One of the attributes of a private house is a furnished terrace that connects the premises with the plot. This is a kind of transition zone that performs several functions. Among the basic requirements for terraces can be noted comfort, decorative materials and structural ergonomics. Moreover, this zone is formed by a minimum number of components, including flooring, door and window structures. The greatest responsibility often lies with the glazing of the terrace, on which the quality of lighting and ventilation of the space subsequently depends. Today, sliding technologies make it possible to provide such platforms with window systems that are distinguished by a reliable design and functionality. But so that the glazing does not disappoint during the operation, you should responsibly approach the choice of its concept and correctly complete the installation.
What should be the windows for the terrace?
The characteristics that window structures for terraces and verandas should have are generally similar to those of conventional systems. First of all, it is a heat-saving function. You should pay attention to this parameter if the house is located in a cold region and the site itself involves operation with the greatest comfort, as in a recreation area. In addition, sliding windows for the terrace should be reliable and at the same time convenient to operate. Complex mechanisms, the presence of multi-level double-glazed windows and a large number of furniture elements - unfortunately, are prerequisites for the execution of sliding systems. Such devices can be prone to frequent breakdowns and require special configuration. However, these inconveniences are offset by ease of use, mobility and functionality.
Features of the sliding structure
If in the case of traditional glazing of apartments, installation is carried out according to certain standards, then in the case of a terrace there are many constructive options for implementing this task. Among the most popular are sliding window designs that save space and provide ease of use of the system. Also among the advantages of such designs can be identified the following:
- The possibility of a wide, panoramic view. Sliding systems in this aspect lose only to frameless glazing, but at the same time outperform it in terms of reliability.
- Large selection of configurations - today, almost any terrace or terrace, you can choose a kit for sliding windows.
- Unlimited decoration possibilities. Manufacturers offer sliding windows for the terrace with layouts, stained glass and laminating decoration.
What material to prefer?
Almost all the operational qualities of future glazing depend on the materials used in window sliding structures. Sliding systems include three main components: frames, glass sheets and fittings. Directly frame base is formed by frames, so they must be strong and durable. Most manufacturers produce sliding windows for the terrace with aluminum, plastic and wooden frames. At first glance, metal is more advantageous, since its technical characteristics ensure the reliability of the entire system. However, properly processed wood from special species can guarantee not only strength, but also environmental friendliness with a natural microclimate. Plastic, in turn, can be considered as an aluminum analogue - such systems are similar in technical qualities. With regard to glasses, the choice is also ambiguous. Undoubtedly, tempered glass, transparent or tinted, are in the greatest demand. However, systems that use polycarbonate, which is practical in installation and operation, are also increasingly appearing.
Mounting technology
The frames are fixed using parallel guides. In finished form, this design consists of leaves that “walk” like doors in commander cabinets. That is, one window sash goes behind another, opening a view from the terrace to the adjacent territory. Sometimes the terrace glazing using this technology is compared with panoramic systems. In terms of visual advantages, there is some similarity, although there can be no talk of a full comparison. However, in terms of reliability, tightness and thermal insulation function, sliding models are still more efficient.
Installation process
Before installation, it is necessary to carry out a glazing project. In accordance with it, the company will manufacture components from which the installation of windows on the terrace will be performed in the future. Work begins with the fastening of the guides - at this stage a lot depends on the flooring, walls and structures with which the surfaces of the site are joined. Further frames and glass panels are built in. In parallel, it is necessary to seal all adjacent sections in which structural elements are connected to the floor covering or walls.
It is important to note that the functionality of the glazing depends not only on the design, but also on special devices connected to the system. For example, installing sliding windows may involve the integration of an electric drive. If traditional models of double-glazed windows can be opened only manually, then in this case the user can control the shutters using the remote control.
Sliding Window Reviews
About 10 years ago, sliding structures competed tightly with swing mechanisms. And even then, the advantages possessed by sliding windows were obvious. Reviews, in particular, note the comfort in the operation of such systems, high tightness and aesthetic appearance, which is important for the local area.
With the advent of frameless and panoramic glazing technologies, consumer requirements have become tougher. Against this background, the disadvantages of sliding systems were revealed. For example, in some cases, the structures freeze and provide insufficient strength. It is pointless to deal with such shortcomings at the technological level, as they appear if the installation of windows is not performed correctly. Nevertheless, to eliminate such troubles, some manufacturers supply reinforcing structures to increase reliability.
Conclusion
Improvement of the terrace with functional and ergonomic glazing has long ceased to be excessive and today is perceived as a prerequisite for organizing life in a private house. Of course, such systems are not cheap, but sliding windows for the terrace can be the best solution both in price and in function. The very principles of the device of such structures are focused on creating maximum comfort with minimal means. In the end, the user gets the ability to conveniently control the sash windows. Sliding mechanisms allow you to vary the natural temperature at any time of the year, while maintaining the attractiveness of the facade and protecting the terrace from precipitation.