Plastic windows can be easily opened. Even a small child can handle this procedure. This is unsafe. To prevent pets from falling out of the window, you need to install a special limiter. It greatly improves operational safety. How to install a limiter on a plastic window will be discussed later.
Comb description
Before considering how to install a limiter on a plastic window, you need to consider the principle of its design and application features. Most often, a comb is used for such purposes. This is a small bar with teeth on one side. Therefore, one edge of the comb is wavy. Thanks to this special shape, the window stopper was called a comb. It is also called a retainer.
The main functions of the window comb are as follows:
- Ventilation of the room. To do this, leave a gap that will haveright size. This allows you to adjust the level of ventilation in the room.
- Preventing the sash from opening too wide. If there are animals in the house, the ajar sash will not be able to swing open more. This will keep the pet from falling out of the window.
- Fixing the sash in a certain position. Drafts or gusts of wind will prevent the window from opening more, slamming shut, or hitting nearby objects.
Combs are made from different materials. This depends on their value. The simplest varieties can be purchased at a price of 150 rubles. If you consider how much a plastic window with the function of opening the sash for ventilation costs, you can understand how much more profitable it is to purchase an autonomous latch.
The structure of the limiter is simple, so its self-installation does not cause difficulties. The comb consists of the following elements:
- Planck. It has 3 to 5 teeth. They determine how wide the sash will open. The comb is mounted in a special stand. It provides him with mobility. The stand has holes for attaching to the frame.
- Rod. Most often it is made of metal. The rod is attached to the window. A comb clings to it.
Varieties
Before buying, you need to read the information about how much a plastic window with a built-in limiter costs. In this case, the sash will open to the ventilation mode from above. The disadvantage of this design is the fact that the pet can still get over the half open barrier. In thatIn this case, the pet may fall out or even get stuck in the open space.
The limiter, which is purchased separately, does not have this drawback. Various variations of such devices are on sale. Their choice depends on the mechanism of opening the sash. So, for folding varieties, an external or built-in comb is used. If the sash is equipped with a tilt and turn mechanism, you need to purchase a limiter with a brake function.
If an outer comb is included with the delivery of the window, it will be fixed to the window sash. Thanks to this feature, the system will allow you to control its position. However, when using an external comb, the appearance of the window profile deteriorates. Therefore, the built-in design is more preferable for many buyers.
If you want to prevent accidental opening of the sash, you must also install a braking mechanism. It firmly fixes it in a given position. This type of construction can be difficult to install and operate.
The most optimal design option is a mechanism with an applied brake. It is most often mounted on the balcony door.
Also, the limiters differ in material. They can be made of plastic, metal, or a combination of both. They have some differences. When using plastic, it is possible to set the distance between the frame and the sash, which will be from 1 to 7 cm. This is the most budgetary variety of the devices presented. It is easy to install, but hasinsufficient strength.
Metal combs are installed using self-tapping screws. This is the most durable design option, but the cost of such a limiter is higher. The metal should be covered with paint so as not to stand out against the background of the window.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before considering the method of how to correctly install the limiter on plastic windows, you need to pay attention to the advantages and disadvantages of such a design. It can be fixed on the end of the sash or under the window handle. The first option somewhat spoils the appearance of the window. Therefore, it is preferable to mount the limiter under the handle. This installation option has more benefits.
When installing the system on the end of the sash, the likelihood of frame deformation and window depressurization increases.
Both mounting options have certain advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of using limiters include the low cost of rework. At the same time, the safety of the operation of the window increases significantly. Installation does not cause any particular difficulties. Even a novice master will cope with it. The manufacturer's instructions must be followed. In this case, it will be possible to equip the window with an important refinement.
However, it is worth remembering that limiters also have a number of disadvantages. There is always a risk of damaging the frame during installation. Because of this, the window will begin to let cold air into the room. It will need to be replaced in the near future, and this is an unforeseen waste of the family budget. Therefore, installation must be carried out carefully, in accordance withmanufacturer's instructions.
The latch is usually not very strong. With its frequent use, it quickly fails and needs to be replaced.
Existing shortcomings do not stop the owners of houses and apartments. Therefore, they decide to install a comb for the window. You can do this wave procedure with your own hands.
Comb alternative
Today, window guards are also installed in apartments where there are small children.
So that the child could not open the comb, you need to give preference to other types of limiters. The main ones are:
- Handle lock. It is made from metal. Inside the structure there is a mechanism that opens and closes with a key. So parents can be sure that the child will not be able to open the sash. By simply replacing the standard plastic handle on the window, it will be possible to fix it in one of two positions. The sash can be closed or tilted. At the same time, you can change its position only with the help of a key.
- Rim lock. It is mounted on the lower sash profile. It also opens with a key, allowing the sash to be tilted if necessary.
- Wrap-limiter. It looks like a padlock. But in this case, the system is installed on the frame and not on the sash.
- Mortise lock. Installation of this type of system is more difficult. In this case, it will be impossible to do without special tools. The tilt function is not available in this case.limited. With the key, you can lock the sash, preventing it from swinging open.
- Key-handle. The design looks like a standard mechanism. But by moving the sash to the desired position, you can remove the handle. It serves as the key to the design. When the handle is removed, its seat is closed with a decorative rosette.
- Chain. By the principle of operation, this limiter is similar to a door chain. The design provides for a metal cable in a plastic sheath. It must be strong enough so that the child cannot tear it. There are also options with a chain, but the cable is stronger. Its length determines the degree of opening of the sash. There is no limiting brake in the design.
- Lock for sliding doors. Fixed to the side of the frame. With a lock with a key, you can close the sash in the desired position.
The presented limiters for opening plastic windows are much safer than a comb. A kid, and even an adult, will not be able to open the window without the special keys that come with the kit.
Standard ventilation mode
Window restrictor allows you to ventilate the room. In this case, you can not be afraid to leave an open window unattended. But sometimes manufacturers have already provided the appropriate ventilation modes as standard. There is such a mode as micro-ventilation. In this case, the sash tilts slightly, but the window seems to be visually closed.
This mode allows you to ventilate the room withoutleaving the window open. In this case, you will need to install the limiter on plastic windows with your own hands only if there are children in the house. If the child can already turn the sash handle, appropriate protection must be provided.
In other cases, you can order a window with three micro-ventilation modes. The handle can be in one of four positions. When the lever is turned down, it means that the window is tightly closed. In this mode, it must remain sealed. If this is not the case, you need to change the sealing gum or even plan to purchase and install a new window.
If the handle in this design is turned 90 °, it will be possible to open the sash. This feature is essential if you want to wash the window. Therefore, in most cases, the sash has such an opening mechanism.
If you move the handle up another 45°, you can open the window for micro-ventilation. In this case, a small gap appears between the frame and the sash. The window appears to be closed. This mode allows you to ventilate the window in the cold season with minimal heat loss. For some manufacturers, the micro-ventilation function is adjusted by turning the knob 45° from the bottom position. How to open the sash in this mode, you need to ask the window manufacturer.
If the lever is turned exactly up, it puts the system into the ventilation function. At the same time, the sash leans back at the top. This allows you to quickly ventilate the room. This function is used mainly in the warm season.
Climatic valve
Reviewingrecommendations on how to install a limiter on a plastic window, you should pay attention to one more variety. This is a climate valve, which is one of the most modern types of such structures. It allows to provide sufficient microcirculation of air in the room. In this case, the window does not have to be opened.
The advantage of installing a climate valve is the fact that humid air is constantly removed from the room, but heat loss will be minimal. Passing through a complex valve system, external air masses have time to warm up. Therefore, the room remains warm.
By installing a climate valve, it is possible to normalize the level of humidity in the room. Thanks to this, it is possible to avoid the appearance of condensation on the windows. With a normal level of humidity, fungus and mold do not develop, and people living in an apartment are much less likely to get respiratory ailments.
How to fix the limiter on the plastic windows of the presented type depends on the features of its design. At the top of the sash, you will have to drill a hole to install the system. This work should be entrusted to a professional. If a master without experience performs a similar procedure, he will most likely simply ruin the window. Therefore, the climate valve must be installed by a master who gives a guarantee for his work, has sufficient experience and theoretical knowledge of this procedure.
Decorative overlays are installed outside and inside the window. Therefore, the appearanceframe will not be damaged. Modern systems of such devices allow you to adjust the level of humidity in the room without using power.
Preparing to install the comb
It is quite possible to install the simplest types of window limiters on your own. The comb will be the easiest to mount. To avoid mistakes, you need to consider the advice of experts. Otherwise, even with such a simple installation, you can ruin the window.
You need to prepare the necessary materials and tools. It is necessary to choose a comb of the appropriate type. It is better to give preference to painted metal varieties. They are stronger and more durable. Installation is carried out using a drill. Self-tapping screws are purchased for installation. You will also need a Phillips screwdriver and a pencil.
Often the necessary items for installation are sold complete with a comb. It is still advisable to purchase self-tapping screws separately. They will be of better quality, which will also extend the life of the system.
When choosing self-tapping screws, you need to consider the thickness of the window frame and sash. It is not recommended to use fasteners longer than 13 mm. Otherwise, the master will damage the reinforcing layer of the window profile. It will depressurize and will need to be replaced soon.
Getting Started
How to screw the limiter on plastic windows? It is necessary to consider in detail the procedure for carrying out such work. A latch will be located under the window handle. The comb will be installed directly onframe. It's not worth it to hurry. It's better to double-check everything than to end up with a damaged frame.
First you need to dismantle the window handle. To do this, first remove the decorative cover. It covers the base of the handle. To do this, carefully pry off the lid with a knife. Care must be taken as the plastic can be easily damaged. Scratches will make the appearance of the overlay very unsightly.
Under the cover there are self-tapping screws that fix the handle. They are unscrewed and the handle is removed from the seat. It has a pin that opens and closes the window mechanism.
Considering the method of how to put a limiter on a plastic window, it should be noted that it is in place of the handle that a metal frame with a bracket is installed. All holes need to line up. After the adjusting pin is installed in the corresponding hole, the structure bar will be correctly installed in the seat. With the help of self-tapping screws, the structure is firmly fixed. On the outside of the sash, the tip of the rod should protrude slightly.
Fixing the comb
How to install a limiter on a plastic window? It is very important to correctly determine the installation location of the system. To do this, you need to perform several sequential steps. A toothed comb is put on the protruding part of the rod. Next, you need to cover the window by attaching the bracket to the frame. This is where the bracket will attach.
Use a pencil to make appropriate marks. Here you will need to make holes for fixing the bracket. More need to be done againcheck to see if the limiter hits the latch. It will not be possible to redo work after installation. Ugly marks will remain on the frame.
A self-tapping screw is screwed into one of the holes in the base of the comb. To do this, you can use a screwdriver. The base must be placed exactly vertically. Then it is finally fixed. For this, a self-tapping screw is screwed into the second hole. Best not to pre-drill.
Expert Tips
Usually the comb is quite fragile. Therefore, to extend the life of its operation, you need to take some actions. It is better to choose a comb of a simple cast form. You need to check that it is strong enough. If the system consists of separate elements, they break faster.
Periodically, you need to tighten the screws, because due to vibration during active operation, the fasteners can loosen. This will affect not only the quality of the comb, but also the security of the system.
It is also recommended to purchase a comb only in a specialized store. Otherwise, you can purchase a product of dubious quality. Such products cannot be durable.
