A lot of materials on the topic of window installation describe the main stages of work. However, the installation of plastic windows is not just fastening the frames to the anchors and foaming the seams. If it's about self replacement windows, you should know a lot more. What types of windows exist, read further in the article.
Choose windows wisely!
Not all windows are the same. Yes, most of them have adjacent design− matte white frame and sparkling double-glazed windows. But if you look at the root, completely different products can be hidden under the same shell.
Types of windows by opening method
According to the method of opening the window is divided into:
blind windows
Installation of plastic windows of this type can only be carried out in rooms where air exchange is provided by its own air conditioning system. A huge minus is the difficulty in cleaning the window from the outside. Plus - the reliability of the design. Can be used in shopping and entertainment buildings, industrial buildings, as well as on stairwells and technical rooms.
Traditional design
The traditional design of the window allows it to be opened outwards. It can be supplemented with the ability to open a window inside the room. Easy to clean and durable.
Hinged windows
Hinged windows allow you to leave the window in the ventilation mode. However, if this is the only function of the window fittings, it will also be problematic to clean it.
Tilt and turn system
Tilt and turn window system is one of the most functional.
sliding windows
Installation sliding windows allows you to win usable space in oversized rooms, as well as perfectly complement the design of any room.
Figure 1 - Types of windows by opening method
Types of windows by design
- Single glazed windows.
- Double-glazed windows are also divided into twin-panel and split-panel windows.
This characteristic will significantly affect the soundproofing properties. window system.
Types of windows by source material
- Wooden windows. An age-old classic is now given a second life with a sustainable building brand. Manufacturers: Wicknorm (Germany), Schöb Fenster (Germany), KNEER (Germany).
- PVC - plastic windows. The installation of eurowindows today is associated precisely with the PVC profile, however, the “eurowindow” is understood as an improved window system that provides greater sound, heat and vapor barrier through the use of modern technologies and materials. Producers: VEKA (Germany), REHAU (Germany), DECCO (Poland).
- Installation aluminum windows produced in most public buildings and industrial premises. Producers: ANTON WETZEL (Germany), TUR-PLAST (Poland).
- Metal-plastic windows. Often given material confused with simple PVC windows. However, there is a difference - the design of the metal plastic window stronger due to the reinforcing amplifier placed in the PVC profile. Producers: Baufen (Bulgaria), KBE (Russia, Germany).
Types of windows by purpose
- noise protection;
- impact resistant;
- tinted;
- energy saving;
- semi-mirror.
Separately, I would like to say about energy-saving windows. It is assumed that these windows with inside will be coated with a sputtering of silver atoms, which will create a reflective effect and will help retain heat in the room.
However, when they try to sell you a window, hanging a thousand characteristics on the proposed product, be vigilant: what sellers call an “energy-saving” window may actually not be made using energy-saving technologies at all and even have nothing to do with them.
Photo 1 - Making windows
The same applies to fire windows. Not every window is extremely flame resistant. Glasses and profiles of fire-resistant windows, by the way, also have their own characteristics - fire resistance limit (СВС 15-60), package thickness requirements (16-38 mm), weight norms (38-76 kg / m²), etc.
Scheme 1 - Window fire block
If you are really interested in buying a fire protection window, take a look at the catalogs of certified products from Schuco, UAB Bavaria Dom and CORAL.
If we sorted out the choice of the type of front windows a little, then they didn’t even say a word about roof windows (especially about choosing a dormer window). Firstly, this is a separate type of window products, because there are much more requirements for it: due to the fact that the design of the dormer window becomes part of the roof, it must at least have a safety class III and be accompanied by a complete set of materials for installation. Here, without unnecessary savings, you should trust only proven brands FAKRO, ROTO or VELUX.
Window installation services: a full package of services and nothing else!
It is risky to let the purchase, and even more so the installation of the window, take its course. If you did not have the relevant experience, you can easily miss the measurements or the choice of double-glazed windows.
And if you decide to seek help from specialists, please note that you have the right to demand that the entire sequence of work be completed:
- Window lock.
- delivery.
- Window installation.
- Slope trim.
- Service.
- Warranty.
If you are faced with a company that does not provide the full range of services, it is better to look for another contractor: for example, selling windows without installation is unreasonably unprofitable for you, because you yourself will at least have to look for workers. In addition, the manufacture and installation of windows must comply with GOST, and in most cases guarantee you quality manufacturing and installation according to all the rules can only be certified firms. Otherwise - how do you know if everything is done in accordance with the norms.
Moreover, before starting work, you should know exactly what you will get as a result: discuss with the workers what is included in the cost of the basic window installation package, and what will need to be paid separately.
Figure 2 - Vent valve cutaway
Additional opportunities can be offered to you even when placing an order at the office of the company. Never refuse to consider such proposals: for example, a good double-glazed window should not fog up, however, an additional precaution may be to install valves on the windows (special ventilation systems) or, say, for greater control over the ventilation function of the room, it is proposed additional option− installation of a comb on the window profile.
The purchase will be worthwhile if you contact the actual representatives of well-known brands − REHAU, VEKA(front windows) or VELUX (skylights) and etc.
All of them - Veka, Velux, and Rehau, as well as any other respected manufacturer, provide a list of offices and representative offices in a particular city of the country on the official website of the company. Therefore, you can be sure that you really entrusted the production and installation of eurowindows for your apartment to professionals.
Window mounting materials
It is important not only WHO provides installation services, but also WHAT the workers use. If this is your first time installing windows, do not trust yourself with the choice of materials for installation work.
Remember! The manufacture and installation of windows is a matter of professionals.
Even if we are talking about buying mounting foam or sealant, you should not go to the construction market without an exact list indicating the characteristics of each product. Moreover, most world-famous manufacturers are themselves happy to provide their customers with the entire set of materials, the purchase of which greatly simplifies everything or, in extreme cases, recommends a company whose profile is the installation and installation of plastic windows.
Installation of window blocks: what you need to have on hand
Installation of window blocks is impossible without:
- mounting foam;
- silicone;
- dowel-nails;
- anchor plates;
- self-tapping screws;
- plasters.
Continuing the topic, let's give an example. All necessary materials for window installation can be found in the catalogs of many manufacturers, but one of the companies that provide materials and components for window installation in full is Bauset: polyurethane foam, silicones, cleaners and guns for them, mounting tape, ebbs, window sills, slope systems, chemicals for windows, auxiliary materials for installation - everything, up to mosquito nets and platbands can be found in the manufacturer's catalog.
Figure 3 - Catalog of goods for window installation from Bauset
Among the auxiliary, but very practical devices is a heat shield for comfortable installation in the cold season. The inflatable screen for installation is mounted on spacers in the window opening from the outside after dismantling the old one. window frame, thus, closing the room from the penetration of cold air.
Final installation of windows: everything is strictly according to the contract!
In practice, few people complain about the quality of windows, but many complain about the installation of window systems. Errors in installation can lead at least to fogging of window panes, and at most to damage to the double-glazed window (for example, to cracking of glass due to the curvature of the frame installation).
To avoid unpleasant situations and losses, the installer should only dismantle and install windows in accordance with an agreement that guarantees high-quality installation.
GOSTs, requirements and basic technical standards that will guide the team during the installation work. Having at hand technical requirements, the process of installing windows will be clear to you, the errors of the wizards will become noticeable. Trying to control the installation process, do not hesitate to ask questions: sometimes a comment made in time can correct a flaw in time.
Installation of plastic windows. VIDEO
The window is one of the main elements of any room, affecting the creation of coziness and comfort. Most people understand by these concepts light, warm room where peace and quiet reign. However, this effect can only be achieved with quality window, which does not let street noise into the room and does not release heat into the street.
The most popular designs are plastic windows. In connection with the development of popularity, many varieties of plastic windows have been developed.
Plastic windows have a number of advantages - low cost, resistance to moisture and other natural phenomena, no need for additional care. To choose a truly reliable and convenient window, you need to familiarize yourself with the types of available designs.
What is a plastic window made of?
- A frame is an element that is attached to a window opening in a building wall. It completely repeats the shape of the opening, so the frame is made individually in accordance with the shape and size of the window opening. The frame is made of metal-plastic profile.
- The sash is the movable part of the window, attached to the frame by means of hinged canopies. One window can have several sashes. It depends on the individual preferences of the customer.
- A double-glazed window is several glasses arranged parallel to each other and hermetically fastened together. Double-glazed windows are inserted into the frame and sashes of the window. The number of glasses and their thickness is selected individually, depending on the preferences of the customer. There are single, double and triple glazing.
- Glazing beads are plastic strips that hold double-glazed windows in seats frames and sashes.
- - these are mechanisms for opening and closing window sashes (hinges, locks, handles, etc.).
- Window seals seal the joints between window structural elements.
Main technical characteristics of plastic windows
The reliability and functionality of the window consists of technical features everyone individual element. There are standard ready-made window sets for those who do not understand the features of their design.
But you can arrange all the elements at your discretion, and for this you need to understand the features and varieties of components.
The metal-plastic profile is a reinforced PVC, from which the supporting frame of the window (frame and sashes) is created. Main specifications profile: heat transfer, profile width and number of chambers in it.
Metal-plastic profile parameters:
- Chambers are partitions inside a metal-plastic profile, each chamber has its own purpose. The most common is the three-section profile. One section gives rigidity to the structure, the second carries out the outflow of condensate, the third is needed for fastening the fittings. However, there are four, five and six-chamber profiles. The number of chambers directly affects the thermal conductivity of the window frame, because each section is filled with air, and it is a poor conductor of heat.
- Increasing the profile width makes it possible to increase the air gap in the chambers, and also makes it possible to install thicker glasses and double-glazed windows, and this, in turn, provides more reliable protection from external noise and heat leakage.
- Heat transfer is a value that characterizes the profile, taking into account all the advantages and disadvantages of the design.
double glazing
A double-glazed window is several connected glasses that create air chambers between themselves. It can be single, double or triple. The glasses themselves can also have different thicknesses.
Double-glazed windows are various kinds:
- – the inner glass is covered with silver atoms, which ensures the reflection of heat from the radiators and reduces heat loss.
- covered with light-absorbing material.
- Impact-resistant double-glazed windows are treated with a special resin, which increases their strength.
How does changing the parameters of glass affect the reliability of the window:
- The number of glasses in a double-glazed window provides better thermal and sound insulation. However a large number of glasses with strong noise can get into resonance from vibration, which is a source of noise and destruction of the window structure.
- The thickness of the glass in a double-glazed window directly affects the thermal conductivity and sound insulation of the window. The thicker the glass, the better the insulating properties.
Types of plastic windows
There are several types of plastic windows that differ in certain characteristics:
- Window shape. This parameter is determined by the shape and size of the window opening. There are round, square, triangular and other windows.
- The color of the window is also determined by the individual preferences of the customer. The most common colors are white, brown and other colors that mimic expensive woods.
- The type of sash opening is selected individually. There are the following types of opening: folding (fanlight), rotary (traditional), tilt-and-turn (complex) and spool (type of closing "sash in the sash"), sliding, rotary-sliding. A window can also be without shutters at all - a blind window.
Swivel opening of the window is carried out by vertical canopies. The disadvantage of this method is that the sash has a large span (takes up a lot of space) and there is no possibility of adjusting the air flow - the window can swing open under the pressure of the wind.
The hinged mechanism allows you to slightly open the sash, tilting it slightly - this ensures smooth ventilation of the room, while the window is almost closed.
Tilt and turn plastic windows are equipped with a mechanism that allows you to open the window with two different ways– traditional and folding.
The sash-to-sash slat opening provides a large open space when both sashes are open.
Sliding windows move on rollers along the plane of the window (as in a closet). This mechanism has an excellent advantage - saving space.
Tilt-sliding windows open a little on themselves, and then move to the side. This option much more convenient than the traditional opening.
What design of a plastic window is the most reliable
The most reliable plastic window is considered to be a design that provides the best thermal and noise insulation. If you have an unlimited budget and use every opportunity to improve the characteristics of the window, then you can assemble the following design:
- Use a six-chamber metal-plastic window profile with a width of 90 mm for the supporting structure of the window.
- Insert a triple-glazed window into the profile, the chambers of which are filled with an inert gas to improve the insulating properties of the window. For even greater insulation, you can use triplex, energy-saving and tinted glass.
- Install sashes with a complex mechanism that allows you to open the window in a hinged and rotary way. If you need to save space, you can install a sliding sash.
- It is better to choose a plastic window among the most famous brands: Veka, KBE, Rehau, etc.
Some features that should be considered when arranging the design of a plastic window:
- If you increase the number of chambers in the profile, then you must definitely increase its width, if this is not done, then the desired insulating effect will not be achieved. For example, for three-chamber profile the optimal width is 60 mm, for a six-chamber - 90 mm.
- To increase the sound insulation of double-glazed windows, but avoid vibrational resonance, you need to alternate the thickness of the glasses. For example, the thickness of the outer glass is taken equal to 8 mm, and the next glass - 4 mm, and so on.
- The fittings of the window should ensure a snug fit of the sashes to the frame and provide the possibility of adjustment.
During window operation, most of the heat escapes through the glass surface and not through the frame, so there is not much point in installing an expensive six-chamber profile. And in the case of a double-glazed window, it is better to install a two-chamber version with alternating glass thickness, but increase the distance between the glasses.
If you stock up on information, then do reliable choice plastic window will be easy. The main advisers for choosing high-quality and durable products are certificates and technical specifications. After all, sellers can embellish the benefits of the product.
Today, there are a huge number of window products on the market. Which plastic windows belong to the category of the highest quality and how the products differ high class from cheap fakes? When choosing plastic windows, you need to be guided by the main characteristics and reputation of the manufacturer. The cost of products does not always correspond to its quality, since sellers often unreasonably overestimate the price. Also, do not overpay for those design features that you will not need in your conditions. What you need to know about plastic windows in order to choose a quality product?
The main characteristics of plastic windows
Plastic windows consist of the following elements:
- window block and frame (profile) made of PVC;
- double-glazed windows (glass chambers);
- sealant;
- window fittings.
Each component has technical characteristics on which the performance of the window as a whole depends. Let us dwell in more detail on what indicators each of the elements should correspond to.
Attention!
High-quality PVC windows are produced under the control of ISO 9001 and have a corresponding certificate.
Profile
The profile made of high quality polyvinyl chloride is resistant to mechanical, chemical and thermal influences. Its service life is 50 years.
What indicators determine good profile PVC? Before choosing a manufacturer, read the main characteristics of the product.
- Profile width. It all depends on purchasing power. The wider the profile, the better and warmer it is. One caveat: a wide profile should have more stiffeners, otherwise the strength of the product will suffer.
- Number of thermal insulation chambers. For good thermal insulation, it is better to choose a profile with at least 5 chambers. In areas with very low winter temperatures, it is better to consider options where the chambers are filled with an inert gas.
- Reinforcement. For rigidity, the PVC profile is reinforced from the inside with steel inserts. A solid contour is more durable, but if heat-insulating properties are a priority, then it is better to install windows with an open contour - they are warmer.
- The country of origin of the profile. German products are traditionally considered to be of high quality. But often such windows are produced in Russia using German technology. In this case, the price should be lower.
How to choose a double-glazed window?
A double-glazed window is chosen in accordance with the requirements necessary for your conditions. Here are some designs of double-glazed windows:
- single-chamber - two glasses;
- two-chamber - three glasses;
- three-chamber - four glasses.
An important detail is the thickness of the glass and the distance between the glasses. The larger this value, the better the heat and sound insulation characteristics of the window. Average optimum thickness glass fluctuates around 4-5 mm (the outer one can be thicker than the inner one), and the distance between them is about 10-16 mm with a total thickness of at least 30 mm.
In addition, the cost of the window will be higher if glass with advanced features is installed:
- energy saving;
- armored;
- sun protection;
- reinforced;
- hardened;
- self-cleaning.
Profile color is traditionally white. If you choose poor quality PVC, it can fade in the sun and acquire a yellowish tint. In addition to white, you can put windows in other colors. In this case, the paint is applied to the surface of the profile or added directly to the plastic mass during the manufacturing process. There is an option like lamination - a painted film is glued onto the profile.
What is a sealant?
The sealant plays a significant role in thermal insulation and participates in the drainage system, ensuring the tightness of the window. It should go along the perimeter of the valves and fit snugly on both surfaces. The following materials are used for its production:
- rubber;
- silicone;
- special rubber;
- rubber-plastic.
The material must be elastic, soft, but resilient, resistant to external influences. It is better to install a seal made of ethylene-propylene-thermopolymer-rubber (EPDM).
Choosing accessories
Fittings provide opening of the window sashes. Putting good fittings means extending the life of the window as a whole and protecting yourself from unpleasant surprises. The opening mechanism can be simple - rotary, or more complex - tilt-and-turn; with slotted opening (winter ventilation). High-quality fittings are made from high-strength grades of alloy steel. At the request of the client, anti-burglary fittings, handles with a lock and a lock, hidden linings against drilling can be installed on the windows.
Good fittings are resistant to corrosion, have a smooth ride and an optimal ratio of metal and plastic in the design.
The leading manufacturers of fittings for plastic windows include the following companies:
- Siegenia-Aubi;
- Roto;
- Maco;
- Winkhaus.
window design
The cost of PVC windows directly depends on their design. There are rectangular and square windows, you can put profiles in the form of arches and semi-arches, hinged and sliding models, with fixed and opening doors. Large windows are mounted from several glasses, separating them with spross from aluminum profile. Modern manufacturers are ready to fulfill any whim, of course, for your money. The more non-standard window you want to put, the more opening and rotary mechanisms, the higher the final cost of the product.
Manufacturers and prices
Which manufacturers are considered the best? In Russia, about ten companies producing PVC windows have proven themselves well. Products of both domestic and foreign production are in demand. All of them occupy their niche in the price-quality ratio, which makes it easy to choose the right option.
- VEKA profile, Naro-Fominsk district, Gubtsevo village. The products have been awarded the German quality mark, and production control is carried out under the auspices of European technologies. The undoubted advantages of VEKA windows include stable quality and a wide range of products. The disadvantages are the high cost, which is determined not so much by the quality as by the brand.
- REHAU profile, Gzhel. Today, the company is the leader in terms of the number of products produced. Russian market sales. pros REHAU profile: high quality and manufacturer's guarantees, a wide range of products. The disadvantages include the high cost of products.
- Profile KBE (KBE), Voskresensk. Another German company engaged in production in Russia. At the same time, along with the high quality characteristic of the first two manufacturing companies, KBE profile Today it has a slightly lower price, which is explained by successful marketing moves.
These manufacturers occupy leading positions in the plastic window market. In addition to them, the following firms are included in the top 10 with varying success.
- SALAMANDER profile, Türkheim, Germany. Pros: European quality control, dealer control by the manufacturer, profile design. Cons - the cost of production.
- Profile "Mont Blanc", Elektrostal. The advantages include: low cost, large assortment, product quality. Cons: No ISO certification.
- Profile Kaleva, Moscow. Pros - great design, full cycle production. Cons - no quality management certification.
- Profile Proplex, Podolsk. This Russian company which created a full production cycle. Advantages of the profile: low cost. Disadvantages - outdated designs, lack of international certification.
- Profile Deceuninck, Belgium, branch - Protvino.
- SOK profile, Syzran. The company does not have its own profile, but manufactures it at the plant of the Profine concern (KBE). Windows are characterized by traditionally high European quality, but a small selection and unreasonably high cost of finished products.
In general, to the question “which windows are better to install?” there cannot be a clear answer. It all depends on the conditions in which they will be used. For residential premises, for areas with low winter temperatures, more expensive designs are chosen, and in other cases, you can save on the number of cameras and double-glazed windows, fittings and glass characteristics. Before installing windows, they determine for themselves the characteristics that they must meet, and turn to leading manufacturers with a good reputation and all relevant quality standards documents.
The window is pretty complex system, which consists of many elements. They perform important functions, and the operation of the window as a whole depends on their quality. Therefore, it is necessary to know the features of the structure standard window system.
The design of a plastic window includes a frame, fittings, sashes, double-glazed windows and glazing beads.
Frame - a fixed structural element that is mounted in a window opening. The part of the window system that is attached to the frame and can be opened and closed as needed is called the sash.
Glazing beads - PVC strips that hold the double-glazed window.
double glazing - several glasses, hermetically fastened together.
Usually in the production of PVC windows, glass is used with a thickness of 4 to 6 mm, sometimes triplex is used. triplex two sheets of glass are called, which are fastened with a transparent film. This type of glass is characterized by high strength.
There are three types of double-glazed windows: single-chamber and two-chamber (2 glasses and a camera between them) and three-chamber.
The space inside the PVC profile is filled jumpers. These partitions form compartments filled with air. The heat-insulating properties of the window system depend on these air chambers. The profile that contains maximum amount chambers, is the warmest. Recently, three-chamber PVC windows have been very popular. This is because each camera has its own functional purpose.
One chamber increases the rigidity of the profile, the other promotes the outflow of water (drainage) and the fittings are attached to the third. Fittings include such elements: handles, locking mechanisms, hinges and other devices that provide opening of the valves. Indispensable accessories for PVC windows are seals. They are installed along the edge of the double-glazed window on both sides.
Types of metal-plastic windows
PVC windows, like any other product, are presented in a wide range, in which each model has its own advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, further we will consider the main types of metal-plastic windows and their features.
So, all PVC windows are classified according to the type of opening into the following types:
1. blind window- can be part of a large plastic window in which other shutters open, or freestanding. The advantages of this type include low cost, since it lacks additional fittings and a sash profile. But, such a metal-plastic construction is not easy to operate, since it can only be washed from the inside. It is advisable to install blind windows on the first floors of buildings or in openings that overlook the parapet, balcony.
2. Hinged opening or fanlight- structures that open into the room in relation to vertical hinges. These windows are easy to use, and they provide an opportunity to ventilate the room.
3. Swivel opening (traditional) - windows, which open into the room in relation to the vertical hinges. These designs are very convenient to use, they can be washed without much effort. But, they have a drawback: in order to open the sashes of a traditional window, free space is needed.
4. Tilt and turn opening- a new opening mechanism that combines the features of the two types of windows listed above. These windows are very convenient to use, especially for ventilation. When windows are opened using the tilt method, fresh air enters the room only through the top of the window and this prevents drafts. To ventilate the premises in the winter, leading manufacturers install micro-ventilation mechanisms.
5. Shtulp opening used for double sash windows. It differs from the traditional type by closing the "sash to the sash". Sash opening is relevant for windows with a width of more than 1200 mm. When two wings are open, a continuous opening is formed, without a vertical partition. Metal-plastic windows are classified according to the number of sashes into: single-leaf, double-leaf and three-leaf windows.
Types of windows by configuration
Depending on the features of the building facade and dimensions, window systems can have the following configurations:
- Rectangular (horizontal and vertical);
- round;
- arched;
- triangular;
- Trapezoidal;
- Composite.
Classification of window systems by purpose
Windows can have a different purpose for the room, according to which the following types can be distinguished:
- energy saving- window systems that are coated on the inside with silver atoms that produce a reflective effect. This results in heat retention.
- Soundproof- windows that have thickened glass and a special coating on them to reflect and absorb sound.
- tinted- systems, the glasses of which are coated with a component that absorbs the rays of the sun.
- Impact resistant windows. In their production, double-glazed windows are laminated with a special resin.
A wide range allows each customer to find their own option. The main thing when choosing a window system is to take into account the peculiarities of their operating conditions and personal preferences.
