When buying a window, we plan that it will be able to serve for many decades. However, this is only possible if the window is correctly installed. Almost all experts have their own methods and secrets, but there are also special fixed norms - GOST and SNiP. It is the installation of PVC windows in accordance with GOST that can give the highest quality result.
Regulations
Installation of PVC windows in accordance with GOST will guarantee its long and trouble-free service. Today, all types of work related to this area are regulated by four basic standards:
- GOST 30674-99. It contains general information on the subject and basic requirements for windows. The GOST itself is practically not mentioned about the installation process.
- GOST R52749-2007. This standard focuses on the installation process of windows using a vapor-permeable self-expanding sealing tape.
- GOST 30971-2012. This document contains the most detailed information on the subject. It can also find the exact requirements for window size, device parameters and joint filling materials, methods of fastening structures and similar information. It also describes the requirements for regulatory documentation, some warranty obligations of the contractor and general requirements for the performance of work. This standard was introduced at the beginning of 2014 and replaced the outdated GOST 30971-2002 for window installation.
- SNiP 23-02-2003. The standard sets the parameters for thermal protection of rooms. It is enough to mention that it requires the installation of a 3-chamber double-glazed window for most climatic zones of Russia and a 5-chamber for Siberia.
All the regulatory documents listed above are valid, but not binding. The only exception was the various requirements, one way or another regarding safety. Compliance with state standards only helps to achieve the highest quality window installation.
Preparation for installation
The installation of plastic windows according to GOST does not differ much in general terms from the usual installation of a PVC window. The main differences lie in the nuances and compliance with a number of requirements. The technology for installing plastic windows is as follows:
Measurements
Before starting work, a series of measurements should be carried out. The window dimensions are set as follows: the window width is the width of the window opening, from which the doubled width of the mounting gap (which will be on both sides) is subtracted, the height is similar. According to GOST, the minimum width of such a gap is 2 cm, and in calculations most often use an indicator of 2.5-3 cm.
If we are talking about installing a window in the opening with an external quarter, then all measurements should be made from the outside. The width will be the distance between the quarters, increased by the size of the frame plant per quarter, which is 2.5 to 4 cm. The height is determined similarly.
Preparatory work
After the windows are manufactured and delivered to the customer, do not immediately begin work. It is recommended that you first prepare the room: clear the window space for convenient work, remove unnecessary items and furniture, close the walls and remaining items with a film or thick cloth. The shutters from the frame are dismantled, the cavity of the stand profile is filled with heat-insulating foam. The latter is recommended to be done a day before installation.
Particular attention should be paid to the opening itself - it must be pre-cleaned of dirt and dust. If there are noticeable irregularities, they are aligned with putty.
Mount
GOST stipulates two main types of window fastening. The first is made in the mounting plane - the screws are mounted directly through the frame. This option is used most often, but it requires door sashes and double-glazed windows to be removed from the frame in advance. The advantage of this method is the ease of installation in the opening.
The second option uses is based on the use of fittings mounted in the frame during production. You can mount the whole structure. It should be noted that its weight will be quite large, so the process will require certain efforts and skills.
Installation work
The installation of plastic windows according to GOST provides one important point: the frame is not installed on a bare brick or similar foundation. Instead, small wooden bars soaked in mortars are placed. They will help in aligning the window.
After that, they are placed either on a separate frame, or the entire structure, which depends on the preferred type of mounting. For greater stability and reliability, the supports are left part of the structure, and wedges for fixing are knocked out between the window and the wall from above. After this, the frame is likewise mounted on the sides. By controlling the process level, the frame is aligned, the adjustment is carried out by adding substrates.
Mounting the frame, according to GOST, can be done through pre-drilled mounts. You should start from the bottom, gradually moving higher. To top it off, the design is additionally checked for horizontalness and all self-tapping screws and anchors are tightened.
Installation of drain and window assembly
Most often, a special groove is provided from the outside of the window into which the drainage is mounted. GOST states that during installation it must be foamed. If you need to create a more robust structure, the drainage is additionally fixed with screws.
Upon completion, it is required to carry out another control check of the entire structure: for strength, verticality and horizontalness. After that, it remains to assemble the window. The assembly process takes place in the reverse order of disassembly: in the process, limiters, handles and other accessories return to their places.
Filling gaps
Particular attention in GOSTs is paid to filling gaps. This procedure is almost always carried out with polyurethane foam-based foam.. This material has been tested over the years, but still has a number of drawbacks. First of all, its resistance to environmental influences and ultraviolet leaves much to be desired. That is why GOST standards prescribe maximum insulation of all joints from all sides - this will avoid the destruction of insulation, which can result in loss of tightness, fogging of windows and the penetration of cold from the street into the house.
The insulation procedure is as follows: a waterproofing tape for PVC windows is glued inside the entire perimeter. The tape must also have the property of vapor impermeability. In the lower part, a strip of foil is glued, which subsequently appears under the board of the window sill. Similarly pass on the outside. Adhesive strip PSUL (moisture resistant and vapor tight). This membrane film can let steam out.
Both of the mentioned materials are characterized not only by the fact that finding them on the construction market is not difficult. They are also distinguished by their availability, that is, the final price of the work will ultimately increase not so much, but the quality will increase significantly. In addition, the structure mounted in this way will last several years longer.
To fill the gap when installing PVC windows according to GOST, the strips are slightly bent, and the surface is wetted from the inside. Apply the composition with a gun. Foam is used as a filler, designed for use all year round. According to GOST, you can use ordinary foam, but only at temperatures up to 30 degrees below zero. Given the conditions in most regions, such a joint insulation in Russia is of little use.
Window sill installation
At the last stage of work, a window sill is installed. This process is considered quite simple - it will only be necessary to fit the size and, if necessary, trim the finished window sill so that it fits perfectly under the frame. According to GOST 30971, the window sill can be placed on walls at a distance of 5 to 10 cm. Pegs are used to give a level, after which the cavity under the board is sealed with foam or mortar. Experts recommend installing 1-2 degrees in the direction of the room during installation.
To decorate the windowsill, plastic panels are used, which are attached to the initial profile with clips. The platband, which starts around the corner, is fixed with self-tapping screws, and is covered with a decorative film on top. It only remains to put on the end caps and seal the joints with sealant.
Many construction companies interpret the GOST and SNiP standards as they want and can simply ignore them, and what is wrong with the installation is fraught with, you do not need to say again. There are two ways out: either closely monitor the installation process and immediately notice violations, or install windows according to GOST on our own.