Installation of PVC windows or window replacement is the most critical stage of building structures in new homes because it largely depends on the comfort and convenience of living tenants. This article tells about what problems the owners of plastic windows sometimes have to deal with.
Every year, large cities are growing, and more new apartment buildings are. The rapid increase in the number of houses inevitably brings to mind the quality of such facilities. Finde window companies near me Massachusetts.
New windows - old problems
Once the happy tenants move in, they immediately encounter numerous problems. Often the issues are related to the plastic windows, which eventually have to be replaced with new ones.
The main problem is the crooked openings made by workers hastily. If the installation were not done according to the standard, the first temperature changes would cause corrosion of the profile after installing PVC windows. As a result of this phenomenon begin draughts and jamming of fittings.
There is another reason for breakages and difficulties with plastic windows. To save money, windows of dubious quality are installed. When a tenant's request comes out, the repair team to adjust the broken mechanism to make repairs on the spot is very rare: it is all about low quality and unknown manufacture of products. It turns out that builders save on materials at the expense of future tenants, who must pay for the installation of new windows.
labor cost to install vinyl windows
The only thing we can recommend when choosing plastic windows is to contact a good company. When getting, ask about the availability of necessary documentation and compliance with regulations.
You can choose profiles, glazing, and fittings with us at your discretion. It is possible to order a variety of additional accessories. We offer to select the double-glazed window with a special insulating coating, which is much better for keeping the heat in your house.
Pay attention to the design of the facade of the house you live in. If, for example, according to the architect's idea, all the frames are laminated with wood, you have to order similar windows. You can, however, choose to have them laminated or painted on the indoor side if you like. No one can stop you from doing that.
Before you begin the installation, you should make preparations for the room. This will reduce the installation time:
- What you should do: Send children and pets to a safe place, as there will be some dust, noise, and draughts during installation;
- Remove curtains, curtains, drapes, and blinds. Remove flowers from the window sill;
- Prepare free access to the opening, move furniture 2 meters away from the window;
- Take care of the free movement of window structures, i.e., free up corridors as much as possible;
- Remove floor covering (carpeting, rugs, carpets). If it cannot be removed, it is necessary to protect it, that is, cover it with foil, oilcloth, and a wet cloth, all well fixed. If the floor is parquet, it must be prepared thoroughly, as removing construction dust from the joints between the planks is challenging. The easiest way is to cover the parquet with film, then lay a wet cloth, so the dust has no chance and another layer of film. This "sandwich" can be moved from room to room as the window installation progresses;
- Taking care of the furniture; ideally, it should be moved to another room. If not possible, the table should be covered first with foil and then with a damp sheet so that all dust settles on it;
- Prepare access to electrical outlets or extension cords, as installers will be using electrical appliances;
- Prepare a vacuum cleaner, as it may be necessary to remove the dust after dismantling the structures so that it does not spread to other rooms.
Types of window openings for different kinds of buildings
Technical information on window openings
A window aperture is an opening in the wall to install one or more window units, the construction of which also provides for installing an installation seal, soffits, sills, and sill board. For the convenience of installation of window and door units, the perimeter of the opening is made with quarters - protrusions of the outer row of masonry.
Window Apertures in Panel Houses
All panel, block, and panel-frame houses belong to this group. A distinctive feature of panel houses is that the walls of such buildings are made of separate concrete slabs joined together.
The joints between the panels are plastered or filled with sealant.
If the installation joints of the windows in the opening are closed with a casing, this type of building is commonly called a "panel with casing." If the mounting joints inside the room are plastered or poured into the concrete, this construction is called a "panel with a poured box."
Window openings in brick homes
This group includes all structures built of brick, wall stone, foam blocks, and other small-block elements.
If the glazing in a brick structure is made in a single line, this type of structure is called "brick with a single frame."
If the glazing is done in two lines, i.e., the windows are installed in the opening in two rows, this type of structure is called "double-framed brick."
Window openings in monolithic houses
This group includes all structures, the construction of which uses the technology of casting the load-bearing walls of the building from concrete.
In this case, the outer walls can be both concrete and brick or foam blocks, with an external or internal insulating layer.
Measurement of windows in monolithic houses should be performed with special care, carefully studying the structure of the walls.
Window openings in wooden houses
This group includes all buildings built of wood.
This includes: timber and log buildings, frame and panel houses;
- wooden houses covered with brick;
- modular wooden buildings, etc.
Window installation in homes with curtain wall facades
Houses with curtain facades today are the majority of modern new buildings.
The window is installed in the load-bearing structural layer of the wall. Therefore, it is imperative to provide waterproofing for the insulation. To do this, as a rule, use metal framing, which should be tight to the window box, and mastic or sealant to seal the joint.
Remember: the assembly foam is only for insulation, and as waterproofing, it is highly unreliable.
As a rule, the box in such houses is fixed with frame dowels.
Installing Windows in a Panel House
The window is usually shifted into the layer of insulation (which in such walls is protected by the outer finishing layer of the wall panel) and secured with anchor plates.
In panel houses, as a rule, there is the so-called "quarter" - a ledge in the wall to which the window is attached, which simplifies the sealing of the joint and "prompts" the position of the frame, but the geometry of the openings is sometimes far from ideal.
Installing windows in laminated masonry
When installing windows in laminated masonry, the window is often located in the primary heat insulation and a structural layer made of foam concrete, porous ceramic, or other blocks.
Often, however, for aesthetic reasons, the window is moved closer to the street in a layer of insulation. This is acceptable if provided secure fit boxes (you need to use special mounting plates) and insulation protection from moisture.
You can not categorically displace windows in the masonry's plane of the ventilation gap.
Installation of windows in an old brick or brick and block house
The position of the window is also set by the quarter, but the opening can be partially destroyed when removing old windows: old bricks, blocks, and plaster are easily crumbled.
Replacing windows may take longer because you need to restore the quarters; otherwise, you can not avoid leaks, and the opening will look sloppy.
Installation of Plastic Windows in Wooden Houses
Windows are installed, taking into account the shrinkage of the walls. The paramount shrinkage of the house occurs during the first few years. Later it is expressed to a lesser extent. Also, wood tends to change parameters during the year due to moisture and climatic conditions. All these features require a particular approach to glazing wooden houses.
Before installing frames in the opening, mount trim boxes, which protect the plastic windows from linear changes in the space due to shrinkage.
The result is a strong box that does not prevent the natural shrinkage of the house but at the same time protects the window from damage. How to measure rough opening for window replacement
Fixing the window frame
It is necessary to trace that the step of knots of fastening of a window frame in an aperture did not exceed indicated (see the table); thus, the depth of planting of dowels in concrete and brick should be 40 mm, in the cellular concretes - 70-100 mm.
It is also vital that installing fasteners does not lead to the formation of chips and cracks.
Arrangement of mounting joint
A window joint must consist of three layers: a water insulation layer,
thermal insulation,
vapor barrier.
Today, assembly foam is used mainly as heat insulation, and special tapes and mastics (sealants) are used for vapor and waterproofing.
Installation stages of plastic windows
Installing the windows is a crucial moment affecting the glazing quality. Quality installation directly depends on the functionality of the purchased windows. Installation of PVC windows includes the following stages:
Control measurements of the window and opening. First, installers make control measurements of the window opening and PVC frame, checking the order's completeness.
They were dismantling the old frame. When dismantling the old windows, the sashes are taken off the hinges, the glass is removed from the blind parts, and the window frame is sawn up and taken out of the opening piece by piece. Old PVC frames can be removed without sawing. Removing the unwanted window frame is an essential step in which it is necessary to act carefully to avoid damage and a significant change in the opening size. When removing the structure, the window sill and sill are removed.
They were preparing the frame. Following the requirements, three types of insulation tapes (PSUL, waterproofing, and vapor barrier) are glued to the PVC frame. They will protect the installation joint from precipitation, moisture vapor from the room, and condensation. An additional profile is attached to the bottom of the frame. Holes are drilled in the frame profile, necessary for the reliable fixing of the structure in the opening.
They were fastening the frame. Before installation, the opening is leveled and cleaned of construction dust. Then, the structure is aligned horizontally and vertically; deviations are corrected with the help of technological wedges. Finally, the frame is fastened on all planes. During the fixing, the following requirements are met: at least two fixing elements on each side, the distance between them shall be not more than 70 cm, from the inner corner to the fastener - 15-18 cm, from the impost to the buckle - 12-18 cm. When the frame is fixed and aligned, the mounting gap between it and the opening is sealed.
Installation of the window sill and drip molding. The window sill is installed with a slight tilt towards the room so that the moisture does not accumulate near the frame. The sill is fixed similarly from the outer side, with a slope to the street. All joints are treated with silicone sealant.
They were hanging the sashes and adjusting. Finally, the masters fix the double-glazed windows with glazing beads, hang the belts, and install handles and protective strips for hinges. Fittings are adjusted to allow for easy opening and closing of the plastic windows: fitted additional elements - mosquito nets, ventilation flaps, child locks. At the final stage of finishing plinths, remove trash and old windows.
When glazing apartments, removing old frames and installing new windows are carried out sequentially: removing the window in one room (removed from the hinges sashes and exposed structure), immediately installing the window, then moving to another room.
To ensure that the installation work went quickly and upon completion of cleaning took less time, we recommend preparing the room.
Peculiarities of installation in winter
The main advantage of buying windows in the winter is the fast production and delivery, due to the small number of orders.
During this period, many manufacturers offer lucrative promotions and discounts on their products.
A special heat shield is used to prevent the cooling of the room.
A window opening, in this case, remains open no more than 30-40 minutes, which is enough time to replace the glazing.
How to check the quality of the PVC window installation
During installation, do not hesitate to ask the fitters to allow them to inspect the mounting seams and make sure all the cavities are well sealed and there are no gaps, bubbles, and other bugs; it will save you time and eliminate possible claims.
After installation is complete, open and closes the sash several times - their movement should be light and free. The closed strap should fit tightly against the frame, and the handle should rotate easily.
Errors made during installation are indicated by:
- Feeling of draught when bringing your hand to the seal;
- Seizing of sashes when opening and closing;
- The presence of gaps between the wall and the profile;
- Window frame mobility when opening the sashes;
- Low thermal insulation - even in severe frosts, the temperature in the room glazed with PVC windows can not fall below +18 ° C.
The technology of installation of plastic windows: installation instructions
It is worth noting that the plastic window structures themselves, which are installed on residential premises, must comply with the norms and requirements. Windows installation should also be made following this regulatory framework, which is why it isn't easy to install the window yourself. Winter windows installation has even more nuances; for example, it is impossible to work at temperatures below -15oC.
So, let us consider the installation process of the plastic window step by step.
Taking measurements
This is one of the most critical phases, as a mistake in measurement can lead to faulty installation and gaps between the plastic window frame and the wall or window sill. Even in apartment buildings with standard window openings, there are significant deviations from the norm. So do not be lazy - Measure, and it is better to several times. You can call for a measuring person - most insulating glass installation companies offer such a service free.
Making window designs
In large companies oriented on the client, the production of the window system begins only after taking measurements and discussing the window design with the customer. The production process takes from ten days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the work and the number of window designs.
Delivery
Usually, the manufacturer delivers the window to the customer within one to two days after the window is ready.
Preparing the room for installation
Whether you decide to install plastic windows with your own hands or use the help of a specialist - in any case, the room must be prepared for installation in advance. Removing all objects near the window is necessary to free up space for the installation actions. Also, be prepared for the fact that it will be required to make chipping and holes in the wall along the window opening; therefore, there will be a lot of dust and debris. Cover the floor and furniture with fabric or film. If you replace a window, the old window structure will also be added to the construction debris.
Dismantling old windows
Of course, before installing a new window, you will need to dismantle the old window. Sometimes it isn't easy to do it yourself, especially if the house is old and the frames are attached to the pins in the wall. It is also important not to break the glass of the old window when you remove it: this could cause injury. So it is worth either calling for helpers, preferably with a grinder or asking the same firm to install plastic windows - the list of their services almost always includes dismantling.
Installation of new plastic windows
The most responsible stage. It is imperative to install the plastic window frame correctly, fix it with anchor bolts, and ensure that the construction "stands" perfectly straight. Then you can hang the sashes. Do not forget to use a level - the frame must be parallel to the floor. The gaps between the opening and the frame are filled with assembly foam, providing insulation.
Important!
Don't forget to remove the protective film from the window construction before installing it! Then, to prevent glue residue from being left behind, wipe the frame and glass with a cloth soaked in alcohol.
Installing the hardware
After installing the sashes, install the handles and mosquito nets (if necessary). After the window sill has been installed, the end caps are attached to the window sill.
Installation of window sills, drip moldings, and soffits
First, the window sill is cut to the required length, then, making sure that it is installed strictly on the level with a slight tilt (1-2o) towards the window, fix the cloth to the prepared surface. If there is a radiator under the window sill, ensure that the window sill does not overlap the heater by half its width. For soffits, use plastic panels installed with the window or plasterboard. As an economical option, the plaster will do. On the outside, you install the drip moldings, most often polyester, less usually aluminum.
Finishing work
If the window opens without a quarter, the excess foam is cut off (not yet done when installing the slopes), flattened with sealant, and the top necessarily closes the mounting gap with special tools. In other cases, the mounting foam is protected from ultraviolet and moisture plaster mixture or sealant when the opening is with a quarter. The gap between the frame and the slope "passes" adhesive or liquid plastic.
Checking the correctness of the installation and cleaning the room
The final stage of installing plastic windows is to check the work of the sashes and, if necessary - their adjustment. After that, removing all the remaining debris from the room (by yourself or the firm installer) is required.
At first glance, there is nothing impossible in the installation of plastic windows. However, to avoid wasting their time and effort, many people think about ordering the structure from the company that made the glass. But will it not be too expensive?
The cost of installing a plastic window and options to save money
Many large companies offer manufacturing and installation of turnkey plastic windows, including everything from measurements to the structure of the slopes. However, the installation cost can vary significantly even within the same company. It depends on pricing factors such as window size and type, the profile material (for example, REHAU is more expensive than KVE), additional fittings, and the type of insulating glass. Also, some firms "price" more expensive installation of windows on the upper floors, explaining the increased risk for professionals. Working with non-standard designs will also cost more than with typical windows.
For example, a double casement window with a turn-and-tilt opening method, 2-chamber glass, and REHAU profile will cost an average of 177 dollars, and a balcony door 2 m high with the same profile will be installed type of insulating glass is about $200. Accordingly, to change the window in a one-room apartment with a balcony can be entirely for the amount in the range of 615-769 dollars, but in a two-and three-room apartment - to replace old window designs have to spend from 923 to 1500 dollars (if glazed loggia or balcony).
Please note!
Even with installation, the cost of a plastic window is not much higher than the price of wooden windows but serves four or five times longer (with proper installation and operation - up to 50 years). So the costs are more than repaid.
Save on installation of PVC windows can be ordered during the "off-season" - in winter or autumn. Also, carefully monitor the promotions from companies: when ordering, for example, several insulating glass units, you can get up to a 10% discount. It also reduces the cost and collects a smaller amount of fittings, not wide sill and soffits. In addition, some companies offer free installation of plastic windows in their production.
Installation by yourself or with the help of specialists?
But even if you do not have to pay for installation, is it worth trusting its representatives or seeking a private expert's services? Or is it better to do it yourself? We will give the pros and cons of all approaches.
Installing plastic windows with your own hands
The main advantage of this method will be your interest in the fact that the work was done as high as possible and that there is no need to pay for the installation. But to properly install the design, you will have to spend a lot of personal time and are concerned about the availability of specialized tools.
Attracting a specialist-private contractor
The services of a private master are usually inexpensive, and he already has his tools and experience installing plastic window designs. However, private individuals often do not particularly care about the quality of the work performed, as they are not responsible to the company. They also do not issue a warranty and are not always aware of the regulatory requirements for window installation.
