Glazing of balconies and loggias with aluminum profiles + photos and videos

Glazing of balconies and loggias with modern designs made of various materials has become firmly established in our lives. After glazing, a room blown by all the winds and covered with snow in winter turns into an additional room, office, winter garden or gym.

Plastic windows remain the leader in popularity. Wooden structures have gained the reputation of being the most environmentally friendly and functional. Aluminum glazing systems for balconies and loggias are less in demand. It seems that this fact is largely due to the lack of information about the types of glazing using aluminum profiles, the differences between “cold” and “warm” glazing options, the obvious advantages of aluminum loggias and the same obvious disadvantages.

Aluminum profile parameters

The cost of an aluminum profile is an order of magnitude lower than that of plastic structures. It is believed that it is stronger than wooden profiles. As a result, the material under discussion is becoming increasingly popular when glazing balconies or loggias. It can also be noted that aluminum structures are quite compact. This makes them easy to use for glazing. Aluminum profiles can be of different brands and vary in price. They also have some differences in parameters, including:

Number of block chambers (a larger number of chambers ensures the thermal insulation properties of the profile);
Profile type – warm, cold;
Opening type – hinged, sliding or accordion-style;
Double-glazed windows - the ability to install from single-chamber to three-chamber;
Surface – lamination, metal, different colors.

Comparison of plastic windows for balcony glazing

VEKA Euroline	VEKA Softline	SATELS 72	WHS Halo 60
Profile thickness, mm	58	70	72	60
Number of cameras in profile, pcs	3	5	6	4
Heat transfer resistance, m2 0C/W	0,56	0,74	0,71	0,4
Air permeability, m3/m2h	2,67	2,17	2,17	2,91
Reduction of external noise from urban traffic flow, dBA	30,3	31,0	33,0	30,0
Prices:	from 3,700 .- Read more	from 4,500 .- More details	from 3,900.- Read more	from 2 900 .- Read more

Properties and types of aluminum profiles

Once the decision is made to glaze the balconies, aluminum profile glazing will be one of the best options. This profile is corrosion resistant, which greatly increases its durability.

It is believed that such a profile has a service life of about 50 years.

The aluminum structure cannot be affected by weather conditions. As a result, the owner does not have to worry about special care for the product. Regarding fire safety, aluminum is an excellent material for glazing balconies. The design of structures can also be carried out in any design, regardless of the strength of the aluminum. As previously noted, the profile can be warm or cold. Consumers often produce aluminum glazing with a cold profile.

It has a low cost, so it is considered the best glazing option, especially if the balcony or loggia is not used all year round. Cold profiles can also save space. This visual effect is achieved due to the fact that the design has thinner frames. Cold profiles are often used for products with sliding windows. The warm profile has a heat-insulating polyamide insert. It is inserted as an external and internal profile part. This design is slightly wider than a product made from a cold-type profile. Since it has a double glazed window. The only disadvantage of glazing a balcony using a warm profile is the cost of the structure.

Market leaders

Plastic double glazed windows

The leading positions in this market are still occupied by plastic double-glazed windows, which have a number of undeniable advantages. Although wooden windows are considered the most environmentally friendly design, their high cost and requirement for constant maintenance deter many people. Aluminum loggia designs are only gaining momentum in popularity.

Presumably, this is primarily due to the fact that there is not much information about these designs, and there is no such widespread advertising that could attract the attention of the consumer. Profiles for balconies and aluminum windows, of course, have their advantages and disadvantages, differences between warm and cold glazing.

Sliding type

The most popular option for aluminum glazing of loggias is the sliding type. Also, developers are installing swing types, which are slightly inferior in ease of use to sliding ones. In the upper and lower technical grooves, special rollers are installed on which the window sashes are attached. The presented designs are available with 2 and 3 guides.

The movement of the shutters is carried out completely silently on ball bearings. Depending on the size of the balcony, there can be from 2 to 8 shutters. When the shutter is closed, the lock with a balcony latch for sliding aluminum loggias is activated. In order to improve the level of sound insulation, sealing materials are used in practice. In addition, if desired, the sashes can be blind, combined or hinged.

Sliding aluminum glazing

Sliding aluminum glazing is a very convenient way to glaze a balcony or loggia. The name already speaks for itself. Convenience lies in the method of opening. Most balconies and loggias in houses in St. Petersburg are quite small in size.

Therefore, it is very important to install glazing that will not take up useful space. Sliding aluminum windows are sashes that are installed on the balcony parapet and slide left and right along a guide, similar to a sliding wardrobe. This method of opening windows is very ergonomic, silent and convenient.

Warm and cold glazing of balconies and loggias using wooden structures

Wooden single glazing was considered the only option 35 years ago. It was represented by a frame structure made of wood, which was assembled using tenons and wood glue, had glass 4 mm thick, fixed using wooden glazing beads.

Currently, more advanced products are presented on the market, which are characterized by high strength, reliability, resistance to adverse weather conditions and durability. The frame is made of laminated veneer lumber with preliminary polishing, into which a sealed double-glazed window is inserted. Thus, it is possible to reliably glaze a balcony in a Khrushchev-era building. Photos and prices for structures are presented in a wide variety, and the cost depends on the type of wood. More affordable products are made from pine and larch, while more expensive ones are made from beech, ash and oak.

Modern wooden windows are made of laminated veneer lumber and sealed double-glazed windows

A distinctive advantage of wooden frames is their exceptional environmental friendliness. Wood, due to the presence of micropores in its structure, can breathe, providing air circulation that will not stagnate on the loggia or balcony. Wooden window frames have an attractive and presentable appearance. A balcony with such glazing has good heat and sound insulation qualities.

Wooden glazing is not without its drawbacks. One of the main disadvantages is the high cost of the structure, 2.5 times higher than the price of a metal-plastic analogue. In addition, over time, the wood dries out and cracks.

To extend the life of the product and give it an attractive appearance, the wooden surface requires constant care, which consists of covering the frame with water-repellent impregnations and varnish. A modern solution is a wooden structure with aluminum overlays, which are installed on the doors from the outside and at the junction of the frames.

Wooden glazing of balconies is expensive

Glazing of balconies and loggias with wooden structures: procedure

Before installing a wooden frame, it is necessary to prepare the base, which consists of strengthening the railing with a wooden support beam. Its lower part can be strengthened with spacers. Metal support posts are installed in the corners, giving the structure additional rigidity.

Next, they begin to install the wooden frame, from which the glazing is first removed and the sashes are removed. Anchor plates are attached along the perimeter of the frame in increments of 70 cm. The structure is installed on the balcony railing in support blocks. The frame is aligned in horizontal and vertical planes.

The structure is fixed from below to the railing and from above to the ceiling slab using anchor plates. Next, the joints between the structure and the railing, ceiling and wall are sealed using polyurethane foam. The gaps are closed with mounting tape to prevent moisture from entering and condensation from accumulating. After installing the frame, the glazing is returned to its place, and the sashes are hung on their hinges.

Before glazing a balcony with wooden windows, it is necessary to significantly strengthen the railings

The cost of glazing a balcony with a wooden structure averages 9-13 thousand when using a frame with one glass, 25-50 thousand rubles. – in case of using a product with aluminum inserts.

Sliding glazing of gazebos and verandas

Sliding glazing is relevant not only for a balcony or loggia. Sliding sashes are also often used for glazing verandas and gazebos. In the case of glazing a gazebo or veranda, the doors can be made from floor to ceiling.

This way you get a kind of sliding doors. It's very convenient and beautiful. In warm weather and no rain, you can move the doors to the side and enjoy fresh air, and closed sliding doors will also help you hide from bad weather.

Hinged aluminum glazing

When sliding glazing is installed on a balcony, the question arises of how to glaze the sides of the balcony. In this case, you need to build on the width of the balcony itself. If the width of the balcony is more than a meter, then sliding doors can also be installed on the side.

But when the balcony is narrow, it is not convenient to make rolling sashes that are too small. In this case, either fixed windows or casement aluminum windows are usually installed. Opening such a window will occur according to the same principle as for metal-plastic windows. Of course, a casement window is more practical in terms of ease of cleaning.

Aluminum glazing from floor to ceiling

Aluminum sashes can be installed not only on parapets. There are situations when the parapet is in disrepair. Or when it is important for the customer to install panoramic glazing. In this case, we propose to make floor-to-ceiling glazing with aluminum. In this case, the old lattice parapet is dismantled, and the lower and upper parts of the glazing are manufactured separately.

The upper doors can be sliding or hinged. The lower ones are made deaf. Moreover, the filling may be different. If you do not need to make panoramic windows, then the lower part can be filled with a sandwich panel. This is a special opaque filling.

If there is a need to make transparent windows from floor to ceiling, we recommend using glass with a special film or triplex for the lower part of the glazing. Panoramic glazing is a winning solution for those who like a well-lit room.

Facade aluminum glazing

Aluminum glazing is now especially popular for glazing the facades of new houses under construction. It is also called mullion-transom glazing. This method is of course primarily of interest to developers. Because the point of such glazing is that aluminum racks are attached inseparably along the entire façade of the house. However, in most cases, developers install cold glazing.

And if you need to insulate your balcony, then simply removing the old frames and installing PVC windows will not work. In this case, it is necessary to replace the cold façade glazing with a warm one, without affecting the existing racks.

Advantages of glazing balconies with aluminum

One of the features of glazing balconies using aluminum profiles is the ability to choose an option that best suits your needs and is affordable. In cases where aluminum framing is used during installation - glazing of balconies, reviews regarding such performance are ambivalent.

Some expected the balcony to be warm, while others were happy with a cold one, but it provided protection from wind, dust and bad weather. But with any option, it is worth noting the advantages that glazing provides:

reducing dust, dirt and noise in the apartment;
creating an additional buffer between the apartment and the street, even if cold glazing is installed;
providing protection from external influences (wind, rain, snow) when on the balcony.
the ability to choose an option at a price that matches your planned budget.

I would like to separately highlight the advantages of the Provedal profile . These include:

Resistance to temperature changes and non-corrosion thanks to high-tech aluminum alloy.

Strength is more reliable due to the use of a special structure profile.
The quality of the fittings used: the glazing is protected from external opening and sudden opening by strong gusty winds.
Well-honed operating mechanisms: smooth operation, quiet opening, elimination of drafts, freezing, and precipitation on the balcony are ensured by rubber inserts and a brush-type seal.
With all the variety of advantages, cold glazing of a balcony with an aluminum profile has also received a number of disadvantages, and all of them arise under the influence of low temperatures.
Glazing is not intended to protect against cold.
Icing of frame structures, making it difficult to open them.
Increasing heat transfer from a warm apartment through the balcony to the street.
Reduced noise insulation due to leaks formed by sliding systems.

Advantages of using plastic windows

A plastic balcony made of PVC profile has a number of advantages over other window structures:

Easy to install in a window opening, requires little time and a minimum of materials.
Long guaranteed service life and good durability.
Excellent properties for tightness and sound insulation.
Withstands very low and high temperatures without deformation.
It is easy to clean and the quality of the plastic color remains for a long time.
During installation, you can create different shapes of blind and opening window frames.
The assortment includes a large selection of PVC profiles in different color tones.
PVC profile allows you to insert double-glazed windows from multilayer glass sheets, providing good sound insulation and heat protection.
Thanks to a set of fittings, plastic balconies can be made with various functions for opening window frames, providing ventilation of the room or complete protection from the external environment.
The windows have an aesthetic appearance and look comfortable indoors.
The material used for windows has environmental safety certificates.
A plastic balcony has a reasonable cost.

Glazing a loggia with plastic windows requires the right approach in choosing quality material and determining the size of window structures.

Also read: Cold glazing of a balcony: design and installation features, insulation

A plastic loggia installed on the corner of a building or having differences in size and height must be designed so that the installation of plastic windows on the loggia and the function of tearing off the windows do not interfere with passages and look comfortable and beautiful. In the next section we will consider the question: how to glaze a balcony with plastic windows?

Type of cold glazing with offset

Glazing option, thanks to the displacement of the window frame by 25-30 cm from the parapet towards the street, allowing you to expand the space of the balcony. An additional bonus of this option will be a comfortable wide window sill. Apartment owners have adapted to using it not only as a springboard for growing plants, but also as a work surface or bar counter.

In terms of design, the implementation of the extension from an aluminum profile in cold glazing makes it possible to block the openings of balconies even in those houses where serious loads on the structures are contraindicated. Where it would not be possible to arrange a removal using PVC frames, aluminum glazing can easily and reliably cope. Removal is the reason for the rise in cost of cold aluminum glazing, since the additional steel frame required for its installation will require additional costs.

Conclusion: Before glazing a balcony with an aluminum profile, you should decide for yourself which type of glazing is more preferable (cold or warm), and also decide on the design (frameless or framed: sliding, swing), carefully study all the features of each type and make balanced choice.

And in this video you can watch how to glaze a balcony with aluminum. It demonstrates all the main stages of work.

Aluminum frames: structural design

Designers are demanding about the appearance of windows: after all, in addition to performing the functions assigned to them, the products must be in harmony with the overall design of the architecture. These subtleties will seem far-fetched to residents of high-rise buildings who glaze their balconies privately. But new buildings are now being rented with glazed balconies. And architects at the design stage decide what design the aluminum profile should have.

They have several options for the external design of aluminum profiles:

Renaissance: the appearance of the upper profile of the frame is reminiscent of an ancient window. This resemblance is given to them by figured external surfaces and glazing beads. For greater coincidence, frames of this type are painted “like wood”;
Softline: the profile has a rounded shape and smooth lines;
Thin line: due to the maximum narrowing of the profile, the light opening increases, and the structure itself becomes similar to a steel system;
Hidden sash: In this system the sash is not visible from the outside. By installing such a window, you can simulate frameless glazing.

In addition, manufacturers offer customers windows with profiles painted in any color - blue, brown, white, green, etc.

Design features

Aluminum frames for balconies are equipped with two types of movable sashes:

sliding;
swing.

The advantage of installing sliding aluminum windows on a balcony is that it saves space. They are also convenient from a safety point of view, since they do not have the ability to suddenly swing open.

Sliding systems are divided into 4 types:

Sliding. The most uncomplicated design of aluminum balcony frames. It is inexpensive, but not very convenient to use. This disadvantage is due to the large dimensions and weight of the doors. And the features of the fittings complicate the process of moving moving elements. Nevertheless, sliding windows in external glazing are common.
System "Portal" (parallel sliding). The sashes of such a window can not only move along the frame, but also open for ventilation.
Lift-and-slide. Convenient when you need a sash of maximum size or when glazing large openings. In a lift-and-slide design, all doors can be movable.
"Harmonic". This is the only system that allows you to open the opening by 90%. The remaining 10% is occupied by accordion-folded doors. This design allows you to open just one door, which is convenient in winter.

Installing sliding aluminum windows on loggias does not lead to additional difficulties.

But, despite the significant advantages of sliding systems, they are inferior to swing systems in terms of tightness and thermal conductivity. A balcony glazed with an accordion system, for example, cannot be turned into a warm room. In this case, frames with hinged doors should be installed.

Design Features

Glazing of balconies and loggias from aluminum profiles can be done in two versions - frameless and using ready-made structures.

When a new multi-story building is being built, ready-made frames are often used. Their production is carried out in production facilities using specialized equipment.

Installation of finished products is carried out quickly, using pre-developed technology. Frameless structures are used when cold glazing is carried out according to the original design. Often the work is done with your own hands, without involving outside specialists.

How to choose an option

What does the term warm and cold aluminum glazing of loggias mean?

Everything is simple here, the cold type of windows involves the use of a profile without insulating thermal pads. This profile is characterized by high thermal conductivity, in winter on a balcony like on the street. This has a plus - it can be used instead of a refrigerator.

The main function that can be obtained from glazing of this type is protection from snow, rain, dust, dirt and wind. In this regard, such loggias are not comfortable for staying in in late autumn and winter. The temperature difference between the street and the balcony will be only 7 – 8ºС.

In order to create comfortable conditions on the balcony, experts advise installing warm aluminum glazing of the loggias. The difference between the first and second options is that in this case, the profile is equipped with thermal inserts that can increase the level of heat retention by aluminum.

Note. There is an exclusive version of a warm aluminum profile trimmed with wood on the market. In addition to its decorative function, it provides additional thermal protection.

Advantages of aluminum loggias and balconies

Strength and reliability of aluminum.
Lightness of design.
High level of fire safety.
Locks with latches protect against unauthorized persons from entering the house/apartment from the street.
Protection from wind, snow, rain, noise, dirt.
Various design options (sliding, hinged, tilt-and-turn, solid, combined).
Easy to install.
Sliding doors open easily and move on rollers without noise.
Attractive design.
Loggias made of aluminum profiles with sliding doors create the illusion of large space. This is especially true for stained glass glazing. In this case, balconies seem airy and weightless; in addition, this design allows sunlight to freely penetrate into the premises. An excellent option for our long gloomy winters.
Large selection of shades of aluminum frames (about 300 color options).

Considering that the aluminum structure weighs little, it can be installed on balconies in old residential buildings. Aluminum sliding loggias allow you to save space. This nuance will be especially useful for small balconies. And it’s probably worth mentioning one of the main advantages of our time - the affordability of aluminum profiles.

Disadvantages of aluminum glazing systems for balconies and loggias

The low level of heat retention does not make it possible to create comfortable living conditions during the cold season. It will be much warmer on balconies lined with plastic bags.

On balconies with a cold aluminum profile without thermal inserts you will feel like you are on the street. Accordingly, if it’s minus outside, it means the same temperature on the loggia.

Aluminum profiles for balconies and loggias with thermal inserts are much warmer, but they are still thinner than plastic structures. Therefore, it has no advantages over PVC windows, and the same applies to the price of the material.

Considering that aluminum has a significant thermal expansion rate, it cannot provide the proper level of heat retention. An aluminum profile with a length of 2 m contracts and expands within the range of 10 - 15 mm during temperature fluctuations. Such swings require special attention to the places where the profile adjoins the walls of the house.

In winter, a cold profile very often freezes, which leads to the formation of ice on the guides. This happens due to the fact that the moisture that has managed to penetrate into them does not have time to completely evaporate through the drainage holes and freezes at sub-zero temperatures. This leads to the fact that at a certain moment you will not be able to open the sash. All we have to do is wait for the moment when everything thaws.

Cold or warm

When choosing an aluminum profile as a structural material, you need to know that this metal has high thermal conductivity.

In winter, aluminum, unlike wood, does not retain heat. The temperature on the balcony will be approximately the same as outdoors.

Emphasizing this feature, consumers and experts gave this solution the name “cold glazing.”

Moreover, this design has the following positive properties:

light weight and environmentally friendly;
strength and durability;
ease of use.

To this list we must add the cost, which is noticeably lower than that of plastic or wooden products.

Homeowners who want to have warm glazed balconies should not be upset and refuse to use aluminum construction.

To implement an all-season project, you need to use a special profile that has thermal inserts.

Thanks to such inserts, the aluminum structure transmits a minimum of heat to the street. Plus, energy-saving glass or double-glazed windows are used.

All of the listed techniques and methods ensure the creation of comfortable conditions on the balcony at any time of the year. Numerous reviews confirm this.

What to pay attention to

Today, a huge number of companies offer their glazing services. This means that in order not to get into trouble, you should carefully read the reviews about the company, their work experience, and look at the gallery of finished projects. Any self-respecting company will be happy to help you make sure that it is worthy of your trust.

When choosing a plastic window for a balcony, you should give preference to trusted manufacturers

So, what to pay special attention to:

Manufacturer. Some people think that there is no point in overpaying for a “promoted” brand, while others are sure that many years of work in the market are the best recommendations. Of course, the choice is yours, but time-tested manufacturers such as Veka (a company with an impeccable reputation) or Rehau (a German manufacturer considered a leader in this field) value their reputation and are unlikely to disappoint you.

Veka profile system

Rehau profile system

KBE profile system

Quality of fittings. Hardware manufacturers also deserve your attention. According to experts, the service life of plastic windows largely depends on the quality of the fittings. Time-tested ROTO, MACO or WINKHAUS are extremely attentive to the requirements of their customers. Moreover, the above companies have earned the favor of not only Russian consumers. They fulfill orders in the shortest possible time and are attentive to packaging.

Low-quality fittings, as a rule, will require replacement during the operation of the plastic window

Profile thickness. The optimal parameters when connecting a loggia are about 70 mm (two-chamber). However, this model weighs a lot, so if the partitions do not allow you to install a two-chamber profile, choose a single-chamber one, but with heat-saving glass or argon.

Another important nuance: if you install windows on a large loggia at a height of the tenth floor and above, then additional conditions will need to be met. For example, at this level there is strong wind, which means that the double-glazed windows need to be further strengthened using profiles and reinforcement. And working at such a height will require craftsmen to have professional skills and the necessary tools.

It is better to entrust the installation of balcony windows to professionals

It is very important that the installation of double-glazed windows (no matter on the second floor or on the tenth) is carried out by competent employees of a serious company, and not by hired “specialists of all trades”.

Features of purchasing a profile

When ordering aluminum structures, it is worth remembering that different manufacturers put marks on their products that help installers determine where is the bottom and where is the top, left and right side.

They can be indicated by special arrows. At the time of purchase, you should remind the seller to have them supplied. Otherwise, the sides may be mixed up during the work process. This risks dismantling the structure and performing installation work again. Few are willing to sacrifice precious time and effort.

Just installing windows takes a beginner almost the whole day. For an experienced master, a few hours is enough. Additional time will be spent on dismantling the old structure, exterior and interior decoration. The photo shows one of the options for this finish.

Aluminum windows to the balcony: step-by-step installation instructions

Any work begins with preparing the necessary tools. When installing an aluminum window you will need:

crowbar: for dismantling old glazing, if present;
hammer: also needed when dismantling obsolete structures. When installing windows, they will hammer in dowels, make adjustments, etc.;
chisel: for removing ebb and window sill;
hacksaw (for wood): needed for sawing old wooden frames;
tape measure and level: for performing measuring work and checking the surfaces of the opening for evenness;
screwdriver and screwdriver: used for screwing in fastening threaded parts;
drill and concrete drill: for drilling holes in the parapet for fasteners;
hex key: for adjusting the mechanisms of window systems;
gun, polyurethane foam or silicone sealant: for processing joints and sealing possible gaps.

Dismantling of old structures

Before dismantling the old glazing, preliminary measurements are taken:

height, depth and length of the opening;
width of the tide (measured with the window sashes open).

Next, using a building level, check the evenness of the upper part of the opening.

After all the necessary dimensions have been taken and recorded on paper, proceed to dismantling the window filling:

Remove the sash from its hinges. If their condition is satisfactory, the operation should be carried out carefully using a screwdriver. A crowbar is used to remove unusable sashes. It is advisable to do this work together, for safety reasons.
Using a crowbar, remove the ebb and window sill. If they are held firmly, a chisel is used: it is driven in between the element being dismantled and the parapet in several places (alternately). As a result of these actions, cracks are formed. They insert a crowbar into them, pry up the window sill or ebb and remove it from the fasteners.
Cuts are made in several places on each side of the frame using a hacksaw.
Pieces of the wooden structure are removed from the opening and thrown away.
The cleared opening is cleared of remnants of glazing, fasteners, and concrete fragments.

Important! Small irregularities along the contour of the opening are smoothed out. Large ones are eliminated using cement mortar.

Preparatory work

When using lattice fencing, its external finishing is carried out before installation work begins. Also at this stage, insulation is carried out. Interior finishing is carried out after installing the window frames. The top of the fence must be horizontal. Otherwise, leveling the structure will cost more than the cost of the frames.

When installing a structure on a parapet made of concrete or brick, its top must be leveled with cement mortar. Interior finishing and insulation are carried out after installing the window sill.

Pipe stands are installed in the case of a hanging balcony that does not have an upper ceiling. They are able to take on the weight of the mounted structure, transferring the load to the canopy. If the length of the balcony is more than 4 m, an additional pipe stand is installed in the middle of the long side.

The outer corners should be filled with polyurethane foam, then the excess should be cut off and covered with galvanized strips. Weld seams are smoothed using a grinder. The supporting frames are made of steel corners. They can be painted only after cleaning and degreasing. The lower frames are made taking into account the skew of the balcony slab. It is necessary to ensure that the junction of the upper and lower frames is horizontal.

The canopy should be installed along the top line immediately after cleaning the room. This stage of work must be completed before installing the frames. The canopy is installed regardless of the type of glazing. It ensures water drainage from the structure.

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Recently, the balcony is increasingly becoming like one additional recreation room. People place chairs and small tables there for conversations over a cup of coffee in the fresh air. They make it more comfortable and functional. Less and less often, the balcony began to resemble a pantry or a room for storing unnecessary things. To ensure beauty not only internally, but also externally, people began to resort to aluminum glazing. Indeed, in addition to the modern appearance, this design has a large number of other advantages.

Installation of an aluminum balcony

In most cases, a balcony is a room that is not heated additionally. Installing additional battery sections there is complex, costly and impractical. Previously, we were used to seeing them with a wooden bottom or slate. The frames were also usually made of wood, and the window sashes opened inward. But this design, although inexpensive, had its drawbacks. Especially in winter, constant drafts appeared due to cracks in the wood; snow fell on the ledges located between the upper and lower parts. When it melted, water could get inside the room, and if frost hits, it could also ruin the material from which the structure is made. Therefore, people increasingly began to resort to more modern materials that are not subject to such shortcomings as, for example, wood. Most people leave the bottom of the structure opaque and glaze the top with aluminum or PVC. Sometimes you can see fully glazed balconies. For these types, exclusively aluminum frames are used. Modern window sashes can be either sliding or outward opening. Both the first and the other options significantly save space indoors. Installing a balcony made of aluminum, like other materials, has its advantages and disadvantages.

pros	Minuses
The most important advantage is its cost. It is an order of magnitude lower than when using, for example, plastic. Even with a small amount of money, you can transform your balcony.	Poor thermal insulation properties. This option is not suitable for regions with harsh winters. But on the other hand, there is “warm aluminum” technology, which does not have such problems.
A light weight. The structure weighs quite little, which makes it easy to install in houses where it is prohibited to heavily weigh the balcony.	It will be impossible to use other materials to decorate the room. If you neglect this, an irreversible chemical reaction will occur. The metal will begin to adjust.
Fire safety. Aluminum will not be able to ignite if hit, for example, by a cigarette butt from above. By choosing this design, you can significantly save on the interior space of the room. And the sliding window system will allow you to wash them with convenience and comfort.

If you want to isolate yourself from the outside world, noisy streets and enjoy the warmth and comfort of home, then this is what you need. After all, building from aluminum allows for improved sound insulation. In addition, the material is resistant to atmospheric conditions and temperature differences.

DIY aluminum balcony installation

Of course, it is much easier to call a team of professionals who can quickly install an aluminum balcony. After all, they already have their own work scheme, technology and certain skills. But with some skill, there will be no problems with independent installation. To do this, you first need to carry out some preparatory procedures. After all, the outcome of all the work will depend on them:

First of all, the old frames are removed. When dismantling, the force must be directed parallel to the frame, and not perpendicular. Otherwise, there is a possibility of damaging the parapet structure.
After which, you need to get rid of fasteners and concrete residues that were not removed along with the old frame and remained on the parapet.
If the parapet is not level enough, then it can be additionally leveled with mortar in order to subsequently attach an aluminum structure to it. If this stage is present, then it is better to postpone the installation of the balcony until the concrete mixture has completely dried. Usually one day is enough.
To fix the window frame more securely, it is necessary to install a wooden beam with a cross-section of at least 50 millimeters. This will also create better thermal insulation between the concrete structure itself and the aluminum profile.

To make the installation process easier and more convenient, you need to carry out several preparatory steps:

All moving parts that are on the aluminum structure are removed. This action will facilitate further installation work.
Double-glazed windows are removed from the “blind” areas of the frame. Thanks to this, they will not be damaged during installation work.
Using metal screws, special plates are attached along the window frame. Their pitch must be at least 700 millimeters.
The assembled structure is placed on the balcony railing.
You need to take a construction level to level the frame in a horizontal position. The frame is secured from below with self-tapping screws.
Vertical frames are mounted using wooden wedges. After that, holes are drilled in both the walls and the upper ceiling using a hammer drill. It is better to use anchors for fastening. Before attaching the structure to the upper part, a visor made of thin metal is screwed to it - galvanized or ferrous metal with a protective coating.
Next, you need to construct an ebb at the lower fragment of the frame. Fixation to the aluminum profile occurs using metal screws.
Using polyurethane foam, all cracks and holes are blown out.
After this, it’s time to install double-glazed windows in “dead” areas.
The latter is the return of the moving fastener parts to their previous position.

Such simple procedures will help you install a balcony made of aluminum profile in a high-quality manner and significantly save your budget on calling specialists.

DIY aluminum frames for balconies

Aluminum frames last longer than wood or other materials. This is due to the fact that this metal does not corrode. The service life of an aluminum window frame can reach fifty years. The metal does not require any additional care at all. It is non-toxic, non-flammable and is considered an ideal option since it is not fire hazardous. The frames made from it are strong, reliable and flexible, thanks to which you can install windows of any size and appearance. But good thermal conductivity is considered the main disadvantage of using aluminum for a window frame. But this drawback was quickly eliminated by design engineers.

Currently there are two types of aluminum profiles on the market: cold and warm. The first is much cheaper than the second, and if we take into account its other distinctive features, then this is an excellent option for a window frame if the balcony will not act as another living room all year round. Cold profile frames are quite thin, so it is easy to make sliding doors from them, which will save balcony space. The warm profile includes an additional heat-insulating insert made of polyamide. It is located in the center between the inner and outer halves of the profile. In this case, the double-glazed frame becomes much thicker. Only one thing can scare a person away - the high cost. But when the balcony will be used as a living space in winter, then frames made from a warm profile are an ideal option. In addition, fashionable aluminum double glazed windows can be constructed in modern and varied designs, and can be opened in different ways.

How to install aluminum frames on a balcony yourself

After the frames with the appropriate measurements have been purchased, the most important point remains - installation. Self-installation significantly saves money, and thanks to detailed instructions, it will not be difficult. The first step is to acquire devices that will be useful for further work:

hacksaw for metal;
tape measure;
drill;
self-tapping screws;
screws;
screwdriver;
brush seal;
weather-resistant silicone sealant;
polyurethane foam;
hex wrench.

For high-quality glazing, it is necessary to carry out actions in the following order:

If there is a previous window frame, then we disassemble it.
We clean dirt and parts of the cladding from the parapet and slab.
We assemble a new frame from elements.
We secure the assembled installation elements to the parapet using galvanized self-tapping bolts and mounting loops.
Afterwards, we measure the length of the horizontal part of the opening, transfer the measurement values to the guides and then cut them. Afterwards, the guides for the sashes are installed.
Using a file, polish the sawn area.
In the openings we drill holes for self-tapping screws at intervals of 30 centimeters. We install guides on the screws. To avoid freezing of the frame, the distance from the outer edge of the frame to the guides should be no more than 5 centimeters.
We install the brush seal along the line of the sashes.
We first insert the sash into the upper guide, and the part on which the rollers are located into the lower one.
We install the steel canopy under the mounting loops.
We attach it to the top concrete slab with self-tapping screws.
We draw the low tide on a strip of steel and cut it out with roofing scissors.
We install the ebb.
We seal the joints using weather-resistant silicone sealant.
We fill all visible cracks with foam.
We install glazing on blind sashes.

With the help of these instructions, mounting the window frame will not cause any difficulties.

How to install an aluminum loggia

It is better to use cold glazing for a loggia if the balcony does not turn into a separate room. Aluminum frames look decent due to the fact that they are painted using a modern powder method. They are much stronger and lighter than plastic ones, which makes the installation process more convenient. In addition, a lot of light enters the room, since they practically do not darken the space. These structures do not require periodic intervention from professionals to carry out preventive maintenance. Modern designs make it possible to create a six-leaf window, each sash of which can be opened separately. The pressure on the bearings by the flaps is minimal. This extends the service life. Due to the light weight of the frames, any loggia can easily support them.

Aluminum doors open and slide silently and smoothly. To ensure a tight closure, the frame is fixed with a special lock, which is invisible from the outside. The strength of the thin frame is capable of supporting loggia glazing up to two meters in height. Aluminum loggias are installed only when maximum protection from wind or other adverse weather conditions is needed. If desired, sliding and fixed sashes can be combined. There are usually two or three guides on an aluminum profile. Each video moves in its own way. If desired, a mosquito net is installed on the loggia. A separate guide is provided for it.

For cold windows, single-chamber double-glazed windows are usually installed. Warm windows have a thermal insert or thermal bridge. But it is located in the middle of the profile, the thickness of which is no less than 12 centimeters. If desired, the aluminum structure can be combined with wood. Then the strength of the metal and the “breathing” properties of wood will help resist strong condensation. In addition, wood has excellent thermal insulation characteristics and is environmentally friendly. To install an aluminum structure on a loggia, we first remove all movable opening elements from the frame for ease of work. In order not to spoil the glazing, it must be removed from blind areas. Next, the mounting plates are secured to the frame using self-tapping screws. After which the assembled structure is installed in the loggia opening. Then the frame is leveled along all planes using wedges. Mounting plates are attached to the walls and top. Then it is checked how evenly the frame is installed, and the sashes return to their previous position. After this, the sealing process occurs.

Do-it-yourself glazing of a balcony with an aluminum profile

As was said earlier, there is nothing complicated in the process of glazing a balcony with an aluminum profile. Even if you don’t have the appropriate skills, thanks to the detailed instructions, glazing will not be difficult. But sometimes a person wants to admire the views from the window without any restrictions. For these purposes, you can use the frameless glazing method. It is no less durable and reliable than with a frame. The main load-bearing element of the structure in this embodiment is considered to be an aluminum profile, which is attached to the top plate.

The guide rail, also known as the lower profile, is fixed on the parapet post. The enclosing parts of the structure are considered to be tempered glass; their thickness should be 6-8 millimeters. The blades move thanks to a special sliding mechanism, which is located at the top of the profile. If there are uneven or rounded areas on the balcony, then a roll is made there. The joints of the panels are covered with tape, which easily transmits light. The doors open one after another in turn. When choosing this type of glazing, special attention is paid to indicators such as reliability, durability and stability.

DIY aluminum balcony installation video

Do not forget that when installing an aluminum balcony yourself, you need to leave gaps for the mounting foam, two or three centimeters under the window sill. All manipulations should be carried out with a plumb line and level. The video shows a clear example of how to properly install an aluminum balcony with your own hands:

Installation of windows and cladding of loggia

After all, after installation work is completed, there will be much less free space. Consequently, it will be more difficult to cladding the outer part of the loggia. After completing the finishing work, you can begin glazing the loggia with an aluminum profile, i.e., begin installing the balcony frames.

However, there are several reasons why glazing with aluminum profiles should not be done independently. The first reason is that employees of specialized companies have the necessary skills and know all the nuances of installation. The second reason is that when work is performed by representatives of a specialized organization, the customer is provided with a written guarantee for the product.

Insulation and finishing work

After completing the exterior finishing work and installing windows, the room is insulated. These works are performed regardless of which profiles were used. In any case, the balcony should protect the apartment from the wind and retain heat in the room. Polystyrene foam or mineral wool are often used as insulation. The inner side is lined with a thick cellophane film, the outer side is lined with a wind barrier.

The ceiling and floor must also be insulated. The insulation on the floor is polystyrene foam, on top of which boards are laid. If the issue of tiles is being decided, then an additional system of heated floors must be installed. The ceiling can also be insulated with mineral wool, especially if the apartment is on the top floor. Interior decoration of a balcony is most often done using plasterboard. This material is subsequently puttied and painted. For enhanced insulation of the room, you can use wooden lining, which can be easily varnished.

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