After the installation of new window structures made of metal-plastic, condensed water sometimes begins to accumulate on the frames and glass. You have to wipe it off with a napkin or open windows more often. A window sill grate will help prevent the liquid from settling.
The need for a lattice for a window sill
The settling of condensate during the operation of heating batteries may be associated with incorrect installation of windows, increased thermal conductivity of dwelling materials, a too wide window sill and other reasons.
When the radiator is placed under the worktop, a large amount of heat is transferred, which causes the glass to fog up. To prevent this phenomenon, holes are made in the windowsill for ventilation. The convection design helps to evenly distribute the heated air flow. During its operation, the window sill and glass remain dry.
Varieties of gratings and characteristics
Ventilation grilles in the windowsill are available in various sizes, hole shapes and the structure itself. They also differ in the way they are installed.
By material of manufacture
The cheapest products are plastic. In terms of strength, environmental friendliness and aesthetic qualities, they are inferior to other types. Aluminum grilles attract consumers with their combination of reliability and affordable prices. The most environmentally friendly constructions are made of natural wood. Steel models are very durable, but they have the highest cost.
By form
Traditional versions are square and rectangle. The design can be solid or consist of several short gratings connected in series. The holes are usually uniform in size and have a slit-like shape, but now other options are appearing - for example, round or with openwork patterns.
By color
The color scheme of products for convection is often chosen in accordance with the design of the insulating glass units. The most popular color is white. Steel products are sometimes painted in silvery shades. The wooden grill can be coated with a protective varnish. Since the windowsill gets very hot from the batteries, you need to choose a composition that does not emit harmful substances at elevated temperatures.
To size
Square-shaped lattices most often have a size of 15 cm on one side. Rectangular products of standard dimensions are 8 by 17 cm. Larger models are also used in private dwellings. You can purchase a ready-made lattice or order turnkey manufacturing, taking into account the parameters of the window sill.
The area of the holes determines how much air the structure is able to let through. If small things are placed on the windowsill, it is better not to choose the option with large holes.
By design features
The simplest design with ventilation holes in the windowsill looks like a simple cover mounted on a prepared hole. Such options are used most often. You can find models with adjustment - inclined lamellas can be moved to the sides, changing the size of the slots or the direction of the air flow.
The structure can be installed outdoors or indoors. In the first case, attention is paid to suitable dimensions and design. In the second, it is advisable to choose a metal lattice - such structures are durable, not damaged under the influence of weather factors.
Methods for mounting a lattice for a window sill
Building codes provide for the permissibility of installing ventilation grilles in high-rise buildings. But more often residents install them themselves. First you need to determine in what place the device will be placed.
Outer
Ventilation structures for façade installation prevent insects, dirt and dust from entering the dwelling. The device can be supplemented with a cover to prevent the penetration of cold air in winter. Some models have built-in sliding blinds.
Interior
In this case, the structure is built into the plane of the window sill itself into a specially prepared hole. The cover grid can be fixed to the surface with fixing parts. In some modern window sills, separate ventilation holes of a relatively large diameter are spaced apart.
Important Requirements
When arranging ventilation in the windowsill, it is necessary to take into account the location of the batteries. If they protrude forward more than the window sill, the convection product is placed directly above them. With deeply hidden batteries, the grate is placed at a minimum distance from the window. Ideally, the openings of the structure should be parallel to the upper plane of the radiators. The total value of the free area should be in the range of 0.45-0.6. Usually, the design of the grilles corresponding to these parameters does not allow small objects to enter the holes.
Features of installing a lattice for a window sill
Mounting the product on a wooden or plastic window sill is easy to do at home. If you have to put it on a concrete structure, it is better to invite a master - the work requires special tools and the ability to handle this material.
In addition to the lattice itself, for installation you will need to prepare:
- electric drill;
- grinder or electric jigsaw;
- simple pencil;
- sandpaper;
- fasteners (screws, bolts with brackets), silicone or glue.
It is not required to remove the window sill when performing work. First, mark the place and boundaries of the future hole on its surface with a pencil and then cut it out with a grinder. From the inside, the walls need to be sanded. This is done to smooth out uneven areas and remove sharp edges.
Some grilles are designed to be inserted into the hole, while others cover it by sitting on the surface. In the latter case, fastening is carried out using screws (holes are drilled in the drill for them in advance). You can also use glue, but this method will create inconvenience if there is a need to dismantle the grille. Another way is with cone-headed bolts. Brackets are mounted under them along the perimeter of the hole. If the position of the slats can be adjusted, they are directed towards the window.
Helpful hints
To minimize the possibility of condensed moisture build-up, it is recommended to regularly clean the ventilation grill with a dry cloth. Also, do not place a large number of indoor plants on a windowsill with double-glazed windows. The frequent inflow of moisture into the air adjacent to the windows, which occurs during regular watering, creates the preconditions for the formation of condensation.
The windows fog up more often in the kitchen than in other areas due to regular cooking. It is possible to neutralize this effect by increasing the ventilation rate. Also, the installation of an exhaust structure above the stove will help to fight condensation.
The large width of the window sill, which disrupts the heat exchange in the room, predisposes to fogging of the glasses. If it is costly to replace it, you need to put a grill on it. When installing a new window sill, you need to choose an option that covers only half of the radiator.
It happens that the problem is caused by incorrect installation of window structures. Some operations, such as plastering lye, can be done at home. Sometimes the situation requires reinstalling the windows - with significant deviations in the location. When condensation settles with a single-chamber glass unit installed, you need to invite a specialist who will correct installation errors. Sometimes the reasons for fogging lie in a leaking roof or a lack of insulation. In this case, you need to work with the corresponding problem.
The installation of a convection grille ensures the redistribution of heat coming from the radiators located under the windowsill. This helps to combat fogging on the windows. The product can be easily assembled at home.
