavy objects or falling window elements, tools, or stepladders.
Removing old windows
How to install plastic windows if there is already glazing, but it needs to be replaced - dismantle the old double-glazed windows and frames. The main thing is to prepare the site and follow the procedure. For work you will need gloves, a hacksaw, a crowbar, a knife and a screwdriver or screwdrivers.
Removing the glazing looks like this:
- Removing the sash. If the glass is poorly secured, it is better to remove it in advance.
- Cutting and removing the frame with impost. It is enough to make a few notches to simplify the task. For wood, you should use a regular saw, and for metal, you can take a grinder.
Removing an old window Source cdn1.spiegel.de
- Removing a window sill with low tide. The wooden one is dismantled by analogy with the same frame. The concrete is pierced with a jackhammer or a hammer drill with a spatula attachment; to simplify the work, cuts can be made with a grinder.
Accessories
The choice of accessories - handles, mechanisms, etc. should be approached with special attention. Keep in mind that the room where the plastic windows are located must be constantly ventilated. That is, you will often open and close the window, which means you will use the fittings. The service life of windows directly depends on the quality of the mechanisms. Therefore, you should choose more expensive, but reliable fittings, so as not to bother with window repairs later.
Common mistakes when installing plastic windows
How to install a plastic window yourself in a wooden house without negative consequences - you need to familiarize yourself with the common mistakes of predecessors. The first among them is the incorrect taking of measurements. It is important to consider the space for the installation gap. During foaming, the base of the openings often turns out to be weak or dirty. Because of this, cold bridges and condensation form.
Neglect of the building level leads to premature failure of fittings and window frames. The use of cheap foam does not ensure durability and strength of the result. An installation gap wider than 40 mm increases the load on the fastening system. The best option is a distance of 15 mm.
DIY PVC windows
During the construction of his mansion, one acquaintance decided to buy windows, and it was impossible to ignore the column with the cost of the material.
The developer was slightly shocked! The price was almost two times lower than the cost of the entire order. It was then that the decision was made to purchase profiles and other materials at cost, and that plastic PVC windows would be made from them with their own hands.
Related article: How to decorate a corner window with curtains
The equipment necessary for the work was also assembled with our own hands. To obtain the required welding fixture, hand tools were used that were at hand - in the form of drills, electric jigsaws, hammer drills, and other necessary tools.
The cutter for trimming the impost was purchased at the same place where the profile was purchased.
Since the profile is now available in a wide variety of shapes and designs, it is recommended to view the product catalog before ordering.
Before purchasing, you should also make sure that there is a steel frame inside the profile, which increases the rigidity of the window frame and prevents it from breaking.
Features of work
To prevent moisture from accumulating inside, you can use bentonite or cat litter for backfill.
Making windows at home has a number of features that need to be taken into account during the work.
- Double-glazed windows must be made completely sealed to avoid fogging. It is first recommended to pour sorbent into the connecting profiles, which will absorb moisture.
- Wood is prone to drying out and deformation. To prevent this from happening, you need to regularly treat the frame with protective agents. Another option is to purchase laminated veneer lumber or lumber from valuable wood species (oak, cedar, larch).
- In any case, there is a gap between the frame and the box for free opening. To avoid drafts, rubber or foam rubber seals should be installed in such places.
- Don't forget about the window sill. You can also make it yourself by gluing it together from several boards or bars, then processing it to match the window.
- During work, safety precautions must be observed. Electrical appliances must be grounded, and when using them, a rubber mat must be laid. Hands should be protected with gloves, and eyes with goggles or a visor.
Even without professional skills, you can make a beautiful and strong window yourself. To do this, you need to carefully carry out each stage of the work, take your time, and double-check all measurements and calculations.
Eurowindow - what is it and how is it done?
Perimeter fittings are a prefabricated harness made up of several parts mounted along the entire perimeter of the profile. It provides locking of the sash at several points, using one handle, which allows you to achieve the tightest possible fit and eliminates blowing. Thanks to this fittings, a window with an opening sash can operate in two modes – tilt and turn. In the rotary mode, the window opens only by turning; in the combined mode, the window sash opens and tilts.
The fundamental design difference between Euro windows and conventional windows is one frame, which can accommodate several double-glazed windows. The main technical characteristic of the “euro” is complete tightness, achieved through various seals. Thermal conductivity will depend on the number of air chambers, and on the type of glass in the double-glazed window, and on the correct installation of the window. Therefore, the material from which the profile is made does not play a role; what is important is the functionality of the structure and its characteristics.
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