Step-by-step instructions for inserting plastic windows. Plastic window to the world: installation, tips, basic principles of installation

Plastic windows are considered aesthetic, functional, reliable and high-quality structures. Thanks to these qualities, they have become widespread. Currently, plastic windows continue to gain popularity. Installation of structures is usually carried out by the company where the order was made. Experts, of course, know how to install correctly metal-plastic windows. To carry out the work, professionals have all the necessary tools at their disposal.

Before installing plastic windows, measurements are taken. They are also carried out by specialists from the selected company. It is not recommended to do this work yourself. This is due to the fact that the block will be made along the opening. Errors in measurement can lead to the structure not being level, or difficulties arising with its fastening. But if it is best to entrust the measurements to a professional, then the installation of the module can be carried out by a home craftsman himself. How to install a plastic window correctly? Let's find out in the article.

General information

Previously, it was believed that installing a plastic window with your own hands was very difficult. As a rule, this matter was entrusted to a professional. Nevertheless, now many consumers decide to install a plastic window themselves. Do-it-yourself installation allows you to significantly reduce costs - up to 70 USD. e. But at the same time, fastening the structure requires certain knowledge. Next, we will analyze step by step how to properly install a plastic window.

Preliminary size calculation

The decision to install a plastic window with your own hands is a very responsible one. In this case great importance It has correct selection designs and quality of work. Before installing metal-plastic windows, measurements should be taken, as already noted.

Important Features

It should be noted that there are two types of window openings. There is one with a quarter, and there is one without it. A quarter of a window opening is a kind of protrusion that stretches along the entire perimeter of the window. For precise definition sizes, these features must be taken into account. Let's take a closer look at them.

Quarter design

In this case, the size of the window block can be determined using the following algorithm. It is necessary to measure the width of the corresponding opening between the quarters. This should be done in the narrowest place. Up to 40 mm should be added to the resulting measurements. This will give you the width of the structure. Additional verification is also necessary. In this case, the width of the window opening and the distance between its vertical quarters are compared. The first must be greater than the second.

The height of the window is also easy to measure. To do this, it is necessary to calculate the distance from the upper quarter to the lower plane of the opening. The required value will be the resulting size.

Second option

In this case, we mean a window that will be installed in an opening without a quarter. Obtaining the dimensions is quite easy. To do this, you need to subtract 50 mm from the vertical size of the opening. This is done so that it is possible to install a window sill. Also, you need to subtract 30 mm from the size of the horizontal opening. In addition, it is necessary to determine the size of the window sill and ebb. It doesn't take much effort to do this. However, certain factors need to be taken into account:

• The width of the ebb is calculated taking into account the proposed cladding or insulation of the enclosing structures. It is required that it protrudes from the plane of the wall at a distance of up to 100 mm.
• The width of the window sill should be calculated taking into account its functional features. For example, some will want to install flower pots and so on. Basically, the element is selected so that its free part can cover the heating radiators.
• The length of the window sill is calculated to be approximately 100 mm greater than the width of the window opening. Thus, the edges of the window sill should go into the cavity of the slope. The recommended minimum is 50 mm.

Module

On next stage you need to place an order in a specialized store. First of all, you should specify the size of the appropriate block. It is also necessary to take into account the following indicators:

1. Type of window profile.
2. Type of glass unit.
3. Fastening elements.
4. Related accessories.

Dismantling works

Before installing PVC windows, the opening should be prepared. It is impossible to begin installation work in the premises being used without removing old structures. It is worth noting that this procedure requires accuracy and thoroughness. There is a very high risk of injury. In addition, it is necessary to ensure that the product does not fall out. This becomes especially relevant in high-rise buildings.

Algorithm for removing the old structure

• First of all, you need to release window unit from opening windows and sashes.
• The structure must be free of all glass. In this case, all retaining beads are first removed.
• Next, you need to make cuts in the horizontal and vertical elements of the frame. It is advisable to use a hacksaw or grinder that has a cutting wheel for concrete.
• Then you need to remove the structure from the opening. To do this, you can use available tools such as a pry bar, crowbar or hammer.
• In certain situations, the structure can be removed without deformation. In particular, this applies to cases where the consumer wants to maintain the integrity of the frame. It is worth noting that this removal option will require great skill. Moreover, this process will take quite a long time.
• The frame is not the only element that needs to be removed. This also needs to be done with the external ebb and window sill.
• At the final stage, the opening should be cleared of dust and construction debris.

Installation diagram

Following the technology, it is enough to simply fix the plastic window. Do-it-yourself installation is carried out in several stages. In this case, it will be necessary to implement a number of relevant measures.

Initial stage

Before installing PVC windows, you should prepare the structure. This applies in particular to the mounting plates. They should be located on the top and sides of the frame (towards the end). The fastening plates perform very important role. In the future, they will hold the entire structure in a given position. Most experts prefer to use suspensions for these purposes. They, in turn, are widely used in the installation of plasterboard systems. However, in this case, the most correct is the use of reinforcing mounting plates. The fact is that they are distinguished by great mechanical strength.

Indispensable screws

When installing mounting strips accuracy is required. They are fixed on the end of the frame. It is necessary to ensure that fastener entered the metal profile of the window block. At this stage, it is very important to prevent deformation of the glass unit. The plates are attached using self-tapping screws. They are selected taking into account the size of the window block.

The standard design involves the use of self-tapping screws that will have a diameter of 4 mm. Window block bigger size requires other fasteners. In this case, it is advisable to use products with a diameter of up to 6 mm. The anchor strips must be fixed at the end of the frame. The recommended spacing for their location is up to 80 cm. The distance from the corners of the structure should be within 100-150 mm.

Adjusting the position of the structure

Speaking about how to properly install a PVC window, we should also talk about the alignment of the module. This is carried out after preparing the window block. This procedure may seem quite simple at first glance. However, a lot depends on the correctness of its implementation. It is best to install the unit in pairs. One person will support the structure while the other will carry out the procedure. Alignment window frame involves installing the block in a pre-prepared opening. It is also recommended to take care of the wedges in advance. They help regulate the position of the module.

Key points of adjustment

When performing work, you must be guided by the following recommendations:

1. The structure is wedged not only in the lower part. This is also done on the sides.
2. All vertical elements must be aligned in the same plane.
3. If there is an impost, then the wedges should be located under it.

The PVC window is leveled. After this, the process of fixing it begins. Anchor plates are attached to the cavity of the window opening. This is done using special bolts and dowels. It is very important that the elements are fixed to the enclosing structures. Therefore, it may be necessary to remove the plaster that is located where the anchor plates will be located.

Design assembly features

Of course, the easiest way to install a window is to disassemble it, without a sash. It is secured before sealing the seams begins. How to install a plastic window sash? Before hanging, it is recommended to put decorative caps on the hinges. Doing this after installing the sash will be inconvenient. In addition, the handle must be in the open (horizontal) position. To install the sash, it is first put on the lower hinge, and the corner loop is inserted into the upper one. The elements are fixed with a pin. It should be pushed up until the latch engages. In order for the pin to easily enter the hole, the sash should be pressed (or almost pressed) against the frame at this moment.

Sealing seams

Speaking about how to properly install a plastic window, we should talk about sealing the structure. So, the block is well fixed. Next, the installation seams are sealed. For this purpose, special foam is used. At this stage, it is necessary to take into account certain properties of the materials. As they harden, they increase in volume. Thus, work must be carried out with the sash closed. It can be opened only a day after the installation is completely completed. The use of foam also has its own characteristics. In this case, it is worth taking into account humidity and temperature indicators. Before directly applying the foam, you should prepare the surface. It needs to be moistened with water.

How to install a window sill

The plastic element must be securely fixed. For this, polyurethane foam is used. Before installing the window sill, the plastic element must first be cut to the required size. To do this, it is best to use a fine-toothed hacksaw or grinder. The product is installed closely to the stand profile. The window sill must be level. Wedges are used for this. It is worth noting that a slight slope is quite acceptable. This implies condensate drainage. However, the slope should not exceed 3 degrees.

The free plane, which is located between the underside of the element and the opening, must be filled with foam. It is necessary to avoid deformation of the window sill. It often occurs due to foam expansion. This requires the installation of weights (5 kg) on ​​the windowsill. They must be at three different points. This is done immediately before foaming.

High-quality installation of a window sill requires compliance with the following rules:

• The Z-shaped plates must be fixed to the support profile. This will allow the product to fit more tightly to the frame.
• Special recesses are made in the opening. This is necessary in order to position the window sill outside the slope.
• The gap located between the block and the product must be sealed. This is done using silicone.
• The end caps are attached using superglue.

Here's how to install plastic window sill Right.

Low tide installation

Above are the basic recommendations on how to properly install a plastic window. Installation of the low tide is usually considered final. Initially, the element must be cut according to the specified size. It is recommended to use metal scissors. Only after this can the low tide be recorded. To do this, you need to use at least three self-tapping screws.

How to install plastic slopes yourself

It is worth noting that for this type of work, when hiring professionals, you will have to spend a large sum. In addition, in this case, the quality is not always commensurate with the price. First of all, you need to select suitable material. It is recommended to use window sills. They will "sit" very tightly. Such slopes are very durable. In addition, they are quite difficult to scratch. It is worth noting that the curved edge will save the owners from having to look at the peeling wallpaper, which is very often found at the joints.

Many craftsmen offer their clients the installation of slopes made from sandwich panels. This material is quite thin. It is worth noting that in most cases the slope has a completely imperfect surface. Concave areas and convex areas are common. It is recommended to put plastic corners at the junction with the wall. However, they come off quite often. In addition, their joint docking leaves much to be desired.

Tools

Before you install plastic slopes, it’s worth arming yourself with everything necessary equipment. Among them:

1. Screwdriver.
2. Hammer drill (impact drill).
3. Mounting gun (for foam).
4. Electric jigsaw.
5. Saw with a sharp tooth.

Calculating the amount of material required is not difficult at all. It is necessary to measure the length of the window sills and sides of each window. This also applies to balcony door. It is best to decide on required quantity materials for installation already together with the consultant. In addition, counting of end caps is required.

Also, do not forget about the following elements:

1. Self-tapping screws with press washer.
2. Suspensions.
3. Dowel-nails.
4. Professional polyurethane foam.

The quantity of all of the above products is calculated depending on the parameters of specific window frames.

Installation process

It is recommended to carefully measure the distance from the wall to the frame. You need to add 4 cm to the resulting value. Thus, the slope will be brought behind the frame. It is recommended to cut out using a jigsaw. In this case, you need to leave a small margin for the overlap on the wall. After completing work with the slope, it is time to fasten the elements that are fixed directly on it. In this case, suspensions are used. It is recommended to purchase them in advance. Two corners emerge from one hanger, which secure the slope to the wall. They are fixed at a distance of approximately 35-40 cm from each other. For this purpose, self-tapping screws with a press washer are used.

If the top element is small, only one fastening angle can be used. Slope fitting is required. This must be done after all elements have been recorded. It is necessary to mark the location of the mounting angle. Next, this place is hollowed out. A corner is recessed into it. It will need to be plastered in the future. After applying the foam, the slope must be carefully inserted behind the frame. Then you need to secure the corner. In this case, you can use a hammer drill or impact drill. Fastening is carried out using a dowel-nail.

Next you should start working on the side slopes. In some cases they need to be “opened up” a little. This requires drawing a perpendicular along the window sill and the upper slope. This is done using a large square. Side slopes are drawn from the resulting straight line. The distance should be the same. It should be noted that open slopes have a more attractive appearance.

Similar elements located at right angles to the frame look different. In this case, the slopes are fastened in the same way. It is worth noting that their main advantage is rigidity. Thus, they do not need spacers or other similar devices. Unfortunately, slopes made of sandwich panels do not have similar properties.

PVC windows, which are more commonly referred to as double-glazed windows, are extremely popular today. Which is not surprising. Such designs have many advantages over old standard wooden windows, which today, for the most part, not only have a rather unsightly appearance, but are also unable to perform the functions assigned to them. So apartment owners are striving to replace outdated structures in order to make their home warm and quiet inside, and beautiful and modern outside.

Today, the cost of professional services in the field of construction and renovation is extremely high. Perhaps this is precisely why many people are now trying to carry out similar works independently, without seeking help from specialists. Of course, not everything can be done with your own hands, especially if you lack the appropriate skills. However, there are jobs that are completely within the capabilities of a home craftsman, despite their apparent complexity. Among these is the installation of PVC windows. Almost every home-grown craftsman can carry out such a procedure independently. The main thing is to competently follow the process technology, carefully observing all its requirements. Which, in fact, is quite simple to do if you have before your eyes the instructions for installing PVC windows. Competent and detailed. And if there is none, we invite you to read our article, in which we want to talk in detail about what such a procedure as installing a PVC window with your own hands is.

Stages

Installation of PVC windows is a job that many home craftsmen are afraid to carry out due to the seeming extreme complexity of the process. It is worth noting that it is completely in vain. It's not as difficult as it seems to some from the outside. Moreover, when installing double-glazed windows, you don’t even need any special tools. So, almost a regular set home handyman, which is available in every home (we will discuss it in more detail below). The procedure itself includes several stages, including preparatory stages. To summarize, it looks like this: first you need to carry out all the measurements correctly in order to purchase the “correct” double-glazed window; then you need to prepare the opening for installation, install the window and the accessories included with it; then refine the slopes. All these procedures (except for the last one) take professionals only two to three hours. The home handyman, of course, will have to work longer, but during the day he can easily cope with the task. But PVC is still half the battle, because after installation you still have to tinker with the slopes, it’s better to count on a few days. Let's say, devote a weekend to this matter.

So let's begin. From measurements.

Calculations

To ensure that the installation of a PVC window with your own hands goes smoothly, you need to correctly calculate the dimensions of the structure. The fact is that you will have to order double-glazed windows, since it is unlikely that you can simply go to the store and buy them. You can, of course, call specialists from a company that produces and installs windows, however, firstly, you will have to pay for this, and secondly, such companies, as a rule, provide comprehensive services - from measuring to production and installation every PVC window ordered from them. Due to fierce competition, prices for almost everyone today are the same, and they usually charge about 30% of the cost for installation. Typically, the average is around $50. And if you decide to save money, you will have to do everything yourself. Including calculating the dimensions of the future double-glazed window. And in order to do this correctly, you must first study the old structure and the opening itself, because it comes in two types - with and without the so-called quarter. This special design, which is present on the sides of the opening. To find out, you must first remove the cash from the old wooden window. And then measure the width of the old frame, first from the side of the room, and then from the side of the street. If the result is the same, there is no quarter. If there is a difference, then there is a similar design. From here you dance.

If there is a quarter, the height of the future window will be the same as the opening itself. But three centimeters should be added to the existing width. In its absence, the double-glazed window should be shorter by five centimeters and narrower by three. This difference constitutes the so-called gap. When installing PVC windows, it is necessary, since the installation of such structures is carried out using foam, and it requires space between the opening and the frame itself.

Well, if we are talking about a new building, then this moment house construction technologies do not provide for the presence of such a structure as a quarter. That is, you will have a clean window opening. Feel free to measure its dimensions vertically and horizontally and take them to a PVC window manufacturing company. There, specialists will carry out all the necessary calculations themselves.

Additional accessories

Since proper installation of PVC windows is impossible without the availability additional elements, then when ordering a design you should definitely pay attention to this. Plus, in addition to the double-glazed window itself, you should additionally be provided with fittings, a special seal, an installation profile and a window sill with a tint. As for the last two additions, there are some nuances you need to know.

These elements are available in several standard widths. Therefore, it is enough to measure the existing old structure and then choose the one that suits you. As for the length, it is better to take elements with a margin of at least twenty centimeters. You will be able to trim off all unnecessary parts when the actual installation of the PVC window sill is carried out. Well, the low tide, accordingly.

Once the design has been ordered and deadlines have been agreed upon, preparation can begin. Of course, you can free the window opening from the old frame only immediately before installing a new double-glazed window. There is no need to explain that it is impossible to sit in a windowless apartment for a week. The installation time for a PVC window, as we have already mentioned, is about three hours for specialists. You may be busy all day without any experience, but old frame need to be removed, of course, only before starting the installation of a new one. But you should prepare everything necessary for the process in advance.

So what will you need?

Tools and materials

When installing a PVC window with your own hands, the craftsman should have a certain and, most importantly, mandatory set of tools and materials, without which the installation process will not be possible. Therefore, you should be concerned about purchasing:

• Drills.
• A mounting gun, which will be needed when carrying out the procedure for foaming seams.
• Construction level.
• Chisels.
• Rubber mallet.
• Stapler.
• Hacksaws for metal.
• Professional polyurethane foam.
• Water vapor barrier tape.
• Construction screws, the length of which must be at least 12 mm.
• Laminated foil hydro-moisture-vapor-proof tape.

This is the basic set that is required when easy installation PVC windows. If you plan to install the structure using it, then you need, naturally, to take care of purchasing them. It is worth paying attention to their strength. It is advisable to buy fasteners made of thick metal, since PVC windows, which are quite heavy, will still be installed, and not some light suspended structures.

Preparatory procedures

So, the new double-glazed windows have been delivered to you, which means you can begin preparatory work. First of all, you need to clear the room of furniture as much as possible. Installing a PVC window with your own hands is a procedure that requires availability large quantity free space, so we remove everything that is possible from the room. After which you can begin to dismantle the old structure. Naturally, it is quite possible that PVC will be carried out in a newly built house with new window openings. In this case, we naturally omit this stage. However, most often home craftsmen are interested in how to install a PVC window instead of an old one. wooden frame. And for them, the information presented below will be extremely valuable. Although there is a statement that it is much easier to break than to build, nevertheless, everything must be done wisely so as not to damage the window opening. By the way, it will suffer quite a lot even without this, so try to carry out the dismantling procedure as gently as possible.

Removing the old window

If wooden structure If it is so dilapidated that the glass is literally almost falling out, then they must first be removed. To do this, it is enough to first remove the beads holding the glass. If it is still quite strong, then you can try to remove the existing doors along with the glass from their hinges. However, be careful. It’s better to get rid of the glass, so as not to accidentally damage your skillful hands. As a result, the window should have a frame without sashes and a window sill. Arm yourself with a hacksaw or, even better, a grinder equipped with a concrete circle, and saw through the old frame in several places. Then use a pry bar to remove it piece by piece. As a result, a window sill will remain. Do the same with him. First cut it out, and then break it out. The problem can be caused by a window sill made not of wood, but of concrete. In this case, of course, you will have to tinker. And the best way to deal with the problem is a jackhammer. If you don’t have the latter, use a grinder and a hammer drill.

After the old window is removed, carefully inspect the opening. Remove all protruding pieces of reinforcement and fragments of plaster from it. In general, make sure that, despite its somewhat unsightly appearance, it will reliable basis for a new design. And, of course, remove all dust and dirt.

Preparing a new window

Professionals install PVC windows almost always without disassembling them. Which is understandable, because they already have considerable experience. It is better for the home craftsman to play it safe and remove the opening sashes from their hinges, and remove the double-glazed windows themselves from the blind ones. Many people are afraid of this procedure, however, there is nothing complicated about it. To remove the sash, you just need to remove the pin located in the top hinge. To remove it, you only need to have pliers (picked it up and pulled it out). And then remove the sash from the bottom hinge. As for glass, there are no difficulties here either. It only seems like a PVC window at first glance monolithic design. In fact, it contains exactly the same glazing beads as wooden ones. This is a plastic frame located on top of the glass. You just need to pick them up with a knife and push them out of the grooves. Then take out the glass.

Of course, installation is not always required large structures. In private homes, sometimes a small single-leaf window is replaced. In this case, you don’t have to worry and start installing it without disassembling it.

After the window is prepared, you need to remove protective film With outside. All. You can proceed directly to installation.

Types of installation

There are two of them. The simplest is to attach the frame directly to the opening using dowels. The second is installation using anchor elements, which are first mounted to inside frames and then attached to the opening. Professional craftsmen in some cases they combine both presented methods, which does not contradict the requirements of the technology. We will try to talk in detail about both options.

Technology

First, construction wedges are laid out on the lower surface of the opening, that is, in the place where the window sill will be located. The prepared frame is inserted into the opening and leveled using building level and carry out markings. That is, they mark on the wall itself the location of either holes for dowels or mounting anchors. Then the frame is removed. Further, the algorithm of actions depends on the selected installation method. If you plan to fasten with dowels, then at the place of the marks, drill a hole of the appropriate diameter for them. In cases where installation using anchor plates is envisaged, professionals recommend first hollowing out recesses for them, and only then drilling holes for self-tapping screws. Why is this necessary? Yes, so that these same plates do not protrude very much above the surface of the slopes. If this happens, it will significantly complicate the finishing process.

When everything is prepared, the frame is reinserted. Just before this you need to glue it on the sides with hydro-vapor-proof tape. Then the frame is secured on the sides with construction wedges and carefully leveled. After which the anchor fasteners are finally secured (either directly with dowels or with self-tapping screws). Moreover, experts do not recommend over-tightening these elements. It’s even better if the head of the anchor or dowel protrudes a millimeter above the surface. As soon as it becomes clear that the structure is strong and exactly level, return it to its place. removed glass and sashes. After which, using polyurethane foam fill the gaps on the sides and top, not forgetting to remove the wedges.

As for the foam itself. It should be filled carefully so that there are no voids left. However, it is not recommended to do this in excess. Therefore, it is best, especially considering that this is the debut of a home master, to carry out this procedure with short breaks. We filled half a meter and waited a bit, at least twenty minutes. Foam tends to expand over time. And if you made a mistake the first time, then the next time it will be much easier to regulate its supply.

On the outside, after the installation of the window is completed, a drip lining is installed. For the same foam. And for greater confidence, they also screw it with self-tapping screws to the construction wedges, which, as you remember, remained with us at the bottom of the structure. As for the window sill, first it is measured in length and the excess is cut off. Then they are inserted under the bottom edge of the frame. It is enough to place the window sill under the window just two or three centimeters. The bottom of the window sill is foamed.

Important! If between the window sill and the lower edge of the window opening there is very big gap, then it is not recommended to fill it entirely with foam. It is best to lay wooden blocks. Or even bricks. And after that, secure the structure with foam, not forgetting, of course, to level it.

At this point the installation process can be considered complete. Now it’s better to forget about the double-glazed window for a day and not touch it, so that by slamming the sashes of the new window for no reason, you won’t damage the integrity of the structure. After which you can begin removing excess foam and finishing the slopes.

Installation of PVC window in a wooden house

There are some nuances here, which are due to the fact that wooden buildings, due to the characteristics of the material from which they were built, are capable of shrinking. Logs are capable of practically moving when there is a temperature difference, contributing to the deformation of window and door openings, walls, etc. Which can cause the appearance of all sorts of flaws in double-glazed windows. It is for this reason that their installation is not carried out at all in the first year after construction. PVC windows in wooden house In addition, they are not mounted directly into the window opening itself, but into a special structure. It's called casing. Simply put: first a special wooden frame from well-dried material. It is then inserted into the window opening, aligned and secured. After which a PVC window is installed in it. This will reliably protect the glass unit from deformation and defects. Which, you see, is very important, especially when you consider the cost of PVC windows. Prices even for the most simple designs, although not exorbitant, are still impressive - on average, a small window costs about two hundred dollars. And under such protection the window is not afraid of any shrinkage. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that experts recommend leaving a larger gap between the window and the casing - at least 5 centimeters on each side. In all other respects, the process of installing a double-glazed window is the same as described above.

Installation of PVC windows on the balcony

Balcony glazing also has some specifics. If a complete structure is inserted into the window opening, then on the balcony the PVC frame consists of several parts that need to be fastened together. This is done using anchor slats, and some experts additionally recommend lubricating the joints liquid nails. Since the lower part of the windows is installed directly on the railing, before installation it is necessary to carefully check their integrity and strength. And if necessary, carry out the necessary renovation work. After this, a frame is constructed from wooden beam, firmly securing it around the entire perimeter of the balcony. Then the visor is attached to the top from the outside. Next, PVC windows are installed, which are attached directly to the beam. First, they install the front group, after which they move on to installing the side ones. As for the fastening method, use any of the two described above at your own discretion. The only thing that needs to be taken into account is that it is better to make at least four fastening points on the sides, and at least three on top per window. The gaps are also foamed, after which a drip lining is installed on the outside, and a window sill is installed on the inside. As you can see, everything is quite simple.

Conclusion

We tried to tell you in as much detail as possible about how to install a PVC window in a concrete opening, in a wooden house and on a balcony. As you can see, there is nothing complicated in the procedure. In the presence of skillful hands it's quite easy to deal with. We hope that now, after reading you detailed instructions, the installation process will be easy and quick.

Relatively recently, all residential buildings had ordinary wooden windows, which had to be sealed for the winter. Today it is almost a relic of the past. And most people strive to replace such windows with modern plastic window structures, and are especially interested in installation plastic windows with your own hands.

This desire of the consumer is quite understandable - plastic windows not only have an aesthetic appearance, but also serve as interior decoration. They are also much easier to use, last an order of magnitude longer, and are significantly cheaper than their wooden counterparts.

If you have a desire to replace the old windows in your apartment with modern double-glazed windows, then you will certainly ask yourself whether it is possible to install a plastic window yourself. How difficult is it to install plastic windows, and can you do it yourself without the help of specialists?

Yes, it's quite possible. In order to install a plastic window with your own hands, it is not necessary to have a construction specialty. With certain skills and good tools Anyone can install a plastic window with their own hands.

Let's figure out how to do it right.

What does a plastic window consist of?

First, let's look at the design of a plastic window. Without this, you will not understand the installation process itself.

Plastic windows are made from special material, which is called PolyVinyl Chloride. That’s why plastic windows are called PVC windows in short. Like any window, the main element of a PVC window is a frame made of a profile consisting of cells. The more such cells in the frame (also called chambers), the warmer the window will be.

Typically the frame color is white. Although plastic can be black, brown, and even colored. The most common and most a budget option– white plastic windows.

In addition, the window consists of an opening part (sash) and a stationary part, which is called a “capercaillie”. The glass unit is directly inserted into these parts of the window, which is pressed against the frame with a special plastic strip. For tightness, a black rubber seal is placed.

Special mechanisms are installed on the window sashes, with the help of which the window opens and closes.

In addition, on the outside the window has a so-called ebb - a small board with the help of which precipitation is removed, and slopes - plates that seal the side and top parts from the street side.

Stages of installing plastic windows with your own hands

All stages of installing plastic windows with your own hands come down to the following:

• careful measurements;
• dismantling old window structures;
• preparation of window openings;
• DIY PVC window installation.

Taking measurements

Before ordering and, accordingly, installing a plastic window, you need to make several measurements. Moreover, how carefully they are done will determine how your structure will fit into the window opening. Remember that accurate measurements are almost half the success. If you take the measurements incorrectly, when installing plastic windows yourself, the structure simply will not fit into the opening. In addition, the windows may begin to freeze.

First you need to carefully examine the opening. If the part of the window that is smaller on the outside, then measurements are taken at the narrowest point. Moreover, it is highly advisable to make several of them, because window openings are rarely perfectly smooth. Find the smallest measurement value and add 3 to it. Measure the height, leave its value as it is.

If the window is the same size both inside and outside, measurements are taken slightly differently. You need to measure the width and height. Then you need to subtract 5 cm from the height, and 3 from the width. This will be the full size of your window, with width and height. We subtract the values ​​in order to leave gaps for installing the window sill and special mounting foam.

Each owner chooses the window sill according to the size he wants. Some like wide window sills, some like narrow ones, and some make them at wall level. This is individual, and there are no rules here. This applies to width.

The length of both the window sill and the ebb should be taken with a margin - about 10 cm wider than the window opening.

Getting ready for installation

Do-it-yourself installation of plastic windows always begins with dismantling the old window. As a rule, even novice builders find dismantling particularly easy.

After you have broken out the old window, you need to carefully inspect the opening and remove anything that may fall off later. If some parts of the opening protrude from the walls after dismantling, they must also be removed and the surfaces smoothed. Potholes, if any. It should be sealed with cement mortar.

When installing PVC windows with your own hands, you must take into account the following circumstances:

• the plastic window structure should be carefully secured;
• the window structure must be leveled both horizontally and vertically, otherwise in the future it may simply warp;
• It is necessary to plaster the mounting foam on all sides, with which the structure is attached, also in order to avoid future problems such as deformation.

Plastic window installation technology

Install a plastic window with your own hands as follows:

• The structure should be fixed on four sides using wedges, and it should be determined how accurately the frame is positioned relative to the opening;
• secure the frame with special bolts;
• attach the structure with screws to the wooden part;
• seal the plastic structure using polyurethane foam, spreading it over a surface slightly moistened with water.

We need to start with the fact that there are two different ways DIY installation of plastic windows.

The first method is to drill holes in the window frame for special anchors, which are driven into the wall. This is a rather complicated method, but a more reliable fastening.

The second method is that metal plates are first attached to the frame from the outside, and only then these plates are attached to the walls. It is much simpler and quick way, however, such fastening is not reliable. The frame can simply warp even in strong winds. Therefore, if you nevertheless decide to make your life easier and install a plastic window with your own hands using the second method, use thick and wide metal plates. In this case, you can give your plastic construction greater reliability. However, if your city is very windy, this method is definitely not suitable for you.

Direct installation

Installing a plastic window with your own hands using the first method with reliable fastening is carried out as follows.

First, you should check whether the structure and the window opening are compatible. If everything is in order, we proceed directly to installation.

First you need to remove the window sash. For this:

• turn the window handle down, placing the window in the “closed” position, and use a screwdriver to remove the trim from the hinges;
• pull out the pin, which is located on the top hinge;
• open the shutter by turning the window handle to a horizontal position, after which, by lifting the window sash, you can easily remove it from the lower pin.

After you have removed the sash, you need to remove the double-glazed window on the capecaillie. For this:

• insert a small spatula or something similar, strong enough, thin and not wide, into the gap between the frame and the bead;
• move the glazing bead with a spatula, going along the entire length, and remove it from the frame.

After this, you can easily remove the glass unit itself. The main thing is that it does not fall out of the frame after the glazing beads you removed are no longer holding it. To avoid this, the window should be tilted.

The frame is freed from the glass unit, and now it should be covered around the perimeter with special tape. This tape is needed to keep the window warm.

As a rule, white self-adhesive protective tapes are glued to the frames. It is also advisable to remove them, because later, when they heat up in the sun and stick to the frame, fused with it, this will be difficult to do. In the meantime, the tapes are very easy to remove.

Now the frame needs to be inserted into the window opening. To do this, you will need mounting wedges that are placed in the corners (this mandatory requirement), as well as in other places where you deem it necessary.

Using a drill and a drill bit, special holes are made into which the fasteners are inserted. The first hole is drilled at a distance of 1.5 - 2 cm from the top edge. The bottom hole should be approximately the same distance from the bottom corner. The gap between two fasteners should not be more than 5-7 cm.
The anchor is hammered into the hole and then tightened. At the same time, you must tighten the anchor carefully, trying not to overtighten, otherwise the profile will bend, and this cannot be allowed. This operation - tightening the anchors - is continued as many times as necessary.

After this, ebb tides should be installed outside. Before installation, self-adhesive waterproofing should be applied to the part of the frame that is located outside. Grooves are made in the side openings (the edges of these ebbs will need to be inserted there later).

On that part of the opening where the ebb will rest on the wall, a special profile is installed, to which the ebb will then be attached. If the height difference is small, you don’t have to install the profile, but simply apply a layer of polyurethane foam. Then the ebb should be placed under the ledge of the frame and attached to it with self-tapping screws. Along the lower edge of the ebb, you also need to fill it with polyurethane foam.

Now let's take a closer look at the second method of installing plastic windows with your own hands - using plates.

This method is much simpler, although, as we have already said, it is less reliable. Installation using this method involves installing thick metal plates.

They should be installed at the same distance as the anchors in the first installation method - approximately 2 cm from the edge, and no more than 7 cm between those in the middle. The metal plates are simply screwed to the profile using self-tapping screws.

In all other respects, do-it-yourself installation of plastic windows is completely identical to the first installation method. In the same way, the window is leveled in three planes, after which all actions are identical. Simply, unlike the first method, they attach not the frame itself, but metal plates, and attach them to the so-called dowel-nails. The peculiarity of the fastening is that they first drill a hole, then bend the metal plate, insert a dowel into the hole, put the plate in place and tighten the dowel.

The main mistakes when installing plastic windows with your own hands

If you install plastic windows incorrectly, this can lead to the fact that the house will be cold; water will flow into the room through improperly installed ebbs. And the expensive structures themselves will quickly become unusable. And if professional installers sometimes make mistakes when installing PVC windows, then, of course, an amateur who installs plastic windows with his own hands is not immune from them.

Let's look at the 10 most common mistakes made when installing plastic windows.

The window size is incorrect

This is usually a consequence of incorrect, careless measurement of the window opening, and, accordingly, the manufacture of an unsuitable window structure. And in case the window is too large in size. And if the size is very small, it is simply impossible to install such structures.

Poor preparation of the window opening

If surfaces are poorly cleaned, there will be residue left on them. construction garbage, dust, potholes or, on the contrary, parts of the wall protrude on the surface of the opening, the polyurethane foam will not fit as tightly and evenly as necessary for quality installation DIY plastic windows. In addition, this kind of pollution absorbs moisture very well, and it will soon end up inside your apartment.

Ignoring wall insulation

If a plastic window is installed without taking into account the thermal insulation of the wall, then cold air will penetrate into the apartment at the joints. Therefore, it is imperative to take into account the layers of walls when installing plastic windows. If the wall consists of one layer, the window should be placed exactly in the middle of the wall. If the wall is double-layered, the window should be installed at the very edge, as close to the insulation as possible. And if the wall is three-layer, then it is necessary to install a PVC window directly in the plane of the wall insulation, in order to avoid heat loss.

Incorrect distance between the window frame and the slope

If the window frame is located too close to the slope, the seal in this place will be of poor quality, and moisture will begin to appear and accumulate in these places. If, on the contrary, the frame is located too far from the slope, then there is a risk of deformation, since the load on the anchors or metal plates is too great.

Incorrect size of window sill

The window sill should be slightly narrower than the window frame itself. If it is a different size, or they decide not to install it at all, then water will penetrate under the window frame due to the lack of a normal seal in this place, and as a result, the wall will constantly be wet. Metal parts may simply corrode after a certain time.

Poor quality fastening of PVC window to the wall

If you skimp on dowels or anchors and there are too few of them to attach the window structure to the wall properly, over time the position of the window will change, the frame will become deformed, and it will be difficult for you to tear off and close the window.

Not enough polyurethane foam

Polyurethane foam is practically the only material for insulating a window structure and the wall itself to which it is attached. If there is not enough foam, the heat will escape. Therefore, the gap between the slope and window frame you need to fill it properly, not sparing the foam.

No insulation tape

If you decide not to use the one required by GOST insulating tape on the inside and outside window design, be prepared for the fact that the thermal insulation will gradually become worse and worse. Accordingly, the windows will deteriorate much faster than you would like.

Therefore, if you decide to install a plastic window with your own hands, try to go through everything necessary steps and produce everything necessary actions efficiently, carefully and without haste. Then your beautiful plastic windows, installed by yourself, will delight you and your household for many years.

Most homeowners choose to install plastic windows not only because of their excellent performance, but also because of the ease of installation. This process is simple due to the fact that the design provides very easy-to-install fasteners and additional parts that are included in the package of the window. Many people are interested in how exactly professional installers install windows. With the most minimal skills in using tools, any homeowner can install such windows.

Of course, as with the installation of any structural element, when installing PVC windows, you will need to observe a number of features and certain actions. It is advisable to carry out this kind of work with an assistant, even one who does not have any construction skills; when leveling the window, some difficulties may arise if you do this work alone. Proper execution of all installation nuances will help you complete the job accurately and save on the labor of hired workers.

Carrying out measurements and calculations

Before purchasing windows, you should take measurements of the openings - based on this data, you will place an order to the workshop. When taking measurements, you need to take into account whether they are a quarter or not. Foam concrete buildings are characterized by quarter openings, which greatly reduces heat loss. For an opening without a quarter, when ordering fiberglass windows, the length will be 5 cm less than that the same parameter at the opening. 3 cm is subtracted from the value defined as the width of the opening. Gaps of 1.5 cm should be provided along the contour - they are necessary in order to carry out foaming. An additional 3.5 cm should be left at the bottom for installing the window sill. According to GOST, 2 cm should be left around the perimeter.

To take correct measurements for a quarter opening, measurements must be taken at the narrowest point. When ordering windows, add 3 cm to the measured width; the length does not change the value.

More often, PVC window structures are not installed in the middle of the opening, but at a depth of approximately 1/3 from the outer plane. But if you are going to install the structure yourself, you can move the window a little at your discretion. To order sills and window sills, you should definitely take these parameters into account. Add 5 cm to the widths calculated for the intended location of the windows.

When determining the width of the future window sill, it is necessary to take into account the battery - it should be covered by the window sill by about half. Add another 2 cm - the window sill will need to be placed under the base of the window frame. You need to leave a margin in length - at least 8 cm. But it will be much better if you add 15 cm - this allows you to cut the window sill more beautifully.

Plastic side plugs are usually included with ebb and window sills. You shouldn’t refuse them, although some masters do just that.

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Window frame installation methods

The technology for installing polyvinyl chloride windows does not depend on how many internal chambers are in the metal-plastic profile, nor on the number of chambers in double-glazed windows. When developing an installation plan, you will need to take into account the following points: the material from which the walls of the home are made, and the dimensions of the plastic window structure. Depending on this, the method of fastening and the devices that will be used are determined.

Plastic window frames can be fixed in the opening using the following elements:

• using dowels, mounting anchors, which must be inserted into the walls through special through holes, which are performed in the profile in advance;
• Another option is special toothed plates pressed into the profile, which are not embedded in the wall, but are placed “off-the-cuff” and fixed with screws.

Option 1 is considered the more reliable of them. It is more often used in cases where it is necessary to perform installation window systems with considerable size and weight. Window frames with through fastening quite well resist various shock loads that can arise, for example, when using PVC systems with sashes that open in different positions. Anchors passing through plastic frames through, allow you to more accurately adjust the structure during installation both vertically and horizontally.

Those who want to find out the method correct installation PVC windows with small sizes, with solid double-glazed windows, you may be interested in fixing the structure using anchor plates. Fastening elements will not spoil the appearance of the window - they are covered by slopes.

To install anchor plates in wall openings made of brick or concrete, you will need to make recesses. If you do not do them, you will need to apply an extra leveling layer before installing the internal slopes.

Sometimes installers try to combine these 2 methods. Anchors are inserted into the walls through the bottom profile, that is, the base of the window structure and the sides of the frame, and top part fixed with plates. If PVC windows are installed in a bathhouse built of wood, anchor plates should not be installed - they become loose during operation. In some cases, galvanized screws are used instead of anchors.

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The nuances of installing plastic windows in wooden buildings

The installation process will be significantly influenced by the type of material from which the housing is built. For example, for walls made of hollow or solid bricks or foam concrete, the differences will only be in the depth to which the anchors are installed. But openings in walls made of logs or beams will require a special approach. Here you will need to take into account the installation method and choose the right time for this.

Plastic windows can be installed in walls made of wooden building materials only a year after the construction of the house. It’s even better to wait 2 years - during this time the shrinkage process will enter the stage in which subsequent operation will be longer and more reliable. For buildings made of laminated veneer lumber, the shrinkage period lasts the fastest.

Window installation should not be carried out immediately in the opening, as is sometimes done in villages.

A plastic window should only be inserted into wooden box, which will protect the window structure from distortion. The window unit itself must be free of any damage; the presence of defects and rot is unacceptable. Before starting work, it should be treated with an antiseptic composition.

After the PVC windows are installed in place, the shrinkage of the log house does not end. True, it will not continue as intensely. To prevent it from causing crushing damage to plastic structures, it is recommended to leave a gap of 3-7 cm between the top edge of the frame and the window frame. After the window is put in place, the gap is filled with jute insulation and closed on both sides with platbands.

The building codes do not contain precise recommendations on what materials should be used to install ebbs and window sills in wooden houses. As a rule, standard sills are installed, which are ordered in one set with the window design. Window sills can be made of wood or polymers. The bottom profile can be supported on a wooden window sill, that is, it can be installed before installing the window.

For those who are planning to install windows themselves, but do not have much experience in this matter, the following information may be useful. Since wood is highly permeable to moisture vapor, technical qualities the polyurethane foam used when installing the window is seriously reduced. To ensure that the foam blown around the perimeter of the structure is not exposed to moisture and does not get wet, a foil polyethylene tape should be applied to the window block along the line on which it is applied. This nuance is not specified in the regulations, but experienced installers highly recommend not neglecting such equipment when installing a window.

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Standard methods for installing plastic windows

The technology for installing plastic window structures includes the use of polyurethane foam. In addition to providing insulation, it will add additional rigidity to the connection between the opening and the frame. Thus, a layer of polyurethane foam, obtained as a result of its polymerization, simultaneously protects the opening and fixes the structure. So that under the influence of unfavorable external influences the foam layer would not lose its technical properties, it is better to surround it with additional insulation.

As to when exactly to install PVC windows, the decision is made by the homeowners. You can also come across the opinion that it is better to do the installation not in summer, but in winter - in this case, all installation flaws will appear immediately and can be corrected very quickly. When choosing polyurethane foam for work, pay attention to the information on the composition - it should indicate at what temperature this product can be used. The foam will only cure at the temperature specified in its performance characteristics, so you should not use foam intended for use in extreme cold conditions for summer work, and vice versa.

You can read about how to carry out foaming in the instructions that the manufacturer attaches to a specific product. Usually foam starts from the bottom, gradually moving upward. Movements should be rotary and circular. To reduce the consumption of expensive material, it is better to blow out the foam in several stages, calculating segments of approximately 25-30 cm.

To shift the dew point, it is better to perform foaming with different densities. In practice, it looks like this: they try to compact the outer layer of foam less than the layer facing inward. The foam must be poured around the perimeter of the window frame as evenly as possible, without gaps or voids.

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How to prepare a window opening for work?

To install PVC windows, you will need to carry out preparatory work. Before installation, any contamination should be completely removed from the window opening: dust, construction debris, particles old paint. At independent execution craftsmen should know that when installing a new plastic structure into a wooden window box, which has been in use, it is better to completely plan off the top layer. It is not reliable enough; it is better to remove it completely so as not to disturb the adhesion of the foam to the surface.

If the gap between the opening and the window frame does not exceed 4 cm, they are filled only with foam. If the gaps are wider, it is better to partially fill them with other, cheaper materials. These can be pieces of timber, drywall, polystyrene foam, brick fragments and other construction waste.

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Plastic windows are very popular. They protect the room well from cold and wind, and retain heat well inside the room. It is important to know how double-glazed windows are installed, because its correctness determines whether the window will function as planned. If a glass unit is damaged, it is quite possible to replace it yourself.

What do you need to prepare before installation?

Preparatory work plays an important role: without it, it will not be possible to install according to all the rules, which can lead to a violation of the window’s tightness.

If you have an old window installed and you want to replace it with a new product, you will need to start by dismantling it, then you will need to clear the opening of debris and level it if necessary. If you want to replace only a double-glazed window, it will be enough to carefully remove the damaged one from the frame: it is secured with special glazing beads. Leftovers broken glass must be carefully removed. Wear gloves when working, as the edges may be sharp.

Before installation, it is necessary to take correct measurements to determine whether there is any horizontal or vertical displacement

Which design should you choose?

Installation begins not with installation, but with measurements. They must be accurate, otherwise new design will not fit in size. If you are afraid of taking measurements incorrectly, invite a measurer. It’s good if it comes from the same company that will manufacture the double-glazed windows for you.

It is better to give preference to proven manufacturers whose product quality has proven itself well in the market.

The configuration is selected based on the number of sashes of the future window and the method of fastening. This determines how the glass unit will be attached. Usually there are two methods:

• Fastening through the frame in the same mounting plane.
• Using support reinforcement. Such fittings are already present in the frame and are placed there by the manufacturer.

Most often, the first method is used during installation, since it is easier to do it yourself, the weight of the structure is reduced, and installation takes less time. If the sashes are solid, you will need to remove the internal double-glazed windows. In the case of fittings, the scheme itself is a little more complicated, however, despite this, you do not risk damaging the double-glazed window during installation, accidentally damaging the frame or breaking the glass. You can install double-glazed windows hermetically, which is not always possible when self-installation the first way.

If the window is under warranty, you should not change the glass unit yourself: this will deprive you of warranty service. If the glass is damaged, contact the installation company.

How the window works

How is a double-glazed window installed?

The work takes place in several stages. First of all, you need to prepare the place: clean it, move the furniture away from it so as not to interfere with work; if the opening is uneven or there is debris, it needs to be cleaned and leveled using cement mortar.

Removing the old window

Preparation of the opening

After this, you can move on to preparing yourself. To do this you will need to remove the flaps. U Installation of a double-glazed window into the frame should not be carried out by weight; for installation, you will need to remove the glazing beads, for which you can use a chisel and a hammer. The work should be done carefully so as not to accidentally break the glass.

The beads need to be placed in the same place where they were previously, so it is better to number them right away.

The lower and side elements should be pulled out first, the top one last. The glazing bead should fit tightly, but not tightly; if it does not fit into place, try another one: you probably have the elements mixed up. If the sequence is violated, the double-glazed window will not hold firmly, small gaps will form, violating the tightness of the window. There is no need to remove the frame to install the glass unit.

Installing the frame in the opening

After the first steps have been completed, you can proceed to the direct installation of the double-glazed window. Even having minimal experience, you will spend a little time on these actions. The installation is carried out as follows:

• In order for the installation of the frame to be smooth, special bars made of wood or plastic are placed at the bottom of the window. Most often, these elements are sold in the same place where plastic windows are sold. The upper edges of the substrates must be horizontal; this can be checked using a building level of the appropriate length or used for this purpose laser level. If the line is skewed, the window will also skew and it will not be able to function properly.
• After this, the structure is secured using anchor bolts or polyurethane foam. There is no need to rush to pull out the bars: this should be done two weeks after the window is fixed.
• To prevent the frame from bending, pegs should also be installed on the sides or in the center. They will hold the structure in an upright position.
• Check whether the glass unit is horizontal or not using a building level. If it is not level, you need to add pegs to level the structure to the desired plane. In order to find out whether the window is vertical, use a plumb line.

Installation of double-glazed windows

It is more convenient to fasten the frame from below, on both sides of the corners. After this, you can move on to other attachment points. If fastening occurs using anchor bolts, they should be tightened to the end only when the structure is perfectly level. Otherwise, there is a high risk of its deformation.

• Some designs are attached using the included metal ears: they already have holes for anchor bolts. Make sure that the hole drilled in the wall coincides with the hole on the eyelet, and metal element fit against the wall as tightly as possible: this will eliminate unnecessary cracks.
• After this, a window sash is installed, into which a double-glazed window has already been inserted, and the cracks are sealed.

Knowing how to install double-glazed windows, you can save a lot if you need to replace the glass and do the work yourself. This does not require any construction skills or the purchase of expensive tools.