PVC and metal-plastic windows have long been popular and in demand among consumers. But in order for their work to seem complete after installation, it is necessary to install slopes. Inside, you can get by with plastic or drywall constructions. But outside you need metal slopes. They will protect the mounting foam from the adverse effects of ultraviolet radiation and destruction. Installation of external slopes is a prerequisite for the completion of glazing work. You can't mess around with this. This is not only a matter of aesthetics, but also a solution to thermal insulation problems.
Window slope functions
Installation of PVC windows is carried out by specialists of the company where these systems were purchased. The price usually includes installation. However, only one or two companies include the finishing of the window opening with slopes in the cost of the service. All problems and work on their installation falls directly on the owner. But very often, for various reasons, the owners do not get to the installation of slopes. As a result, the opening looks unfinished.
Due to the fact that windows are mounted without slopes, this matter is shelved. In fact, it is worth approaching this issue responsibly. Slopes are not easygive a finished look. They perform other tasks as well. For outdoor installations, metal window sills are recommended, and there are several reasons for this.
The first and main reason for the need to install slopes as soon as possible is mounting foam. Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation and other adverse factors, it quickly loses its characteristics and becomes unusable. The waterproofing characteristics of the foam are very weak. It begins to absorb moisture abundantly. As a result, the window will freeze.
Foam, which has high heat and sound insulation properties, but is not closed, quickly loses these qualities.
Slopes today are made using plastering, plastic, drywall. All this is good, but only as a temporary measure. All of these materials can not be compared with a metal slope, neither in terms of durability, nor in terms of attractiveness characteristics. In addition, steel products are much easier to install.
Plaster is the most budget option and, it would seem, a good way out. But over time, the layer of material will crack, and gaps will begin to appear between the frames. This will eventually lead to the formation of mold. And the windows themselves will start to sweat. Drywall as slopes is a good choice, but can only be used indoors.
Gypsum is very afraid of moisture. Under its influence, the material is deformed and cannot perform its functions.
Plastic slopes may not withstand extreme temperature changesand cold. They are best used indoors. In addition, plastic is unstable to any mechanical stress. To make an apartment or house look like a finished building, and the facade looks attractive, it is better to install metal slopes on the windows.
Benefits
Yes, these products are more expensive than any other. But their positive characteristics fully compensate for the price. The slope is made in such a way that its metal is reliably protected from corrosion.
Metal slope does not lose its characteristics and performance for quite a long time. The paint does not require updating and is very durable. If desired, the product can be repainted. Metal very well withstands any mechanical damage. The slope is very easy to install. Maintenance is also simple and minimal.
In addition, this solution has an attractive appearance and looks good on different facades. The slope material does not respond to temperature changes, as well as to precipitation. Manufacturers produce metal window slopes in the widest range of colors.
Flaws
Among the disadvantages are only the high price and sound effects that can occur from raindrops or hail. But this can be combated if special noise-absorbing materials are used during installation. Also, the product cannot be installed in an arched window opening.
Types and features
Exterior metal slopes for windows - this is the best option among allavailable. They are offered in a variety of colors.
Manufacturers produce copper, galvanized products, steel with zinc coating, aluminum slopes. The upper part of the product is covered with a special material. It can be polyester, pural, plastisol.
All of these coatings are resistant to moisture and protect the slope material from corrosion. Also, due to this coating, the metal slope can be used without any maintenance. The coating makes the product more attractive.
As for the color scheme, you can buy a slope in white or brown. Each of them is purchased as needed. The first shade is suitable for metal-plastic white windows, dark - for products with wood imitation.
Installation
Usually, the installation of metal slopes is carried out by the owner of the home, which means you need to consider how to install them yourself. There is a special algorithm - this is the performance of measurements, preparatory operations, the actual installation itself.
The importance of accurate measurements
Carefully measured and recorded results are the most important step in the installation process. Only in the case when measurements are carried out with high accuracy, all structural elements will ideally fit together. This stage will eliminate the gaps between the slope elements.
It should also be noted that each part of the structure is measured separately. If the right side has a certain size, then it is not a fact that the left side has the same dimensions. Duringmeasure the length and width of the edging of the opening, as well as the width of each of the window slopes. Then slopes will be made according to these dimensions.
Preparatory work
These actions are very relevant if the wall is made of brick or concrete. These materials tend to crumble and crack. In preparation for the installation of metal slopes, excess mounting foam is removed with a special knife. Depending on the condition of the surface, close the cracks and remove the gaps. It is important that there are no voids between the slope and the opening.
Each seam must be sealed with sealants and antiseptics. This serves as a reliable protection against mold, which can form in hidden cavities where there is no ventilation. Before applying each layer, make sure that the previous one is completely dry. This is the only way to guarantee a high-quality and tight joint.
Producing a slope for a window
For the manufacture of a metal slope, the measurements made at the first stage must be transferred to a sheet of metal. After the sketch is ready, parts of the product are cut out using metal scissors. In this way, the top, bottom, and side elements are made.
To make the result happy, it is recommended to use sealing materials - for example, a special tape. The result is a nice metal outer slopes on the windows.
Required tool
To make the installation process quick and of the highest quality,prepare tools and materials. To work, you will need sheet metal or strips from it, a screwdriver, a paint knife, metal shears, measuring instruments, sealant and mounting foam. In the absence of a screwdriver, you can use a drill with a nozzle.
Installation
In the process of installing metal slopes with your own hands, each of those elements that will touch the frame should be treated with sealants. This will keep and then keep warm.
Direct installation begins with the installation of the lower element. This is the so-called ebb. To smooth out the sound of water drops as much as possible, it is recommended to put soft materials under the ebb. If you install the lower part on the foam, you will need self-tapping screws - with them the element will be connected to the window frame. In order not to spoil the window frame with self-tapping screws, you can install slopes only on mounting foam. They will hold up well.
After installing the lower fragment of the metal slope, the side parts are mounted on the window. Due to the slope of the opening, the lower parts are cut at the required angle. Then the structural elements are attached to the frame with self-tapping screws. To get the right cuts, experts recommend first making them on paper. This will help avoid mistakes in the future.
The top part is mounted last. Gaps are recommended to be closed with the use of mounting foam. This completes the installation. The finished factory product will already be covered with a protective layer. And in the case of a homemade slope, it should be covered with specialanti-corrosion paints. This will help prolong the life of the material.
Conclusion
Metal has many advantages over traditional finishing materials. Therefore, slopes are best purchased or made from this material. Any other products will quickly lose their properties in the open air. Finishing the window with metal slopes is reliable, high quality and durable. Ease of installation will allow even a home master to cope with this work.
