Outside window decoration can be done with different types of materials. When choosing, the structure and operational characteristics of the window structure itself are taken into account.
Functions and purpose of finishing windows outside
Slopes and casings refer to the elements that form the design of the building. Correctly executed window frames make the building look neater. In addition, the components make living in the home more comfortable.
During installation, window frames are never placed close to wall structures. Gaps are always left between parts of the configuration to compensate for possible displacements caused by temperature changes, building shrinkage, seismic processes and other factors. If this requirement is not observed, the frame will deform, which entails its exit from the working state. The manifestations of this can be different - for example, glass falling out or inability to open a window.
Insulation is laid in the left gaps. In the past, woolen fabrics and felt were often used for this, nowadays mineral wool and polyurethane foam are popular in construction. All of the listed heaters are vulnerable to environmental factors - moisture, temperature extremes, ultraviolet light - and lose their performance under their influence.
It is advisable to install devices that protect the insulation from deformation. You can trim windows with metal panels, stone or other materials that are resistant to environmental factors. They will also help keep mold and mildew free from inside the structure.
Finishing options
External slopes for plastic windows are finished with a material that matches walls and window structures from a design and technical point of view.
Plaster
This is a budget finish that works well for wood window frames. For its implementation, a special dry composition is acquired. From above, the plaster layer can be covered with whitewash or paint that tolerates sun and moisture well. Even a person who does not have special construction skills can make such window decor. But from time to time, the plaster coating has to be updated.
Plastic
Installation of such slopes is suitable for metal-plastic windows. They are easy to install by yourself and do not require pre-alignment. After the work, as a rule, there is no debris left. The product is suitable for any type of insulation material, does not lose its qualities from exposure to moisture or sub-zero temperatures.
PVC panels can be attached to the windows - they are unpretentious in operation and have good sound and heat insulation properties.
Sandwich-type products consist of two layers of hard plastic, between which a thick piece of insulation material (usually foamy polyurethane) is laid. They are available in a wide range of colors, which allows you to choose the right option for your home.
Metal
Finishing windows outside with metal slopes is beneficial for the ability of these products to withstand various types of environmental influences, including mechanical ones. This is especially important in areas where hail occurs regularly.
A polymer coating is applied to the products, which protects them from rust. Such a cladding serves for a long time, retaining an attractive appearance for decades, which is not the difference between plastic and plaster.
It is easy to take care of metal products: it is enough to wipe them from dirt and dust from time to time.
During installation, you will need to glue the sealing tape.
Natural or artificial stone
Decorating window openings from the outside with a stone will require a large investment, but this is offset by the durability and noble appearance of the finished structure. Since the material is quite heavy, it puts stress on the base and walls. Before deciding to use it, you need to make sure that the foundation can withstand the additional mass.
Required tools and materials
Finishing window slopes from the outside using plaster and foam insulation is an inexpensive and easy-to-use option.
When choosing a coating mixture, you need to study the recommendations on the packaging and make sure that it is suitable for work performed outside the building. These formulations often contain polymer additives. In addition, you need to purchase a deeply penetrating primer.
A large spatula, grout mesh and a knife are useful tools.
If you decide to mount metal slopes on the windows, you need to purchase special scissors. You will also need a hammer, a construction gun, a tool for tightening fasteners.
To measure and control the evenness of the parts to be mounted, it is necessary to prepare a tape measure and a triangle.
Preparatory work
Before you put the external slopes on the windows with your own hands, you need to clean the surface from the old coating (plaster or paint composition). Excessively protruding polyurethane foam is cut off with a clerical knife so that it does not go beyond the level of the frame. If cracks or crevices are found on the surface, they can be putty.
If plaster is chosen for finishing the windows, the treated work area is primed and the composition is left to dry for at least half a day, after which you can proceed to applying the basic composition.
When installing PVC panels or metal products, a primer is not needed. In this case, a sealant is applied to the joints.
It is also recommended to treat brick and concrete surfaces with an antiseptic agent that protects against mold contamination. When all the compounds used are dry, proceed to the installation of the finishing material.
Do-it-yourself window decoration outside
Step-by-step instructions for mixing and applying the plaster compound are usually provided on the package with the dry mix. When preparing the solution, you must strictly adhere to the technology and manufacturer's instructions.
The mixture is applied to the treated area and spread with a large spatula. If the surface is very uneven, it is recommended to apply 2 coats of plaster. In this case, the second layer is applied only after the first one has completely dried. When the coating is dry, it is sanded with a special mesh. Then you can apply the coloring composition to the surface.
You can combine the putty with foam sheet insulation. To do this, an adhesive composition for cement is applied to the cut out blanks, they are measured on the slope and leveled with a building level. A drill with a nozzle is suitable for preparing glue. After it dries, the parts are fixed with dowels. Then the first layer of putty is applied and a pre-prepared fiberglass mesh for reinforcement, cut out according to the dimensions of the slope, is placed on top. It is pressed inward and then the mixture is applied again, manipulating the spatula until the composition covers the structure. To prevent upholstery of the sides, metal corners are mounted.The surface is covered with the last layer of putty, after drying of which the grout is carried out and the paint is applied.
Before placing steel parts on the outside of the windows, you will need to first take measurements with a tape measure. They are made for each of the four sides of the window and entered into a notebook.
The sequence of work when installing metal slopes:
- Finishing begins with drainage. Cut out the part with scissors for metal in accordance with the dimensions of the window frame. It is permissible to make it a little (up to 10 mm) smaller. The outer part is cut taking into account the wall allowances. The side elements have a 1 cm allowance. They have a bend. The sheets are treated with a rust-preventing compound.
- The low tide is installed at the landing site. Due to its structure, it covers the side walls. The part is screwed directly to the frame surface with self-tapping screws.
- Then the sides are finished off. Install them vertically: they should overlap fragments of the ebb. To smooth out noise and prevent freezing, sealing strips are mounted in the structure. They are placed under each of the metal structures.
- The upper part is adjusted to the sidewalls and aligned to the outer corners. To fix it, as in the case of the sides, self-tapping screws are used.
- The joints are fixed with a sealant.
The material used is galvanized sheet steel. You can not cut the blanks yourself, but purchase finished products. They are already treated with protective compounds, they can be mounted quickly and easily. This should be done shortly after installing the window frame.
Prolonged exposure of the structure in an unprotected state leads to the destruction of the polyurethane foam and the occurrence of cracks. In winter, such openings often freeze out.
