The use of metal profiles in glazing today is common in factories and offices, where there are high requirements for the protection of output groups. But the domestic sphere is gradually mastering the principles of high-tech arrangement of window openings. The most practical solution is offered in the form of aluminum profile glazing, which can be used for loggias, balconies, winter gardens, etc.
Differences from plastic and wood frames
For starters, it is worth remembering why PVC windows quickly gained popularity on the market, relegating wooden structures to the background. The key factors were increased tightness, strength and resistance to various kinds of aggressive environments. And this is not to mention the technical nuances associated with the wide functionality and ergonomics of plastic models. Nevertheless, to this day, many use wooden profiles,highly appreciating their ecological cleanliness, natural texture and durability. In addition, modern production largely eliminates the classic shortcomings of wood through the use of innovative protective impregnations and new drying technologies.
What can a metal structure boast of against this background? The most common glazing of balconies is an aluminum profile, which outperforms both plastic and wood in terms of rigidity and elasticity. This means that the structure does not deform due to possible shrinkage of the building or minor shaking, and these processes are detrimental to PVC systems. Another advantage over plastic is environmental friendliness. Of course, aluminum is inferior to lumber in terms of chemical purity, but it will not bring any significant harm to the user.
Design features
Thin and at the same time strong metal sheet opens up new possibilities in terms of the structural arrangement of window profiles. Manufacturers produce them in a variety of configurations with enhanced thermal insulation properties and noise reduction from the street. The characteristics of profiles for aluminum glazing make it possible to form structures on narrow frame components in which glass of a large area is held. It turns out in some way a transitional link between traditional PVC systems and frameless glazing. Thin strips of aluminum practically do not spoil the overall composition of the window group, but at the same time they perform a load-bearing function.
More importantly, many manufacturers are implementing automatic mechanisms for design control in profile families. By means of hidden power drives that are placed inside the frames, it is possible to organize remote or even programmed control over the entire system, its protection and bandwidth adjustment.
Features of aluminum profile cold glazing
This approach to the design of window openings is the most common, as it allows you to combine such operational qualities of the structure as ergonomics, attractive design and functionality. Aluminum frames are more often used for such systems, since metal components allow maximum optimization of the design, making it compact and convenient in terms of physical handling. The aspect of reliability is also important, since only one double-glazed window without reinforcement is used. In principle, the cold glazing of a balcony with an aluminum profile is best suited in cases where it is not planned to use the room as a living space. It is a lightweight barrier with efficient ventilation and minimal insulating qualities. For the southern regions, this solution is optimal.
Features of warm glazing
In this case, the task is to provide high heat, hydro and sound insulation. Accordingly, several double-glazed windows with rigid frames are used. In the choice of structures, emphasis should be placed on good sealing as a guarantee of a warming function. There are alsospecial energy-saving aluminum profiles for glazing in the house, thanks to which the cost of heating equipment is also minimized. Why do we need such high demands on the microclimate? This concept is determined not so much by the desire to organize living quarters on the same balcony or loggia, but by the requirements for the conditions for maintaining vegetation. For this reason, warm glazing is more often used in greenhouses, gardens and covered terraces where flowers, vegetables, etc. are grown. However, the desire to minimize cold bridges should also not be dismissed.
Development of a glazing project
First of all, a project is developed in which calculations are performed, characteristics and types of structures are given, and recommendations are given for choosing additional accessories. To obtain the necessary information about the operating conditions of the system, specialists conduct a geodetic survey, perform a comprehensive assessment of the target object (opening) and prepare a sketch of a translucent structure for approval. At the household level, it is enough to determine the type of system, the number of double-glazed windows and suitable fittings for control. For example, glazing loggias with an aluminum profile can be performed both in the form of a classic post-transom bearing structure, and on the basis of a modern modular frame.
Installation work
On the basis of a ready-made design solution, the production of metal profiles, double-glazed windows andaccessories. By the way, aluminum itself is subjected to extrusion and anodizing, after which it undergoes cutting, welding and molding operations with technological grooves and holes. Directly aluminum glazing of balconies begins with the installation of the supporting frame. A load-bearing sealing foam is laid along the edges, into which the side load-bearing profiles are arranged. With the help of screws, the structure is fixed to the wall niche. If full-height modular glazing is planned, then fastening is performed only on the sides, lower and upper levels. In the central part, profile segments are mounted in roller guides of already installed parts of the structure.
Service details
Aluminum is a fairly practical material that does not require special care. However, it is better to refuse coarse-grained abrasives for cleaning surfaces from contamination. The same rule applies to glasses. As for detergent chemistry, there are no significant restrictions in this regard either, but it is recommended to use products with increased protective and dirt-repellent properties. The weakest points in aluminum profiles for glazing balconies and loggias are functional parts. All mechanical working parts and surfaces should be periodically flushed and lubricated with oils. Particular attention is paid to seals. Their task is to ensure the tightness of the structure, and under the influence of sunlight with temperature changes, they lose the elasticity of the structure. In order not tooccurs, you should periodically wash the surfaces of the seals with silicone oil, doing a preliminary cleaning.
Positive feedback on technology
Despite the apparent heaviness, light weight is one of the main advantages of such profiles. In some modifications, with the same load force, aluminum frames weigh less than plastic counterparts. In practice, the owners of windows with such profiles note the absence of street noise and effective waterproofing. But the tightness depends on the additional elements and the same seals, therefore, in this part, not everything is clear. The decorative advantages of glazing balconies with an aluminum profile, which can be ordered with different color shades, are also noted. In terms of safety, the main quality of the material is resistance to ignition. Aluminum, unlike plastic structures, does not support combustion, does not melt and maintains the integrity of the structure even at high temperatures.
Negative reviews
In principle, anodized aluminum has few weak points, but some nuances may disappoint an ignorant user. Thus, the most noticeable operational factor may be a low heat-saving function, which, in particular, is indicated by residents of the northern regions. Actually, for this reason, cold glazing of loggias with an aluminum profile with a minimum set of double-glazed windows is more often performed. However, many users emphasize the advantageous combination of suchstructures with insulating inserts. According to reviews, this fitting increases the temperature on the balcony or loggia by several degrees in winter.
How much does aluminum profile glazing cost?
It is a rare case when metal materials and parts do not increase the cost of structures compared to analogues with plastic components. The final estimate will be formed based on several parameters. Among them, one can note the type of construction, dimensions, number of double-glazed windows and, in general, the characteristics of the selected configuration. In a complex project, for example, the costs of developing a project for glazing a balcony with an aluminum profile will also be taken into account. The price for 1 m2 averages 6-8 thousand rubles. The most expensive item will be the metal frame and its installation (about 3 thousand rubles), followed by a double-glazed window (about 2 thousand rubles), functional elements and accessories.
Conclusion
With all the advantages of aluminum structures for glazing, they cannot be considered as the best option for all cases. For the windows of a private house, for example, it is still recommended to use wooden frames, and for city apartments - plastic, as the most practical heat insulator. But it is quite logical that there are specific conditions in which the metal system is optimally manifested. Moreover, the price of glazing loggias with an aluminum profile is about 8 thousand rubles. for 1 m2 – the lowest in the segment. By the way, the most expensive are wooden structures. Where would it be beneficial to use aluminum? Where it is planned to perform cold glazing with good insulation, but also a compromise in terms of insulating function. Also, do not forget about the modest mass of aluminum - accordingly, for horizontal finishing, this will also be the best option.
