How to insulate plastic windows with your own hands. Do-it-yourself effective ways to insulate windows for the winter. Adjusting the tightness of the flaps

In the article, we will figure out how to insulate plastic windows for the winter with our own hands in order to enjoy a pleasant temperature in the house during frosts.

What is the reason for the need for insulation?

By installing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) windows, which are modern high-tech designs, many consumers are sure that such products are guaranteed to protect their homes from the cold. In theory, this is how it should be. Competently mounted plastic windows fulfill their task for a long time - they retain heat. But even the most best PVC profiles lose their performance characteristics and the level of thermal insulation of the room decreases. If plastic window structures were originally installed in violation of the technology, problems with them will begin quickly enough.

Warming plastic windows any manufacturers for the winter are usually required due to:

natural wear of the seal;
overlays extending from the glass unit;
violation of the geometry of the windows caused by the shrinkage of the wall of the residential building;
loose adjusting locking elements of PVC construction;
wear and tear of materials from which the products were made;
improperly mounted window sill or slopes.

Problems with PVC structures are solved in two ways. You can call the specialists of a company that deals with additional insulation, sale, repair of windows. And they are on tight deadlines professional level will do everything necessary work... Comfortable? Undoubtedly. But the problem is that the cost of the services of such specialists is often similar to the cost of purchasing a new PVC profile. Not every person will agree to pay that kind of money. In this case, it makes sense to figure out how and how to insulate plastic windows. And try to complete all the activities yourself.

What kind of work can you really do yourself?

At home, it is impossible to eliminate serious flaws in plastic windows. With your own hands, you can insulate only the following elements of the PVC product:

internal slopes;
contour window frame;
ebb and window sill outside the room.

In this case, one should not forget about safety precautions. For example, it is undesirable to carry out external work in cases where windows are installed in apartments above the second floor of the building. An important nuance... Warming should be done exclusively in warm weather. Pick up a dry, windless summer or spring day, figure out the technology of work in advance, stock up on the right materials and tools. And only after that, start restoring the operational properties of the windows.

At the first stage, you need to clearly determine in which areas of the window structure you need to carry out insulation. Bring a lighted lighter to window profile and start moving it around the perimeter of the PVC product. In places where the flame begins to fluctuate, and insulation needs to be done. The most vulnerable areas are the joints of the frame and wall surfaces, slopes and ebb. In case of significant violations of the tightness, you do not even need to use a lighter. The breeze will be felt with an open palm.

You should also analyze the condition window fittings... It is often the cause of leakage plastic construction... If you see any defect on the hardware, malfunction, just install a new part. You may not need to take any further steps after this.

V mandatory examine the condition of the profile clamping mechanism. It is he who ensures the tightness of the window. Pay attention to the sealing gum. During operation, the gasket installed on the PVC structure loses its density (the phenomenon is caused by climatic conditions, mechanical influences). This leads to a significant reduction in the volume and thickness of the elastic. If the gasket has cracks, indentations, wrinkles, it should be replaced immediately. In the next section, we will explain in detail how to restore the tightness of a window profile.

Reanimating thermal insulation - the procedure for different situations

Let's start by replacing the worn out sealing gum. If the reason is precisely in it (the gasket has thinned and lost its original elasticity), proceed according to the following scheme:

1. Dismantle the glazing bead along the section of the structure with the detected flaw.
2. Remove the linings, carefully remove the glass unit.
3. Pull out the old seal, put a new one. The length of the latter should be 40-50 mm longer than the initial piece. You will cut off the extra centimeters after installing a new rubber band. Its installation should be carried out without straining or applying excessive force.
4. Install previously dismantled parts (glazing beads, linings, package) in the reverse order.

Before installing a new gasket, remove dust from the window grooves, wash them thoroughly and dry them. Then the installation of the seal will not cause difficulties. It will rise like a glove.

In cases where the seal looks intact, proceed with adjusting the pressure mechanism. To perform this operation, you need to stock up on a special window key. Inspect the glass unit first. Press lightly on it, release. If it doesn't wobble too much, reinforce the hold-down with silicone sealant. Such a composition should not include acids, which can negatively affect the rubber seal. If the glass unit is noticeably staggering, you will need to adjust the special. with a trunnion key - metal cylinders fixed in the slots. Loosen the existing bolts. And then tighten the hooks that hold the cylinders.

In some cases, it is necessary to adjust the adjustment locks on the windows. At the location of the plumb bobs of the PVC structure, two screws should be found. One of them is responsible for the level of clamping of the sash, the second holds it in a given position. Take a screwdriver, loosen (completely) the locking screw, and then tighten the pressure piece a little (clockwise). After tightening, close the window, arm yourself with a lighter, check the structure for drafts. If the flame fluctuates, retighten the adjusting screw slightly. Follow the specified sequence of operations until you are sure there is no draft.

Insulation for PVC windows - which one to choose and how to use?

Additional thermal insulation of plastic window structures can be performed different materials.As a rule, for these purposes they use:

Mineral or stone wool... A bit outdated, but quite effective heat-shielding materials for plastic windows (especially their window sills).
Construction foam. This insulation should be used with caution. It cracks and then collapses under the influence of high temperatures and the rays of the sun.
Silicone sealant. Easy-to-use material with high energy-saving properties.
Water-repellent primer (for example). An additional layer of paint must be applied to it.
Styrofoam. It is used for sealing gaps in slopes.
Heat-saving film. Modern way insulation of plastic structures, which is very popular among home craftsmen.

Let's see how to use energy saving film. This option of insulation guarantees a high-quality result with little effort. You will need a hair dryer, scotch tape (double-sided), sharp scissors, and preferably a clerical knife. Insulate the window by simple algorithm... First, remove dirt and dust from the metal-plastic structure, using a damp cloth, degrease the cleaned areas. After that, cover the window frame with double-sided tape.

Cut the energy-saving film to the required size using a utility knife. Attach the resulting strips to tape. It remains only to rinse the glued insulation with hot air from a hair dryer and, if necessary, remove air bubbles from under the film (carefully pierce them with a knife). The described technique for owners plastic products is the most profitable in terms of financial spending.

The inner and outer slopes of the windows are insulated, as noted, with polystyrene, as well as three-layer special panels, pieces of extruded polystyrene foam, fiberglass materials. Small gaps (up to 4 cm wide) can be sealed with polyurethane foam. Internal slopes are insulated with foam as follows: treat the problem area with a primer, plaster the surface, install a foam sheet using assembly adhesive, wait for the insulation to set, apply a layer of putty on top. Some home craftsmen additionally cover a layer of heat insulator. drywall sheets.

Outside, the slopes are insulated a little differently. Treat them with a primer. In this case, it is necessary to use formulations with antibacterial additives. Then plaster the surface (if it is flat, you can do without this step). Cut a slab from a piece of polystyrene. It should cover the entire slope. Mount the slab using a metal corner and dowels (you can additionally use mounting glue). On top of the resulting structure, install a fiberglass mesh. It is usually placed on an adhesive. After the slope has dried, paint it with water-based paint.

Preparing a window sill for the winter period is a simple matter!

Separately, I would like to say a few words about how to insulate a plastic window sill. With poor-quality installation of this element of the PVC structure, there is a high probability of the formation of a wide and deep crack.

Also, an illiterate installation causes the appearance of relatively small gaps between the contacting parts of the window sill, under which they are often placed. In both the first and second cases, cold air will penetrate into the dwelling. This must not be allowed. Proceed as follows:

carefully open the spec. plugs on the windowsill;
unscrew the fasteners using a screwdriver;
remove the sill.

All problem areas that were not previously visible under the dismantled structure will open before you. Seal small cracks with silicone sealant or polyurethane foam. Large holes should be filled with stone or mineral wool, covered with a plastic sheet on top and secured with the latter. Then put the window sill back in place. Your home will now be much warmer.

If the cold enters the house through a plastic window, do not rush to call specialists. As you can see, many works are easy to do with your own hands, having achieved good results. Try to return comfort and warmth to your home on your own!

Here. The issue of insulating plastic windows seems at least strange, because the manufacturers of these products assure that the home will be protected from sounds and cold weather, and the process of insulating windows is the last century.

But, unfortunately, after a couple of years, citizens notice that the insulation of plastic windows for the winter is an extremely necessary external and internal process.

If the operation was not performed, then you can seek help from specialists and order additional insulation or resort to self-insulation.

The second option will be cheaper, but it will require certain skills and abilities, which you will learn about after reading the article.

What you need to know about plastic windows?

The plastic window replaced the wooden one in the 90s and immediately gained wide popularity.

And this is not surprising, because its cost is several times cheaper, it is attracted by excellent thermal insulation and noise insulation, ease of operation, fire resistance and environmental friendliness of plastic, high level admitting fresh air.

Just think: plastic windows do not need painting, various cleaning procedures - you just need to wipe the frame and glass with a soapy water solution. Not windows, but a dream!

But it is known that ideal materials do not exist in the world, everything has its drawbacks, and plastic windows are no exception. How not to make a mistake and install high-quality windows in your house? Let's figure it out.

Plastic windows are arranged in the same type, among the elements - a profile, a double-glazed window and fittings. The quality of the window directly depends on the quality of the materials used.

Seals and correct installation play an important role.

Correctly selected profile contributes to the guarantee of high-quality and durable service of a plastic window.

Ease of operation, attractive appearance, production from natural components, sufficient width - these are the criteria that should be considered when choosing a profile.

Experts advise not to save on the profile, since thermal insulation largely depends on this element.

The choice of double-glazed windows is also worthy of attention. It is he who protects the house from sun rays, retains heat-insulating properties, prevents glass fogging, reduces energy consumption.

The number of glasses in the window varies. Despite the fact that double-glazed windows weigh more, require professional installation, have a higher cost than single glazing, they are more popular.

The double glazing is very warm, contributing to a comfortable living in the home all year round.

The fittings are metal parts that serve as sash assistants during the opening and closing of the window.

It is important to choose high-quality fittings, which contribute to a tight rebate of the sash to the frame, and is designed for a large number of window openings, has a presentable look.

Don't forget about the seals. It seems to be a completely inconspicuous detail, but it is on it that one of the most important functions of the window is assigned - protective.

The sealant protects the home from moisture, drafts, noise, dust. Therefore, the choice of this detail should be given due attention.

Over time, window seals wear out. In this case, it is necessary to replace them with new ones.

An important criterion for the high-quality and long-term service of a plastic window is competent installation. Installation of a structure is a complex and responsible procedure.

You should not try to do it yourself, it is better to seek help from the installation team, which guarantees conscientiously resolving the issue of thermal insulation for a long time.

So, the quality of plastic windows depends on the materials of their manufacture. It is important to be careful and prudent when choosing a plastic structure, because this will help make living in the house warm and comfortable.

Do-it-yourself insulation of plastic structures outside

In the event of a failure of the thermal insulation system of plastic windows, it is worth strengthening their insulation.

A competently performed procedure will help to correct errors in the installation of windows (if any) and solve the problem of thermal insulation.

To insulate plastic windows, you can use:

mineral wool (fireproof, safe);
Styrofoam (cheap, but not bad);
foam for installation;
sealant (reliable, inexpensive);
construction tape (improves insulation);
heat-saving film (excellent insulating material for glass);
so-called "warm" mixtures in the form of a primer.

To choose the right insulation, you should know its properties, working conditions (inside or outside), installation features.

It is convenient to work with polyurethane foam, but it is susceptible to negative impact sunlight and temperature fluctuations, therefore it is often used for internal insulation.

Spring and summer are suitable seasons for insulating plastic windows for the winter with your own hands. It is advisable to carry out the procedure on a quiet, warm day.

Insulation of plastic windows from the outside implies insulation of street window slopes.

If the outer slopes are not insulated, then it is pointless to carry out insulation procedures for the inner slopes: drafts and cold will be frequent guests of your home. Ignoring the outer insulation will lead to the formation of fungus.

It is possible to insulate the slopes of plastic windows from the outside with your own hands, but not in all cases.

If you live above the second floor, and there is no balcony, then you should not risk it: ask for help from the masters. If the situation allows and all the precautions are followed, then get down to business on your own.

If the window has recently been installed, then you should plastering work(remove dried foam, treat the slopes with a primer).

Then install the corner, and glue the fiberglass mesh on the tiles. After allowing it to dry, then you need to use glue again, then level it with a spatula. At the end of the procedure, you must use water-based paint.

Insulating material is obliged to close the assembly seam and overlap part of the frame.

External insulation plays an important role in the thermal insulation system, and its absence can lead to sad consequences and nullify all other efforts and efforts.

We insulate PVC openings inside

Insulation of the inside of plastic windows includes insulating slopes, window sills, double-glazed windows, adjusting and replacing the seal, adjusting fittings.

Insulation of PVC window slopes from the inside consists of the following stages:

removal of excess polyurethane foam;
treatment of slopes with an antibacterial primer;
leveling the surface with plaster;
reprocessing with a primer;
gluing a suitable foam board to the surface;
installation and putty of the corner;
fixing the platband;
final surface coating according to your taste.

To insulate the window sill, you will need polyurethane foam. Just remove the old foam, and fill up the problem areas with the new material. WITH small cracks handle better silicone sealant.

Now let's consider the technology of insulating glass units. If you decide to install single-chamber double-glazed window, then you should think about the process of warming even at the stage of installing windows.

You can try to insulate the glass unit on your own. This will require an energy-saving film.

First of all, we take out the glass from the frame. Now, with the right side (you will see marks on it), glue the film onto the glass with water.

Smooth the film with a plastic spatula, taking care not to allow the formation of bubbles under it. We cut off the excess parts of the film, install the glass unit in place.

Adjusting and replacing the plastic window seal is part of the insulation process.

The procedure should be carried out every few years, since the seals over time under the influence of moisture and different temperatures lose their properties.

When replacing a part, try to distribute it evenly along the window frame and sash. Correctly adjust the fit during adjustment casement.

You can buy a seal at any hardware store.

The process of adjusting the fittings of plastic windows is quite simple. To do this, open the window and find the place for installing the awnings.

We return the retainer to its original position, check the level of fit of the window sash. It is done!

It is very important to prevent heat loss from the building. Major leaks occur through the most weak spots- windows and doors. The problem with doorways is solved by installing two doors or a vestibule device.

In the case of windows, this is not possible. The most popular window fillings - plastic - are able to provide reliable protection, but in violation of technology or long term service thermal performance may be impaired. The way out of the position of the camp is the insulation of plastic windows.

Timing for insulation

Most materials and technologies require compliance with a certain temperature and humidity regime. The most successful choice will be the warm season. Of course the disadvantage protective function becomes noticeable only in winter period, but it is better to wait until spring.

The advantages of insulation at positive outside temperatures include:

convenience for the employee;
compliance with the technology of using materials;
no risk of chilling the heating system;
maintaining comfortable living conditions in an apartment or house.

It is worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the weather forecast in advance and make sure that there is no rain and strong wind... This will ensure a long service life of the insulation.

Determining the location of the leak

The weakest points of any design are always the joints of one or different materials.

In the case of window fillings, such details include:

the junction of the double-glazed window and the profile;
adjoining the profile to the slopes, walls, windowsill;
fittings;
sash opening points.

You can independently determine the place through which warm air leaves the room in several ways.

The flame reacts to the slightest movement of air. The most convenient way is to use a lighter. To find air leaks, the flame is slowly carried along all the weak points of the structure. If fluctuations are noticed, it is necessary to take measures for additional sealing and thermal insulation of the site.
Human skin is able to respond to the slightest movement of air and temperature changes. The largest number of receptors are located on the hands. If you run your palm around the perimeter of the profile, you can feel the weak points. This method is less reliable and is only suitable for checking in cold period of the year.

The choice of insulation

After the scale of work and the place of insulation have been determined, it is necessary to think about the correct choice of heat-insulating material. To protect plastic windows, it is worth choosing modern effective heat insulators. Insulation material can be one of the following.

Polyfoam has good thermal insulation characteristics and a relatively low cost. It is important to prevent moisture from getting on it, then it will last long enough.
Extruded polystyrene foam is similar to polystyrene foam, but has greater strength and resistance to moisture.
Mineral wool insulation is not afraid of fire, temperature changes and damage by various microorganisms. It is worth remembering that mineral wool absorbs moisture well, and in its raw state its heat-shielding characteristics are greatly reduced.
When using polyurethane foam, it is necessary to protect it from strong temperature changes and exposure to ultraviolet radiation.
Silicone sealant can reliably protect windows from leaks. Construction tape is glued on top of it, which will improve the protective properties. For outdoor work, a special sealant is produced, it is important to take this into account when buying material.
Special clear window film will reduce heat losses through the glass. In most cases, its use is unreasonable, since the massively installed two-chamber double-glazed windows in most regions of the country are quite enough.
As insulation of slopes and walls, you can use building mixtures with increased heat-shielding characteristics. On the market, "warm" formulations are presented in an assortment facade paints, plaster mortars and primers. They are great for insulation window openings outside.

Do-it-yourself insulation technology

The purpose of the work is the tightness of the window filling. sealant will do... This type of material does not require special knowledge, you just need to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Before starting to carry out more serious events on your own, you must consider the following points:

after do-it-yourself insulation, the window warranty is canceled;
it is best if the manufacturer of the work already has experience in insulation;
it is almost impossible to insulate windows from the outside on their own.

It is important to think about the decision beforehand. If in doubt, it is better to consider the option of contacting professional workers. If there is no doubt, work is carried out in the following order:

Dismantling of finishes, slopes, low tide, window sill, if necessary.
Removal of a failed sealant or insulation.
Surface cleaning.
Treatment of windowsill and slopes with a cleaner to remove grease.
When using polyurethane foam, the surface is moistened with water.
Filling the cracks with insulation.
Performing a protective finish (plaster or putty is suitable for foam, construction tape is suitable for sealant).
Insulation of slopes using mineral wool or expanded polystyrene (you can purchase a ready-made insulated slope).
Insulation of the window sill and low tide, if necessary.
Insulation quality check and finishing if necessary.
On request, a sticker on the glass of a heat-saving film.

Styrofoam and extruded polystyrene foam can be conveniently attached to special glue or polyurethane foam.

Insulation of slopes and window sills

There should be no problems with sealing the cracks. It is worth considering in more detail the insulation of the slopes and the window sill.

You can insulate the slopes with foam or extruded polystyrene foam. The foam is fixed on the outside, and from the inside, the finish is performed with plasterboard sheets or plastic panels... An additional layer of mineral wool can be placed between the wall and such a panel.

Manufacturers also offer ready-made sandwich panels that combine both a finishing layer and insulation.

To insulate the polystyrene foam window sill cut the desired shape, which is glued with special glue or polyurethane foam.

How to avoid fogging a window

The fogging of the window indicates that it does not work properly as a barrier to cold air. Condensation forms on the surface when the internal glass has low temperature, and warm air in the room falls on it in the form of moisture. In addition, fogging of windows can be caused by high humidity in the room.

In the second case, regular airing will be the way out. If the reason is the low temperature of the glass, condensation occurs in the following cases:

insufficient thickness of the air gap in the glass unit;
too wide a window sill, which prevents the access of heat from the battery to the window;
installation errors.

To prevent the windows from fogging up, you need to choose a trusted installer, do not skimp on double-glazed windows and do not install too wide window sills. If the problem has already occurred, the solution may be to periodically ventilate or use a dehumidifier.

Electric glass heating

Glasses with electrically heated glass are produced absolutely transparent. Usage additional source heat will prevent low temperatures in the room and the appearance of condensation on the translucent surface.

Most likely installation metal-plastic windows was part of your plan to insulate your home or apartment. And now this element itself needs to be insulated, and it shouldn't blow from anywhere ... Why is it blowing? Correctly installed metal-plastic windows do not need insulation. But, if errors were made during installation or a long period has passed during which the glass unit was not serviced, the insulation of PVC windows may well be required.

To understand how to solve the problem, you need to find out what elements the window consists of. All the main details can be seen in the diagram below.

So, now you need to find out what details are most often difficult.

It can be:

The joint (seam) between the frame and the wall (window sill, slopes);
Glass unit fittings;
Glazing bead (The element by which the glass is held - if it blows from under the glass).
Sealant.

Here we have built the reasons not according to any principle, but only in a chaotic manner. But, a little further we will understand the reasons sequentially - going from the very simple solution, to the most difficult (labor-intensive, labor-intensive). We will see that insulating windows with our own hands is not as difficult as it might seem at first.

Windows problems

In the last subtitle, we figured out the structural elements that can cause problems and may require insulating glass units. Employees of one Kiev company distinguish three most common ones:

Long time out of service and poor condition rubber seal. This insulating element plays an important role in thermal insulation;
Lack of tight contact between the sash and the frame. For example, this can be due to skewed hinges;
Poorly made initially and destroyed by erosion of the seam between the frame and the window opening.

How do you find out what the problem is in a particular case?

This stage of insulating PVC windows usually does not raise questions. A person may not know what the element is called, but where it is blowing from is often easy to determine. Most use one of three proven methods.

Check with a candle or lighter. Light a candle and bring it to the gap between the frame and the wall, or between the sash and the frame. In the place where the candle goes out, a cold stream is passed. There you need to conduct surveys;
The sash clamp must be very tight. It should not be pulled from under it. To check the pressure for "strength", insert a sheet of paper into the sash and close it by turning the knob. If the sheet falls out, the hardware may need adjustment. Or the window may be in "summer mode";
Although the third method is more expensive, it can help identify problems not only with windows - thermal imaging. By using special equipment heat leakage zones can be identified. An example snapshot is shown below.

Summer and winter window modes

If you open the sash and look at its end, you can see several pressure rollers. They are then responsible for adjusting the pressure density, in fact, summer and winter modes... Using a special key, adjust the degree of pressure, the seal of the sash to the frame. In some profiles, you can do without a key by turning these rollers manually.

On the pressure roller itself, you can see the notch. If it is turned closer to the sealing gum, then the mode is winter, and if it is out, then it is summer.

For more information on how you can change the window mode, see the video.

So, at this stage, we have already figured out the structure of the window itself, found out what elements can cause difficulties, and found out what problems tenants most often face. Now let's take a look at the most common problems and find out how to solve them.

Handles, hinges ...

Do-it-yourself window insulation should be started with fittings. As employees of the same Kiev company for the repair and installation of windows say, if the problem is not started, it can often be solved by adjusting the fittings. Since the topic of our article is, after all, the thermal insulation of windows, here it is only worth saying that the average cost of ordering an adjustment in a company in Kiev costs about 100-150 UAH. (4 dollars), and in Moscow 400-700 rubles. You can fix this moment yourself by watching the video:

Sealing rubber bands

In the CIS countries, for various reasons, it is unpleasant to regularly conduct service maintenance... This leads to premature or very severe wear of various parts. Therefore, when deciding how to insulate windows, make sure that the sealing elements of the windows are in good working order.

The seals are located on the frame as well as on the sash. In most cases, removable parts are installed that can be easily replaced. How do you know if a seal needs replacement? One of the ways was given at the beginning of the article.

Second. Open the sash and feel the seal. If it is tough (and especially if it starts to crumble, it needs to be replaced). There is also an easier way. Test without getting up from the chair.

The seal needs to be lubricated at intervals of approximately 6 months. If such a procedure has not been carried out for at least 3 years - 90% of the fact that the gum needs to be replaced.

What is the best way to insulate windows? There is no definite answer, but the seal needs to be changed exactly.

In a separate article, we have already described in detail how the procedure is carried out and showed a video.

A small summary of this section. Two small, but most common problems in window insulation are fittings and cutters in plastic windows. But, there are also more "severe patients" who need "hospitalization". In such cases, the problem is usually with the sill or ebb.

Low tide

How to insulate a plastic window with your own hands if problems are observed at the bottom of the window? The first thing that can come to mind will be the insulation of the windowsill. But, his removal is a case thoroughly, which more resembles construction project so there is an alternative. You can start by insulating the windows from the outside by insulating the low tide. First you need to dismantle the old ebb. To do this, we twist all the screws with which it is attached, and carefully remove the piece of iron itself.

When working on high floors, be extremely careful and use insurance.

We are interested in the seam between the frame and the window opening. It is sealed with polyurethane foam - a material that is easily affected by cold and moisture. Therefore, if the foam was not reliably protected, the reason for blowing may be precisely in it.

Look at the foam layer under the frame. If:

The foam itself crumbles
There is no vapor barrier,

The seam needs repair.

Peel off the layer gently old foam with a knife. Prime the remnants of the old layer and the entire surface and cover it with a new one. vapor barrier membrane... It is necessary to bring one edge of the membrane under the frame, and lay the other under the ebb. Apply a new layer of foam. Outside, the foam can be protected with PSUL tape.

This completes the sealing of the outer seam, which can be a source of cold.

Create another camera

Among the three reasons for blowing metal-plastic windows mentioned at the beginning of the article was glazing bead. Special films are used to insulate this element. It creates between the glass and the film itself, as it were, another air pocket, which levels out all the blowing between the glass and the frame. Thanks to this, a single glass unit becomes a two-chamber unit.

How to insulate double-glazed windows in this way?

Film - a good option when insulation was needed "yesterday". In this article, we only, in general, discuss all the methods that allow us to insulate plastic windows with our own hands, but in a separate article we discussed this topic in more detail.

External insulation

How to insulate plastic windows from the outside? There are two key points here:

Firstly, in an apartment on the floor above the second, it is prohibited by law to insulate anything outside - you need a special license. You can insulate the windows yourself only in the house or on the first or second floors of an apartment.
It is better to entrust such work to professionals.
Secondly, when we talk about external insulation of windows, it comes about the insulation of the slopes and the insulation of the seam at low tide, which we talked about above. The issue was discussed in a separate article a little earlier.

Service cost

Window insulation includes several procedures. Below in the plate we give approximate cost for the services of contractor firms.

Outcomes

You probably understood how to insulate plastic windows depends on the method and approach. It may be necessary to replace the seal or use polyurethane foam to seal the outer seam. Insulation for plastic windows can also be a film that is glued to the frame from the inside. You can seal the seams inside with tape, well, this is already in the case of very old PVC windows. And let's repeat: how to properly insulate windows?

The first thing to find out is the cause of the heat leak. As you remember, there are only three main ones. Although, of course, there are various unusual and unforeseen situations, especially in our area, where the windows were not always installed on a sober head. Therefore, if you still have questions, use the comments or the section "Question-Answer".

After installing plastic windows, the owners are sure that they are guaranteed to provide comfort in the room under any conditions. Theoretically, this is correct, high-quality constructions perform their functions flawlessly. But even the most perfect products gradually lose their ability to retain heat.

If the manufacturing and installation technology was violated, then the streams of cold air penetrate into the house immediately. Changing double-glazed windows or fittings with the call of the masters is an expensive procedure. That's why the best option- insulate plastic windows with your own hands.

Heat loss reasons - how to determine the source?

First, it is determined whether it really is blowing from the window opening. Often this is just an illusion that can be easily explained. If a structure is installed that does not provide adequate thermal insulation in terms of its characteristics, then air circulation is disturbed during frost. A cold mass moves inside the room by the window. This suggests that heat is escaping through it.

To be sure whether this is so or not, they take a burning candle and bring it closer to the point of contact between the window sash and the frame. When the deflection of the flame is noticeable, a leak is detected through which heat is leaking. If the fire is vertical, then the structure is sealed, and the reason is different.

Structural elements of a plastic window

With a candle, a window opening is passed along the entire perimeter, then it is precisely possible to find a defective place. More often it is located at the junction of the frame and the wall. The problem lies in poor-quality installation - it blows through the windowsill, under which there are cracks, or through the slopes.

Window block device

The most common reason is associated with improperly adjusted hardware. The malfunction is eliminated easily and quickly, but if the equipment is of poor quality, it happens that nothing can be done. This applies to products manufactured under clandestine conditions. The cost is low, which attracts little-known domestic firms that choose such suppliers. Therefore, it is preferable to order designs from large companies that value their reputation.

If the geometry of the window is violated during the assembly of the structure, the sashes do not fit tightly to the frame, and drafts appear. In this case, nothing can be changed, a reinstallation is required taking into account the mistakes made earlier. A craftsman from a well-known company will never make such mistakes. For products installed at the beginning of the boom in plastic products, this was a natural phenomenon, because the workers were recruiting random people without the appropriate knowledge and experience.

Poor quality window seals also cause cold to enter the room. Good material withstands frost and heat for many years without losing its elasticity. A dirty surface has the same effect. Damaged products are replaced with new ones.

For the manufacture of plastic windows, cheap plastic is sometimes used. It quickly collapses from the outside under the influence ultraviolet rays and high temperatures. V winter time years, cracks appear on the profile, through which cold penetrates into the room. The product cannot be repaired; replacement is required.

Insulation of windows along the contour - where to start?

Domestic manufacturers have adopted European technology, but the quality of installation remains unsatisfactory in many cases. Not enough attention is paid to the insulation of window openings from the outside, and this becomes the reason for the penetration of cold into the room. The consequences are serious: on inner slopes dampness, mold is formed. Simply covering up the cracks on the street is ineffective.

To insulate plastic windows, first of all pay attention to the window sill and slopes. The installation is accompanied by great destruction. Holes in the opening are sealed with polyurethane foam, which is the most simple. It subsequently falls apart when exposed to the weather because it is not protected. All outdoor work is carried out only in warm weather, winter is not the right time for this.

The installation of external slopes provides reliable thermal insulation, a barrier is formed against the penetration of cold into the room. Without this measure, all other methods are ineffective. There are many technological methods, among which the proposed one is one of the most accessible for repetition. You will need simple and inexpensive materials:

Styrofoam;
glue suitable for him;
reinforcing mesh.

The sequence of work is simple. First, the remnants of the polyurethane foam are cut off, then the insulation is attached to the surface of the slopes. They do not regret the glue, they give enough so that it clogs the cracks. The surplus is removed with a spatula, if voids remain somewhere, they are filled with the same mixture. A mesh is installed on top, everything is plastered. Further finishing (filling, painting) is carried out at the request of the owner.

Execution of work requires compliance important rules, among which the main thing is that the frame is partially overlapped with insulation, the seam of the polyurethane foam is completely covered. The slope is located at a turned angle to the plane of the window to ensure the normal distribution of lighting in the room and an aesthetic appearance.

Particular attention is paid to the ebb and flow assembly seam under him. Provide a good outflow of water, for which the slope angle is not less than 5%. The optimal distance from the wall is 3-4 cm. The side edges are folded up or installed end strips... The joints are sealed so that no water gets in.

Internal slopes also require sealing and finishing. After removing old windows and installing new PVC windows, sometimes a lot of work has to be done. The algorithm is as follows:

1. Prepare the surface: clean the slopes from dust, cut the protruding construction foam. An antibacterial primer is applied to prevent mold.
2. Level with plaster, achieving even, but not necessarily ideal surface... After drying, it is primed.
3. Cut in accordance with the dimensions of the expanded polystyrene plate and glued to the slopes. They install a corner, putty, fix the platband.
4. For topcoat usually plaster is used, followed by painting. Drywall is also widely used now.

The polyurethane foam at the junction with the window sill deteriorates from time to time, it needs to be replaced in order to block the path of cold air flows. The remnants of the old mixture are removed, and the dispenser of a new spray is passed along the entire seam. For crevices small size this insulation is not very suitable, therefore, a silicone sealant is used. It penetrates on great depth, eliminates leaks well. Another advantage is that it is not afraid of dampness and water.

Adjusting the tightness of the flaps

Each opening window has a mechanism by which the pressing force against the seal is changed. Different manufacturers use their original systems that differ appearance, but the principle of operation is always the same. On the sidewall there is a number of eccentrics (pins), the adjustment of which changes the tightness of the flaps. Under the influence of turning the handle, they go behind special platforms located on the frame.

The clamp can be changed depending on the season. In the summer it is weakened, in the winter it is strengthened. The adjustment limits are small - up to one millimeter. It should be remembered that the more stress is applied to the seal, the faster it wears out.

The degree of adherence of the sash to the frame from the handle side, if necessary, is adjusted by turning the eccentric. There is sometimes a risk on it, by which the clamping force is determined. If the arrow points to the street, it is weakened, when towards the premises - reinforced. To tighten, rotate clockwise, to loosen - in the opposite direction. Usually a hex screwdriver is used for this, in some versions a wrench or pliers are used.

The window block on the side where the lower hinge is installed also has a clamping unit. For adjustment, a hexagon is used with which the screw is turned. Pay attention to the position of the tongue: the more it extends, the more the sash is pressed against the frame. To change the fit, take into account which side the window opens. If to the left, to increase the density, the screw is rotated counterclockwise, to the right - in its direction.

Locking the window mechanism

For tilt-and-turn leaves, it is possible to adjust the fit using the top hinge. To gain access to the screw, open the window, press on the lock and set the handle in the ventilation mode. When it is required to increase the clamping, the bolt is rotated clockwise.

Some fittings are adjustable with strikers. They are installed on the sidewall next to the handle, the position is changed using a hexagon. To increase the pressure, they are shifted towards the street.

Self-replacement of the seal - how to cope?

Rubber bands in plastic windows are produced on a different basis, but have one purpose - to improve thermal and sound insulation. If necessary, you can change them yourself, but the procedure is quite complicated. Usually, EPDM products are purchased, which are of good quality, reasonable price... You shouldn't buy TPE, which is afraid of severe frosts, and VMQ is quite expensive.

A self-adhesive sealant is on sale, the installation principle of which resembles the use of ordinary adhesive tape. Its use is limited, it serves exclusively as an additional protection of the seam between the profile and the window opening, it is not suitable for sashes.

Standard elastic bands for plastic windows have a shape that exactly repeats all the recesses on the structure. External seals serve less, which are more exposed to the weather. Replacement is carried out simultaneously on two circuits located on the sash and frame. If you limit yourself to only one, the clamp weakens significantly, the adjustment does not always help.

The work is carried out in the following order:

1. Dismantle the old seal by taking it by the middle and pulling it towards you. It is rarely installed with glue, so in most cases it will not be difficult to remove it.
2. They treat the surface of the plastic structure, paying particular attention to the grooves. First, they are washed with soapy water, removing all contaminants, then degreased with alcohol or another means suitable for these purposes.
3. To ensure a tight fit, glue the corners of the profile. One of the adhesives is applied to it: silicone, PVA or construction, they wait until it dries.
4. Meanwhile, the material is measured. If VMQ or TPE grades are used, make a cut for each side with a margin. EPDM rubber bands are easy to bend, so a whole piece is used.
5. The final stage is the installation of the seal. It is inserted into the grooves without pulling or squeezing. Work will go faster if you attract another person to help, use an available tool, and not do everything with your hands.

To extend the lifespan sealing gum, they are washed several times a year, cleaned of dust, covered with silicone grease. If 5-7 years of operation have passed, they most likely need to be replaced.

Using Energy Saving Film

Single-chamber double-glazed windows often do not provide reliable heat retention. Installation of more efficient ones is expensive, therefore insulation is applied using a special multi-layer material. Its energy efficiency has been compared to the third glass. At the same time, the transparency practically does not decrease, the strength increases. It is a thin film coated with a liquid metal substance.

There are different thermal insulation materials of a similar kind. One of the most expensive - with a side that has a special layer for fastening to glass. This is a self-adhesive film. The reinforced one transmits light a little worse, but serves more long time... More suitable for use in severe frost climates.

To fix the thermal film on the window at home, you need to have scissors and a construction or ordinary household hair dryer. If it is not self-adhesive, double-sided tape is used.

Step-by-step instruction:

1. The glass is cleaned of dust and dirt by washing with a special liquid or soap suds, wiping dry. It is advisable to degrease at the flaps where the fastening will take place.
2. Prepare the thermal film. If it is packaged as a double-sided cut, one layer is separated from the other.
3. The material is laid out on a clean and dry surface, cut to fit the window. Add 2-3 cm along the edges.
4. Attach double-sided tape around the perimeter, remove the protective paper strip. Stick the film, achieving a snug fit without gaps.
5. Turn on the hair dryer and blow on the entire surface. The material is heat-shrinkable, under the influence of a warm air flow, it straightens and attaches to the glass.

Performing work, they adhere to some recommendations:

installation is carried out in dry weather in early autumn;
removed in the spring, when the cold weather has finally passed;
the film is changed every year.

When installing, do not pull it too tight so as not to break - the hair dryer will smooth out wrinkles. For the sticker, they use third-party help: one person holds it from above, the other from below.