What kind of plastic window sills are there? Materials for the window sill: what to choose

Let's try to understand the features of each of these materials, go through their advantages and disadvantages and find out which is the best window sill to choose for your plastic windows. Shall we begin?

Types of window sills

First of all, they are distinguished by the material from which they are made. All of them are represented on the market to one degree or another and are constantly offered by window installation companies.

So, they are:

• From PVC (plastic window sills);
• Made from solid wood;
• From natural stone;
• From artificial stone(acrylic or agglomerate).

Well, let's start with each one in detail.

Plastic window sills

Today on modern market you can easily find plastic window sills presented to potential

This type is perhaps the most common, because there are many options for plastic window sills, both in color, texture, shape, and manufacturer.

Why are they so popular?

Pros:

• Easy to install window sill;
• Do not require careful care;
• They have a perfectly smooth surface without flaws;
• Do not fade under influence sunlight;
• Large selection of shapes, colors, textures;
• Durability;

However, there are a number of practical disadvantages that you should definitely consider before purchasing.

Minuses:

• Low heat resistance. If you place a hot object on them, this will lead to deformation or staining;
• Low maintainability. If, for some reason, dents, marks of cuts or a crack appear on the window sill, then it is almost impossible to fix it.

It is PVC window sills that are most often offered by companies that sell and install plastic windows.

note on the structure of the window sill chambers - they should not be too thin, and there should not be a wide distance between the walls, because it is the structure of the chambers that ensures the final strength of the surface as a whole.

Don't be shy and check the strength of the window sill by pressing on it. Sooner or later you will have to stand on it to wash a window or hang a curtain and you must be sure that it does not deform under you.

In general, plastic window sills - a good choice for those who are used to not spending a lot of time on cleaning, and for those who prioritize practicality.

The question also often arises - how to choose the color of the window sill. It is worth noting that in most cases the classic white color is used, because this the design is suitable for any interior. You can also choose window sills painted to resemble wood or stone, but then you should take into account the design features of the room.

Wooden window sills

Solid wood window sills will serve as an excellent addition to the interior of any room.
Yes, some breeds can be very expensive, but there are worthy alternatives. For example, beech. It is cheaper than oak, but much stronger than pine or alder.

Let's take a look at advantages of such surfaces:

• Durability;
• Tactile warmth - they are very pleasant to the touch;
• Strength. Due to their solid structure, such window sills are considered much stronger than their plastic counterparts.
• Fits perfectly into the interior, looks expensive and elegant.
• The window sill can be painted in any color, also given correct form at your own request.

The disadvantages include the following:

• Conditional moisture resistance. If the window sill is made with high quality, it is initially impregnated with a hydrophobic mixture and also covered with two layers of varnish. Cheap options are varnished only once and at the slightest damage to the top layer they begin to gain moisture;
• Care. As with any wooden surfaces, it requires special attention and more or less regular care.
• Average resistance to mechanical stress. They can be quite easily left with scratches or dents (depending on the type of wood).
• Expensive. Window sills made of mahogany, oak, tropical wood - look cool, but are prohibitively expensive.

To ensure constant beautiful view such a window sill, you will need to wipe it regularly with a dry cloth and special mixtures for caring for wood.

Also, when choosing wooden surface It is worth paying attention to possible flaws, which, unfortunately, are common and can spoil the entire appearance of the window sill.

For example, select the best side of the wood in advance so that it later becomes the front side. This is especially true for knotty textures that are encountered when making surfaces from class B and C rocks.

If you are afraid that the edges of the window sill will be damaged during installation, then you can ask the craftsmen to leave them straight (without bevels or edges), and polish them after installation.

Window sills made of natural or artificial stone.

Stone window sills have the highest strength and durability.

Of course, they have a price, because they guarantee durability and beauty for many years.

Pros:

• Strong, durable;
• Heat resistant and water resistant;
• Do not fade;
• Artificial stone (especially acrylic) is easy to restore if damaged;
• Look cool and solid;
• Wide selection of colors and types of window sills on sale.

Minuses:

• Heavy weight. Window sills made of natural stone are very heavy, unlike artificial ones;
• Low maintainability (for natural stone);
• Susceptible to
• Very expensive (in the cost of materials, installation, repairs).

It is worth noting that artificial stone is a little easier and more practical to use than natural stone. It also has a wide variety of textures, shapes and colors. Such window sills are environmentally friendly, which cannot be said about natural stone, which must undergo a radiological examination.

Therefore, it is worth thinking carefully about which of these materials is better to choose.

Window sill-tabletop

They come from any of the materials that we have already discussed above.

The idea with a window sill-tabletop is perfect option for those who don't have much square meters in the room.

This surface can be used as a table or workplace in the kitchen.

The advantages here are:

• Space saving
• Versatility

There are only two disadvantages:

• Such a window sill will be constantly filled with something;
• If you decide to place a sink near the kitchen window, behind (or above) which there is a window sill, then drops of water and dirt will remain on it.

Gloss or matte?

When buying a window sill, you will ultimately have a choice - matte or glossy?

From a practical point of view, caring for a matte window sill is a little easier than caring for a glossy one.

On a glossy surface, any stains are clearly visible due to the fact that the shine reflects and contrasts with a dirty surface. Such a window sill, of course, looks beautiful, but this only applies to those cases when it is well washed. The matte surface does not get dirty so quickly, so it is easier to use and care for.

Another important point. Condensation on windows is a common problem. But strangely enough, this comes from the wrong choice of the length and width of the window sill. After all, as a rule, a battery is placed under the windowsill.

If the window sill protrudes above it and “covers” it, then condensation can be seen on the windows. To prevent this from happening, it is worth making sure that the window sill does not cover the battery. But there is also Alternative option– establishment ventilation grilles on the windowsill. In the photo you can see the trajectory of the warm air.

The choice of a window sill should be taken responsibly, because negligence in this matter can cause discomfort during use, as well as unnecessary troubles for the owners. Please pay attention before purchasing Special attention not only on the description of the product or manufacturer, but also on customer reviews.

We hope our information was useful and will help you choose the ideal window sill for your apartment.

Reading time: 9 minutes.

The easiest way to decorate a plastic window is with a classic window sill. rectangular shape, made from the same material as . But if you want to decorate the opening with a bright interior detail or maximize the service life of the product, then it’s worth considering other options.

Types of window sills

Plastic

The standard version of a window sill for a plastic window is a board made of two sheets of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with a thickness of 3 mm, between which there are stiffening ribs with a thickness of 1.5 mm.

Advantages plastic window sill:

• does not rot;
• does not deform;
• no shrinkage;
• resistant to high and low temperatures and sudden changes;
• Just cut and install.

Flaws:

• standard design;
• In hot weather, an unpleasant plastic odor may appear (only with new products).

PVC window sills are sold: white, wood, marble, colored. All of the above options can be available in glossy or matte finish. The surface is often laminated with PVC or melamine film and coated with acrylic. When choosing, keep in mind that dirt eats into the rough surface of the window sill; fingerprints quickly appear on the glossy surface. The most durable option is acrylic coating. It is most resistant to scratches and can withstand high temperatures, including cigarette butts and ash.

Plastic window sills are produced in the form of panels with a length of 1500 to 6000 mm and are cut to fit right size at the installation site. The ends are covered with plugs to match the color. Board width from 100 to 700 mm (50 mm pitch). The thickness of the panel is from 13.5 to 20 mm, there is a bend (kapinos) of 40 mm on one or both sides. Price without installation from 75 rubles/linear meter with a width of 100 mm.

PVC window sills are fixed with polyurethane foam, liquid nails or mortar. Products with two capinos are needed if the room is connected to a balcony or loggia - the window is dismantled and part of the wall under it is decorated with a window sill or tabletop.

Wooden

Window sills made of natural solid wood are suitable for plastic windows, especially those with wood-colored profiles.

For their manufacture, oak, beech, ash, larch, spruce, pine and other wood species impregnated with anti-swelling and rotting agents are used. Board thickness 40 mm, length from 300 to 4000 mm, width from 100 to 1200 mm. Approximate prices: spruce with knot from 225 rubles/linear meters, oak from 2200 rubles/linear meters.

Solid ash window sill

The wood can be coated with wax, oil or varnish - transparent or in color valuable species. If the window and window sill are made of different materials, then be sure to choose the shade very accurately. More cheap option- the board is not made of solid wood, but glued together from narrow bars.

Advantages of wooden window sills:

• attractive appearance, unique designs;
• natural safe material;
• strength.

Flaws:

• under the influence of changes in temperature and humidity, the tree dries out, cracks, and bends;
• You can’t put it hot;
• require careful care;
• Products made from many types of wood are expensive.

Whatever window sill you choose, you will still encounter both pros and cons. Is that some will be more, others less. Technologies do not stand still. Specialists developing various types window sills and responsible for all elements of the window system.

Which window sill to choose - sometimes it’s easier to answer this question by playing the game “rock, paper, scissors” with your inner self. The fact is that current window sills of all types are quite durable, moisture resistant, not afraid of sunlight and detergents. But there are clearly specific differences. So, a window sill is definitely needed. And, above all, to preserve heat (prevent the leakage of warm air from the room), as well as to protect against drafts and the entry of cold air from the street.
We recommend!! More than 600 types of window sills in stock with delivery throughout Moscow and the Region - VsePodokonniki.ru (shipping to regions is possible)

Thanks to the window sill, the thickness of the warm air gap near the window, which is important. Many people find it convenient to install flower pots. From a technical point of view, we immediately get convenience, sound insulation and durability. For those who have long dreamed of wider window sills, there is also the opportunity to transform such a window element into a cabinet, tabletop, book shelf or children's corner!

The choice of window sills is quite large, you just need to let your imagination run wild. Well, if there are two types of window sills - monomaterial (these include wood, marble, granite, artificial stone) and composite (polyvinyl chloride, chipboard, MDF), you can safely choose exactly what you need. In order to know how to choose a window sill, you need to understand as best as possible the materials from which they are composed. After all, not all products can be processed in the same way and consist of the same elements. This means that their inherent qualities are different.

So, what types of window sills are there? Let's start with natural wood.Window sills made from this environmentally friendly pure material are appreciated always and everywhere. Such window sills can be made of wood of various species. For example, you can choose beech, ash, oak, mahogany, chestnut or, if you prefer, pine. Considering the wood processing, such a window sill is not too afraid of moisture and preserves the material, which is environmentally friendly for the health of your loved ones.

For those who prefer the cheapest option in terms of price, it is better to choose pine. For those who are chasing the most expensive purchase, it is better to choose cherry. Beech, ash, and oak are no less in demand. Don’t worry, because all such window sills usually last a long time and cost much less than new materials. At the same time, they go well with different interior items.

But keep in mind, in order to avoid problems in the future, you should find out how this material was transported, how it was dried, what year the forest was cut down, and what materials it was processed with. Keep in mind that oak tolerates a heating system installed nearby better than others. Most quality material Cherry, ash and mahogany are considered. True, such window sills must be coated with varnish or gel.

Is it important for you that the material can withstand high temperatures and not lose its basic qualities? Then you can choose chipboard and MDF - window sills made of chipboard and fibreboard medium density. These products are made from waterproof materials. Moreover, they do not need special care. By the way, many people order such window sills for themselves, choosing a tone “like stone” or “like natural wood.”

And for special “gourmets” you can choose various options color scheme. Such a purchase will have less impact on your wallet than window sills from natural material. As practice shows, such products can be washed safely. True, you need to start cleaning very carefully, otherwise you risk disturbing protective covering, and your product will swell and become deformed. Experts also advise treating the edges of the product when installing window sill boards. silicone sealant(so that separation does not occur).

What should those who prefer “standard windows” do? The fact is that most of our citizens prefer to install PVC profiles. And they have their own reasons for this good reasons: such window sills are not afraid of sunlight, temperature changes (they are not afraid of fluctuations from minus 30 degrees to plus 60), they hold moisture well, are fire resistant and durable. At the same time, the prices for such material are low, plus the colors allow you to choose exactly what you like.

Well, don’t forget that these products are durable (manufacturers provide up to 10 years of warranty), fire-resistant and have robust construction, which is important if you plan to stand on them yourself or place plants in large flower pots on the windowsill. This window sill is also friendly with ultraviolet radiation. It has protection in the form of a layer of glossy or varnish coating applied over the material.

Anyone who needs to experiment with sizes can safely stop at just such products. After all, they can be ordered in lengths up to 6000 mm and widths up to 600 mm (thickness is usually 18-22 mm). In addition, the specifics of installation are such that the window sill can be cut to order directly at your home. Another advantage of such window sills is that they are easy to install (in just an hour or two when using). They are easy to clean (just keep in mind that this should not be done with abrasive products).

Natural and artificial stone are also not far behind. And quite often these materials are used both in private homes and ordinary apartments. So, marble, onyx, and also granite are especially in demand among us. This is quite an expensive pleasure, but the product will last a long time, and the appearance will not only not disappoint, but will pleasantly surprise everyone.

Marble can come in different shades. But onyx allows light to pass through. This quality of stone can be used as room lighting. Just don’t rush to take the first thing you see. When ordering, pay attention to the color of your stone - sometimes a stone of the same type has a different color, which means the window sills in the same room may turn out different. And you will agree that this will not be very pleasant and aesthetically pleasing.

Experts advise to be careful with possible damage to the stone - veins on the stone can “hint” at a problem (the more veins, the greater the chance of cracks appearing).

When ordering granite, for example, there is one more nuance. This stone tends to accumulate radiation, which means it can harm your household. Therefore, make sure what safety class you purchased the material (it should only be 1st). But even if you have taken into account all the details, be careful. Do not spill colored or acidic liquids on a marble window sill. So, coffee, tea or wine will leave clearly visible stains. Believe me, it will be quite difficult to get them out.

And if you don’t want to replace the window sill with a new one, try to check the presence of liquids on it. But that's not all. When working with stone there is a danger of scratches and cracks. But this is to be expected from any stone. Well, if things didn’t work out for you with a natural stone, take an artificial one. This is also a fairly durable material (and it is created from a mineral filler and polymer resin). Using dyes you can always get different shades and patterns (for example, it is now common among buyers).

If you still have doubts, let us add that this product is heat-resistant and durable. We assure you that it is not afraid of cracks and stains (and does not stain from spilled liquid!), and does not darken yet. The price of products made from artificial stone is much lower than those made from natural stone. These window sills can be easily washed soap solutions and don’t worry about it!

How not to lose your window sill and choose what you need? And after you buy it, how not to spoil the product? Some advice from knowledgeable people will not interfere.

1. Often the customer is more worried about the amount of money spent than about the availability of certificates and documents. However, when purchasing window sills, it is a good idea to make sure that the products comply with existing GOST standards and also have a state-standard quality certificate (they are issued, remember this, indicating sanitary and epidemiological standards).
2. When deciding which window sills are best to choose, pay attention to the material’s susceptibility to moisture and the appearance of condensation, the influence of sunlight and the appearance of yellowness (many window sills are covered with special protective materials, protecting from UV radiation), for surface treatment chemical materials, on the possibility of the development of microbes and fungi (they appear in rooms with high humidity).
3. It is better to clean window sills using detergents that do not contain chlorine. Marble is more fragile than granite. It is better not to place heavy objects or pour drinks on marble window sills. Glass window sills are now also becoming fashionable, but you need to consult with a specialist in advance who will tell you what thickness of glass you need to choose. This will do you good!
   
4. Don't be lazy to learn about new products. Nowadays such options as window sills consisting of marble, polyester resin and quartz sand or granite. Although such products will look like marble, they will cost less. So, which window sill to choose will depend only on you. And which better window sill- only you can say this after reading the article. Or are you still thinking?

October 26, 2016
Specialization: professional in the field of construction and renovation ( full cycle carrying out finishing works, both internal and external, from sewerage to electrical and finishing works), installation of window structures. Hobbies: see the column "SPECIALIZATION AND SKILLS"

It is advisable to think about which window sill to choose for plastic windows in advance - not only before installing the structures themselves, but also before repairs in general. This approach will allow you to choose optimal size products that meet all our requirements, and find an option that fits perfectly into the overall style of the room.

Fortunately, there is definitely plenty to choose from here - and below I will give brief characteristics most popular parts.

In addition, it is not enough to choose the right window sill for a PVC window - it needs to be installed correctly. I will devote a separate section of the article to the nuances of installing window sill boards.

Types of window sills

Type 1. Plastic

I will begin to analyze the types of window sills for plastic windows with the most popular variety - plastic products. This fairly extensive group includes many models that differ both in appearance and in operational parameters.

By by and large, the design of a plastic window sill remains the same regardless of which company produces it:

1. The basis of the product is a hollow PVC panel with walls 1.5-3 mm thick.
2. Inside the panel there are stiffening ribs that are responsible for mechanical strength window sill board. The more such ribs, the better the quality of the product and the greater the load it can withstand without deformation.

1. The outside of the panel can have either a smooth or rough texture. Smooth window sills need to be wiped regularly to remove fingerprints, but textured ones are less susceptible to this type of contamination. On the other hand, the deep texture fills with dirt over time, so you will have to spend more time cleaning.

1. The sizes of window sills for plastic windows can be very different. Most often, these parts are produced in the form of panels 5.8 - 6 m long and 100 to 800 mm wide. The standard board thickness is 20 mm, but thicker products can be found if necessary.

The differences between models from the budget segment and expensive window sills are as follows:

1. PVC pigment quality. Cheap white plastic turns yellow over time due to the accumulation of various substances from the air, and if you choose a more expensive product, you won’t have to look for how to whiten a window sill board: titanium oxide, used to give PVC white, is able to maintain whiteness for 10 years or more.

1. The same applies to colored models: where a budget product will “fade” and become discolored, a high-quality window sill board will look like new.
2. But the main difference is the coverage. In high-quality lines (here I include window sills Danke, Moller, etc.) on top plastic base a special composition is applied that can withstand both abrasion and temperature influences. So it is impossible to scratch or burn through the plastic without serious effort.

By the way, this is not a marketing exaggeration: window sills from a fairly expensive segment can withstand the effects of a cigarette butt or a hot frying pan with minimal consequences. I checked it personally!

Price for plastic products it is flexible: if the cheapest models cost from 50–70 rubles per linear meter (with a width of 100 mm), then products from the already mentioned Danke or Moller will cost at least 300–450 rubles per meter.

If you need a wider window sill, then it will, of course, cost more.

Type 2. Wooden

A wooden window sill for a plastic window is quite worthy solution, which can not only look good, but also serve for a long time without deformation or damage. Naturally, not just any natural wood window sill board is suitable here: it is advisable to choose a product specifically designed for this purpose.

It is worth noting that from a design point of view wooden parts Not suitable for all windows. For example, in combination with a standard white profile, such a window sill will look somewhat vulgar, but it can be combined with a laminated product (of course, if the shades match).

By design, wooden window sill boards are divided into two large groups:

• solid, made from solid wood of expensive species;
• veneered, covered with decorative veneer with a birch or pine base.

And if massive parts are most often made to order for a specific object (this is understandable - the cost of raw materials there will be impressive), then veneered models can be found on mass sale:

1. The basis of the product is a solid or glued board: budget varieties– pine, for more expensive ones – birch.
2. To prevent deformation and the formation of a “propeller,” technological cuts are made in the base. They compensate for the uneven linear expansion of wood fibers during changes in temperature and humidity and help maintain the shape of the board.
3. On the outside, the base is veneered - a thin plate of expensive wood (oak, cedar, wenge, etc.) is glued onto it.

1. Installed on the front end strip(flat, shaped or curly). It can be either solid or veneered.
2. After manufacturing the window sill, all surfaces are coated with a special varnish that protects the veneer and base from moisture and mechanical damage.
3. Also protective treatment subject the ends of the window sill boards after cutting to size immediately before installation: waterproofing impregnations protect the fibers from atmospheric moisture.

On to the cons wooden products This can be attributed to lower moisture resistance compared to plastic ones (after all, even treated wood can swell when wet for a long time, which cannot be said about PVC).

Another disadvantage is the high cost: 1 linear meter of a 200 mm wide board will cost from 1,500 to 5,000 rubles, depending on the design of the product and the type of wood used in the work.

Type 3. Composite

Composite products are products whose production combines two different materials. As a basis for such window sills, they most often take either MDF or chipboard, and cover the part with vinyl film or natural wood veneer:

1. Chipboard window sills are based on chipboard, which is produced by adhesive pressing of natural raw materials. The advantages of this material include low cost, the disadvantages are relatively low strength and a tendency to swell when in contact with moisture.
   Veneering for decorative finishing such boards are used extremely rarely, so they are used almost exclusively as decoration polymer film. However, despite the moisture resistance of the decorative layer, it is advisable to use composite window sills made of chipboard where there is a risk of them regular moisturizing will be minimal.

1. MDF is a material that is denser and stronger than chipboard, but at the same time significantly heavier and more expensive. Both films and natural wood veneer with protective varnish can be used as a covering for the window sill, but in any case, the moisture resistance of such a window sill will be slightly above average.
   This means that it will withstand occasional drops, but if it remains in a humid environment for a long time, it will begin to deform.

1. WPC – wood-polymer composite. A fairly specific material, which consists of polymer base, pigments and wood fiber filler. WPC is most often used to produce wall and floor panels, but window sills can also be made - in this case, the products are quite attractive, durable and practically resistant to moisture or temperature changes.
   As for the price, the cheapest will be products made from chipboard, slightly more expensive - window sills from MDF. WPC panels are a relatively new material for our market, so the price for them seems to me to be somewhat overpriced - but the good functional performance and durability of the material partially compensate for this disadvantage.

Type 4. Stone

When deciding which window sills are best to choose for installation under a plastic window, you should not forget about those made of natural or artificial stone. And if products cut from stone slab, belong exclusively to the premium segment, among models made of artificial material you can find quite affordable ones:

1. The most popular are parts made of acrylic composite. The basis of the panel is an acrylic binder, into which a finely dispersed mineral filler (marble, granite, quartz), as well as pigments, hardeners and other components are added.
   The result is a monolith that is practically not inferior to natural stone in hardness, but superior to it in viscosity - hence a lower risk of chipping.

1. An alternative to acrylic window sills are products made from so-called quartz stone. Polyester resin is used as a binder, and the base is a filler - ground quartz (from 90 to 95% by weight).
   Colored products are produced by adding various mineral pigments - ocher, red lead, iron compounds, etc. Quartz stone is heavier and denser than acrylic, but is also more susceptible to chipping.

1. In any case, the products are strong, durable and wear-resistant; they are not afraid of either moisture or high temperatures, no mechanical influences (within reasonable limits). The disadvantages I would include are the complexity of installation (you need strong brackets) and the high cost: the price of one linear meter ranges from 3.5 to 7 - 8 thousand rubles.

Type 5. Concrete

When considering options for window sills for installation together with metal-plastic windows, I would not forget about concrete products. They come in two varieties:

1. Old concrete window sills that were installed during the construction of the building. In old houses you can find fairly well-preserved slabs that look attractive and will last for many more decades. You can leave them by doing redecorating(polishing + treatment with special impregnation for concrete).
2. New slabs of cast concrete, often with decorative inclusions or the addition of pigments. Externally, such products are similar to panels made of artificial stone, but they use Portland cement rather than polymer materials as a binder.

In any case, it seems to me that a concrete window sill is by no means The best decision for residential premises. But for public buildings This option can be called one of the priorities: the parts are reliable, durable, and most importantly, vandal-resistant.

Accessories for window sill boards

In addition to the window sill board itself, you also need to purchase additional components to finish the window. Their choice is small, but almost all of them are useful:

Detail	Purpose
End cap	Installed on the guillemot of a window sill board, covering either the cavities inside the product or the end wooden base. Most often it is made of plastic, but it can also be laminated with an adhesive base.
Connector	Installed between two window sill boards to join them along their length. There are longitudinal and corner connectors - the first are used for simple joining, and the second - for forming complex contours, for example, when glazing bay windows.
Molding	A thin corner or shaped strip that bridges the gap between the sill board and the bottom of the plastic window frame. The use of moldings is justified not only from an aesthetic, but also from a practical point of view: even a small part can effectively close the gap and block the flow of cold air.
Lattice	Probably the most useful, but at the same time the most difficult accessory to install. If the width of the window sill board is such that the part completely covers the heating radiator, then it is advisable to cut special grilles into the window sill to allow warm air to reach the glazing. Otherwise, the inner glass will not be heated effectively enough, resulting in large quantity condensate

How to install?

It is best to entrust the installation of heavy stone and concrete window sills to specialists - such parts are quite expensive, so it makes sense to spread the risks. But you can easily handle plastic, wood and composite products with your own hands, and in this section I will tell you how to organize the installation process.

1. Most often, the window sill is mounted with inside designs, i.e. where the opening flap is located. Sometimes it is allowed to install window sills on both sides - for example, when decorating a balcony window. On the outside of the structure, instead of a window sill board, a drainage strip is installed.

1. The part is installed strictly horizontally. The slope of the window sill in the transverse plane should be from 3 to 5 degrees towards the room for condensate drainage.
2. The optimal distance from the bottom plane of the window sill to the heating radiator is 150 mm or more. Reducing this gap is extremely undesirable: even installing grilles in the window sill is not able to fully compensate for the lack of free space above the radiator.

1. The edges of the window sill are most often inserted into the window slopes. To do this, a cutting is made in the plane of the slope, which is then masked during the finishing process.

1. The front edge of the window sill can either be flush with the wall or extend beyond its plane. The maximum extension beyond the plane of the wall is 100 – 120 mm.

If you are making a window sill-tabletop or planning to arrange a large flower garden, then you can do more removal. In this case, it is highly desirable to install reinforcing brackets made of steel angles, or additional supports that remove part of the load from the mounting point of the window sill board.

Plastic products

Plastic window sills are extremely easy to install. The instructions assume working according to the following algorithm:

1. First, we install the window in the opening and clean the base - the part of the wall on which the window sill will rest.

1. We cut the window sill board to size, taking into account the size of the areas extending into the plane of the slopes.
2. If the slopes are preserved during the installation of PVC windows, we cut grooves in them for the ends of the window sill boards.

1. We attach Z-shaped brackets to the support profile of the PVC window with self-tapping screws. Optimal step fastening is about 30 cm.
2. We insert the window sill into the grooves in the slopes and snap its edge onto the brackets. In this case, the plane should go beyond the bottom of the frame.
3. We align the window sill board along the plane, taking into account required slope, driving wooden wedges into the gap between its lower edge and the base.

1. We fill the cavity under the window sill with foam. We carry out the blowing in several stages, making sure to moisturize the cavity and the foam itself: this promotes controlled expansion of the material and will not allow the foam to bend the product (applies primarily to budget plastic models).
2. The joint between the frame and the board is either sealed with sealant or covered with molding.

1. Until the foam is completely polymerized, we leave the window sill under pressure, after which we install end caps on the edges.

By own experience I strongly advise against using glass jars filled with water as oppression. Water in glass perfectly performs the function of a lens, focusing Sun rays on a plastic surface. What will happen to cheap PVC as a result of such an impact, should we tell?

Wood and composite products

Products made of wood, chipboard/MDF, composite and similar materials can be installed in the same way as plastic ones. However, there is another installation option:

1. First, we level the base on which the window sill board will rest, and install wooden/plastic wedges on it in increments of up to 30-40 cm. We will use these wedges to adjust the position of the product.

1. Then we form a “pillow”: we place either a solution or a layer of polyurethane foam in the spaces between the wedges. The layer of binder should be approximately 5 mm above the level of the wedges - we will therefore remove the excess.

If used cement-sand mortar, I would advise additionally treating the wood with a moisture-proofing compound to avoid swelling. But you shouldn’t lay down the film, as is sometimes advised, as the strength of the connection will drop significantly.

1. We take a window sill board, adjusted to size, and install it in the opening, placing it under the lower edge of the frame and resting against the stand profile. We place the bottom plane of the board on a “cushion” of mortar or foam and press it, resting it on the wedges.
2. From the outside of the window, through the stand profile, we tighten several screws that will prevent any movement of the window sill.

1. We place a level on top, and, focusing on it, use wedges to align the window sill board on a plane.
2. We fill all the gaps with polyurethane foam, after which we put a slight bend - to avoid deformation of the wood.

If the edges of the board are hidden under the finishing of the slopes, they can be fixed at the ends of the window opening using steel corners with anchors.

Conclusion

To decorate PVC windows, you can choose different types of plastic window sills, as well as products from natural wood and materials based on it, natural and synthetic stone, concrete, etc. Each of these varieties has its own characteristics, but they are mounted - and you will see this by watching the video in this article - according to fairly similar schemes.

Be that as it may, this task is not the most difficult, especially since I can always help you good advice, providing advice either here in the comments or on the project forum.

Just 20 years ago, most ordinary people did not wonder what kind of window sills were installed in their apartment. Whatever the builders installed, that’s how they stand. Often these were reinforced concrete slabs with slightly processed edges (in best case scenario– arbolite). Over time, thrifty tenants replaced such window sills with wooden ones, filling the voids with foam rubber, or, at worst, with rags, and sealing the cracks with the same cement-sand mortar.

Then came the era of metal-plastic windows. And along with it came plastic window sills and polyurethane foam, and gypsum plaster compositions for putty. Yes, yes, a plastic window sill has become an almost uncontested addition to the same window. In most cases, options were not even considered, and indeed were not offered either.

Or they were almost never offered. Because at the same time, we were not close, but we still became acquainted with artificial stone countertops and learned technologies for producing polymer concrete. Yes, and natural stone in slabs (English slab - slab, plate, big piece) has become more affordable with the arrival of modern stone processing equipment at our production facilities. Today it is quite realistic to talk about the presence of choice on the market of window sills or materials for window sills. We will try to comprehensively consider this issue, analyzing all the pros and cons of the various options.

Types of window sills and their features - what to make a window sill from?

Here we immediately answer the most frequently asked question on this topic: which window sills are best for plastic windows. For plastic windows, plastic window sills are better.

• Firstly, homogeneous materials have the same technical characteristics and chemical composition, which means they have the same expansion coefficients, thermal conductivity and other properties.
• Secondly, the same chemicals and materials are used for their maintenance and repair, and their service life is approximately the same.
• Thirdly, they simply look organic in combination with each other.

There are still arguments in defense of this postulate, but even these are enough to come to this conclusion.

But, one more thing: these are the window sills that are better “for windows.” But for a person, for a consumer, this is not a fact. It is definitely better for the user that the window sill meets the requirements that he puts forward. But plastic window sills cannot always correspond to them: many of them cannot withstand the weight of a large flower pot, you can’t put a hot frying pan on them, they scratch very easily, etc. Although, if we talk about aesthetics and design, then in this regard they are able to cope with the highest requirements.

Moreover, they are in absolute compliance with the color and texture base of the lamination of metal-plastic windows.

• Plastic window sills (PVC window sills)– the most common installation option. Cost of 1 p.m. 100 mm of metal-plastic window sill today ranges from 80 to 540 rubles/m.p. Agree: there is plenty to choose from. Both the price and quality of plastic window sills vary radically. We would advise focusing on products with a price of 250 rubles/m.p. 150 mm window sill.

What does our industry offer today besides plastic for window sills?

• Composite window sills– are made by extrusion from a wood-polymer composite ( wood shavings+ approximately 1/3 polymer).

Compared to a purely plastic window sill, a composite one is distinguished by greater hardness, bending strength, durability and a slightly higher price;

• Wooden solid- rather a way to be original, taking into account the physical characteristics of the tree. In combination with it, it is still better to use wooden windows or laminated metal-plastic ones, but remember that the requirements for installing such a window are stricter.

The appearance of abundant condensation on a window with such a window sill can lead to very unpleasant consequences.

• Wooden laminated- somewhat more physically stable than its solid wood counterpart, but not by much.

Glued window sills also come in this design, using plywood or MDF inserts, veneered.

The cost of wooden and wooden glued window sills today ranges (for pine) from 25 to 28 thousand rubles/cub.m. Beech or oak will cost approximately 4,500 rubles. but already per sq.m. with a thickness of 40 mm.

• With a base made of fiberboard or MDF, laminated or veneered.

Often such window sills are installed in residential premises. But in kitchens they can be used to create combined countertops(window sill - table, window sill - work surface, window sill - bedside table, etc.).

In these cases, panels with thick plastic lamination with improved consumer characteristics are used. At a price of 3 to 5 thousand rubles/sq.m. this is a fairly affordable option

• Stone– often granite (harder) or marble (softer). Made from slabs of natural stone. It is possible to use other types of stone, but extremely rarely, when solving special design problems and having practically unlimited financial resources, due to the high cost of the material.

The cost of such products made of marble or granite will range from 10 to 40 thousand rubles/sq.m. depending on the thickness (20 - 30 mm), type, quality of the stone and types of its processing (cleanliness, gloss, chamfers, etc.). With other stones the calculation is individual.

• Window sills made of artificial stone – worthy alternative all-stone window sills. Often only a specialist can notice the differences. Specifications differ strikingly depending on the type of polymer used in manufacturing. You can get a window sill with specified characteristics (chemical resistant, heat resistant, etc.).

You can create the most beautiful stone options with appearance very close to real ones, but not found in nature.

An option for a window sill is a countertop in the kitchen, most often made of artificial stone. In this case, you can get the most interesting combination price quality.

The cost of window sills and countertops made of artificial stone is very individual and depends primarily on the polymer and filler used, as well as on the thickness of the coating layer and the thickness of the fiberboard substrate. The weighted average today for central Russia will be the cost of 1 sq.m. countertops made of artificial stone at 20 - 22 thousand rubles.

As you can see, there are a great many design options, both in terms of types of materials, and in terms of characteristics and cost, but the next section of the article will help to competently balance our desires and capabilities with our needs.

Windows are crying, or how to get rid of condensation

Even if you installed the new window absolutely correctly, and first of all this refers to positioning it in the wall mass so that the inner surface of the glass unit is beyond the dew point, you need to keep in mind some other aspects. Without sufficient airflow (or heating), especially in the kitchen, bathroom, and windows, moisture may condense. The question of how a window sill can influence this process is more than appropriate, since we are placing it here.

Most housewives, when installing a window sill, insist on its maximum width, without thinking that by increasing it they radically worsen the window airflow conditions due to air convection provided by a radiator installed under the window.

What to do?

1. Refuse the width of the window sill to completely cover the radiator. Ideally, the outer edge of the window sill should reach no more than half its thickness. Moreover, even a lowered curtain will not block the convection currents.

2. Embed grilles of directional air ducts into the PVC, chipboard, MDF or wooden window sill and unfold them so that warm air entered the glass unit.

3. Install a window sill made of natural stone, which, when heated, will begin to radiate heat onto the double-glazed window.

4. Install the so-called "thermal curtain". Of course, we do not mean a blower installed at the entrance to stores and office rooms, although it will definitely cope with this task effectively. We recommend installing a PLEN (film infrared low-temperature electric heater) or a similar device into the slope, which will heat the window niche with radiant energy, creating the necessary operating conditions. It is important to remember that IR rays pass freely through the glass without heating it, so the direction of the rays should be: from the slope to the slope, from the upper slope to the window sill (or vice versa).

5. Radically insulate the external slopes and the wall of the building around the window, moving it exactly in place installed window the dew point is closer to the outer surface of the wall.

Which of these is more suitable for you - choose for yourself, we will briefly talk about correct installation window sill.

We will not complicate the standard installation of a window sill, considering some techniques unnecessary and aimed rather at the use of a particular material, lobbied by its manufacturers. Therefore, we ask everyone who has noticed these particular nuances of our instructions to think about the feasibility and, most importantly, the effect of using such materials and devices.

Let's start with what you at least need to see under the window sill if you remove it.

We would like to draw your attention to:

• the presence of 2 rows of stands under the window sill;
• absence of voids adjacent to the window and slopes;
• foamed outer edge;
• foam protection with a layer of plaster.

But what was wrong when installing this window sill was that its edge adjacent to the window was not placed under the lower edge of this very window. Let's look at the diagram:

This correct scheme installation of the window sill and it begins with carefully foaming the voids around the window, if they were not filled during installation of the window. If installation is carried out simultaneously, then we simply focus on this. It’s just that defects in window foam can be corrected when installing slopes, but in the lower part, after installing the ebb and window sill, nothing can be corrected.

1. We recommend installing L-shaped support stops. They are inexpensive, but will allow even a beginner to press the window sill tightly against the window, without a gap that will subsequently have to be filled with silicone sealant.

If there are such clamps, screwed to the stand profile at least every 15 - 20 cm, the rear row of stops need not be installed.

2. The next step is to mark the window sill and install it dry, without foam. At the same stage, the height of the front stops is selected. Ideally, it is better to use special plastic wedge stops. They can be set perfectly if the window is measured correctly. If they are not available, scraps of moisture-resistant plywood and plastic plates will do. various thicknesses or other things. Use wood as a last resort.

By the way, in this photo the installation is carried out using bitumen tape, which, in our opinion, is not necessary at all if all other conditions are met. Because uncut foam has very good waterproofing properties, if isolated from exposure to ultraviolet radiation. When installing a window sill, both the first and second conditions must be fully observed. And that will be enough. We make sure to check the correct installation using a level.

3. After the window sill has been tried on and positioned, remove it, mark the installation locations of the stops, spray the installation site with water from a spray bottle (if available) for better adhesion and apply foam, as shown above.

4. We insert the window sill, snapping it into the front stops, and evenly distribute the load for at least 12 hours so that the foam does not disturb the level when expanding.

After the foam has polymerized, the load can be removed and finishing of slopes, etc. can begin. It remains for us to mention the features of installing a window sill with very thin wall, which now, with the development of energy-efficient housing construction, is increasingly becoming the norm. In this case, it would be most practical to use furniture corners - quite powerful and at the same time durable devices for attaching shelves and other things.

We can add to this that the vertical part of such a corner should be screwed to load-bearing beams frame or other stable elements of the wall and can be mounted into it under drywall, but this is worth remembering before finishing interior spaces.

Dear readers, if you have any questions, please ask them using the form below. We will be glad to communicate with you;)