The use of metal profiles in glazing today is common in industries and in office premises, where high demands are placed on the protection of exit groups. But the domestic sphere is gradually mastering the principles of high-tech arrangement of window openings. The most practical solution is offered in the form of glazing with an aluminum profile, which can be used for loggias, balconies, winter gardens, etc.
Differences from plastic and wooden frames
To begin with, it is worth recalling why PVC windows quickly gained popularity in the market, pushing wooden structures into the background. The key factors were increased tightness, strength and resistance to various kinds of aggressive environments. And this is not to mention the technical nuances associated with the wide functionality and ergonomics of plastic models. Nevertheless, to this day, many use wooden profiles, appreciating their environmental friendliness, natural texture and durability. In addition, modern production largely offset the classic flaws of wood due to the use of innovative protective impregnations and new drying technologies.
What can a metal structure boast against this background? The most common glazing of balconies with an aluminum profile, which beats both plastic and wood in terms of stiffness and elasticity. This means that the structure does not deform due to possible shrinkage of the building or small shaking, and these processes are fatal for PVC systems. Another advantage over plastic is environmental safety. Of course, aluminum in terms of chemical purity is inferior to lumber, but it will not bring any significant harm to the user.
Design features
Thin and at the same time durable metal sheet opens up new possibilities in terms of the structural arrangement of window profiles. Manufacturers produce them in a variety of configurations with improved thermal insulation properties and noise reduction from the street. The characteristics of aluminum glazing profiles make it possible to form structures on narrow frame components in which large-area glass is held. It turns out in some way a transitional link between traditional PVC systems and frameless glazing. Thin strips of aluminum practically do not spoil the overall composition of the window group, but at the same time regularly carry out the supporting function.
More importantly, many manufacturers are introducing into the family of profiles and automatic mechanisms for managing the design. Through hidden power drives that are located inside the frames, you can organize remote or even programmed control over the entire system, its protection and bandwidth adjustment.
Features of cold glazing aluminum profile
This approach to the design of window openings is the most common, as it allows you to combine such operational qualities of the structure as ergonomics, attractive design appearance and functionality. Aluminum frames are more often used specifically for such systems, since metal components allow optimizing the design as much as possible, making it compact and convenient in terms of physical handling. The reliability aspect is also important, since only one double-glazed window without amplification is used. In principle, the cold glazing of the balcony with an aluminum profile is optimally suitable in cases where it is not planned to use the room as a residential one. It is a lightweight barrier with efficient ventilation and minimal insulation. For southern regions, this solution is optimal.
Features of warm glazing
In this case, the task is to ensure high thermal, hydro and sound insulation. Accordingly, several double-glazed windows with rigid frames are used. In the choice of designs, emphasis should be placed on good sealing as a guarantee of an insulating function. There are also special energy-saving aluminum profiles for glazing in the house, thanks to which the costs of heating equipment are minimized. Why do we need such high demands on the microclimate? This concept is determined not so much by the desire to organize a dwelling on the same balcony or loggia, as by the requirements for the conditions of vegetation. For this reason, warm glazing is most often used in greenhouses, kindergartens and closed terraces where flowers, vegetables, etc. are grown. However, the desire to minimize cold bridges is also not worth sweeping.
Glazing project development
First of all, a project is developed in which calculations are carried out, characteristics and types of structures are given, as well as recommendations on the selection of additional accessories are given. To obtain the necessary information about the operating conditions of the system, specialists make a geodetic survey, perform a comprehensive assessment of the target object (opening) and prepare a sketch of the translucent structure for approval. At the household level, it is enough to determine the type of system, the number of double-glazed windows and suitable accessories for management. For example, glazing of loggias with an aluminum profile can be carried out both in the form of a classic rack-mount and crossbar bearing structure, and on the basis of a modern modular frame.
Installation work
Based on the ready-made design solution, the production of metal profiles, double-glazed windows and components is carried out. By the way, aluminum itself is subjected to extrusion and anodizing, after which it undergoes cutting, welding and molding operations with technological grooves and holes. Directly aluminum glazing of balconies begins with the installation of the supporting frame. Carrying sealing foam is laid along the edges, in which lateral bearing profiles are arranged. With the help of screws, the structure is fixed to the wall niche. If modular glazing is planned in full height, then fastening is carried out only on the sides, lower and upper levels. In the central part, profile segments are mounted in roller guides of already installed parts of the structure.
Service Nuances
Aluminum is a fairly practical material that does not require special care measures. However, it is better to refuse coarse-grained abrasives for cleaning surfaces from contamination. The same rule applies to glasses. As for detergent chemistry, there are no significant restrictions in this regard either, but it is recommended to use products with enhanced protective and dirt-repellent properties. The weakest points in the aluminum profiles for glazing balconies and loggias are the functional parts. All mechanical working parts and surfaces should be periodically washed and oiled. Particular attention is paid to gaskets. Their task is to ensure the integrity of the structure, and under the influence of sunlight with temperature extremes, they lose the elasticity of the structure. To prevent this from happening, you should periodically rinse the surfaces of the seals with silicone oil, doing a preliminary cleaning.
Positive feedback on technology
Despite the apparent heaviness, light weight is one of the main advantages of such profiles. In some versions, with the same load force, aluminum frames weigh less than plastic counterparts. In practice, owners of windows with such profiles note the absence of street noise and effective waterproofing. But tightness depends on additional elements and the same seals, therefore, in this part, not everything is clear. The decorative advantages of glazing balconies with an aluminum profile, which can be ordered with different color shades, are also noted. In terms of safety, the main quality of the material is its resistance to ignition. Aluminum, unlike plastic structures, does not support combustion, does not melt, and maintains the integrity of the structure even at high temperatures.
Negative reviews
In principle, there are few weaknesses in anodized aluminum , but some nuances can disappoint an ignorant user. Thus, a low heat-saving function, which, in particular, is indicated by residents of the northern regions, may become the most noticeable operational factor. Actually, for this reason, it is often cold glazing of loggias with an aluminum profile that is performed with a minimum set of double-glazed windows. However, many users emphasize the beneficial pairing of such structures with insulation inserts. According to reviews, this hardware in the winter increases the temperature on the balcony or loggia by several degrees.
How much does aluminum profile glazing cost?
This is a rare case when metal materials and parts do not increase the cost of structures against the background of analogues with plastic components. The final estimate will be formed based on several parameters. Among them, one can note the type of construction, dimensions, the number of double-glazed windows and, in general, the characteristics of the selected configuration. In a comprehensive project, for example, the costs of developing a balcony glazing project with an aluminum profile will also be taken into account. The price per 1 m 2 averages 6-8 thousand rubles. The most expensive item will be the metal frame and its installation (about 3 thousand rubles), followed by a double-glazed window (about 2 thousand rubles), functional elements and accessories.
Conclusion
With all the advantages of aluminum structures for glazing, they cannot be considered as the best option for all cases. For windows of a private house, for example, it is still recommended to use wooden frames, and for urban apartments - plastic, as the most practical heat insulator. But it is logical that there are specific conditions in which the metal system is optimally manifested. Moreover, the price of glazing loggias with an aluminum profile is about 8 thousand rubles. per 1 m 2 - the lowest in the segment. By the way, the most expensive are wooden structures. Where will it be profitable to use aluminum? Where it is planned to perform cold glazing with good insulation, but also a compromise in terms of warming function. Also, do not forget about the modest mass of aluminum - respectively, for horizontal finishing this will also be the best option.