A sliding window is a window that opens by sliding horizontally along the up and down path in the window frame; A sliding window has a fixed pane of glass and a hinge that slides left or right to open. Sliding windows are often used in places where we want an unobstructed view of the open space, where maximum ventilation is required and in places where the space for opening is limited. By sliding on a track, sliding windows do not require additional space to work.
Because these windows are easy to open and close, they are usually found in hard-to-reach places, such as above the kitchen sink. They are also ideal for openings that are wider than tall.
Features of sliding windows
from sliding windows to access unobstructed views and have plenty of natural light and a wide view of the surrounding environment; They are used in openings that have more width than height. A sliding window is very simple to open and close and requires little maintenance. Of course, sliding doors and windows may wear out over time and affect performance, so they should be cleaned and adjusted at certain intervals. Unlike hinged windows that are easy to clean; For sliding windows, the sashes must be removed from the frame and cleaned. Also, sometimes rainwater collects in the rails, which can lead to rust or other problems for the window. To avoid this problem, be sure to buy sliding windows that have proper drainage holes. In general, when it comes to insulation, sliding doors and windows have a lower performance than hinged windows. Of course, there are different models of sliding windows, some of which have excellent insulation.
Types of sliding windows
Sliding windows are divided into two general categories, single rail and multi-rail, but sliding window models include lift and slide, accordion and Volkswagen. The lift and slide model has a very efficient insulation and it can be opened and closed easily with the pressure of just one finger. The lift and slide model is opened and closed by a locking lifting system. The accordion window, as its name suggests, opens and closes like an accordion device. This is also called a folding window. We use the accordion window when we want to make the most of the opening space. The Volkswagen window takes its name from the Volkswagen van model. The opening and closing of this model is that the window frame goes out a few centimeters and then slides on the rail and opens. Sliding windows with standard insulation provide excellent energy efficiency.
Different materials for making sliding windows
Sliding windows are usually made of aluminum and UPVC. Aluminum with its elegant appearance gives a special beauty to the space, but due to its heat conductivity, it is not a good option for use in cold areas. Of course, aluminum is used for different models of sliding windows due to its strength and lightness, for example, lift and slide windows are made only with aluminum profiles. UPVC windows are a fierce competitor of aluminum because, in addition to the beauty and variety of designs and colors, they are also very good thermal insulation and have a more reasonable price than their aluminum counterparts. Also, UPVC is a material that is very resistant to temperature and humidity, and its useful life will be long. One of the top producers of UPVC in the country is Teknema PVC company, which offers its profiles under the brands Vanavin, Gold UPVC and Royal Wayne. If you do not have expertise and experience in window installation, be sure to get help from a professional team for installation.
Sliding window installation
Step 1. Measure the window opening to start and order the window. The size of the opening should be 20 mm wider and 30 mm longer than the profile to allow installation. The overall depth of the profile should correspond to the type of cover in which it is installed. Step 2. After receiving the new windows, check that they are sized correctly. Typically, in a horizontal sliding window, the sash is removed by opening the window fully, then lifting the panel up and pulling the bottom out. The vertical strip holding the fixed panel in is then removed by carefully tapping it towards the window opening or away from the fixed panel. This bar may be held on by a screw, so remove it if there is one. Then slide the fixed panel into the opening and it should lift up like the movable panel. Step 3. Next, place a wooden strip in the window sill to give the new window sill a smooth, continuous surface to rest on. A good material for this is plywood cut into a narrow strip. This sill strip is installed to ensure that the new window sill has a proper resting surface to eliminate the possibility of drooping. This strip should be at least as thick as the distance between the sill and the highest point of the existing frame, but no more than 1/4 inch thick. Also, the bar cannot be wider than the portion of the replacement window that extends beyond it. This is because the new window will sit on the sill strip, not the existing frame, and the sill strip will interfere with the interior trim you will apply later. Step 4. The high spots in the stucco are removed so that the window is flush with the wall. Step 5. A high quality sealant is applied to the sill strip and the outer surface of the existing frame to prevent any leakage. Make sure it’s a paintable, preferably siliconized sealant. Step 6. Now the window is ready for final placement. You will need help at this point so that one person can hold the window in place while the other person continues on to the next step. Step 7. Make sure the window is fairly centered from the inside and have someone push the window firmly to the outside of the house. Holes should be passed through the frame and drilled on each side about 4 inches from the top and bottom and the window secured with 4 screws with hinged covers. Place your screws in the inner track where the opening latch is. Never place the screw in the bottom or sill of the window, only on the sides. The screws must be strong enough to hold the window in place. A screw that is too tight can distort the window, so always look at the frame as the screw goes in and see when the frame moves. A good rule of thumb is to tighten the screws just enough to hold the hinge screw cover tight and no more, as the caulk will hold the window firmly in place when it dries. Step 8. Now that you have secured the window in the opening, check how level the window is when closed. Sometimes the gap is uneven and can be fixed with screws. First, specify which direction the window should move.
In this case, the top should go to the right and the bottom should go to the left, so first loosen the top and bottom screws that are opposite to the direction you want to move the window. In other words, loosen the top left and bottom right. Now tighten the screws in the corners where you want the window to move. While checking the gap, adjust the screws at each corner. Be careful not to overtighten any of the screws as this may damage the window. When the gap is even from top to bottom (or as close as you can get it), retighten the loose screws, being careful not to pull the screws. Step 9. Finally the frame is finished to make sure there are no gaps and give it a finished look. Apply the sealant evenly and finish by smoothing it with your finger. For this, have water and a cloth in hand because it may get a little dirty. Always leave 2 or more holes in the sealer at the bottom to let the air moisture out. This is an important step towards reducing the risk of water accumulation in the rails