Window installation – what you need to know
If you decide to replace old windows and balcony doors, in addition to the choice of materials, pay attention to the correct installation of the windows. Windows are made of plastic (PVC), aluminum and wood, as well as wood-aluminum combinations. The most favorable is PVC joinery, while the most expensive and the best quality windows are wood-aluminum combination, where the wood from the inside gives warmth to the space and the aluminum from the outside protects the wood from atmospheric influences. Determining the correct side of the window opening and the precise dimensions of the opening are also necessary.
Can I install the window myself?
Installation of windows You can install the windows yourself if you have the necessary knowledge and skills, but it is best to invite experienced craftsmen who will do it with maximum quality, but it is even better if the company that sold you the carpentry does it themselves. Thus, all responsibility will be theirs, and if something is not right, you can complain, and if the windows are still under warranty, then they are obliged to solve the problem for you free of charge.
Preparation for window installation
Installing a window is like a renovation, everything is full of dust and dirt, so if you can”t throw your things out of the room because of their large weight and dimensions, cover them with something – a foil, sheet or something that doesn”t allow dust to pass through. A floor that is close to a window can be damaged, especially if it is a high-quality and expensive parquet. During installation, there is a lot of dust, mortar and pieces of brick and wood, so don”t be lazy, put away the carpet and install plastic film or nylon. You should be prepared for the fact that there will be a lot of dust and dirt in the apartment even after the craftsman leaves. If you don”t have the time or desire to clean up after them, you can hire a hygiene maintenance agency.
What tools and materials do you need to install the window?
Different aids are used when installing windows: drill, jigsaw, spirit level, hammer, screwdriver, tape measure, cutter, glass blocks, cordless screwdriver, sealing tape and studs. You”ll also need a window, mounting foam, sealant, and (optionally) weatherstripping. Be sure to purchase a window lock, which is usually not included with the window.
What types of windows are there?
In general, three different materials are available for window frames: wood, plastic and aluminum. Today, plastic is a popular choice because it is weather resistant, durable and has good insulation. Wood, on the other hand, looks nicer. You also have to decide on the opening mechanism and choose between different types of glass, protective equipment and fittings. It is best to seek professional advice from an expert at your woodworking shop.
Window assembly procedure
During installation, aluminum and PVC joinery is first fixed with wooden pegs, making sure that it is installed horizontally and vertically. The size of the built-in opening should be two cm smaller than the width and height of the masonry opening. The window should be exactly centered in the masonry opening with air gaps of one cm on each side. Air gaps of 1 cm are important so that they can be filled with quality foam and thereby enable high-quality sound and thermal insulation, because the insulating values u200bu200bof the window itself must not be destroyed by installation. The intermediate space between the construction opening and the size of the window, as well as the material used to secure the window, must allow the window to expand and contract smoothly due to the influence of temperature. In case the size of the window compared to the size of the building opening is not well determined or if the window is not well centered and properly attached due to thermal dilatation, functional problems such as difficulties in opening or closing, and in drastic cases even cracking of the stem, may occur.
