Plastic windows are easy to maintain and reliably isolate the room from outside influences. But even modern PVC structures need care. The period of low temperatures is an additional test for plastic windows.
In the warm season, windows are often located in open position, so dust particles fall not only onto the open surfaces of the window, but also into hard-to-reach hollows and grooves. It is necessary to thoroughly clean the window using a sponge and detergent.
After all surfaces, grooves and mechanisms are cleaned, you begin to lubricate all moving elements of the window structure. Under no circumstances use vegetable or organic oils for these purposes. Over time they tend to thicken. And if dust and dirt are added to this factor, the mechanism may even fail. Opt for machine oil (mineral or synthetic) or silicone oil (for example, grease).
The issue of window tightness largely depends on the quality of its seals. To assess this component of the window structure, a visual inspection is sufficient. If the rubber bands do not have visible damage - cracks, dents, tears - nothing needs to be done. Cosmetic cleaning of dirt is enough. But if you find a violation of the integrity of the rubber gaskets, they must be replaced.
You should not save money and purchase seals from dubious manufacturers. The cost of saving is a low degree of sealing and rapid wear of the part. You can replace the rubber bands yourself. However, if you do not have sufficient knowledge and skill, it is better to entrust this procedure to professionals.
Setting up the mechanisms affects not only the comfort of using the window, but also the degree of compression of the frame, as well as the wear of the rubber seal. IN summer period There is no need for a tight fit of the sash to the frame, and the seal does not wear out as much. In winter, such micro-cracks can cause drafts. The trunnions located on the opening sash allow you to adjust the degree of pressure. Use a hex wrench (or screwdriver) and adjust the mechanism. The manipulation is simple, but requires caution, because... Careless actions can lead to damage to the mechanism or seal.
The final stage is insulation window designs. This step is not necessary if the windows retain heat well. In cases where, due to physical wear and tear, the windows have become difficult to “hold” heat, they can be insulated. The simplest and most effective (although not cheap) way is to use special film. Taking into account climatic conditions, it is better to choose a frost-resistant model.
The film can be pasted with either inside premises and from the street side. The insulating film must be stretched over the entire surface of the frame and secured at the edges. The insulation process is simple, but painstaking - try to avoid both sagging (folds) and excessive tension of the material.
A call from the company with a proposal to check the condition of the plastic windows and make necessary actions Our family was interested in caring for them, because the windows in the apartment were installed about 8-10 years ago. And besides the usual annual washing of the windows from accumulated dirt and dust, nothing else was done to them during this time.
Probably, the naive belief that existed for a long time that plastic windows do not need special care came into play. Of course modern windows unpretentious, practical, reliable, have a lot of advantages and seem eternal. But still, they need to be monitored and properly cared for.
Completely ignoring simple rules care, which most of us can perform, after a few years we end up with a lot of defects and breakdowns. Windows lose their presentable appearance, they begin to let in cold air and street noise, fittings become loose and fail, drainage holes become clogged with dirt, and rubber seals dry out.
Some breakdowns can be easily fixed. But sometimes the problems that arise (worn and abraded metal parts in the absence of lubrication, heavy movement of the handle, etc.) require serious financial costs and additional effort. Repairs are also complicated by the fact that it can be difficult or even impossible to find spare parts to replace worn parts. You have to completely change the mechanism and hinges, drill new holes, or even completely replace the window.
Like any technical complex design, which PVC windows undoubtedly are, they require some care. Remember what you focused on when choosing windows - a high-quality profile, fittings and double-glazed windows: all these elements equally require care. If you didn't know how to care for your windows or forgot about the tips that the craftsmen gave you after installing your windows, this article may be useful to you.
The design of a plastic window is simple. It consists of a frame, a double-glazed window (a sealed structure with air chambers between the glasses), movable sashes with rubber seals that prevent blowing and leaks, and fittings - an important component (consists of a complex set of mechanisms responsible for fixing the window sashes in one position or another , opening and locking, from hinges and handles).
Plastic windows are quite easy to care for. As for frames and sashes, to maintain them in good condition, it is enough to periodically wipe them with a napkin or soft cloth using ordinary detergents.
The basic rule is not to use detergents and compositions containing acid, abrasive particles, solvents that can leave scratches on the plastic or damage its surface.
Cleaning the windows will take a little longer. But here everything is simple. Any glass cleaner will be suitable for cleaning it. But the locking mechanisms of the fittings and its moving parts, sealing rubber bands require special care.
Depending on the complexity of the mechanisms, the fittings used in plastic windows provide a lot of convenience for users. The simplest fittings ensure that the window sashes can be tilted and turned. The multifunctional fittings are additionally equipped with a mechanism for ventilation, protection of the sash from sagging and other useful functions.
High-quality fittings not only last a long time with proper care, but also provide safety and additional comfort in the home. In addition to the fact that the window handle should be easily fixed in intermediate positions and move without effort, it allows the window sashes to open, swing open and recline.
All require special attention and careful care metal elements located around the perimeter of the plastic window. They must be periodically (once or twice a year) removed from dirt, dust and old grease. This can be done with a soft cloth soaked in soapy water. If necessary, you can use a brush, sponge, brush and even a vacuum cleaner.
After cleaning, all moving metal parts of the locking and fastening system must be lubricated. technical oil, does not contain resins and acids in the composition. Solid oil, petroleum jelly, machine oil, and silicone-based oil are suitable for this. You can use lubricant for fittings from a kit for caring for plastic windows (usually it also contains a product for caring for the profile and seal).
You can find such special kits in stores that sell plastic windows and in companies involved in their maintenance and installation. These products have already been checked and tested by manufacturers and cannot damage any structural part of the window. Moreover, they last a long time.
They are produced in convenient metal cylinders in the form of aerosols or in bottles with convenient sprayers, nozzles and droppers, which allows you to reach the most hard to reach places. They usually contain anti-corrosion, anti-acid substances and mineral oils. Home craftsmen often use WD-40 lubricant for this purpose.
Important: cannot be used vegetable oil and means not intended for this purpose.
This element of a plastic window carries the greatest load in the structure and wears out the fastest. And this process accelerates without proper care. Having previously cleaned the surface, lubricant is applied wherever metal friction occurs: around the locking pins and strikers, on the pins themselves, on the bolts, fasteners, brackets, on the handle opening mechanism (if the window closes tightly), on the latches and hinges.
To ensure even distribution of the lubricant, after applying it, the handle must be turned several times, closing and opening the window.
The oil must be applied carefully and small quantity into the grooves (technological slots) around the perimeter of the window and all other moving parts of the fittings, avoiding it flowing down and getting on the sealing rubber (this can ruin it).
We do not ignore the rubber seals located around the perimeter of the profile. They also need to be processed special means, protecting against rapid wear, deformation, drying out and loss of elasticity. If this is not done, the seal loses its protective functions. The window sash no longer presses tightly against the frame, and the window seal is broken. And as a result, dust, drafts, noise and heat loss enter the house.
First, clean the seal from accumulated dirt by wiping it damp cloth soaked in ordinary soapy water. We wipe the clean seal with a clean, dry rag with a small amount of silicone oil, which is usually found in “cosmetics” kits for window care (silicone grease, glycerin, silicone sponges can also be bought at a hardware store). At the same time, trying to ensure that the oil is distributed evenly throughout the seal. 30 minutes after wiping, remove excess oil with a dry cloth.
Important: The product intended for lubricating seals and for cleaning them from dirt should not contain alkali, alcohol, or solvents, which can destroy its structure and shorten its service life.
With proper care, rubber seals will last for many years. But it happens that after a few years the seal still requires replacement due to loss of elasticity and cracks formed. Is it possible to do this yourself or is it necessary to involve specialists? If you are confident that you can handle it yourself, you can do this without the help of specialists, following a simple sequence of simple steps:
This is the most crucial moment. The rubber seal must be inserted into the grooves not in parts, but as a continuous piece, being careful not to stretch it too much or compress it excessively, distributing it evenly around the perimeter. After laying the cord in the grooves of the profile, its ends need to be cut with scissors and the joints secured with glue. Finally, lubricate with silicone grease.
For work you may need: special glue, sealant, rubber scissors.
A job well done is a guarantee of silence, warmth and comfort in the house.
When caring for windows, we must not forget about one more important point - drainage holes. These are special holes that are designed to remove accumulated moisture that has seeped inside. window frame through the seal, out. They are located under the window sashes at the bottom of the frame (they are easy to find if you open the window).
Along with the flowing water, small debris and dirt can get into these holes and need to be removed. Otherwise, the drainage will become clogged with dirt, and all the moisture will remain in place, causing the windows to fog up and appear on window profile ice and increased humidity levels in the house.
You can clean the drainage holes with an old toothbrush or brush. After removing dirt, the holes can be filled with water in a small amount to remove any remaining dust stuck in the corners. How often you clean drain holes depends on where your home is located. If, for example, there is a highway nearby, this should be done more often.
There is another valuable detail (especially in summer time) is a mosquito net. She is rarely remembered, but she also requires care. It is enough to wash it in soapy water and, after drying, install it in its original place. It is recommended to remove it for the winter and store it in a ventilated area.
In addition to cleaning and lubricating the mechanisms, the fittings require adjustment to create an optimal seal to reduce street noise and provide better sound insulation. Experts recommend adjusting windows twice a year: late autumn(October-November) before the onset of winter and in spring. This will only take 10-15 minutes, but will protect the window from breakage for a long time.
Why do this? When temperature changes, the profile changes physical properties. In hot weather, when heated in the sun, the profile expands and this can cause friction on the sash. In winter, the profile narrows, the tightness of its pressing against the sash weakens, and the seal begins to let in cold air. Due to the compression of the plastic, the handle may become blocked, and the profile may crack in the most stressed area.
Seasonal adjustment of the sashes consists of switching the mechanisms to winter and summer modes by changing the position of the clamp (there are usually three clamps on the sashes - one on the side and two in the central part) and adjusting the degree of pressing of the sashes to the profile.
Before the onset of cold weather, the sash clamps are tightened. Due to this, the sash is tightly pressed against the profile when closing, ensuring tightness and preventing blowing. In the summer, to reduce wear on the mechanisms, the clamps need to be returned to their previous position and the force of pressing the sash against the profile should be weakened.
In addition to seasonal adjustments are made as needed. For example, if the fittings have become loose and you need to tighten the fastenings for the handles. To do this, you need to lift the decorative strip under the handle, turning it to a horizontal position. Next, the mounting screws that attach the handle to the frame need to be tightened.
If the sash sag and begins to cling to the profile, to the metal clamps, or cold air begins to pass through it, you can set the sash in the desired position (lower it or raise it) using an hex key, which is vertically inserted into the adjustment mechanism with the protective cover previously removed. The sash rises when the key is turned clockwise and lowers when the hexagon is turned in the opposite direction.
To adjust the sash sideways (right-left), the hex key is inserted horizontally. The shutter moves to the left if you turn it clockwise, and goes to the right if you turn it counterclockwise.
From all this it is obvious: for plastic windows to last a long time, proper care behind them is a necessary and mandatory procedure. Every window company, positioning itself as worthy of attention and respect, is now servicing its products and adjusting them through the warranty service department.
In addition, there are now quite a lot of small companies that service plastic windows, offering maintenance of fittings and seals, replacement of handles and seals, redecorating, ranging from eliminating scratches and damage, simple adjustment of fittings to replacing double-glazed windows.
The cost of services in such companies, of course, varies (depending on the number of windows, degree of wear and other factors). For example, the cost of adjusting one window sash ranges from 500 to 1200 rubles. If we consider two-room apartment with three window openings, adjustment from 3 to 9 leaves will be required. Even based on minimum price(500 rubles) for adjusting the sash and the minimum number of sashes you will need at least 1,500 rubles.
Of course, it is more economical to do it yourself. But this is advisable if the work is done professionally.
Despite the fact that window frames made of metal-plastic, unlike old wooden ones, are considered one of the most durable and wear-resistant, every year, on the eve of frost, they need adjustment and replacement of the so-called gaskets. How you can adjust the windows yourself so that in winter you don’t have to listen to the howling of the wind through the cracks, we’ll tell you in this review.
Different modes are needed for one simple reason - with the change of seasons there is a periodic drop or rise in temperature. The ability to close windows more tightly (or, conversely, less tightly) increases the flow of heat into the room in the summer and reduces the flow of heat out in the winter.
Important! By independently adjusting the windows for the winter, you can easily save 3-7 thousand rubles on calling specialists.
If the window is constantly used in “winter” mode, this will lead to rapid wear of the seal due to the constantly high clamping pressure on it. If you leave the summer mode for the cold period, then there will be drafts and significant heat loss in the room. As a rule, during installation, windows are set in a neutral mode (spring/autumn), and when the season changes (twice a year), it is recommended to make the appropriate adjustments.
In fact, initially, when installing double-glazed windows, installers set the so-called neutral mode for locking the sashes. This happens so that the apartment owner himself decides during operation whether or not it is necessary to reconfigure the modes. By all standards, it should be carried out with each change of season, i.e. optimally – twice a year.
You just need to understand the adjustment algorithm and purchase several tools that will cost several times less than paid window adjustments. In our publication we will analyze in detail all stages of work and possible difficulties problems that may arise during this work.
Before deciding to reconfigure the windows, they must be checked for leaks. It is important to understand how critical the blowing is and in what places in order to determine another important point– whether it will be necessary or not.
For your information! Rubber gaskets must be changed every three years. It's better to do this in warm time year, since with the onset of cold weather the insulation will be more difficult to install - the rubber will begin to harden from the cold. That is why by winter the cost of such work doubles on average. If in the warm season, setting up and replacing sealing rubber on average costs 500 rubles per frame, with the onset of cold weather, prices will already be 1000 rubles for the same volume.
How to properly check windows for leaks:
Adjustment mechanisms are very different, it all depends on the manufacturer, as well as the price of the window.
Let's look at the most common of them:
To set up the window mechanism, you need to acquire the following tools:
Important! It is better to use car oil or a special aerosol as a lubricant.
In ordinary, swing PVC windows There are five adjustment points that are important to be aware of. With the help of these marks and mechanisms, you can raise or lower the sash, align their angles, and adjust the horizontal.
Before proceeding with the basic settings, it is necessary to inspect all elements of the fittings and, if necessary, correct problems.
To eliminate this problem, you need to move it at an angle of 90 degrees. upper platform the pen itself. Underneath there are bolts that need to be tightened with a Phillips screwdriver.
Such a malfunction is more significant and can have several causes.
If the window handle is blocked, it makes no sense to replace it. You don't even have to dismantle it completely. The occurrence of a malfunction is associated with incorrect operation of the locking mechanism: it prevents the sash from changing its state when it is open. It is necessary to turn the locking lever to allow the handle to move freely.
There are two ways to eliminate this malfunction, depending on the type of design of the window mechanism and fittings. In one embodiment, the locking lever can be in the form of a tongue located at an angle to the seal and screwed to the end of the sash when the window is open. In another embodiment, the lever can be in the form of a clamp that fits onto the seal and serves as a gasket.
If the handle breaks, the only solution is to replace it. Using the same principle that we have already discussed, we open access to the bolts by turning the cover on the handle by 90%. The handle is removed by slightly shaking and pulling. After purchasing the accessories, the entire process is carried out in reverse order.
Manufacturers of double-glazed windows complete their products different types fittings, and the adjustment of each may have some distinctive features.
Let's look at the features of adjusting windows of different brands:
In order to adjust the window and switch the clamping mechanisms to winter mode, just pay attention to the eccentrics on the frame on the handle side. Their position can be adjusted using a hex key. Each trunnion is adjusted separately.
The main thing is to understand which position of the risks or fasteners belongs to which mode. Most often, adjustments can be made with a hex wrench.
Sometimes the causes of blowing or “howling” of the frame can be wear of the seals. These are special rubber bands that are attached around the perimeter of the window frame and sash. It is very important to monitor the condition of the seal. Very important correct adjustment modes. Since in winter time the rubber compresses, allowing cold air to pass through. That is why in winter it is necessary to strengthen the pressure so that cold wind does not blow through the sealing joint.
Advice! Winter adjustment in the summer, it can damage the seals, since the gasket will experience excessive pressure. Ultimately, this can lead to the sash breaking.
If, after changing the sash pressure mode according to the season, the wind still blows, the reason may be a violation of its position relative to the frame. Typically, sagging or distortion occurs on long-installed double-glazed windows. This can often be noticed visually or by a characteristic sound.
The tools you will need are a hex wrench and possibly a flathead screwdriver. First you need to remove the covers covering the hinges - it is convenient to do this when the sash is open in the “ventilation” mode.
Most double-glazed window designs have the following types of adjustment.
Before carrying out any manipulations with the window, you need to check if there are problems and blowing, otherwise, you can jam all the mechanisms. This also needs to be done after the work, checking the tightness.
As you can see, adjusting the seasonal position of the window does not present any difficulties. Any person without preparation can cope with the task. The main thing is to know what to configure and how.
In addition, the care of double-glazed windows is of great importance. Accurate opening and closing. . All mechanisms must be regularly lubricated with machine oil, and the seals must be wiped with special silicone grease.
If you still have questions, watch this video:
And their timely adjustment and lubrication are measures with which you can make your apartment warmer. As a result of such preventive procedures, the service life of the windows will be further extended. In this article we will tell you how to prepare for winter period time of plastic windows.
First step. Window cleaning and washing
Preparing your windows for the cold period, like any finishing of balconies and loggias, should begin with regular washing. Neither too cold nor too warm weather is suitable for such a task as washing windows. Indeed, in the first case, the windows will freeze, and in the second, the water will dry out instantly. That's why best time for washing windows - warm autumn or spring weather.
After you wash the window sill, profile, sashes, and clean the glass with a special product, you can consider that your window is ready for further processing.
Second step. Removing the mosquito net
remember, that Mosquito nets your windows may get damaged, so it is best to remove them during this period of time.
Third step. Checking the tightness of the sash
Using a regular white sheet of paper, you can check how tightly the sash is pressed against the window. If the sheet is closed sash comes out too easily, then before the onset of winter you will need to switch the sash closing mode to “winter mode”, which will ensure a tighter connection. If it is easy to remove, we can conclude that there are no problems. As a rule, the fittings for transfer are roller pins with markings and are usually located at the end of the window.
Having inserted the hex key into the trunnion, you need to scroll it until the pressure reaches its maximum - this is necessary to change the switching mode to the winter version.
After completing the translation, you should check the operation of the fittings; adjustment may be required. Then you can make sure that the window is easy to close.
Fourth step. Cleaning and lubrication of fittings and sealing rubber
The next step will be tidying up internal structure window. Sealing lubricant on seals and fittings is used to protect homes from cold drafts that can seep into even the smallest cracks. Having thoroughly wiped the rubber seal around the entire perimeter of the window, you need to treat the seal itself with some glycerin-based product, for example, a specialized treatment pencil. It will not be superfluous to lubricate all moving elements of the fittings.
Fifth step. Flushing the drain holes
It is necessary to carefully monitor the drainage holes and clean them regularly, since their purpose is to combat the formation of condensation or ice on the window surface. Often, the amount of condensation in winter increases due to temperature changes, so to avoid excessive fogging of the glass, be sure to clean the drainage holes. Cleaning can be done not only with a vacuum cleaner, but also with wooden sticks, toothpicks or matches.
By following the steps described above, you will fully prepare your windows for the coldest period of the year - winter!
The comfort of living in a house with plastic windows is undeniable. Even the most severe cold can be easily tolerated with high-quality double-glazed windows. Unfortunately, one rarely hears about measures and actions and, in general, about any preparation for the winter season. We decided to talk about this topic. So, we are preparing plastic windows for winter and discussing actions that need to be carried out every six months.
Regular maintenance allows windows to fulfill their main function - to protect the room from noise and low temperatures. To properly prepare plastic windows for winter, no instructions are needed. These steps are not complicated and are easy to remember.
Initially, windows must be washed, abrasive and aggressive means for this it is impossible. Oddly enough, some are still trying to find the answer to the question of how to seal plastic windows for the winter, although this is not necessary, because good window will not cause drafts.
If they appear, you should check the correctness of the sash adjustments and the condition of the seal. Many people also think about how to seal plastic windows for the winter - you cannot use homemade seals glued inside structures. If the standard seal is worn out, it must be replaced.
Proper window preparation is as follows:
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Any mechanism needs lubrication, and window fittings- not an exception. Before lubricating plastic windows for the winter, they must be cleaned of dirt and adjusted. The fittings and seal are lubricated 2 times a year. To do this, it is advisable to use special hardware oil, and the seal is treated only with silicone-based lubricants.
All this work must be done every time before closing the plastic windows for the winter. This will keep them in perfect condition for as long as possible.
