It is impossible to imagine a residential building without window openings. Their main function is to illuminate the interior in a natural way. They exert a special influence on the psychological state of the person himself, imitating the presence of open space around him. It is also a part of the interior, which is constantly in sight, accordingly exposed to all the trends of a changing fashion. Therefore, not only the appearance of the product itself plays an important role, but also the decoration of window slopes inside and out.
The inner lining allows you to fill out the opening, mask all the flaws in the installation work, increase the durability of the installed structure, protect it from moisture, and help fix the insulation material. Typically, companies involved in installing windows can only supplement the design with an internal window sill and external tide.Slopes will have to do on their own or use the services of specialists.
After replacing or installing windows, it becomes necessary to make slopes, which are an inclined plane between the window frame and the surface of the load-bearing wall. You just can not do without timely high-quality lining. It performs a decorative and protective function. On the one hand, it helps to hide seams, irregularities, mounting foam, on the other hand it makes it possible to insulate a window, protects it from excessive moisture, and prevents noise from entering the room.
If the lining of the aperture is not done in time, then over time the assembly foam will lose its quality, leaky seams will let in excess moisture into the room, and warm air will not be delayed. Also, condensation will constantly form on the windows, fungus and mold will appear on the walls. It should be remembered that the foam layer does not tolerate sunlight, atmospheric precipitation, temperature changes, mechanical stresses very poorly.
Some people postpone the issue of finishing slopes for a long time, and when they decide to complete it, to finish the job, they encounter unpleasant consequences arising from the destruction of the installation material. Such a situation can lead not only to certain difficulties, but also to unforeseen waste.Therefore, it is recommended to perform this type of work on time.
Materials and methods for finishing slopes
There is a wide variety of materials used to design slopes. Among the most common raw materials can be distinguished: plaster, drywall, PVC panels, wood, metal, artificial and natural stone, other building materials. Some of the above types of finishes are sometimes coated with a decorative layer in the form of varnish, paint, wallpaper.
When choosing a suitable cladding, experts recommend giving preference to the same base that is used in the manufacture of the window frame. Homogeneous materials complement each other, make the structure a single whole, give it a finished look.
Slopes can be a continuation not of a window frame, but of a wall, in which case it is worth paying attention to its design. To make the right choice, you need to understand the existing types of raw materials, consider the advantages, installation methods. To do this, we dwell in more detail on the various building materials that are used to perform installation work.
Drywall - material selection and installation technique
One of the most popular materials that is used for internal work. He is very malleable. With it, you can perform construction activities with your own hands. Many prefer it because of the significant advantages that are expressed:
low cost;
light weight;
simple processing;
flexibility
environmental friendliness;
very flat surface.
But before you opt for drywall, you should consider its shortcomings:
low strength, afraid of mechanical stress;
fear of high humidity, if the protective layer is damaged, it can swell;
over time, stains form on the surface, repairs and painting are required.
For the design of slopes, a standard GKL sheet will not work.Depending on the type of premises, preference should be given to GKLV or GKLVO. These are waterproof and fire-resistant waterproof options that tolerate moisture and elevated temperatures well. For additional protection of sheets using antiseptics, dyes, varnishes.
Drywall can be installed in three ways:
To the crate. This method is used when the load-bearing wall has the same finish.
Mounting with an L-shaped corner.
Mount directly to the slope. For fixing use glue, mounting foam.
Measurements
Starting to facing the slopes, they initially carry out preparatory work. To do this, remove the old finishing material, clean the surface from dirt and dust, eliminate small defects, chips, damage close up with putty. The resulting plane is treated with moisture resistant substances, antiseptics. After completing these steps, proceed to measurements.
First you need to determine the angle of slope relative to the window, taking into account the lathing, if any, to establish the position of its edge on the window structure. Then, using a tape measure, measure its length, taking into account adjoining other slopes on both sides. After it is set its width to the wall plane, the depth, which is calculated from the line of the inner edge to the frame.
When conducting measurements, it is worth considering the fact that the slope should not be an obstacle to opening the shutters, do not interfere with access to the fittings.
Phased installation
The step-by-step procedure is as follows:
Installation of the crate. For these purposes, you can use wooden planks or a profile that are cut to the size of the opening, installed around its perimeter.
Mineral wool insulation is placed in the frame.
Based on the measurements taken, the corresponding pieces are cut out of drywall.
The resulting sheets are fixed using self-tapping screws to the profile or rails.
Excess, protruding parts are cut off.
Slots and voids are treated with sealant.
Then the surface is primed and putty, after which a layer of paint is applied.
Plastering
Old proven over the years method of finishing internal slopes. Many decide on its use due to its low cost, simplicity, and a large selection of modern mixtures. With the help of interior decorative plaster, you can make unusual, spectacular accents on the windows, to trim any surface.
Mixtures can consist of various fillers and fractions - wood fibers, stone chips and others. Thanks to the unusual granules, an interesting textured surface is created, a peculiar pattern. Finishing material has the following characteristics:
It fits well on any base (wood, drywall, brick, concrete);
When repairing, there is no need to clean off the entire finish.
Selection and preparation of the solution
The plaster mix can be simple and complex. The type of solution depends on the proportions of the main components and the presence of impurities for the decor. With the independent manufacture of building materials, it is important to correctly calculate the content of the binder component and filler. You can find the "middle gold" degree of fat content by dipping a spatula into the solution. A quality mixture will cling a little to the shoulder blade.
Mortar with slaked lime plaster brick, wooden slopes. Pour it with water, let stand and filter. Then add the remaining components. This is the cheapest and most popular option for interior decoration. You can add cement or use it separately with sand.
Gypsum-based plaster dries quickly, remains strong for a long time, solidification occurs 5 minutes after application.It is possible to increase the curing time if the composition is supplemented with wood glue. Plaster can be used in its pure form, but only in dry rooms, not on the street.
The strongest and most durable plaster will be cement-based. Pre-setting occurs after 15 minutes, final hardening after 12 hours. To decorate the windows in a room with high humidity, latex glue (at least 20%) is added to the mixture.
Clay and sand are the most common fillers. For the preparation of plaster it is better to use coarse fractions - 3-4 mm. Before mixing, the materials must be sieved to prevent debris from entering.
Pvc panels
Modern plastic panels are absolutely safe and can be safely used for interior decoration. Slopes from plastic panels have a neat appearance, are easily cleaned of dirt, do not change color from sunlight. Practical material is installed quickly, without dust, excess noise and many additional tools. The following factors can also be attributed to positive characteristics:
PVC panels are made of the same material as the window frame. Window construction takes on a complete look;
The ability to install insulation, which eliminates the appearance of condensation;
The material is absolutely not sensitive to moisture;
It can be used without repair and replacement for several decades;
It tolerates low, high temperature;
A wide range of plastic products allows windows to be trimmed with both budget and luxury materials.
Surface preparation
Window slopes made of plastic are usually installed immediately after the installation of the window unit, after waiting at least a day. During this time, the surface should be prepared - remove the protrusions, dust and dry. If necessary, the wall can be treated with a solution of silicate glue, a primer for better adhesion.
The protruding mounting foam between the frame and the wall should be cut with a knife so that it does not interfere with the fastening of the start profile. It is also necessary to remove the shipping tape from the window profile, to close the internal seams. Deformed areas above the frame and on the sides should be aligned with plaster.
Lathing or installation of a guide profile
In the next step, the start profile is set. U-shaped mount allows you to fix the slope without the use of glue, silicone and other materials. It can be screwed to a frame or wooden block. The horizontal upper profile is fastened first, from wall to wall. They are fixed with self-tapping screws exactly along the edge with a step of 20 cm. Vertical side elements are mounted at a distance of 4-5 cm from the joints with the same step.
If you decide to use the guide bars, then first measure the length of the slope, cut out the products and fasten them with dowels to putty along the contour of the entire opening. Before installation or in the process, all elements should be treated with anti-decay compounds. The starting profile is screwed onto a wooden base.
The necessary structural rigidity will give a wooden crate. The bars are screwed with a dowel-nails along the outer edge. Their ends should not reach the edge of the panel and wall, you should leave a few centimeters for the profile-cover.
Panel Mounting
The installation of PVC panels starts from the top of the slope, and then goes to the walls. According to previously obtained measurements, the necessary elements are cut out. It is necessary to work without pressure, given the fragility of the material. You can make an even cut using the guide ruler.
Prepared PVC parts are inserted into the profile, check the abutment. Separate from the walls and apply foam on them or lay insulation. They return to the place, press down, fix with self-tapping screws. If the adjacency of the product is not enough, the voids are sealed with liquid plastic. In this way, sheathe the entire window opening.
At the final stage, the ends of the panels are closed with a finishing profile. Work begins on top. Apply the F-shaped profile and slap the palm of the hand to the panel along the entire length.
Artificial or natural stone
When decorating windows with stone, the main thing is to correctly compare the width of the opening and the size of decorative products. Decorative elements should not make the window massive, their thickness should be a maximum of 2 cm. Artificial, natural stone is laid on special glue, on a pre-leveled surface.
Slopes made of stone, tiles - the most expensive option. They increase the status of the room, making the window expressive and presentable. The material of increased strength does not lend itself to deformation, has a long service life, and is easy to clean. It is laid out only in a horizontal position. If necessary, you can trim with a hacksaw, a circular saw, depending on the composition and type.
After laying, grout the joints. A special epoxy, silicone mixture is applied to the joints and smoothed with a rubber spatula. Artificial bricks can be laid end-to-end without rubbing.
Tree
Wooden slopes will be an excellent complement to a wooden frame. You can achieve the best result if the finish is carried out with one breed. The color palette, the pattern will completely match, which will make the opening more attractive. Using natural finishes, you can hide poorly formed seams, the remains of mounting foam, various gaps and cracks.
In addition to decorative purposes, slopes made of natural wood perform a number of important functions, the main of which is window insulation. Also, the frame prevents the penetration of cold air through the cracks, the appearance of condensation, the development of the fungus. Hardwoods (pine, oak, larch) are used for interior decoration of windows. To extend the life of products made of natural material, they are varnished.
Laminate and parquet board
The material for finishing the slopes will look harmoniously against the background of wooden windows, especially if all the elements will have the same color and texture. Laminate, parquet board - an excellent analogue to natural materials. A wide range of types and classes allows you to choose the material of suitable parameters for self-installation in the apartment.
Parquet board, siding is considered immediately as a topcoat. The material is glued plaster, putty. For a brick base, gypsum compositions are suitable, for a concrete one - cement.
Mistakes to Avoid
If problems arise after installing windows and slopes, air and moisture pass through the cracks, thereby negating the heat and noise insulation advantages of window constructions, which means that the technology was violated during the work.
This can happen for two reasons: during installation errors were made, the work was not completely completed on the street side. Let us dwell in more detail on possible flaws that should not be allowed:
Any material selected for cladding should go at least a little on the window frame.
When installing drywall structures, sheets are placed under the window profile, trying to simplify the work, which is unacceptable.
Under the casing, in the place of contact with the window, there are voids - they should not be. It is better to place a heater made of mineral wool and polystyrene here.
Due to incorrect measurements, the cladding may not fit snugly.
Do not neglect sealant, antiseptics, waterproofing substances, they prevent the occurrence of mold and fungus.
It is not recommended to improve the slopes with a layer of plaster more than 2 cm thick, it can crack.
Selection and installation of window sills
The inner window sill serves for the correct direction of the heat flow, protecting the wall from pollution, flooding. The technical characteristics of the window, its size, width, frame material, influence the choice of such a detail.Wooden, stone window sills are suitable for a high-quality, solid opening from similar panels. Do not mount a natural element under an ordinary plastic window.
The window sill is also influenced by the features of the room. For the bathroom, kitchen, it is better to give preference to moisture-resistant materials (plastic, laminate, stone). The bedroom, living room should be decorated with a more functional and warm option, for example, wood.
The process of installing a windowsill requires accuracy and strict adherence to certain rules. Regardless of the material, the products are mounted as a general principle. We make the necessary measurements. Add 1-2 cm to deepen the element. We make grooves in the wall with a puncher and insert the windowsill. We lay wooden wedges under it, align with the spirit level.
Window decoration with textiles
A beautifully designed window opening can act as an accent of the room, on which the interior of the room will largely depend. Such constructions should not be hidden behind massive curtains, it is enough to use tulle and organza. If this option does not fit, roll curtains can be hung. They are attached to the frame, leaving all details of the opening visible.
When choosing the right type of curtain, the following points should be considered:
The area of the room. For small rooms, it is better to use light blinds, roller blinds, for spacious ones, massive models of darker shades are suitable.
Location relative to cardinal points. If the windows face north, then use pastel, beige, peach tones, to give coolness in the house - gray, blue.
The illumination of the room. On the windows located on the sunny side, it is better to hang reflective textiles.
Seasonality In the summer, you can use chintz, satin, in winter - velor, velvet.
General design style. For example, for the direction of the country, the color of the curtains should be combined with the color of the furniture, tablecloths, it is advisable to choose cotton or linen.In minimalism, Roman, Japanese curtains are used that do not have bright colors.
Conclusion
When installing new windows, do not neglect slopes. They determine the comfortable conditions in the room, the safety of the window structure itself, as well as its aesthetic side. Having considered the possible options, everyone can choose the appropriate type of cladding, perform installation work independently or seek help from specialists. The main thing is not to postpone this issue, to solve the problem right away.
It is impossible to imagine a residential building without window openings. Their main function is to illuminate the interior in a natural way. They exert a special influence on the psychological state of the person himself, imitating the presence of open space around him. It is also a part of the interior, which is constantly in sight, accordingly exposed to all the trends of a changing fashion. Therefore, not only the appearance of the product itself plays an important role, but also the decoration of window slopes inside and out.
The inner lining allows you to fill out the opening, mask all the flaws in the installation work, increase the durability of the installed structure, protect it from moisture, and help fix the insulation material. Typically, companies involved in installing windows can only supplement the design with an internal window sill and external tide.Slopes will have to do on their own or use the services of specialists.
Content
Features and the need for interior decoration
After replacing or installing windows, it becomes necessary to make slopes, which are an inclined plane between the window frame and the surface of the load-bearing wall. You just can not do without timely high-quality lining. It performs a decorative and protective function. On the one hand, it helps to hide seams, irregularities, mounting foam, on the other hand it makes it possible to insulate a window, protects it from excessive moisture, and prevents noise from entering the room.
If the lining of the aperture is not done in time, then over time the assembly foam will lose its quality, leaky seams will let in excess moisture into the room, and warm air will not be delayed. Also, condensation will constantly form on the windows, fungus and mold will appear on the walls. It should be remembered that the foam layer does not tolerate sunlight, atmospheric precipitation, temperature changes, mechanical stresses very poorly.
Some people postpone the issue of finishing slopes for a long time, and when they decide to complete it, to finish the job, they encounter unpleasant consequences arising from the destruction of the installation material. Such a situation can lead not only to certain difficulties, but also to unforeseen waste.Therefore, it is recommended to perform this type of work on time.
Materials and methods for finishing slopes
There is a wide variety of materials used to design slopes. Among the most common raw materials can be distinguished: plaster, drywall, PVC panels, wood, metal, artificial and natural stone, other building materials. Some of the above types of finishes are sometimes coated with a decorative layer in the form of varnish, paint, wallpaper.
Slopes can be a continuation not of a window frame, but of a wall, in which case it is worth paying attention to its design. To make the right choice, you need to understand the existing types of raw materials, consider the advantages, installation methods. To do this, we dwell in more detail on the various building materials that are used to perform installation work.
Drywall - material selection and installation technique
One of the most popular materials that is used for internal work. He is very malleable. With it, you can perform construction activities with your own hands. Many prefer it because of the significant advantages that are expressed:
But before you opt for drywall, you should consider its shortcomings:
For the design of slopes, a standard GKL sheet will not work.Depending on the type of premises, preference should be given to GKLV or GKLVO. These are waterproof and fire-resistant waterproof options that tolerate moisture and elevated temperatures well. For additional protection of sheets using antiseptics, dyes, varnishes.
Drywall can be installed in three ways:
Measurements
Starting to facing the slopes, they initially carry out preparatory work. To do this, remove the old finishing material, clean the surface from dirt and dust, eliminate small defects, chips, damage close up with putty. The resulting plane is treated with moisture resistant substances, antiseptics. After completing these steps, proceed to measurements.
First you need to determine the angle of slope relative to the window, taking into account the lathing, if any, to establish the position of its edge on the window structure. Then, using a tape measure, measure its length, taking into account adjoining other slopes on both sides. After it is set its width to the wall plane, the depth, which is calculated from the line of the inner edge to the frame.
Phased installation
The step-by-step procedure is as follows:
Plastering
Old proven over the years method of finishing internal slopes. Many decide on its use due to its low cost, simplicity, and a large selection of modern mixtures. With the help of interior decorative plaster, you can make unusual, spectacular accents on the windows, to trim any surface.
Mixtures can consist of various fillers and fractions - wood fibers, stone chips and others. Thanks to the unusual granules, an interesting textured surface is created, a peculiar pattern. Finishing material has the following characteristics:
Selection and preparation of the solution
The plaster mix can be simple and complex. The type of solution depends on the proportions of the main components and the presence of impurities for the decor. With the independent manufacture of building materials, it is important to correctly calculate the content of the binder component and filler. You can find the "middle gold" degree of fat content by dipping a spatula into the solution. A quality mixture will cling a little to the shoulder blade.
Mortar with slaked lime plaster brick, wooden slopes. Pour it with water, let stand and filter. Then add the remaining components. This is the cheapest and most popular option for interior decoration. You can add cement or use it separately with sand.
Gypsum-based plaster dries quickly, remains strong for a long time, solidification occurs 5 minutes after application.It is possible to increase the curing time if the composition is supplemented with wood glue. Plaster can be used in its pure form, but only in dry rooms, not on the street.
The strongest and most durable plaster will be cement-based. Pre-setting occurs after 15 minutes, final hardening after 12 hours. To decorate the windows in a room with high humidity, latex glue (at least 20%) is added to the mixture.
Clay and sand are the most common fillers. For the preparation of plaster it is better to use coarse fractions - 3-4 mm. Before mixing, the materials must be sieved to prevent debris from entering.
Pvc panels
Modern plastic panels are absolutely safe and can be safely used for interior decoration. Slopes from plastic panels have a neat appearance, are easily cleaned of dirt, do not change color from sunlight. Practical material is installed quickly, without dust, excess noise and many additional tools. The following factors can also be attributed to positive characteristics:
Surface preparation
Window slopes made of plastic are usually installed immediately after the installation of the window unit, after waiting at least a day. During this time, the surface should be prepared - remove the protrusions, dust and dry. If necessary, the wall can be treated with a solution of silicate glue, a primer for better adhesion.
The protruding mounting foam between the frame and the wall should be cut with a knife so that it does not interfere with the fastening of the start profile. It is also necessary to remove the shipping tape from the window profile, to close the internal seams. Deformed areas above the frame and on the sides should be aligned with plaster.
Lathing or installation of a guide profile
In the next step, the start profile is set. U-shaped mount allows you to fix the slope without the use of glue, silicone and other materials. It can be screwed to a frame or wooden block. The horizontal upper profile is fastened first, from wall to wall. They are fixed with self-tapping screws exactly along the edge with a step of 20 cm. Vertical side elements are mounted at a distance of 4-5 cm from the joints with the same step.
If you decide to use the guide bars, then first measure the length of the slope, cut out the products and fasten them with dowels to putty along the contour of the entire opening. Before installation or in the process, all elements should be treated with anti-decay compounds. The starting profile is screwed onto a wooden base.
The necessary structural rigidity will give a wooden crate. The bars are screwed with a dowel-nails along the outer edge. Their ends should not reach the edge of the panel and wall, you should leave a few centimeters for the profile-cover.
Panel Mounting
The installation of PVC panels starts from the top of the slope, and then goes to the walls. According to previously obtained measurements, the necessary elements are cut out. It is necessary to work without pressure, given the fragility of the material. You can make an even cut using the guide ruler.
Prepared PVC parts are inserted into the profile, check the abutment. Separate from the walls and apply foam on them or lay insulation. They return to the place, press down, fix with self-tapping screws. If the adjacency of the product is not enough, the voids are sealed with liquid plastic. In this way, sheathe the entire window opening.
At the final stage, the ends of the panels are closed with a finishing profile. Work begins on top. Apply the F-shaped profile and slap the palm of the hand to the panel along the entire length.
Artificial or natural stone
When decorating windows with stone, the main thing is to correctly compare the width of the opening and the size of decorative products. Decorative elements should not make the window massive, their thickness should be a maximum of 2 cm. Artificial, natural stone is laid on special glue, on a pre-leveled surface.
Slopes made of stone, tiles - the most expensive option. They increase the status of the room, making the window expressive and presentable. The material of increased strength does not lend itself to deformation, has a long service life, and is easy to clean. It is laid out only in a horizontal position. If necessary, you can trim with a hacksaw, a circular saw, depending on the composition and type.
After laying, grout the joints. A special epoxy, silicone mixture is applied to the joints and smoothed with a rubber spatula. Artificial bricks can be laid end-to-end without rubbing.
Tree
Wooden slopes will be an excellent complement to a wooden frame. You can achieve the best result if the finish is carried out with one breed. The color palette, the pattern will completely match, which will make the opening more attractive. Using natural finishes, you can hide poorly formed seams, the remains of mounting foam, various gaps and cracks.
In addition to decorative purposes, slopes made of natural wood perform a number of important functions, the main of which is window insulation. Also, the frame prevents the penetration of cold air through the cracks, the appearance of condensation, the development of the fungus. Hardwoods (pine, oak, larch) are used for interior decoration of windows. To extend the life of products made of natural material, they are varnished.
Laminate and parquet board
The material for finishing the slopes will look harmoniously against the background of wooden windows, especially if all the elements will have the same color and texture. Laminate, parquet board - an excellent analogue to natural materials. A wide range of types and classes allows you to choose the material of suitable parameters for self-installation in the apartment.
Parquet board, siding is considered immediately as a topcoat. The material is glued plaster, putty. For a brick base, gypsum compositions are suitable, for a concrete one - cement.
Mistakes to Avoid
If problems arise after installing windows and slopes, air and moisture pass through the cracks, thereby negating the heat and noise insulation advantages of window constructions, which means that the technology was violated during the work.
This can happen for two reasons: during installation errors were made, the work was not completely completed on the street side. Let us dwell in more detail on possible flaws that should not be allowed:
Selection and installation of window sills
The inner window sill serves for the correct direction of the heat flow, protecting the wall from pollution, flooding. The technical characteristics of the window, its size, width, frame material, influence the choice of such a detail.Wooden, stone window sills are suitable for a high-quality, solid opening from similar panels. Do not mount a natural element under an ordinary plastic window.
The window sill is also influenced by the features of the room. For the bathroom, kitchen, it is better to give preference to moisture-resistant materials (plastic, laminate, stone). The bedroom, living room should be decorated with a more functional and warm option, for example, wood.
The process of installing a windowsill requires accuracy and strict adherence to certain rules. Regardless of the material, the products are mounted as a general principle. We make the necessary measurements. Add 1-2 cm to deepen the element. We make grooves in the wall with a puncher and insert the windowsill. We lay wooden wedges under it, align with the spirit level.
Window decoration with textiles
A beautifully designed window opening can act as an accent of the room, on which the interior of the room will largely depend. Such constructions should not be hidden behind massive curtains, it is enough to use tulle and organza. If this option does not fit, roll curtains can be hung. They are attached to the frame, leaving all details of the opening visible.
When choosing the right type of curtain, the following points should be considered:
Conclusion
When installing new windows, do not neglect slopes. They determine the comfortable conditions in the room, the safety of the window structure itself, as well as its aesthetic side. Having considered the possible options, everyone can choose the appropriate type of cladding, perform installation work independently or seek help from specialists. The main thing is not to postpone this issue, to solve the problem right away.