How to insulate aluminum windows on a cold balcony: repair features
There are several fairly simple ways to insulate aluminum windows on a balcony. Most often, foam rubber or silicone tape and seals with an adhesive layer are used. But they do not always save, especially in regions with frosty winters. Therefore, it is worth considering other methods, which are described in detail in the presented material.
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Basic methods of insulation
Insulation of a balcony with cold glazing can be done in different ways. If you do not resort to the help of specialists, it is recommended to use improvised means, for example, insulating film, magnetic or foam tape.
Insulating film
Very often, insulation of aluminum windows is done using a special insulating film, which can be purchased at any hardware store. It can be easily cut to the size of the glass and glued along the perimeter using double-sided tape (usually included in the kit). You need to work carefully. But even if wrinkles form, they can be easily removed using a hairdryer.
This method of insulating a glass balcony has several advantages:
- effective insulation;
- protection against condensation;
- reduction of heating costs;
- no dust;
- aesthetic appearance.
Silicone seal
Another option for insulating an aluminum balcony is using a silicone seal, which is also quite affordable. The method of application is similar to using insulating film. The sealant is cut into pieces and pasted around the perimeter of the sashes, having previously opened them. Thanks to this, it is possible to completely close all joints and increase heating efficiency by 20-30%, without increasing costs.
Air bubble film
When repairing sliding windows on a balcony, you should immediately consider insulation methods. One of them involves the use of bubble wrap. The principle of operation is due to the fact that air transmits heat very poorly and thus protects against cold.
The method is simple - just spray water and apply the film to it, not with the bubble side, but with the smooth side. It is clear that such insulation looks unaesthetic. Therefore, it can only be used in a country house, garage or outbuildings.
Magnetic tape
Insulating a balcony without replacing cold glazing is also possible using magnetic tape. This is an excellent solution for cases where in winter you plan to periodically open windows for ventilation. The installation instructions are as follows:
- Take window dimensions.
- Cut off the appropriate pieces of tape.
- Peel off the paper to expose the adhesive side.
- Glue along the profile.
Foam tape
Previously, insulation of cold balcony glazing was carried out using foam rubber. Now this option is also being implemented, but a special seal with an adhesive base is purchased. It is also cut into pieces and fixed around the perimeter. The material is quite elastic and fills gaps well. But you need to keep in mind that due to opening and closing, such a tape will only last for one winter.
Rope sealant
Insulation of a balcony with aluminum glazing can also be done with rope sealant. The material is durable, flexible, and will last for several seasons. It is enough to simply press it into the window openings, after which it stands in the cavity itself.
Other methods of insulation
If the described options do not help, you need to resort to more radical methods of how to insulate a glass loggia. We are talking about a major overhaul with partial or complete replacement of the profile. Several options are available:
- Complete replacement of sashes with installation of multi-chamber double-glazed windows. In this case, it turns out to create a warm room, which can even be turned into an additional room or a kind of winter garden. But it is worth considering that repairs will be expensive. In addition, the new structure will be heavy - it is extremely important to calculate whether the balcony slab will withstand such a load.
- Installation of a second circuit - this method differs from the first in that the original glazing is not dismantled. Simply install another row on top of it or from the inside. This is also an expensive option, which involves reducing the usable space by several centimeters.
- Finally, you can replace the cold profile with a warm one. Thanks to this, the appearance is preserved, and it is much easier to obtain permission from municipal authorities. But you need to keep in mind that the design does not completely insulate from the cold. It is rational to use it only in regions with relatively mild winters.
Thus, the easiest way to insulate a balcony is with silicone filler or foam tape. These solutions may not be effective.If the room freezes too much and condensation forms, you should think about completely or partially dismantling the profile and replacing it with a warm structure.