Sealing windows is extremely important. The subsequent maintenance of heat in the house and the cost of heating it in winter depend on this. Poor sealing of a window in a house implies up to 40% of heat loss in winter..
Why is it important to seal windows?
The treatment of external and internal seams is very important, as air gaps generate up to 40% of heat loss. In such a situation, there is a need for additional heating of the premises, which entails high costs for paying heating bills. There are many reasons for the appearance of microcracks on window structures..
Most often, window sealing problems arise if:
- unsuitable materials were used, for example, seals with poor or worn parameters (too narrow);
- incorrectly adjusted window fittings;
- worn out fittings do not change.
How and how to close up windows?
Many do not know how to seal window structures on their own, so people living in apartment buildings of an old building often ask themselves the question: “how to insulate old windows.” The treatment of external and internal seams of old wooden windows should be started by opening the window and inserting a sheet of paper between its sash and frame. In new windows, it is enough to configure the mechanism. With the old type of window constructions, the situation is worse. They need to be sealed with silicone. Another good option is to stick on foam or rubber pads. Sealing plastic windows, as opposed to wooden window structures, is an easier task..
Window structures are often sealed from the inside, but the external method is also common. This cannot be done with the same materials as for internal sealing, since such insulation will do more harm than good. For waterproofing outside, use vapor-permeable materials, for example, foam tapes or special vapor-permeable films that do not cause condensation of water vapor, which happens if the materials are used indoors.
Do-it-yourself sealing of plastic windows
People who independently decide to perform such work make many mistakes. First you need to find a place where the heat leaves. There are several such directions. If there are gaps between the glass and the frame, they must be sealed with silicone. To do this, you need to choose a good quality silicone that is resistant to temperature changes and sunlight. Silicone from the gun should be applied to the joint that is between the glass and the frame.
PVC window sealing
If the gap is between the sash and the frame, it must be filled with self-adhesive gaskets, which are extremely easy to apply and are available at most home improvement stores. When preparing the seals for installation, the window frame must be washed well..
If you notice a gap between the wall and the frame, fill it with special polyurethane foam, which is used with a construction gun or as a spray. The property of such a foam is that it increases in volume, so it should be applied in moderation. After drying, cut off the combs with a knife and shape the foam into the desired shape.
How to seal a window next to a windowsill?
It is very difficult to seal windows next to a window sill. If the gap is at least 2-3 mm wide, it is important to use a sealing tape to fill it. If the gap between the window frame and the window sill is less than 2 mm, it is recommended to fill it with acrylic or silicone. It is important that these materials match the color of the window frame and sill. Then the seal will not be visible.
Sealing roof windows
Sealing roof windows is imperative, as quality insulation around the roof window is essential to save energy. Insulation is designed to prevent heat from escaping outside and moisture penetration into the room.
Mansard window structures are insulated with ready-made solutions, such as thermoblocks made of material resistant to oxidation and solar radiation. This block form has the following advantages:
- elimination of thermal bridges;
- reducing the accumulation of water vapor and its condensation;
- creation of protection from sounds, wind and moisture;
- protection of the room against heat loss.
The gaps between the frame and the formwork are also filled with low pressure foam.
