1. Glazing options in a private house 1.1. Regular and panoramic windows 1.2. Strip glazing 1.3. Corner structures and other non-standard shapes 1.4. Pivot and tilt windows 2. Windows of attics and attics 3. Winter garden 4. Types of frames according to materials 4.1. Wooden frames 4.2. Metal frames 4.3. Plastic 4.4. Combined frames 5. Selecting a quality profile 5.1. Number of cameras 5.2. Profile width 6. Double-glazed windows 7. Selection of fittings 8. Selection depending on climatic conditions and wall material Individual low-rise buildings in the realities of the modern world are becoming increasingly popular. Private houses are being built both within the city and outside it. All related areas are being adjusted to the needs of modern construction. Including the field of window production. But when choosing which windows are best installed in a private home, do not forget that the overall energy efficiency of any room depends on their size, material of manufacture and other parameters. Let's take a closer look at what window options can be used for glazing country houses, what pros and cons they have.
Glazing options in a private house
In addition to standard windows, more daring design options are also used in country houses today. Popular are panoramic glazing and floor-to-ceiling windows, which also serve as an exit to the garden or terrace. Strip glazing, corner, rotary, tilting designs - the choice of windows for country houses is impressive, allowing you to bring any design concept to life.
Colored or white windows in the cottage
Windows are the eyes of the house. The choice of color for plastic windows should be approached carefully. Saving on colored windows will spoil the architectural appearance of the house. Correcting the situation in installed windows is difficult and expensive, so it is better to decide on the color of the windows right away.
External and internal shades of windows may differ at the request of the customer. For example, the white color of the plastic will remain on the inside, and on the outside the color will be a different shade using one-sided lamination. In this way you can save on window color; the price will increase by only 10% per product.
Recommendations for choosing the color of windows for a cottage. Typically, the exterior color of windows for a home is matched to the color of the roof and base (especially if the base is high). Another way to select colors is to match the windows with the color of the soffits and roof gables. By choosing different colors of the roof and facade, you can place accents, and the appearance of the house will be interesting and not boring.
Examples of choosing colors at home:
- burgundy roof, plinth, windows and light brown facade
- green facade, white windows, soffits, gables and burgundy roof.
1.2. Strip glazing
To maximize the penetration of daylight and visually expand the space in the house, you can install several windows in a row. This is the so-called strip glazing, which involves installing glass structures of the same size one after another along the entire perimeter of the room. This technique is most justified when arranging kitchens. But its use in design projects for the design of offices and bedrooms is not excluded.
Rating of PVC profile manufacturers
Russian consumers give preference to German manufacturers. Their products are distinguished by quality and durability.
KBE is a company founded in 1980. The profiles are suitable for our climatic conditions. They retain their appearance for a long time, do not deform, and do not turn yellow. Can be cleaned with soapy water and a soft cloth. Well protected from the cold. This will allow the owner of a country cottage to significantly save on heating costs. KBE is designed to last for 50 years.
Rehau is a popular manufacturer in Russia. It has been manufacturing its products for more than half a century, having accumulated extensive experience during this time. The profiles fit exactly against each other, which ensures warmth and silence in the house. The windows are equipped with fittings that prevent the sashes from loosening. Additional anti-burglary mechanisms are also installed. The assortment includes models for every budget.
Veka traces its history back to 1968. The company is familiar and loved in many European countries. Produces reliable profiles that are easy to care for. High-quality fittings and adherence to production technologies are the key to the durability of products. You can choose a window of almost any shade or make a custom design that suits your interior.
1.3. Corner structures and other non-standard shapes
For rooms with a small area, corner glazing is an excellent option. In fact, these are two double-glazed windows of any size, connected to each other at an angle of 90°. This technique allows you to visually expand the space, provide an effective source of lighting during the day and an excellent overview of the area in the evenings.
In addition to the usual rectangular and square windows in a private house, you can also install quite unusual designs of round, rhombic, trapezoidal, arched and triangular shapes. They are well suited for any room, decorating the house inside and out.
Corner windows as a decoration for the facade of a house
If we talk about trends in modern architecture, houses with large corner windows look especially impressive. And we can notice that there are more and more such projects every year.
Corner glazing, which opens the interior from two sides of the world, is a response to the need to combine interiors with the environment even more than before. Using corner windows in your home is also a great way to illuminate rooms that are in the shade most of the time. With the help of corner panoramic windows you can make the appearance and architecture of any home unique.
The use of corner windows is associated with modern architectural trends. They add lightness to the facade, and their shape contributes to the construction of a modern image of the building, which is usually disrupted by the symmetrical arrangement of parts on the external walls of the house.
Of course, the facade becomes more light if the glazing elements forming such a window are glued together in the corner. Thanks to their design capabilities, they take the form of balcony doors, panoramic windows and interesting strip glazing. These shapes make them often the most attractive element of a home's architecture.
Windows that open rooms on both sides of the world are primarily designed to let in as much daylight as possible. Most often they are placed in those rooms that are located in the north. If you place such windows to the west or east, this will significantly increase the amount of sunlight entering inside.
Corner windows make the rooms of the house more attractive. The absence of a corner in the rooms visually makes the interiors seem larger than they actually are, and the landscape outside the window becomes part of the interior design.
Corner windows can be made at an angle of 90°, 135°, 125° or 45 degrees. Modern models are completely frameless, they do not need steel or concrete partitions, so their entire surface is glazed. The glazing is attached to the frame of the house with a special glue that is resistant to ultraviolet radiation with high mechanical strength. To make the connection look aesthetically pleasing, it is lined on the inside with silicone or ceramic enamel.
Thanks to modern technologies, it is possible to install large, panoramic corner windows in almost any home. There are also solutions for balcony doors in the form of corner windows that can even fill an entire wall.
The strength of the windows is ensured by a thick layer of tempered glass (6 mm thick), which ensures high impact resistance and safety in case of mechanical damage. Tempered glass also provides greater thermal resistance, which is especially important if the window is open on a south or west facing façade, where it will be exposed to particularly intense ultraviolet radiation. In this case, it is worth choosing glazing with additional coating.
1.4. Pivot and tilt windows
Hinged windows are not always appropriate in a private home. In some rooms there is simply no room for their normal functioning. So, in bathrooms and utility rooms, in corridors and less often in the kitchen, it is customary to install rotary and folding structures. Such designs provide a full source of light, allow you to ventilate the room, maintaining the optimal level of moisture in it, which is necessary for a comfortable life in the house.
4.1. Wooden frames
Today, hardwood and laminated veneer lumber are used to produce wooden windows. According to their design, such frames are:
- single, that is, consisting of only one glass;
- separate double, represented by two parts independent of each other;
- paired, in which both doors are bolted together.
Such double-glazed windows are produced in a blind and opening version, and can be supplemented with windows and a vertical sliding mechanism.
Among the advantages of wooden window frames, users note their high environmental friendliness, aesthetic appearance, good thermal insulation, durability and ease of maintenance. They are not without their disadvantages, which include insufficient sound insulation, low fire safety and high cost.
Conclusion
If the issue of finances is not an issue, and the main thing is aesthetics, panoramic glazing is an excellent design move. The fact that many people are confused by the “aquarium” mode, in which everything is visible, can be solved with multi-format glass or ordinary curtains. The technical side of the issue will not become an obstacle, provided you follow certain recommendations from the forum craftsmen.
- The panorama is laid out at the design stage in order to take into account both the specifics of installation and the requirements for floors, since regardless of the type of glazing, stained glass cannot serve as a support.
- In addition to conventional heating, you will need underfloor heating in the area of panoramic windows or convectors. Even heated windows by themselves will not heat the room.
- You shouldn’t skimp on materials and professional installers; with the total cost of glazing being hundreds of thousands, a couple of dozen won’t make a difference and will spoil your blood.
Specific calculations, formulas, stained glass options and a lot of debates in which the truth is born are available on FORUMHOUSE, in the branches: “Glass and double-glazed windows” and “Panoramic glazing”. This is where the flight of creative thought and professional advice from respected Rexther, Gagsuv, Chudodesert, RuslanR, Glazier 152 and other aces are. And be sure to watch our video, where a carpentry technology specialist tells how to make fabulous window openings in a log house.
Subscribe to our Telegram channel Exclusive posts every week
4.2. Metal frames
Window structures made from aluminum were not so long ago the preserve of industrial and work premises. But the wide variety of their options offered by modern manufacturers makes it possible today to install such frames in private homes. There are “cold” and “warm” types of such structures. The former are applicable for balconies and summer buildings, the latter have a wider scope of use. The advantages of metal frames include:
- increased strength;
- resistance to external influences;
- variety of colors;
- operation up to 80 years or more;
- unpretentiousness in maintenance;
- environmental safety.
The disadvantages of such windows include significant heat loss, high cost, and the complexity of combining metal frames with other types.
Warm aluminum
Previously, aluminum profile windows were mainly used for glazing buildings not intended for permanent residence. They were installed in retail, office, warehouse or industrial premises. Now the situation has changed somewhat, and aluminum structures are increasingly being installed in residential buildings or apartments. There are two types - warm and cold frames.
The latter option is also increasingly used for industrial buildings or for unheated premises, for example, balconies or as glazing of country houses, in which accommodation is planned only in the summer.
The warm version of aluminum glazing is characterized by the presence of a special insert in the profile (thermal break).
Warm aluminum profile from Alutech W72
In fact, between the two contours of the aluminum profile there is a separating element made of a polymer with low thermal conductivity properties (usually polyamide is used). Its thickness is at least 20 mm, which is quite enough to prevent the profile from freezing even in severe winter frosts. Read more about warm aluminum glazing here
4.3. Plastic
Windows supplied to the market in the metal-plastic category are the most popular among modern homeowners. Their technical characteristics are optimally combined with an affordable price, variability in the choice of sizes and shapes. Such structures are a PVC profile with galvanized steel reinforcement inside. The glass unit is placed between the frames. For greater convenience and functionality, windows are equipped with all kinds of fittings.
PVC windows can have one, two or three sashes and be supplemented with a window. According to the method of opening they are:
- shtulpovy (swing);
- folding;
- pendulum;
- sliding;
- rotary;
- foldable;
- transom.
In addition to affordable cost and increased strength, the advantages of plastic windows include a high level of sound and heat insulation, resistance to moisture, ease of operation and maintenance. Another advantage of such structures is their tightness, but this is also the only drawback of PVC windows. Lack of adequate air exchange can lead to the appearance of mold that affects all surfaces in the room.
Quality certificates
A high-quality profile can be determined even by eye. He:
- smooth;
- uniform color;
- without unpleasant odors;
- without chips or other damage.
But even a visually ideal window system can turn out to have a catch. Requesting for certificates will help reduce risks. If a company works for quality, it has all the necessary documents. And at the request of the client will provide all certificates.
The international certificate covers all parameters. But there are also other types of certificates. The strength of the structure is confirmed by assigning one of the following categories:
- DIN 53453;
- ISO 179-61.
In order for the system to serve for a long time, it is important to choose high-quality material. The plastic used in enterprises has a different resource. The highest corresponds to the DIN 53387 .
The profile must be hard, which is determined by the DIN 53456 . Not all structures withstand temperature changes equally well. The following standards meet the highest requirements:
- DIN 53460;
- ISO 306-68.
Important! Some products are produced for industrial premises. They have their own marking – object. Such products have slightly different characteristics than usual.
4.4. Combined frames
The combination of several materials in the production of window frames allows us to achieve better energy saving indicators. The most common combinations are wood + aluminum and wood + metal-plastic.
The combination of wood and aluminum involves partial covering of wooden elements with a metal profile. Most often, beech, ash and oak are used for production. Such structures are characterized by increased strength, aesthetics and excellent energy-saving properties. Their production uses Finnish, German or Swedish technology.
The combination of natural wood with PVC produces structures whose appearance is almost indistinguishable from windows made from timber. But they have a significant advantage - a lower price.
Veka
Windows from the manufacturer Veka are also highly rated in 2022. Among their advantages:
- Increased service life;
- Excellent noise and thermal insulation;
- Guaranteed tightness;
- Latitude of lines offered;
- A rubber version of the seal is used - resistant to low temperatures.
But these windows also have a drawback - they come with a very high price.
5.1. Number of cameras
The number of chambers in a double-glazed window is the main indicator of their thermal insulation properties. When choosing this option, the purpose of the room where the windows will be installed is taken into account. For example:
- structures with one chamber are usually installed on balconies, loggias, and in summer buildings;
- double-glazed windows have become more widely used, their installation is in demand not only in private houses, but also in apartments;
- Double-glazed windows with three chambers are installed quite rarely, since they are distinguished by their large mass, which not every wall can withstand.
Window design
There are many window design options today.
The plastic profile can be covered with a reliable lamination film with a 3D effect and imitation of natural wood, aluminum, leather or stone.
For the design of double-glazed windows in cottage windows, stained glass (real, painted or imitation with colored films), sandblasting (matte patterns), and glass illumination are very popular.
Layouts in double-glazed windows are becoming a thing of the past. Colored windows in cold shades (gray, anthracite), large sizes without lintels in the glass are becoming fashionable. Nothing should block the view and disrupt unity with nature.
The image of a stylish designer window is completed by handles and hinges selected for the specific style of the house and interior decoration. Laconic, stylish stainless steel handles have become the most popular lately - they look great on a window of any color.
Recommendations for choosing the color of handles and hinges. The color of the handles and hinges may be the same or different from the color of the window (if the color is dark, the handle and hinges are light and vice versa), but must be combined in shade - warm or cold.
Photo: Gray window and steel handle and hinges. Dark brown window and gold handle and hinges. White window and steel handle and hinges. In private housing construction, it is possible to use windows of non-standard shapes: arched, round, trapezoidal. It is worth remembering that the production technology for such windows is more complex; if the process is disrupted, there may subsequently be problems with such a window.
Double-glazed windows
When choosing double-glazed windows, you need to take into account a number of their characteristics, which affect the operational parameters of the structure. For example:
- the minimum distance between glasses in good double-glazed windows is 16 mm;
- the thickness of the internal panels should be within 4-6 mm, and the external ones - about 10 mm;
- Acceptable chamber fillers are krypton, dried air, and argon.
In order not to make a mistake with your choice, before purchasing you need to carefully study the entire range of the offered market, read reviews about certain types of structures. It is advisable to consult with specialists who understand all the intricacies of this issue at a professional level.
Formula
Increased demands are placed on panoramic double-glazed windows, because they are obviously thinner than the wall, transmit solar radiation and give off heat. To avoid getting fried in the summer and freezing out in the winter, like dinosaurs, special glass is used for panoramic glazing.
- Triplex (3.3.1 or 4.4.1) – laminated glass obtained by gluing glass 3 mm or 4 mm thick and a special polyvinyl buteral film (PVB, pvb). The properties of triplex depend on the type of glass in the layer; they can be either shockproof or multi-format.
- N – thanks to sprayed silver oxide, glass has heat-shielding and energy-saving properties. It is also called low-emissivity or i-glass. Depending on the manufacturer, you can find markings: CLGuN, Top-N, Top-N+. It is used in both triplex and conventional double-glazed windows.
- MF – multi-format, with energy saving and sun protection functions. This is what both manufacturers and craftsmen recommend for use in a panoramic triplex.
- Z (zak) – tempered, shockproof glass, characterized by increased strength. The optimal option for external glass of stained glass puff.
As for the air layers that provide sound insulation and minimal thermal conductivity, SPD - double glazing is more effective. Especially if the air frames are of different sizes, although in a village remote from the highway in a warm climate zone, an SPO package with one air chamber will be sufficient. Many manufacturers offer double-glazed windows with an inert gas inside, most often argon (Ar). But if you’re going to overpay, then choose krypton (Kr), it has lower performance.
The specific formula depends on many factors, climate, wind load, and the presence of children are taken into account, but there are general recommendations.
- The thickness of the glass - four-piece is not enough for a panorama, its area limit is two squares, experts advise 6 mm and higher, plus the outer layer is preferably shockproof, and the remaining layers are optional, but multi-format and low-emissivity are preferable.
- Air gap – recommended frame width – from 12 mm.
- Class – M1 is suitable for stained glass; it is the most transparent glass with virtually no optical distortion.
The following averaged structural formula of panoramic SPD is obtained: 6 Zak (MF) – 12 (Ar, Kr) – 6 M1 – 12 (Ar, Kr) – 6 Zak (MF, i) for single glasses. SPO formula with internal triplex: 6 M1 Zak – 12 – 6 Top-N. If you use heat-saving triplex, you can do without gas and use a single glass unit.
The weight of the structure is no less important; SPD is much heavier. If the second floor, SPO is preferable.
Selection of accessories
In addition to the number of cameras, the width of the glass unit and other technical parameters of the window itself, an important criterion for choosing a design is the quality of its fittings. Good fittings should:
- assume a minimum of 10,000 cycles of uninterrupted opening and closing;
- be easy to maintain, repair and replace;
- be easy to use;
- have additional protection against corrosion.
Popular and time-tested brands of window fittings include Winkhaus, Roto and Maco.
Choice depending on climatic conditions and wall material
The climate and materials from which the walls of the house are built are the main indicators when choosing double-glazed windows. Aluminum structures are the lightest in weight, but their energy-saving properties are not suitable for glazing residential off-season premises in cold climates. Wooden windows have the best thermal insulation parameters, but they cannot guarantee durability and protection from harsh Russian winters. Therefore, metal-plastic double-glazed windows are the best option. The level of their protection from cold and wind depends on the number of cameras in the double-glazed window.
Ventilation
Modern windows are almost completely sealed, so there will be no drafts in the house, but to ensure the flow of clean air and reduce window humidity, you will have to open the windows regularly, which will create drafts and reduce sound insulation. If we are talking about summer residents, then they do not use their houses for permanent residence. It can be unpleasant to enter a house with stale air even after a week’s absence. And leaving the windows open at the dacha is unwise and risky. Inlet valves can be a solution to the problem. In addition to automatically ventilating the room, they allow you to solve other problems - completely abandon the use of mosquito nets and thereby improve light transmission, as well as protect the house from illegal entry, since the windows simply do not need to be opened. Structurally, the supply valves of the ventilation system can be built into a window profile, for example, REHAU Aerovent, into a double-glazed window, or installed on top of the window.
The price depends on the required performance and sound insulation requirements (with installation from 5 to 50 thousand rubles for each window).
