Drilling a window frame is not an easy task and requires a careful approach. You need to be especially careful when drilling plastic windows. The lack of certain knowledge and skills, the right tools and special screws can lead to irreparable damage to the structure. Therefore, if you need to drill holes in plastic windows for repair, decorative or any other purposes, it is best to turn to professionals or, at a minimum, study the issue of proper drilling of PVC windows with special care.
Is it possible to drill PVC construction?
Craftsmen do not recommend drilling holes in windows without a pressing reason, but it is quite possible to do this. To do this, you need to know the structure of the window and the places through which you can drill the window without damaging its properties.
A plastic window consists of several chambers, the internal ones are sealed and prevent the penetration of cold air and moisture into the room. The outer ones have technological openings through which condensate is removed. They are usually located inside the frame and have an exit to the outside at a certain angle, set at the production stage.
It is through these places that the window is drilled, since this does not impair the tightness.
It is better to entrust the work to a specialist due to the high risk of damage to the window structure.
The craftsmen have technical knowledge of the exact location of these places in various models, know the properties of the material and have special tools and compounds that restore damaged seals.
When might it be needed?
There are different situations in which it is necessary to use window drilling. Can be used for:
- attaching slopes to the window structure;
- masking installation seams with strips;
- carrying out television or TV cables;
- mounting blinds;
- installation of additional accessories.
Note! Depending on the situation, it is possible to do without drilling the frame. Therefore, before starting manipulations, you need to familiarize yourself with all the rules for work and choose the optimal plan of action.
Features of window fans
Window fans are distinguished by the fact that their operation does not require huge amounts of electricity. But despite all this, they perform their functions wonderfully. The household product will cope well with the task of refreshing the room in the house: kitchen, living room, living room, and will help cope with the problems of too humid or too dry air. An industrial one, often reversible, can clean the air of foreign odors and add oxygen to the room from the street.
Despite their simple structure, they have a good output efficiency, consume a minimum of electricity, even with large sizes, have a low noise level, and are easy to install. The environment does not matter for the efficiency of their operation, both at minus 30 and at plus 30 - the fan will perform its direct function. An important fact is that special blinds have been developed for these devices, thanks to which when the device is turned off, there is no loss of heat from the inside and no cold from the outside.
Rice. 9. Each model has different parameters
Where is it allowed to make a hole?
PVC windows can be drilled lengthwise and crosswise. The main criterion is not to create problems for the functioning of the window structure and to avoid the possibility of damage.
Windows are often drilled around the perimeter of the profile and at a sufficient distance from the glazing beads. However, it is better to make holes in blind sashes and frames. When installing blinds or cornices, you can drill out part of the glazing bead, since it will subsequently be filled with fasteners.
Where is it not possible?
There are several rules that must be followed:
The holes should not be deeper than 5-6 mm, as there is a risk of damage to adjacent chambers.- You cannot drill holes in the corners of the profile, as this will lead to destruction of the structure.
- The window has vulnerable points: the glass unit and the latches.
Drilling is strictly prohibited in them. It is also not recommended to make holes around the bead joint and near the seal. - You cannot drill through metal window tabs from the inside of the frame. Various damage to the reinforcing contour can adversely affect the durability of the window and lead to a violation of its properties.
- The window sill and olive should be installed in a special niche, and not attached to the window structure.
Note! The worst place for drilling is the distance from the start of the bead seal to its lower border, at least 20 millimeters.
How to attach additional accessories to a PVC window without drilling
Most often, owners of plastic window structures require the installation of blinds. It is better to install them without drilling holes.
- Scotch
. You can install blinds using double-sided tape without drilling holes in the PVC frame and risking damage to the entire window structure. A strip of tape should be applied to the grease-free surface of the window frame, and the blinds should be attached on top. If you plan to install blinds in winter, you will need to heat the frame a little, for example with a hairdryer. - Brackets
. Hanging brackets are a hook that clings to the window sash, and blinds are hung on it. Light vertical roller shutters can be installed on cheaper brackets made of plastic. For horizontal metal models, a more complex mechanism is used. It costs more, but thanks to a special clamping foot, it fits firmly to the window frame, does not become loose and will last a long time.
To summarize, we can say with confidence that if drilling a plastic frame can be avoided, this should be done without risking the aesthetic appearance of the structure and its technical properties. If drilling is definitely necessary, contact professional installers who will do their job competently and accurately.
What do you need for work?
Depending on the purpose for which you are making a hole, during the work you may need:
- screwdriver (medium power);
- screws (bolts, self-tapping screws with a stable base and without a curl at the tip);
- necessary drills (mainly for metal);
- ruler;
- pencil;
- screwdrivers.
As for who should carry out the work, you can drill plastic windows yourself - if you have the skills to use the tool and know the intricacies of the process. In other situations, leave it to the professionals.
Consumables
To drill the frame you can use:
- bolts;
- self-tapping screw;
- press washer;
- roller blinds;
- quick installation;
- screw.
There are no special self-tapping screws for drilling plastic windows. For better fastening, it is necessary to use a metal drill slightly smaller than the diameter of the self-tapping screw so that it is screwed in evenly and without deformation.
On a note! Manufacturers often recommend purchasing countersunk screws that are coated with zinc. They have their drawbacks - they cannot be screwed in without using a special drill, since they have a thin rod.
Self-tapping screws with a screw at the end are best suited due to their good screwing into the plastic surface.
Self-tapping screws
A correctly selected self-tapping screw will make the work easier and will not damage the window. Craftsmen use self-tapping screws measuring 9.5 or 16-17 mm in length to install various decorative and functional elements on the window. Also, the self-tapping screws must have a stable shaft and a thin base; there should be no curl at the tip.
The main mistakes made when inexperienced drilling:
- Do not screw a self-tapping screw into or near a glazing bead.
The glass that makes up PVC window structures is durable and highly resistant to damage. However, if the self-tapping screw is not carefully inserted into the glass unit, the glass may crack and become damaged. In this case, you will have to completely replace the internal structure of the window, which will cost an amount equal to a third of the cost of the entire window. - An incorrect length of self-tapping screw can disrupt the tightness of windows and internal chambers, which will lead to a violation of the integrity of the structure, heat and sound insulation properties. Also, incorrect screws can damage the operation of the window.
- If drilling is done incorrectly, it will not be possible to disguise the error.
Tools
Considering that you will be working with glass, it is necessary to use a power tool that does not create vibrations. You need to choose tools with a low number of revolutions per minute, about 250 units will do for a start.
Drills must be specialized. Eg:
- Feather. The working part is pointed, triangular in shape.
- Tubular. The working part is hardened, diameter from 12 to 80 mm.
- Crown with diamond abrasive. The material is very strong and can withstand heavy loads. Diameter – 80 mm.
Drilling technique: number of revolutions – 200-300 per minute, frequency of work – 10-15 seconds. It is necessary to allow the drilling site to cool before the next approach. The position of the drill is strictly perpendicular. There is no need to apply pressure to the tool.
Installing a Window Fan
Installation is carried out in two ways, and the installation method depends on the double-glazed window. The first method is applicable to single-glazed or double-glazed windows, often wooden, of the old type. Here the installation is not difficult, because all you need to do is remove the glass, cut it to the shape of the fan that will be installed, then install it back, attaching it with glazing beads, and then install the ventilation.
The second method is used more often, because almost all residential premises have metal-plastic windows. In order not to damage the sealing of these double-glazed windows, it is necessary to make every effort, because it is unreasonable to completely replace windows to install a fan. Therefore, for such manipulations, specialists are invited to remove the double-glazed window, and in its place another one is installed, with similar dimensions, but with a hole cut for the fan.
Rice. 14. Installation of a fan is possible with any double-glazed window structure
For installation, rubberized seals are used that prevent the windows from depressurizing. When the device is not connected to the network, it closes with blinds that prevent heat loss.
Step-by-step instruction
Work plan using the example of drilling a hole for a television cable:
- We find the required pulse source in the panel and stretch a wire whose length is equal to the distance from the TV to the window. We remove everything unnecessary from the window: curtains, additional fittings.
- Drill a hole in the window frame. To do this, you need to retreat 2 cm from the bead. Using a caliper, mark the frame in accordance with the diameter of the wire, making an extension of 1 mm.
- First, we make the hole with a strong awl so that later the drill does not move to the side during operation. The tool needs to be set to medium speed and use a metal drill.
- You need to drill at an angle with an inclination towards the outer part, this will protect the room from moisture penetration during rain.
- You need to make sure that the integrity of the frame and glass unit is preserved. After this, all that remains is to stretch the cable and seal the resulting hole with silicone sealing.
On a note! If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to seek professional advice or help.
Construction stores may indicate the use of special tools (drills, screwdrivers), which are most optimal when working with specific models of window structures.
Supply and exhaust fans: with us it’s clean and fresh
The store's catalog contains models for ensuring normal ventilation in different rooms: kitchen fans from the world's leading manufacturers of various power and sizes, Russian and foreign roof-mounted supply and exhaust fans protected from negative external influences by a special galvanized housing, as well as fireplace and window fans, centrifugal and multi-zone fans .
Based on their main technological characteristics, ventilation devices are divided into supply and exhaust fans used in industry and in everyday life.
The household supply and exhaust fan is designed to provide a comfortable environment in apartments, private houses and cottages. The distinctive characteristics of household ventilation devices are their relatively low air output, noiselessness, low energy consumption and attractive design. The price of the models presented in the RoomKlimat store catalog makes them accessible to a wide range of customers.
Is it worth doing it yourself?
When drilling windows, care and accurate calculations are needed, since this activity is not only important, but also dangerous. If you do not have skills in this area, you need to carefully study the technical material or ask for advice from professionals.
Specialists know about the structure of structures and the nuances of various models, the location of air chambers in which holes need to be drilled.
There are also vulnerable points in the design of windows, in case of accidental damage the window must be quickly sealed.
The conclusion is simple: if you are confident in your knowledge and skills, you can make the holes yourself. If you don’t want to take risks, you can call professionals.
ERA HPS 15 – inexpensive
An axial type fan built directly into the window opening - a window transom. A check valve is provided, controlled by a cord switch. Opening the protective device - towards the street, outwards.
Durable ABS plastic is used for the housing and impeller, resistant to moisture, ultraviolet radiation and temperature changes. Optimal for work in small rooms, kitchens, change houses.
Pros:
- Lightweight, quite economical, simple operation.
- The price is just right for installation in the kitchen.
- Easy installation, especially on wooden windows.
Minuses:
- I had to work on a collective farm to make a transition trim for the window. There are no ready-made ones for sale.
Difficulties and mistakes, their consequences
Ignorance of the design features of windows and possible “weak” fastening points makes the drilling process dangerous. It is often difficult to cope without professional help, since even with a good result of drilling, errors may remain. To check their corrections, professional help is precisely what is needed.
Many people who have carried out such manipulations advise immediately contacting specialists, since this will cost less than the subsequent correction of unpleasant consequences.
It is also important to note that there are methods for attaching and running various wires that do not require making holes in window structures.
Consequences of unsuccessful drilling:
- Loss of rigidity of the window structure, since the frame consists of a thin sheet of metal and is completely hollow inside.
- The box is depressurized, moisture and cold enter the room, the glass becomes covered with condensation.
- Damage to the locking mechanism, which requires replacement of the entire window sash
- Violation of the aesthetic quality of the window
How to choose the right window fan
It’s not for nothing that manufacturers have provided different types. This was done not in order to visually increase the market for this product, but in order to bring the functionality of the device as close as possible to certain conditions.
In order for the choice to be correct, it is important to familiarize yourself in advance with information about how powerful the ventilation in the room should be. If the premises are industrial, then of course it will be a powerful supply and exhaust fan. If installation in an apartment is required, then a small-sized one will be quite sufficient.
Rice. 10. The rate of air exchange in the room and the power of the unit are interconnected
For kitchen
The kitchen requires a special approach, since it is in this room that there is a lot of foreign odors after cooking. To do this, it is important to purchase a supply and exhaust, or wall-mounted, air exchanger with a fairly good power rating. Window air conditioning will relieve your neighbors of your odors, which often seep through the chimney.
In the kitchen, in addition to the hood, it is simply necessary to install an additional air vent to clean the kitchen space by taking in excess heat and fumes from cooking, if it is also equipped with a mosquito net - this is an ideal option.
Rice. 11. Wall type is good for extra ventilation
For the bathroom and toilet
In the bathroom there is often a problem of condensation accumulation, which causes the formation of fungus. If this room is combined with a toilet (bathroom), then there is an additional problem of unpleasant odors. A wall-mounted toilet is an excellent solution, but it must be installed with a check valve to avoid the transfer of odor and moisture from this room to the living room.
Typically, the ventilation of the bathroom is connected to the lighting; therefore, when the light is on, the air vent also works, and when it is turned off, it stops rotating. This scheme of work is simple, but at the same time very effective.
Rice. 12. The connection diagram for ventilation in the bathroom differs from conventional window installations
To the rest room or hall
In such spaces, installing a supply fan will be more than enough, although many advise installing both a supply and an exhaust fan for maximum air exchange and more oxygen. After all, the room is not intended for active household needs, but for relaxation.
In order to have a complete rest, before purchasing a fan for your bedroom or living room, you need to find out what power the device will require, for which you multiply the volume of the room and the air exchange rate according to the table below.
Rice. 13. Room temperature plays a role when choosing the type of ventilation
Technical specifications
The average power of a household fan mounted in a window is 20 W. This indicator is quite sufficient to ensure proper air exchange indoors and high-quality air purification. The rotation speed of the blades of such mechanisms is 3 thousand rpm.
The window fan housing is usually made of durable plastic, which is extremely resistant to external atmospheric influences and temperature changes. It tolerates temperatures ranging from -50 to 50° C.
The use of devices with a lid or blinds allows you to avoid large heat losses. When lowering the latter, the device automatically turns off. In order to increase the thermal insulation characteristics, the strips of protective elements are equipped with soft rubber seals: they prevent the formation of cracks.
Useful tips
When installing a ventilation device with your own hands, it is important to use special connecting elements. They are able to provide reliable fixation and complete sealing of parts. Additionally, it is advisable to use sound-insulating gaskets, which increase the ease of use of the fan.
It is not permissible to install the hood on ordinary glass. It may be damaged if exposed to strong vibration.
The installation of a ventilation device in a plastic window should be carried out during the manufacture of the latter. The manufacturer makes the necessary holes in it in advance for the selected hood model.
Attention! An attempt to independently make an opening for a fan in a double-glazed window most often ends in failure: the structure depressurizes and its valuable thermal insulation properties are lost.
BPP 15 BVN (Bahcivan) – reverse
Household series window fan. The power housing and impeller are made of durable, weather-resistant plastic. The built-in reverse function allows the design to operate in two modes, supply or exhaust.
This allows you to remove stagnant dirty air from the room, followed by renewal of the air mass due to the forced pumping of a fresh portion. The process speeds up the restoration of a comfortable environment in a residential or commercial premises.
Pros:
- Performance, reverse function.
- Cord operating mode switch.
- He works in a small bakery and does his job well.
Minuses:
- Mechanical switching.
Wind-K 125 ST – low noise
Exhaust fan installed in a window. It features controlled blinds and a timer. The latter function allows you to automate the operation of the device by setting a program for turning on or off the electric motor at certain intervals.
The design includes a protective cap that completely blocks the air flow when stopping. The quality of workmanship and proper balancing allowed the fan to achieve low noise during operation.
Pros:
- Quiet during operation, does not whistle like a jet plane.
- Price, cap - it doesn't show through the window.
- Timer: programmed, turned on and forgotten.
Minuses:
- Pull cord switch, it can be more expensive, but to work from the remote control.
O'Erre Smart 15/6 M – five modes
Reversible window fan with the ability to set one of five rotation speeds. A reverse option is provided. The principle of operation of the device is supply and exhaust. Control is via a remote electronic remote control.
The curtains are opened or closed manually, using a telescopic insert that is adjusted to the actual thickness of the window. The plastic of the grille and body are made in a splash-proof design. The structure is fully prepared for installation in a window opening.
Pros:
- Five rotation speeds, remote control.
- Possibility of installing reverse.
- Rain, wind and sun resistant plastic.
Minuses:
- Consumers do not note any negative aspects.
Vortice Vario 230/9″ AR – full functionality
High quality product from an Italian manufacturer. The window fan can operate in supply and exhaust mode. Equipped with automatic blinds. High-quality materials and ball bearing supports significantly increased the overall service life of the assembled product.
Increased rotation speed and productivity. The outer grille is made in a weather-resistant design. The body and blades are made of impact-resistant polymer. Power supply: from a stationary power supply of 220 volts.
Pros:
- Supply and exhaust ventilation, automatic blinds.
- Reliability, durability, service life.
- Easy installation and operation.
Minuses:
- High noise at full load.
- The price is high.
Elicent VITRO 6/150 PA – automatic blinds
A device mounted on a window transom or directly on a double-glazed window. Designed to move air masses outside to update the air composition. The fan is equipped with an automatic system for opening and closing protective shutters.
The latter are made taking into account the effects of atmospheric moisture, solar radiation, and temperature changes. It is possible to work with a programmable timer to set the frequency and duration of fan operation.
Pros:
- Automatic operation mode, setting a timer simplifies control.
- It is quite compact and light weight, which allows it to be installed directly into a double-glazed window.
- Works in the kitchen, easily removes odor and smoke when something burns on the stove.
Minuses:
- A bit noisy, but not too much.
Description
A conventional window hood is a compact device with low weight. It is installed in a window opening and significantly improves air circulation indoors. Using such a mechanism, it is possible to organize full ventilation of the room and ventilation of individual zones.
A lightweight fan is attached in two ways: on top of a window (wooden, plastic) or replaces a small part of it. Often it is covered with blinds or curtains. The latter open during operation of the device.
This hood operates completely silently and allows you to quickly freshen the air in the room. Its use is considered more hygienic than opening a window, since it prevents dust from entering the room.
