The universal grille in the worktop above the radiator is a part of the window sill that helps prevent condensation from forming on the window frames. This useful part is classified into several types depending on material, design features, location and method of installation. Before choosing a suitable model, you need to decide on its type and installation option, which can be internal or external.
Purpose of the grille above the radiator
The heating grilles in the worktop are designed to combat condensation on the windows. The cause of this problem is that the indoor air circulation is not circulating and the humidity level rises noticeably. In the presence of a grate, the air heated by the batteries flows through it to the window, then cools down near the opening and goes down.
Condensation is also formed due to violation of standards, for example, when sealed plastic windows or window sill boards with great depth are installed, which completely overlap the radiator.
The problem can be solved by installing a ventilation grill on the window sill and a supply valve for ventilation on the window itself.
Types and characteristics
The grill on the window sill for a heating radiator is divided into several types according to the material of manufacture, color, size, shape.
By material of manufacture
The choice of a suitable material depends on the type of window sill. The list of the most popular options includes:
- plastic: easy to install, differ in affordable cost, presented in various colors, shapes and sizes;
- wooden: made of natural or pressed wood, treated to protect against moisture, ideal for private houses;
- aluminum: lightweight, treated with a special anti-rust agent;
- made of stainless steel: they are characterized by a high level of strength, used for worktops and external grilles.
Modern grilles are decorated with decorative forging and special elements, which allows them to be selected taking into account the style of the interior.
By color
The grilles are painted in the color of the glass unit so that the overall structure looks harmonious. The standard versions are presented in white, the steel models are finished in gold or silver. Wooden models are varnished in mustard, honey or brown shades.
By form
Do-it-yourself or factory-made radiator grill has a rectangular shape, but it can also be square, round or triangular, depending on the width and size of the window sill. Some models are made in the form of a fine or coarse mesh, diamond-shaped, braided or with round holes.
To size
The capacity of the element depends on the size of the grille for a home radiator in the countertop. Standard options have dimensions of 80x10, 80x8, 60x10 and 50x10 cm, for window sills with non-standard width, wider or narrower options are made, for example, 80x20 or 30x8 cm.
By design features
Taking into account the design, the elements can be built-in or landing.By their structure, they are divided into static ones, performing a decorative function, adjustable with air flow control, inertial ones, regulating the flow rate in automatic mode, as well as shut-off ones, equipped with a valve that releases air.
By place and method of installation
The grilles can be installed indoors and outdoors. When installing internally, pay attention to the position of the battery. If it is located under the window sill, the element is mounted closer to the window, when the radiator protrudes beyond the window sill, it is advisable to install it above the battery.
When choosing, first of all, they pay attention to the general style of the interior, the type of radiator and the material from which the windows are made. The grate for the countertop above any radiator should match the overall structure of the sill. An important factor is the cost of the element, which depends on the material, shade and body shape.
Installation methods
First of all, you need to decide on the type of grilles and purchase elements of the desired model. The list of tools required for installation includes a screwdriver or drill, a grinder, a jigsaw, a construction pencil or marker, assembly glue or silicone sealant, and a tape measure.
The window sill grill for household batteries can be installed externally or internally. They are installed independently in plastic or wood window sills; additional tools will be required for installation in concrete bases.
Outer
Outdoor models must be protected from environmental influences, aluminum gratings are ideal. In addition to the main task, they also prevent the accumulation of dust and dirt, the penetration of insects inside. External grilles can be adjustable or non-adjustable, models of the first type are supplemented with built-in blinds.
Interior
Internal grilles should have an aesthetically pleasing design and compact dimensions so as not to reduce the area of living space, such as a kitchen. They can be made of any material that will harmonize well with the overall style of the interior and have a high level of quality.
Since the grill must provide an accelerated rise of warm air from the heating devices to the windows through the window sills, the place for it is chosen as close to the windows as possible. In wide window sills, the installation of the grilles is carried out strictly above the batteries, while the openings of the grilles must coincide with the dimensions of the upper section of the radiators. The sections of the gratings can be different in shape, but the total sum of their areas should be from 0.42 to 0.60 w / s. These indicators are sufficient for optimal ventilation.