Installing a PVC window sill with your own hands. How to install a window sill on plastic windows? Classic DIY PVC window sill installation! How to insert a window sill into a plastic window

It’s no secret that a window without a window sill looks at least ridiculous - at least some kind of decorative “platform” under the window should be present. Today, you can decorate the bottom of a window opening in three ways: tile it underneath, install a wooden or plastic window sill. The latter, or rather its installation, will be discussed in this article, in which, together with the website, we will study in detail the question of how it is done PVC installation do-it-yourself window sill. We will pay special attention to the subtleties and nuances of this process.

Installing a PVC window sill with your own hands photo

Installing a PVC window sill with your own hands: preparing the window opening

In construction repair work oh without preparatory work indispensable anywhere, including when installing a PVC window sill. Almost everything is standard here - we clean the lower part of the window opening from construction waste remaining after dismantling the old window sill or window, carefully prime the surface and leave to dry.

Dismantling an old window sill photo

In addition to the standard procedures associated with cleaning the window sill installation site, other preparations also need to be made. Or rather, not preparation, but control - if you want to prevent drafts from under the window sill, then you should check the quality of the foaming window frame and, if necessary, eliminate all deficiencies. This nuance in work especially needs to be taken into account in the case of installation plastic window sill, not associated with a complete replacement of the window unit.

In addition, if the slopes in the opening are already ready, it is necessary to trim their bottom so that the window sill “goes” under them. This can be done in different ways - but in all cases you need to understand that the less you injure the slope, the easier the procedure for restoring it will be later. That's it at this stage. Now you can begin to directly prepare the window sill itself.

Preparatory work before installing the window sill photo

Preparing a plastic window sill for installation

This stage is also not particularly difficult - all that needs to be done here is to trim it correctly and adjust it to length. Plastic is easily cut with almost any sawing tool - you can use a hacksaw for wood, and a blade for metal. The best option for cutting PVC window sills is.

The task of adjusting the window sill is to cut it correctly in length - this must be done in such a way that it fits freely into place and at the same time its edges do not peek out from under the slopes.

How to install a plastic window sill photo

How to install a plastic window sill: installation features

When all the preparations have been completed, the new window sill has been trimmed and the bottom of the window opening has been cleaned, you can begin the actual installation. This process looks like this:

Installation of a plastic window sill begins with the installation process. To begin with, it must be inserted into place and positioned so that none of its edges peeks out from under the slopes - the window sill must be inserted under the window frame.

Installing a plastic window sill with your own hands photo

The next step is to wedge the window sill between the window opening and the window frame. For this purpose, as a rule, wooden wedges are used - they are installed at the edges of the window sill and in the middle. When installing them, you need to ensure that there is no gap between the window frame and the window sill.
When you are done with fastening the far edge of the PVC window sill, you should work on its front edge. Between it and the window opening you also need to install linings that will ensure an even horizontal level. The entire process of installing a plastic window sill with your own hands must be constantly monitored at the building level.

The role of the building level in the installation of a PVC window sill

The final stage of solving the question of how to properly install a window sill is reliable fastening. As a rule, it is simply glued using it, which is pumped into the space between the window opening and the window sill. Everything is simple here - shake the heated mixture thoroughly. warm water a container with polyurethane sealant, screw a tube onto it and, inserting it as deep as possible under the window sill, blow the entire space with foam.

How to properly install a window sill with your own hands photo

There is one nuance here - it’s no secret that when foam hardens, it greatly increases in volume, and during the expansion process it creates considerable pressure, which can lift the window sill up. To prevent this from happening, you need to put some kind of weight on the windowsill, for example, about five or six bricks. But first, in order not to damage the window sill, it is better to cover it with something.

The load can be removed in 12–14 hours - although manufacturers indicate that complete polymerization of polyurethane sealant occurs within 6 hours, it is better to wait a little longer. By and large, the hardening time of the foam depends on its volume - the more you inflate it under the window sill, the longer it will harden.

Installation of PVC window sill: final work

Well, in conclusion, a couple practical advice about installing a window sill.

Firstly, before gluing the window sill, its back surface and the base of the bottom of the window opening must be thoroughly moistened with water. The fact is that the polymerization process polyurethane foam happens faster when high humidity. In addition, it adheres better to a wet surface. You can moisten the space under the window sill using a spray bottle, which is used to care for flowers or to moisten clothes when ironing.
Secondly, do not pump too much foam under the windowsill - it won’t make it any better. The space must not be filled completely - it is better to make gaps between the stripes. This way you will save on sealant and prevent the window sill from lifting upward.

This is how you install a PVC window sill with your own hands. Whether it is difficult or easy, judge for yourself, and also decide what is best for you to do - call a specialist or try to do everything yourself.

The role of the window sill cannot be overestimated. After all, this is not only decorative element windows and rooms. The window sill participates in thermal insulation, preventing the penetration of cold air from the street. Therefore, installing this window element is a process that requires accuracy and strict adherence to the rules. This article is devoted to the installation of window sills.

The materials from which window sills are made today can be different. The type of window sill board determines the method of its installation.

Wood, for example, oak, cherry, pine, has long been the most common material from which window sill boards were made. Wooden window sills do not lose their connoisseurs to this day. The wood is pre-dried and treated with antiseptic solutions and varnish.

The main advantage of a wooden window sill board is its natural origin and noble appearance. But such material is expensive, and solid wood products are subject to deformation. To preserve the window sill, you need to protect it from exposure to abrasives, water and aggressive chemicals, and also periodically renew the coating.

Boards made of laminated veneer lumber are less expensive and more resistant to external influences if they are made in compliance with the technology.

Chipboard and MDF

As a cheaper alternative to wood, many companies produce window sill boards made from particleboard or fibreboard. The products are covered with a special film on top. MDF is more durable and moisture resistant material compared to chipboard. If the integrity of the film is damaged, water that gets onto the slab from chips can lead to swelling and significant deformation. MDF is more expensive, but more stable.

Window sills made from wood chips or fiber are very easy to clean. The main thing is not to use abrasives.

Stone products

Connoisseurs natural materials stone window sill boards are often preferred. Most often it is granite or marble. Stone products are beautiful, each window sill has a unique pattern. But this pleasure is not cheap.

Moreover, on polished surfaces natural stone easy to leave a scratch. Stone window sills easily absorb dirt, such as coffee, wine or tea stains. And their thermal insulation is weak. Due to the high cost and heavy weight, it is better to invite professionals to install a stone window sill.

An alternative to a natural stone window sill is a board made of artificial stone acrylic based. Such products are not inferior in strength, heat resistance and beauty, but at the same time they are cheaper and do not scratch.

PVC products in construction are becoming increasingly popular every year. This also applies to plastic window sills, which have a whole list of advantages.

PVC window sills also have disadvantages:

non-natural origin of the material;
the laminating film, which plays a decorative role, can peel off and be easily scratched;
High temperatures, such as a hot pan, can cause the window sill to warp.

However, plastic window sills are most often used for installation on their own.

How to mount a window sill

All window sills are installed according to general principle. Since plastic window sill boards are often preferred for DIY installation, we will describe in detail step by step instructions specifically for PVC window sills, noting at the end the features of installing structures made of other materials.

Before buying materials, it is necessary to correctly measure the place where the window sill will stand. The length of the window sill is determined as follows:

To determine the width of the window sill, you need to measure the width of the wall to the window. To the result obtained, add 1.5 - 2 cm to deepen the board into the window groove. This width is sufficient if you plan to install flush with the wall, which is feasible for smooth walls.

Pay attention! When the walls are uneven, it is recommended to measure them on both sides of the window. This will allow you to adjust the window sill and install it evenly.

You can provide a protrusion, the size of which should not exceed 8 cm, so as not to interfere with the convection of air from the battery. After all, this will not only disrupt the uniform distribution of heat in the room, but also in cold weather will lead to damage to the window as a result of the formation of ice.

In accordance with the measurements obtained, the window sill is adjusted to the required length and width. Now you can begin installation.

Window sill installation

Step 1. Try on the future window sill at the installation site. Trim the board if necessary.

Pay attention! It is recommended to cut plastic and stone with a grinder; a jigsaw is more suitable for wood, MDF and chipboard.

Step 2. Use a hammer drill to make grooves in the walls if necessary. The edges of the window sill will go into these recesses.

Step 3: Clean the installation surface from dust and debris.

Step 4.

Step 5. Wooden wedges are placed under the window sill, starting from the outer ones and ending with the central ones. The substrates should not protrude beyond the walls and the inner edge of the window sill. The maximum distance between wedges should be 40 cm.

Step 6. Align the window sill with the spirit level. If there are deviations from the horizon, then correct with the help of additional wedges.

Pay attention! The board should have a slope from the window to the inner edge of approximately 0.2 cm. This measure will prevent the accumulation of liquid near the window: the water will simply drain.

Step 7. Place a weight on the windowsill. The total load should be 10-20 kg.

Step 8. After we have additionally checked the horizontal position of the window sill board, we begin to secure it. For this purpose, polyurethane foam is used. It is better to take professional foam and a special spray gun. Additional fixation to the window profile is carried out from the outside using self-tapping screws.

Pay attention! When foam gets where it shouldn’t be, it is removed immediately with a cloth. If it has already hardened, you can wipe off the foam using special solvents.

Step 9. After 24 hours, remove the weight and trim off excess foam.

Now you can install plugs at the ends, and protective film take off.

If a decision is made to install a wooden window sill, then on the inside of the board it is necessary to attach felt that has been passed through antiseptic treatment. The ends of stone window sills are also protected with a felt layer before installation. Otherwise, the installation follows the same principle as for plastic products.

Thus, installing a window sill is not difficult, especially if we are talking about a plastic board. The main thing is to maintain precision in alignment when working and not to overdo it with polyurethane foam.

Video - Window sill installation

Window installation companies often do not complete the job. And the customer is left with a bare window opening that needs finishing. But it also happens that, in order to save money, a person takes on the installation of the window sill board himself. Then the question arises - how to install the window sill so that it holds firmly and does not freeze. The correct installation also determines whether there will be condensation on the windows, and therefore mold. Before starting work, please read the instructions below carefully!

PVC panels for window sills occupy a leading place in terms of sales. And for good reason! After all, their technical characteristics give large number installation advantages.

The panel has stiffening ribs

TOP 5 advantages of a plastic window sill

Installing a plastic window sill with your own hands has the following advantages:

The size of the panel can be adjusted according to location. If acrylic or stone models have a strictly specified size, then PVC window sills can be easily cut. A jigsaw or plastic saw is suitable for this.
The material is characterized by steam and moisture resistance (absolute impermeability). It will not become saturated with moisture from possible condensation or raindrops, like its wooden counterpart. An additional advantage is that the design is not sensitive to ventilation disturbances, which are often found in modern apartments.
Ease of installation. Installing a window sill with your own hands is quite a feasible task for a beginner.
Thermal insulating properties. Thanks to its special structure, the panel additionally prevents heat loss.
Lack of pores where dirt and harmful microorganisms usually accumulate.

Video: How to install a window sill with your own hands

How to choose quality material

Before purchasing and installing a PVC window sill, carefully study its certificate. What to pay attention to:

for PVC content (it should be at least 50%, preferably 60%);
by the percentage of chalk content (no more than 5% is acceptable);
the thickness of the stiffeners must be at least 1.2 cm and no more than 3.5 cm;
The thickness of the panel itself is from 2 cm.

PVC panel “wood look”

The most durable panels are produced in Germany. Russia shares second place.

The truth is in size - choosing the optimal parameters

Installing a plastic window sill with your own hands should begin with careful measurements. How to choose the optimal parameters? Based on the following conditions:

Depth. On average, this figure ranges from 20 to 50 cm. There is only one rule: the narrower the panel, the more reliable and stronger it is. And, the more weight it can withstand when pressed.
Width. To paraphrase the classic, even the window sill has “ears”. This is the name given to the projections on the sides of the window. They are necessary, firstly, to fix the slopes. Secondly, to compensate for the thermal expansion inherent in plastic. And thirdly, for a more finished and aesthetic appearance of the window.

Measurements should be taken from concrete base.

Advice! When measuring the depth, add 15 mm for the entry under the frame and 50 mm for the extension. This optimal sizes window sill.

Window sill dimensions

Correct location:

install at least 10 cm from the radiator (battery);
the panel overhang should not block the heating source by more than ⅔;
the window sill board should not be at an angle of 90° to the window - an inclination of at least 1° into the room is required.

Installation Process - Step by Step Guide

Correct sequence of work and compliance technical nuances– guarantee of window sill quality. The process of attaching to a plastic window is not complicated and does not take much time.

Sequence of work - how to avoid mistakes

At what stage of the renovation is it most appropriate to install a plastic window sill? The correct answer is immediately after installing the windows, before finishing internal slopes.

If you install it later, the slopes will have to be partially or completely redone. After all, for installation you will need to select grooves in the slopes. It is not recommended to remove the protective film from the plastic board until all repair work is completed.

Advice! When installing a window sill, the protective coating must not be completely removed. But only in those places where the panel fits into the grooves (near the frame and on the sides). If this is not done immediately, the film will be difficult to remove completely.

Groove for installation in slopes

Preparatory stage - creating a strong support

How to properly install a window sill on plastic windows:

If you are installing the window yourself, form a foam mounting seam under the frame. A seam larger than 8 cm should be foamed in several passes with an interval of 7 minutes. And after hardening (after 20 minutes) - install on top vapor barrier tape. If the window installation is carried out by craftsmen, this stage must be completed by them.
How to install a window sill if the window is already standing? Select grooves on the sides of the window opening (from 10 to 60 mm depending on the size of the “ears”). If you need a grinder for this, it is better to cover the double-glazed windows with cardboard sheets during the work. Since flying sparks can damage windows (melt plastic).
Screw 51 mm support screws into the support profile under the frame. They should be located at a distance of 17-19 mm from its lower edge. This technique will increase the maximum pressure that the structure can withstand.
If the window sill distance exceeds 40 mm, it should be increased with plaster. After all, at this size the foam will not completely polymerize. Which will lead to a decrease in its supporting and thermal insulation characteristics.
Next, you need to thoroughly clean the window sill using construction vacuum cleaner or brushes. And also - prime the rough surface. The point here is in the features of the polyurethane foam. For adhesion to the surface, the latter must be wet. The primer also further increases adhesion.
Measure the surface and, if necessary, adjust the plastic board to size. The end should not be placed close to the wall. You need to leave 1 cm for thermal expansion.
Lay out support points in increments of 50–60 cm. To do this, fold the plastic wedges into a “jack” and rewind with electrical tape or masking tape. For reliability, you can grab the support points with self-tapping screws, since during installation you need to be careful not to move them out of place.

Advice! If some of the liquid gets on the glass during priming, you need to wipe it off immediately. Since when it hardens, the composition forms a film that is difficult to remove.

Stand profile – 16

Fixing the window sill - the secrets of proper installation

How to install a window sill to a plastic window:

Check the window sill for voids in the foam. If gaps are found in the wall, foam them to prevent the windows from freezing.
Install the window sill into the profile with force. Align it centrally so that it has a 2-3 mm slope from the level into the room for every 20 cm of depth. This is necessary for moisture to drain out.
Foam the space under the window. Place a load on top (for example, 5-liter bottles) around the entire perimeter. The foam tends to expand, squeezing out the board. To prevent this from happening, a load is needed.
Install end caps.
Apply a layer of sealant to all cracks.
After the foam has completely hardened (about 12 hours), remove the load.

How to prevent foam squeezing

Professional advice - how to get the perfect result

How to install window sills on plastic windows - secrets of the craft:

If the window sill overlaps the battery, you need to cut a hole in it across the entire width. And then muffle it with a grill.
To overcome window fogging, you need to use the principle of directional airflow. To do this, cut through the plastic (in the center of each glass unit) round holes. This can be done using a special crown. Then install round gratings in the places where the cuts were made. This will normalize the airflow and prevent condensation from collecting on the windows.
If a deep window sill is needed (for example, for a sofa on a window), you will need to install additional support. It is better not to use brackets in this case, since the plastic is fragile when bending. The best option is to make an imitation of a fireplace portal by laying out the walls on the sides of the radiator.
The window sill board must withstand a load of at least 30 kg per 1 sq. m. But attaching the window sill to a plastic window must withstand point loads of up to 100 kg. After all, when wiping the window, the owners lean on the plastic with their entire weight. To do this, you need to lay support points under the board. These can be pieces of wood treated with an antiseptic, plastic wedges, etc.

Attention! The back of the window sill is the most vulnerable. It bears all the load when washing windows. Therefore, tight pressure is necessary to increase the strength of the structure.

Directional glass blowing

Window sill on the loggia - Spanish installation method

The classic way to install a plastic window sill on a loggia is based on the following rule. The window sill board should be mounted in last resort. As a result, to do this efficiently, a lot of measurements and adjustments are required. This leads to colossal losses of time and effort.

The Spanish method allows you to reduce installation time by 4 times! And the strength of the structure will be made 2 times higher. What is its essence? The fact is that the window sill should be installed at the very beginning. And then attach the guides from there. This significantly reduces the number of measurements.

The installation process looks like this step by step.

IN plastic frame screw in 51 mm self-tapping screws at a distance of 3 mm from the bottom edge of the special support profile.

Screwing in the clamping screws

Install a window sill between the screws and the frame. How to attach a window sill to a plastic window? Fix it to the frame with 71 mm self-tapping screws at an angle in several places. The insertion depth of the screws is 1–2 mm. This is necessary to prevent the structure from falling out.

Attaching the window sill to the frame

Attach an upper guide made of timber 40 mm wide to the bottom of the plastic board. Secure it with 51 mm self-tapping screws. The distance from the “spout” of the window sill to the top guide is 8 mm. This distance is necessary for installing cladding panels.

Installing the top rail

Using a plumb bob, install the bottom guide. Use self-tapping screws to secure it to the floor along the edges. Align the lower guide with a level and fix it with self-tapping screws to the floor in increments of 50 cm.

Installation of the bottom guide

Attach vertical guides (slats) to the top and bottom rails.

Fixing vertical slats

Level the board with a square (at 90° or tilted inward 2–3 mm from the level). Screw the 71mm screws in completely.

Leveling the window sill using a square

Attach the middle guide to the vertical slats.

Fixing the middle frame

Skillful hands - two ways to make them yourself

Save on your purchase plastic panel quite real! For this you can go in the following ways:

Install a concrete window sill. To do this you should do Not removable formwork and pour the first layer of concrete. Next, install the top removable formwork. Lay a 1.5–2.0 mm wire mesh with a mesh size of 50x50 mm. This will help strengthen the structure. Then pour the concrete and sand it after drying. You can lay tiles or mosaics on top.
The second way to make a window sill yourself is to glue it together from a floorboard. To strengthen the structure you will need dowels. The board must first be sanded and primed, and then varnished in several layers. It is better to install such a window sill using liquid nails.

Advice! For growing flowers on wooden structure It is better to use special pads. They can be glued to wood.

Decorating a window with your own hands is both simple and difficult. On the one hand, this does not require serious skills or special tools. On the other hand, it will be quite difficult to correct the mistakes made. Therefore, it is still better to entrust the installation of window sill boards to professionals!

Almost any modern renovation involves replacing windows, and few developers would think of leaving an old, oil-painted wooden or asbestos-cement window sill. Many people are familiar with the situation when the “window workers” finished their work and left, and the new window sill was left standing forlornly near the wall. What to do next? Looking for masters again?

Window sill is a must modern interior. At the same time, it performs not only a decorative function, not only serves as a stand for flowers and household appliances, but also actively participates in air exchange processes occurring near windows. Bottom protection window opening from possible condensation and mechanical damage, thermal insulation of one of the most problematic areas of external walls - this is the true, utilitarian purpose of a properly installed window sill.

How to choose a window sill

On at the moment It is not difficult to buy a window sill made of durable, resistant to sunlight and temperature changes, and dimensionally stable. There are many options on the market, each of which has its own pros and cons. However, the main problems of choice come down more to issues of implementing design solutions and the thickness of the wallet.

Due to the low cost, from 55 rubles per linear meter, and not bad technical characteristics PVC window sills are most widely used. They have similar properties to plastic windows, as they are made from the same UV-resistant, moisture-proof materials. The multi-chamber structure with frequent bulkheads provides them with high compressive strength and excellent thermal insulation properties.

Light weight, ease of cutting and processing greatly facilitate the installation of plastic window sills. It is not a problem to choose a color finished product, including possible imitation of wood and marble. The color can be transmitted either “in bulk”, for example brown, or in the form of a film according to the RAL catalogue. Most often, such window sills are made to match the window profile. The front surface of the PVC window sill has a matte texture or has a varnish coating. It is easy to choose a plastic window sill that is suitable in size for almost any specific case. Large construction stores often have products with a thickness of 18-22 mm and a width of 100 to 600 mm. The strips come in lengths of 4 or 6 meters, but, as a rule, you can order them to be cut on site, or buy a window sill of any length. The main disadvantages of plastic window sills can be considered poor resistance to local damage: scratches, chips, punctures. They are practically beyond restoration.

Window sills made of MDF and chipboard can have a laminated top layer, be covered with cork or wood veneer. At a low price, they perfectly imitate expensive materials, including natural stone. Such products have good performance characteristics and thermal insulation properties. They are fairly easy to cut and install.

If the protective coating of MDF and chipboard window sills is not damaged, then they are not exposed to moisture, do not warp or swell. Laminated window sills are difficult to scratch. Their cost per linear meter can range from 150 to 1200 rubles for a width of 30 cm.

Window sills made of coniferous and hardwood are ideally suited to wooden windows, have a very beautiful texture, visible under a transparent protective coating, but can also be painted in any color. They are also a good thermal insulator.

Depending on the properties of the wood used, they have a certain degree of high bending strength, resistance to scratches and dents, and they are also easy to repair. The thickness of wooden window sills is most often about 40 mm. Among the disadvantages, we can note the need to ensure their waterproofing, which completely depends on the condition and quality of the protective and decorative coating, which requires periodic updating. Prices for products made from oak, hornbeam, beech, cherry, and ash can hardly be called affordable. A high-quality window sill made of solid pine will cost at least 1000 rubles per linear meter, larch - 1800, beech - 3000, oak - 5000.

Window sills made of natural stone - marble, granite or onyx are perhaps the most expensive of all those on the market (from 3,000 rubles per linear meter), but their classic beauty, sophistication and prestige leaves no one indifferent. The assets of such products include expressive texture, the ability to choose color, size, shape, style of processing corners and edges. Stone window sills are not afraid of water and temperature changes, but to some extent they are susceptible to contamination due to porosity natural materials. Being quite fragile, natural stone products can be easily repaired. Their heavy weight, as well as difficulty in processing, make their installation somewhat difficult. Window sills made of natural stone do not have thermal insulation properties.

Models of window sills made of artificial stone have operational advantages - resistance to chemical pollution and relatively low thermal conductivity. Troubles (in the low price category of such products) can be caused by scratches on the front surface and its fading. Of course, they are cheaper than analogues made from natural materials.

How to determine the required window sill dimensions

In order for a window sill to serve for a long time, be comfortable and functional, it must not only be installed correctly, but also its dimensions must be correctly calculated. In some cases, it makes sense to make a window sill in a factory according to exact dimensions. This problem is especially serious when working with stone, since it is quite difficult to process, and it’s very good if you don’t need to adjust anything to the location. Window sills made of MDF and chipboard can be ordered with a fully processed edge, which also should not be cut, as it reliably protects the product from moisture.

The length of the finished product should be greater than the width of the window so that the window sill fits into the walls. Typically, from 30 to 50 mm are released beyond the line of vertical slopes on each side. For example, if the window width is 1000 mm, then it would be logical to order the window sill 100 mm larger, 20 of which will be used for the light reversal of the slopes, 80 - for the side outlets (40 mm each). In the area of the balcony block, one side of the window sill crashes into the wall, and near the door it should hang slightly, about 10 mm, over the short vertical slope.

The width of the window sill is mainly determined by the depth of the window opening. As a rule, the overhang of the window sill is about 30-50 mm from the wall. This size is explained by the fact that it is too wide window sill may interfere with free circulation warm air, coming from heating radiators, which can lead to the formation of condensation on the surface of double-glazed windows and side slopes. With a large overhang, the bending strength of the structure is significantly reduced.

To correctly determine the required width of the window sill, it is necessary to complete the basic finishing of the outer wall - plaster, drywall. It will be quite enough to have installed beacons or metal frame. Measurements are taken with a tape measure from the window to a cord stretched in the plane of the wall or a rule installed across the opening.

Attention! It should be noted that the window sill, about 10 mm, fits under the frame, resting against the installation strip of the plastic window or a quarter of the wooden profile.

It can be especially difficult to measure non-standard shaped window sills, such as those on rounded walls, bay windows, and kitchen window sills and countertops. Sometimes the window is unfolded in the opening, then if you want to have an equally protruding window sill cornice, its width will have to be made uneven. In all these cases, we recommend inviting specialists from the organization from which you will order them to make templates and patterns. The most accurate, flawless products are obtained from measurements made using geodetic equipment such as a total station. A tape measure and a cardboard sheet do not always help.

The main principle is simple: “measure seven times, order once.”

When to install a window sill

If you decide to simply change the windows while preserving all the interior decoration of the premises, then there is nothing special to wait - you can start immediately after the polyurethane foam has dried.

But in the case of major repairs, the matter is a little more complicated. The reason for this is the vulnerability of the surfaces of an expensive product installed prematurely. During the process of extensive repair and construction work, when there are a large number of workers and guests from contractors (air conditioners, installers) at the site security systems, installers stretch ceiling, furniture assemblers...), it is extremely difficult to keep the window sill intact. A flat horizontal surface, like a magnet, attracts to place a tool on it, small or not very small, building material, put down a cup of coffee, step on your foot to reach high ceiling. As a result, the window sill was replaced and the slopes were redone due to “from nowhere” scratches, dents, chips, and persistent chemical stains.

Many practicing builders have come to the conclusion that the installation of a window sill must be done at the very last moment, immediately before finishing. Naturally, by this time the entire range of preparatory work must be completed, including the installation and even plastering of walls and slopes.

How to prepare a place for installing a window sill

Depending on the type of product, its material and thickness, as well as the chosen fastening method, we will prepare the base. The first step is to remove all loose, protruding elements of the wall on which the window sill will rest, these are loose bricks, crumbling plaster, installation wedges, fasteners, and embedded parts. If during de installation work If through holes have formed into the street or into enclosing structures, it is recommended to foam them.

You also need to prepare grooves in the wall for the entry of the window sill; here you cannot do without the use of a small grinder and a hammer drill. If the slopes are sheathed with plasterboard or plastered, then their plane must be interrupted no lower than the window profile in order to form a technological niche.

Next, you need to restore the masonry, and pour a flat area from a strong moisture-resistant mortar using the beacons to a given height. To install a window sill on polyurethane foam, it is advisable to have a gap of about 20 mm from the bottom of the product to the top of the installation area, this is so that the tube of the mounting gun can be inserted into the area of the window frame. For installing a heavy stone window sill on a layer of most special adhesives only 5 mm will be required, that is, from the bottom of the window the platform should be lowered by 35 mm, where the thickness of the window sill will be 30 mm.

If the outer wall is sheathed with plasterboard on metal frame, follows on correct height place a horizontal jumper running under the window. A common mistake made by novice installers of drywall systems is installing it too high.

Very important point preparatory work is to check the evenness of the lower edge of the window block. Certain problems are caused by poorly manufactured or incorrectly manufactured installed windows from PVC. Very often, at the junction of the vertical and lower horizontal profiles there are burrs that make it impossible to press the window sill tightly to the window - they need to be cut off with a knife. Another common defect is the shape of the lower profile in the form of one or several arcs, curved upward with their middle. Its presence can be easily checked by stretching a thread along the lower edge of the window from corner to corner. If a thin plastic window sill can be quite easily pressed against the window with wedges or foam, then with rigid products made from other materials everything is much more complicated, they only emphasize all the unevenness. The result is very unsightly cracks that will have to be sealed with all kinds of sealants. The reality is that even in new luxury-class buildings it is necessary to repair the plastic ones installed by the builders. window units- cut out the foam from under the window, remove wedges and fasteners, dismantle the double-glazed window and in various ways align the PVC profile. Sometimes the matter ends with a complete reinstallation or replacement of defective windows.

How to install and secure a window sill

No matter how accurately we make preliminary measurements, before installation the window sill often has to be trimmed a little, especially in the places where it enters the walls. Wood and MDF, Chipboard is better Just cut with a jigsaw and a metal file, but a plastic or stone window sill - with a grinder with a diamond blade.

To press the window sill tightly to the window, you need to use wooden or plastic wedges. They are prepared based on the thickness of the product and installed near the window lintel with an interval of 400-500 mm. Some craftsmen prefer to glue them to the base in advance so that they do not move during installation. The correct selection of wedges is checked by dry fitting the window sill - the product should fit tightly.

The installation profile (window plate) should be thoroughly coated with silicone to seal the junction; the protruding mass can be subsequently trimmed off. It is also recommended to cover the end parts of the window sill made of MDF or chipboard with a layer of sealant, especially if there is damage to the protective coating.

The window sill is installed in its place and centered relative to the axis of the window or the lines of the side slopes. Wedges are also installed under the front part, adjusting the window sill according to the level. In most cases, the window sill cornice is made below its base, pressed 2-3 mm against the window, so that moisture does not accumulate near the junction.

A window sill made of MDF, chipboard, wood, or plastic can be additionally fixed by screwing it with long self-tapping screws through the window installation profile; to do this, you need to remove the outer ebb.

To prevent the expanding foam from pushing the window sill upward, it is necessary to install 2-3 spacers running from the product to the top of the slope. We recommend installing level surfaces along the entire length of the window sill and on top. wooden beams to distribute the pressure from the spacers. They can be easily adjusted using wedges. Options for placing a load from scrap materials on the windowsill sometimes play a cruel joke on the craftsmen, and it all ends with re-installation.

Now you can foam the space under the window sill. The foam should be applied moderately, but evenly, without gaps, not forgetting its ability to expand greatly. You need to carefully fill with foam the places where the side parts of the window sill enter the wall, keep in mind - this important element thermal insulation.

It is not recommended to install stone window sills on foam, since there are known cases where, when it expanded, a marble product was broken along the veins. It is better to install them using special glue, for example, SM117, SM115 and the like. For window sills made of onyx and light marble, it is better to use white glue, which will not leave marks if it accidentally gets on the front surface.

A comb with a tooth of the required size, about 6-8 mm, adhesive composition, preferably in one continuous movement, evenly leveled over a pre-prepared base. The notched trowel should be held as vertically as possible - this is the only way the height of the ridges will be the same. Using an even spatula, the back side of the stone window sill is covered with a thin layer of glue and installed in the design position.

If the window sill has a large overhang, then special corner brackets are used to secure it. They are secured with one shoulder on load-bearing wall with an interval of up to 500 mm, but not less than three pieces per product. Often this part of the bracket is recessed into the cladding and sealed with mortars. The window sill is screwed from below to the consoles using short cylindrical screws.

Once the foam or glue has completely dried, it is usually ready the next day, you can remove the spacers, install the end caps and begin sealing the joints.

How to protect a window sill from damage

The first thing you need to pay attention to is the correct storage of window sills on site. It is better to store products made of wood, PVC, chipboard in pairs, with their front surfaces facing each other, between which soft pads should be inserted. Stone window sills are stored in vertical position, they should stand edge-on on two bars, leaning against the wall at a slight angle.

Before installing any window sill, it must be covered with sheet polyethylene using masking tape, or with a special film that does not leave adhesive marks. Remember that there is still a lot of painting and installation work ahead, and this is a danger of contamination and mechanical deformation.

Attention! The factory protective film must be removed before installing the window sill in order to be able to check the quality and integrity of the front covering.

Window sills made of natural stone are capable of absorbing various substances with the formation of stains that are difficult to remove, so after installation they are immediately treated protective compounds, closing the pores of the front surface.

After installation, strips of plasterboard, gypsum fiber board or other similar materials, precisely cut along the visible contour of the window sill, should be laid on top of the film.

It is recommended to preserve marble products with a protective wooden shield, paying special attention to the cornice of the product. The hanging end is the most vulnerable place; it is covered with a bar sewn to the front. The casing must be securely fastened in the opening and rest on the polished surface through soft pads.

You can't lose sight of there's another very important nuance, which directly affects the correct functioning and durability of the window sill - the distance between the bottom of the window sill and the heating radiator should not be less than 100 mm.

Turishchev Anton, rmnt.ru

Content:

What is important to know before installing a window sill with your own hands?
Preparing to install a PVC window sill
Video tutorial. DIY PVC window sill installation

Photo 1 - Plastic window sill photo

Practical, attractive and inexpensive plastic window sills are most often installed together with the same windows, although others are also possible design solutions. Installation of window sills does not require special skills, but you need to follow the technology exactly and perform all actions carefully.

List of materials needed for installing a PVC window sill

What you need to know for a successful window sill installation

Before starting any work, you need to carefully study accompanying documents for all materials and tools used, if they have not been used before. This fully applies to the installation of a plastic window sill.

For example, it is very important to know at what temperature you can work with polyurethane foam. This information is on the product label. When choosing this material, you should give preference to products with the lowest coefficient of expansion, which will prevent the window sill from rising. Ideal option- use a spray foam gun. In this case, as a rule, professional material is used, which does not expand significantly.

If you are going to install a window sill in a window over 3 meters long, you will have to use additional parts that need to be carefully adjusted and glued, or special fillers for the joints.

Preparing to install a window sill

In order for the window sill to serve for a long time, it is important to correctly determine its dimensions. The width is calculated taking into account the following components:

Window sill width :

Desired distance from the inner surface of the wall. Experts do not recommend making it more than 15 cm, because it can become a hindrance. It is also important to consider the location heating devices. A window sill that is too wide can cause condensation to form on the side slopes and glass surfaces.
Another 2 cm is added for the entrance of the window sill under the window.

To determine the length you need to measure the window opening using a tape measure and add another 10 cm to this value. This is necessary so that the cut edges of the window sill are not visible.

Important!

After taking all the measurements, check them again. It’s better to stick to the rule: measure seven times, cut once. In this way, you will be able to avoid annoying mistakes, which are quite difficult and sometimes impossible to correct.

All that remains is to cut off all the excess and you can begin installation.

Video installation of a PVC window sill. Main stages

First you need to clean the surface of the window opening from debris and dust. This must be done carefully so that subsequent foaming is successful. The next step is to try on a window sill that has already been prepared to size. If necessary, it is trimmed in the right places.

Photo 3 - DIY PVC window sill installation

Next step- installation of a window sill. To do this, it is inserted into a special support profile located under the window frame, 2 cm. Using a level, the surface of the window sill is set and wooden supports are placed, which are necessary to ensure the design rigidity during operation of the window sill.

The window sill canvas is installed with a slight slope directed into the room. This is necessary so that when condensation forms or watering flowers, excess moisture does not stagnate, but rolls off the windowsill.

Photo 4 - Do-it-yourself PVC window sill installation

The next stage is foaming. It is quite important and must be performed with special care. Before proceeding directly to the process itself, the surface of the window opening must be moistened. This technique allows for improved adhesion and a more uniform distribution of the polyurethane foam.

First, the inner surface of the window sill and the junction with the mounting profile are covered with foam. This allows you to avoid the appearance of such an unpleasant phenomenon as cold bridges.

Photo 5 - DIY PVC window sill installation

After this operation, experts recommend installing a small weight on the windowsill, which is removed after the foam has completely hardened.

Polyurethane foam is afraid of ultraviolet radiation, so it should not be exposed to sun rays. Even a thin layer of plaster or other material can protect it.

All that remains is to install the plug, cutting off the required length from the workpiece, lubricate it with cosmofen, and press it to the ends of the window sill. And on final stage you need to remove the protective film and fill all joints with silicone sealant, doing this very carefully.

Photo 6 - DIY PVC window sill installation

From the above, it becomes clear that even those who have a minimum of knowledge and skills in this area can cope with the installation of a plastic window sill. It is only important not to allow technology violations and not to rush.