Window installation is one of the most important stages in the construction or renovation of a building. Even the highest quality windows will not fulfil their function if they are not installed correctly. Correct installation affects not only the stability of the windows, but also tightness and thermal insulation, which has a direct impact on the comfort of living and the amount of heating bills.
Steps of proper window installation – step by step.
1. Preparation of the window opening.
Before installation, it is necessary to properly prepare the window opening. The surface should be cleaned of dust, debris and remains of mortar. Precise measurements are then taken to avoid problems with the fit of the frame. It is also necessary to check the plumb and level with a spirit level.
2. Setting up the window frame.
Once the opening has been prepared, the window can be set in place. The frame is stabilised using mounting wedges to allow for precise levelling. Fixing is carried out using dowels or anchors, whereby it is important to maintain adequate spacing from the edge of the wall to avoid tension.
3. Sealing the gaps.
The next step is to fill the space between the frame and the masonry with polyurethane foam. Before its application, the surface should be moistened with water, which will ensure better expansion and adhesion of the foam. In the case of warm installation, vapour-proof tape is additionally used on the inside and vapour-permeable tape on the outside.
4. Remove assembly wedges.
Once the installation foam has cured, the stabilising wedges can be removed and the resulting gaps filled with foam. It is also important to leave shims under the frame to prevent deformation.
5. Installation of sealing tapes.
Sealing strips are used for additional protection against moisture and heat loss. They ensure a tight connection between the window and the wall, eliminating the risk of thermal bridges.
6. Finishing work.
The final stage is to remove the protective film from the window and thoroughly clean the profiles and hardware. The operation of the opening and closing mechanisms should also be checked.
Thermal bridges – what are they and how to avoid them?
Thermal bridges are places in the building structure through which heat escapes, leading to energy losses and increased heating costs. They mainly arise around windows and doors as a result of incorrect installation and inadequate sealing.
To avoid thermal bridges, it is advisable to use warm and tight installation methods that ensure maximum insulation. It is also important to use quality materials such as sealing tapes and installation foams with low thermal conductivity.
Window installation methods – which one to choose?
Standard assembly
This is the traditional method, where windows are installed with anchors or dowels to the building wall. It is mainly used in standard construction, where the priority is fast and relatively cheap installation.
Warm assembly
Consists of a three-layer seal consisting of a vapour-proof tape on the inside, polyurethane foam as an insulating layer and a vapour-permeable tape on the outside. Warm installation significantly improves the thermal insulation parameters of a building.
Tight assembly
This is the most advanced method of window installation, which provides maximum protection against moisture and heat loss. It involves the use of special sealing foils which eliminate the risk of thermal bridges and condensation.
The most common mistakes in window installation and how to avoid them.
- Failure to seal properly – inaccurate application of foam or sealing tapes can lead to heat loss.
- Poor levelling of the window frame – can cause difficulties in closing the window and leaks.
- Using the wrong insulation materials – using non-standard foams and tapes can affect the durability of the installation.
- Omitting an external insulation layer – can lead to thermal bridging and moisture problems.
Conclusion.
Proper window installation is the key to ensuring thermal comfort and durability of the entire structure. Each stage, from the preparation of the opening to the final finishing work, requires precision and the use of appropriate materials.
At Warmia Okna i Drzwi, we use proven assembly technologies, including Tytan WINS systems, which guarantee high quality of sealing and elimination of thermal bridges, providing our customers with energy savings and durability for years. We warmly encourage you to contact us.