It is generally accepted that replacing a traditional wooden frame with a modern PVC profile immediately eliminates drafts, ice formation, and freezing. However, after the onset of cold weather, many begin to notice something was wrong: it still blows from plastic windows. Why is this happening? And most importantly, how to eliminate this shortcoming?
Installation quality
The first thing that comes to mind is the negligence of the installers. Indeed, the dishonesty of installers who did not bother to carefully fit the frame, poorly foamed the joints or made other technological errors, very often causes subsequent heat loss. But sometimes we ourselves strive to save money by choosing a cheap but low-quality profile. Or we choose a single-chamber double-glazed window, which does not cope with its task of keeping warm in the conditions of Russian winters. Yes, and a lot depends on the fittings.
Fittings
The reason that cold air blows from plastic windows isunreliable hardware. It is she who is responsible for the looseness of the fit of the valves when locking. Sometimes it is enough to replace low-quality fittings, and the problem will be resolved. Sometimes no replacement is required. Just need to adjust the existing system.
Now they produce designs that are designed for two modes: winter and summer. The first option is characterized by a denser clamping of the valves. If your master has not explained to you all the features of the adjustment, then you will have to deal with this issue yourself.
First of all, inspect the sash around the perimeter. You will find round or oval elements, which are called "trunnions". These details are just responsible for the clamp. The pins must be simultaneously moved to the maximum position by moving in a clockwise direction. The operation must be performed without closing the window. For the procedure, you will need pliers or a screwdriver (this depends solely on the type of fittings). Be sure to turn all pins. Otherwise, you will break the structure.
Some manufacturers have taken care of automating this process. Their accessories are equipped with a special roller on which the ring is located. Rotating it, we easily change the modes from summer to winter and vice versa. In the winter version, the handle starts to work tighter, the abutment of the sashes is stronger, and the problem of what blows from the plastic window disappears in the blink of an eye.
Let's take care of sealing
To avoid drafts, take care of goodprofile seal. Otherwise, low-quality rubber will simply crack with the onset of severe cold weather. And a well-made seal can eventually become completely unusable.
Therefore, if you notice that it is blowing through plastic windows, then immediately check the condition of the rubber cord. And if defects are found, immediately change it. This procedure is simple. She is quite capable of handling it on her own. Or just call the master at home.
When choosing new gaskets, look at commercially available silicone seals. They have excellent thermal insulation properties. And one more thing: before gluing a new gasket, do not forget to thoroughly wash the profile from dirt.
The quality of the seal is also affected by such an inconspicuous structural element as a glazing bead. It ensures the tightness of the glass to the profile. The stalk also needs to be replaced. In addition to such a drastic measure, you can try to fill the gaps between the frame and the double-glazed window with silicone. Or resort to an effective "grandmother's" remedy - paste over the gaps with thick tape.
From all cracks
Why is it blowing from plastic windows even when the seal is in order, and the glazing bead is not bad, and the fittings lock the sashes tighter than ever? In such a situation, it is necessary to check whether drafts penetrate from the side of the slopes. The fact is that the space between the wall and the window structure, according to the technology, is foamed with mounting foam. Special polyurethane composition by gunor a bottle with a tube is introduced into the gap, where it rapidly increases in volume and solidifies. The excess is then removed with a knife.
If little foam is applied, this leads to the formation of voids. And this is the direct reason that blows from plastic windows.
The mounting seam is not eternal. After five or eight years, the foam begins to slowly break down. There comes a need to remove the slopes, buy cans of mounting foam and re-fill the gaps with the composition. After that, return the slopes to their place.
Blowing from plastic windows
Similar gaps sometimes appear under the windowsill. Again, this is either a result of saving foam at the stage of installation of the structure, or simply wear and tear. In any case, it is necessary to disassemble the window sill and restore the tightness.
As a preventive measure, it does not hurt to take additional measures to warm the space under the windowsill. Just buy some sealant and gently apply it to the seam between the PVC structure and the wall.
In order for the mounting foam not to collapse too quickly under the influence of humidity, it is necessary to provide protection to it. Silicone or vapor barrier film does a good job with this. They protect the wall from moisture and prevent fungus and mold from developing.
Check the loops
Sometimes you can find that blowing from the hinges of plastic windows. Why is this happening? In search of an answer, you will have to examine the outside of the frame. Look for additional holes. These, most likely, will be technological gaps for attaching a mosquito net to a window. They are not needed in winter, so we close them until summer.
We hope now you have received the necessary clarification about why it blows from plastic windows. And like any problem, this trouble is better to warn in advance. Meticulously choose a company for the installation of PVC structures, no less meticulously select a profile, fittings. Check the quality of the installation. Do not forget to inquire about the warranty service of windows. So it will be easier and cheaper to eliminate the detected defects. And also follow the rules for the operation of plastic window systems, monitor the condition of the seal, and eliminate the problems that arise in time.
