Finishing the external slopes is the last and necessary moment in the procedure for installing a metal-plastic window. At the finishing stage, it is necessary to hide the rough surface of the walls, fasteners, mounting foam. You should not put off “for later” this important point. Facing the slopes from the outside gives the window and entrance group an external appeal and completeness. It masks unsightly strips of foam and cracks that formed during installation, and more importantly, helps protect the structure from the street from destruction. Preserves its original properties, provides durability.
Functions and the need for finishing the external slopes
In addition to the purely decorative component, the external slopes perform the following tasks:
provide additional insulation of walls and windows;
protect a layer of polyurethane foam from influence of sunshine, penetration of moisture and temperature surges. Moisture-saturated foam collapses during freezing and loses its heat-insulating and sound-insulating properties;
prevent condensation in the frames and the formation of fungus;
serve as additional protection against external noise.
Do not delay the performance of these works for a long time. During this time, irreversible changes can occur in the structure, which will entail the need for repair and even replacement of windows.
Slope Materials
A variety of materials are used to decorate the exterior slopes on the windows. The most popular cladding:
stucco;
plastic;
polystyrene foam;
metal;
vinyl siding;
drywall;
natural stone;
sandwich panels.
Each of these options has certain advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, before making a final decision, it is necessary to get acquainted with their characteristics.
Plaster
Plastering is the most economical way to finish slopes. For exterior work, special compositions for facades with heat-insulating additives are recommended. The material is applied to the prepared surface in several layers, each of which must be allowed to dry well. The solution should completely cover the mounting foam and reach the frame.In this case, the layer thickness cannot exceed 2 cm. Therefore, this material is suitable for relatively even slopes. The resulting coating is carefully sanded and painted.
The advantages of this type of finish include:
fire resistance and strength of the material;
low cost of plaster mixes and necessary tools;
the possibility of independent performance of work.
Minuses:
the process takes a lot of time - 3-4 days;
the coating quickly gets dirty, cracking is possible;
this type of finish has low thermal insulation properties;
performance of work is associated with the formation of a large amount of dust and dirt.
Plastic
Using sheet plastic allows finishing work as quickly and accurately as possible. The panels have an aesthetic appearance, they are durable and practical. They do not need additional decoration, because they are ideally combined with the material of the frames and form a harmonious and complete solution in tandem.
Advantages of PVC slopes:
long service life;
extensive color palette;
low thermal conductivity;
no condensation forms;
resistance to moisture and mold.
Weaknesses of plastic:
the need for replacement in case of damage is not subject to restoration;
low noise and heat insulating properties.
Siding
Vinyl siding is perfect for facing external slopes. It is presented in the form of hollow plastic panels that are attached to each other using special locking systems. The material allows in a short time to create an aesthetic coating with a certain level of thermal insulation and soundproofing. Lamels do not require additional decoration and complicated maintenance. As an additional insulation, the space between the siding and the wall is recommended to be filled with mineral wool or foam, and the joints should be decorated with decorative corners.
Advantages of vinyl siding:
DIY installation possible;
slopes are easily cleaned from dust and dirt;
fungal formations do not appear on the plastic;
many color options;
will last a long time with careful handling.
Disadvantages:
color change is possible with intense exposure to ultraviolet light;
insufficient shock resistance.
Drywall
Another inexpensive option is drywall finish. Usually this material is used for internal work, due to insufficient moisture resistance. But it is quite suitable for sheathing external slopes if the windows open onto a glazed loggia, balcony or terrace. For these purposes, moisture-proof drywall is suitable. It allows you to quickly create a perfectly smooth surface, which facilitates the process of applying plaster.
Before installing the plates, it is necessary to carefully treat the surface with an antibacterial composition.
Benefits of Drywall Finishing
Reasonable price of material.
Easy installation.
Light weight, which facilitates the work.
Good thermal insulation ability.
Disadvantages:
Low strength - even a not very strong blow can lead to the formation of potholes, dents and chips.
Low moisture resistance.
Sandwich panels
For facing the slopes, three-layer plastic panels with a thickness of 10 mm with a "filling" of foamed or extruded polystyrene are used. They have low thermal conductivity and do not require additional decoration. The plastic used as the outer layers is similar in color and appearance to the window profile. The fixed panels must be protected from moisture by the plastic corner. This will not only allow preserving the integrity of the material and will not allow it to delaminate, but will also give the structure a finished and aesthetic appearance.
Pros of sandwich panels
Long service life - in the region of 25 years.
Easy care.
Quick and easy installation - in 1 day.
Light weight.
High moisture resistance.
Resistance to ultraviolet and high temperatures.
Good soundproofing ability.
High thermal insulation characteristics - additional heaters, for example, mineral wool, as is the case with ordinary plastic panels, are not required.
A wide selection of different colors, as well as surfaces with imitation of natural wood or stone.
Minuses:
prolonged exposure to high temperatures may change the color of the product.
transportation difficulties due to the impressive size of the panels.
Styrofoam
The slopes covered with foam will save heat in the house and protect from external noise. And it is not necessary to reinforce the slabs, cover them with several layers of plaster and paint. It offers customers a modern material with a waterproof coating of marble chips and adhesive acrylic components. This layer has sufficient strength and at the same time flexibility. The coating does not crack or crumble. The material is available in the form of ready-made thermal bends - corner elements, 2 cm thick. The corners can be used for insulation in combination with thermal panels or separately. You can independently bend the plates to form corners using special devices for cutting polystyrene.
Styrofoam slopes protect against:
street noise and cold;
dampness and mold;
the need for frequent repairs - thermal rejections have rounded smooth corners, on which chips will not appear.
The undoubted advantages of the material are the ease of installation, the simplicity of calculating the number of elements needed for decoration, and the original appearance of the window composition.
Thermal angles with the addition of flexible clinker are perfect for decorating the window and doorways of a private brick house.
Metal slopes
The choice of metal as a finishing material for external window slopes is a reliable, aesthetic, durable solution.This is a durable coating, which is not afraid of either moisture or sudden changes in temperature. Iron perfectly protects against cold and noise, and thanks to a special anti-corrosion coating it will serve for many years. The variety of offered shades will allow you to choose a harmonious frame for any window, which successfully fits into the facade of any color.
Advantages of metal slopes:
Unbeatable weather resistance.
They serve as reliable protection against mechanical damage to walls.
They are distinguished by solidity and aesthetic appearance.
Quick and easy to install, and do not require complicated maintenance.
The disadvantages of such designs can be attributed only to their relatively high cost. But during operation it is not necessary to regularly invest in their repair.
Slopes made of natural stone
The natural stone finish is the impeccable, stylish and sophisticated appearance of the slopes, unsurpassed durability and guaranteed strength. The variety of materials offered - shell rock, sandstone, limestone, dolomite, wild stone provides ample opportunity to implement a variety of design ideas. The stone for many years retains its original impeccable appearance. It is very easy to care for and does not require additional investments.
Stone products are not afraid:
sharp temperature changes;
exposure to direct sunlight;
interactions with aggressive chemical compounds;
mechanical effects.
The disadvantage of this type of finish is only in its high cost. But if you calculate the amount of time that the stone coating will last, its acquisition will seem more than a practical and cost-effective step.
The need for insulation - what and how to insulate
Insulation of slopes contributes to the preservation of heat in the room, prevents the increase of humidity indoors.Consider the possible options for insulation, which is advisable to apply in this case:
mineral wool - is moisture resistant, provides thermal insulation of the window and reliably protects against the penetration of external noise. The insulation must be fixed on a special grid, which is glued to the wall;
polystyrene foam - has good heat and noise insulating properties, easy to install. You can purchase ready-made slopes made of foam. Mounted on metal profiles;
polystyrene foam - a waterproof cellular material with high thermal insulation properties;
sandwich panels - an option for finishing, endowed with heat-insulating properties - the middle layer is made of extruded polystyrene foam.
Self-finishing slopes with stucco
Plaster the external slopes immediately after the curing foam hardens. It is necessary to completely exclude the possibility of environmental factors affecting its integrity.
Materials and Tools
The speed and efficiency of work depends not only on the skill of the master, but also on the availability of all necessary materials and tools. Therefore, prepare them in advance so that they are all at hand.
You will need:
container for preparing a plaster mixture;
construction mixer or drill with a special nozzle for mixing components;
set of spatulas of various widths. You will also need a corner option;
Master OK;
building level;
square;
wide brush with soft bristles;
stucco grater;
building mix for front works;
putty for outdoor work;
decorative plaster;
fiberglass reinforcing mesh;
primer solution.
Selection and preparation of plaster mix
As the main material for plaster, you can use the usual sand-cement mixture. However, such a composition does not differ in durability and does not have “warming” properties.Therefore, for such work, special facade plaster is better suited, preferably “warm”. In addition to cement and gypsum, reinforcing components, bulk heaters of natural origin and plasticizers are added to the composition of such materials.
Such mixtures have good waterproofing and soundproofing characteristics. Ready formulations are characterized by good adhesion. Due to its uniformity and fine consistency, the solution adheres perfectly to the surface. Of course, such a mixture is more expensive than concrete mortar, but not much is needed to design slopes.
If gypsum is present in the material, careful observance of the solution preparation instructions is a prerequisite for maintaining the characteristics of the material. In addition, gypsum quickly hardens, so it is better to knead the mixture in small portions.
Step-by-step plastering process
We clean the slopes of the old plaster. It is advisable to completely get rid of the remnants of the coating, in which cracks may subsequently appear.
If the cleaned surface is too smooth, it is necessary to increase its adhesive characteristics with notches.
We remove dust from the surface.
We apply the first - the starting layer of plaster and align it with the rule. It is recommended to apply several thin layers on the upper slope.
We form a beautiful angle with the help of an angular spatula.
We glue the reinforcing mesh.
We smooth the surface with putty and apply a primer.
We put a finishing layer of material and paint. You can use decorative plaster.
Workshop for finishing slopes with polystyrene foam
Finishing the slopes with polystyrene foam allows you to even out and insulate the openings at the same time. To do this, use plates with a thickness of 15-20 mm. When working with this material, it is necessary that the surface is as even as possible, expanded polystyrene does not differ in ductility, but, on the contrary, has increased rigidity and brittleness.Therefore, on significant bulges, it can crack or even break. The advantage of this method of decoration is that it is not necessary to have a deep knowledge of the building to complete it and you can install it yourself.
To carry out the work you will need:
knife for cutting polystyrene plates;
mixer for the preparation of tile glue;
a set of various spatulas;
construction square, ruler;
level;
polystyrene with a thickness of 15-20 mm;
tile adhesive suitable for outdoor use;
plaster mesh;
metal perforated corners.
Finishing Stages:
Correctly prepare the surface - clean from dust and cement mortar residues, cover the existing cracks and cracks with putty or cement.
We cut out the details of future slopes from foam and connect them together with glue.
We apply glue to the surface and fix the prepared parts. Do not save glue, as voids may form between slopes and polystyrene foam. It is better to remove excess composition with a rag. In the process of gluing, we check the correctness of the installation using the level. After the glue has dried, the material can be additionally fixed with dowels. It is better to drill holes in advance or in a couple of hours after gluing the plates. The main thing is to prevent the foam from shifting.
We glue the surface on which the window sill will be installed.
The next stage - we apply the starting layer of putty, qualitatively gloss over all joints and cracks. We impose a serpentine paint net.
We mount the perforated corners and apply the finishing layer of putty.
After drying, the surface can be painted with paint for the facade. It should be applied in several layers.
Before applying the paint, glue the glass along the contour with strips of masking tape. This will save the window from paint, and save you from the tedious wiping of the spray.
Features of finishing slopes with drywall or sandwich panels
The technique for finishing slopes with these materials is similar. The difference is that drywall requires finishing, and sandwich panels do not need it. Therefore, they are ready for use immediately after installation.
To work, you need:
sandwich panels or sheets of drywall (moisture resistant);
L-shaped profile - metal or plastic;
glue;
external perforated corner or F-shaped profile for decorating the protruding angle of the slopes;
construction knife - for cutting panels;
level;
screwdriver or drill;
ruler;
construction square;
marker.
Sandwich Panel Installation Steps
We clean the surface. We remove dust, fragments of crumbling plaster, drops of solution. Ground the surface and treat it with an antibacterial composition. You can use the tool two in one. It is necessary to wait until the surface has completely dried.
Starting profiles are fixed to the frame, into which subsequently plastic or drywall panels will be installed. Installation of the profile is carried out around the perimeter of the window using self-tapping screws. Fasteners are installed in increments of 20-25 cm. Depending on the selected material, the required profile width is selected.
A wooden rail is mounted along the outer corner of the slopes. Its width is 10-12 cm, its thickness is 1-1.2 cm. This rail acts as a leveling bar on which an external profile is fixed. He will hide the distance between the wall and the finishing material, and also hide the unsightly edge of the panel. A profile consists of two elements. One of them is mounted on a wooden rail, the second - on the end of the plate. They are connected using a locking system - a spike groove. In the case of drywall, you can install a regular corner.
We install a heater - mineral wool is fixed to the glue so that its thickness changes. Closer to the frame we have thicker material, and thin along the outer border.If foam is used as insulation, apply it directly to the panel before installation.
It is important not to “overdo it” with the amount of foam - it can be too much and then it will inflate. And if it gets to the outside, it will not be easy to remove it.
On the upper end of the side parts with the help of a sealant we fix the internal corner profile. It serves to connect horizontal and vertical panels.
Install the side plates.
We apply a layer of foam on the upper horizontal panel, insert it into the grooves of the corner profiles and press it well.
We decorate the end face of the upper plate using the F-profile or a decorative corner.
Installation of drywall panels
Sheathing slopes with GKL plates is even easier, since there are several options for their fastening:
on the crate - with a sufficient slope width;
on a special profile;
directly to the wall - if the latter has a relatively flat surface.
When installing, the screws are screwed directly through the plate. Their hats do not need camouflage, since the material in any case will require finishing. Layers of putty and paint will reliably hide joints and fasteners. If you plan to make “warm” slopes, mineral wool is laid according to the same principle as in the previous version. Foam can be introduced through holes that are drilled after installing panels. Drywall needs reinforcement, so at the puttying stage it is strengthened with a paint net.
Problems associated with improper trim slopes
The main rule, the observance of which will avoid problems during the operation of the plastic window and doors, is the timely finishing of the external slopes. It is unacceptable to leave open seams for a long time. Under the influence of moisture and ultraviolet, the foam crumbles, collapses and, as a result, loses its insulating properties.
There are a number of installation errors that can lead to undesirable consequences.
The most common mistakes:
excessive removal of mounting foam from the seam;
too rigid fixation of the panels to the profile;
use of unsuitable materials for facing openings.
What consequences may result from the aforementioned shortcomings?
Errors can cause the destruction of the foam, shedding of the wall and, as a result, the penetration of moisture and the formation of fungus despite regular ventilation. Some problems may appear within a few days, but you will find out about others only after a few months. It is impossible to determine the exact cause of their occurrence without violating the integrity of the slopes. But some signs that mistakes were made while decorating the opening can be identified by education:
condensate;
ice in the winter;
whistles and howls of the wind.
Conclusion
To maintain a comfortable microclimate in the house, modern windows are needed. And the first thing to do after installing them is to properly form the external slopes.
Finishing the external slopes is the last and necessary moment in the procedure for installing a metal-plastic window. At the finishing stage, it is necessary to hide the rough surface of the walls, fasteners, mounting foam. You should not put off “for later” this important point. Facing the slopes from the outside gives the window and entrance group an external appeal and completeness. It masks unsightly strips of foam and cracks that formed during installation, and more importantly, helps protect the structure from the street from destruction. Preserves its original properties, provides durability.
Content
Functions and the need for finishing the external slopes
In addition to the purely decorative component, the external slopes perform the following tasks:
Slope Materials
A variety of materials are used to decorate the exterior slopes on the windows. The most popular cladding:
Each of these options has certain advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, before making a final decision, it is necessary to get acquainted with their characteristics.
Plaster
Plastering is the most economical way to finish slopes. For exterior work, special compositions for facades with heat-insulating additives are recommended. The material is applied to the prepared surface in several layers, each of which must be allowed to dry well. The solution should completely cover the mounting foam and reach the frame.In this case, the layer thickness cannot exceed 2 cm. Therefore, this material is suitable for relatively even slopes. The resulting coating is carefully sanded and painted.
The advantages of this type of finish include:
Minuses:
Plastic
Using sheet plastic allows finishing work as quickly and accurately as possible. The panels have an aesthetic appearance, they are durable and practical. They do not need additional decoration, because they are ideally combined with the material of the frames and form a harmonious and complete solution in tandem.
Advantages of PVC slopes:
Weaknesses of plastic:
Siding
Vinyl siding is perfect for facing external slopes. It is presented in the form of hollow plastic panels that are attached to each other using special locking systems. The material allows in a short time to create an aesthetic coating with a certain level of thermal insulation and soundproofing. Lamels do not require additional decoration and complicated maintenance. As an additional insulation, the space between the siding and the wall is recommended to be filled with mineral wool or foam, and the joints should be decorated with decorative corners.
Advantages of vinyl siding:
Disadvantages:
Drywall
Another inexpensive option is drywall finish. Usually this material is used for internal work, due to insufficient moisture resistance. But it is quite suitable for sheathing external slopes if the windows open onto a glazed loggia, balcony or terrace. For these purposes, moisture-proof drywall is suitable. It allows you to quickly create a perfectly smooth surface, which facilitates the process of applying plaster.
Benefits of Drywall Finishing
Disadvantages:
Sandwich panels
For facing the slopes, three-layer plastic panels with a thickness of 10 mm with a "filling" of foamed or extruded polystyrene are used. They have low thermal conductivity and do not require additional decoration. The plastic used as the outer layers is similar in color and appearance to the window profile. The fixed panels must be protected from moisture by the plastic corner. This will not only allow preserving the integrity of the material and will not allow it to delaminate, but will also give the structure a finished and aesthetic appearance.
Pros of sandwich panels
Minuses:
Styrofoam
The slopes covered with foam will save heat in the house and protect from external noise. And it is not necessary to reinforce the slabs, cover them with several layers of plaster and paint. It offers customers a modern material with a waterproof coating of marble chips and adhesive acrylic components. This layer has sufficient strength and at the same time flexibility. The coating does not crack or crumble. The material is available in the form of ready-made thermal bends - corner elements, 2 cm thick. The corners can be used for insulation in combination with thermal panels or separately. You can independently bend the plates to form corners using special devices for cutting polystyrene.
Styrofoam slopes protect against:
The undoubted advantages of the material are the ease of installation, the simplicity of calculating the number of elements needed for decoration, and the original appearance of the window composition.
Thermal angles with the addition of flexible clinker are perfect for decorating the window and doorways of a private brick house.
Metal slopes
The choice of metal as a finishing material for external window slopes is a reliable, aesthetic, durable solution.This is a durable coating, which is not afraid of either moisture or sudden changes in temperature. Iron perfectly protects against cold and noise, and thanks to a special anti-corrosion coating it will serve for many years. The variety of offered shades will allow you to choose a harmonious frame for any window, which successfully fits into the facade of any color.
Advantages of metal slopes:
The disadvantages of such designs can be attributed only to their relatively high cost. But during operation it is not necessary to regularly invest in their repair.
Slopes made of natural stone
The natural stone finish is the impeccable, stylish and sophisticated appearance of the slopes, unsurpassed durability and guaranteed strength. The variety of materials offered - shell rock, sandstone, limestone, dolomite, wild stone provides ample opportunity to implement a variety of design ideas. The stone for many years retains its original impeccable appearance. It is very easy to care for and does not require additional investments.
Stone products are not afraid:
The disadvantage of this type of finish is only in its high cost. But if you calculate the amount of time that the stone coating will last, its acquisition will seem more than a practical and cost-effective step.
The need for insulation - what and how to insulate
Insulation of slopes contributes to the preservation of heat in the room, prevents the increase of humidity indoors.Consider the possible options for insulation, which is advisable to apply in this case:
Self-finishing slopes with stucco
Plaster the external slopes immediately after the curing foam hardens. It is necessary to completely exclude the possibility of environmental factors affecting its integrity.
Materials and Tools
The speed and efficiency of work depends not only on the skill of the master, but also on the availability of all necessary materials and tools. Therefore, prepare them in advance so that they are all at hand.
You will need:
Selection and preparation of plaster mix
As the main material for plaster, you can use the usual sand-cement mixture. However, such a composition does not differ in durability and does not have “warming” properties.Therefore, for such work, special facade plaster is better suited, preferably “warm”. In addition to cement and gypsum, reinforcing components, bulk heaters of natural origin and plasticizers are added to the composition of such materials.
Such mixtures have good waterproofing and soundproofing characteristics. Ready formulations are characterized by good adhesion. Due to its uniformity and fine consistency, the solution adheres perfectly to the surface. Of course, such a mixture is more expensive than concrete mortar, but not much is needed to design slopes.
Step-by-step plastering process
Workshop for finishing slopes with polystyrene foam
Finishing the slopes with polystyrene foam allows you to even out and insulate the openings at the same time. To do this, use plates with a thickness of 15-20 mm. When working with this material, it is necessary that the surface is as even as possible, expanded polystyrene does not differ in ductility, but, on the contrary, has increased rigidity and brittleness.Therefore, on significant bulges, it can crack or even break. The advantage of this method of decoration is that it is not necessary to have a deep knowledge of the building to complete it and you can install it yourself.
To carry out the work you will need:
Finishing Stages:
Features of finishing slopes with drywall or sandwich panels
The technique for finishing slopes with these materials is similar. The difference is that drywall requires finishing, and sandwich panels do not need it. Therefore, they are ready for use immediately after installation.
To work, you need:
Sandwich Panel Installation Steps
Installation of drywall panels
Sheathing slopes with GKL plates is even easier, since there are several options for their fastening:
When installing, the screws are screwed directly through the plate. Their hats do not need camouflage, since the material in any case will require finishing. Layers of putty and paint will reliably hide joints and fasteners. If you plan to make “warm” slopes, mineral wool is laid according to the same principle as in the previous version. Foam can be introduced through holes that are drilled after installing panels. Drywall needs reinforcement, so at the puttying stage it is strengthened with a paint net.
Problems associated with improper trim slopes
The main rule, the observance of which will avoid problems during the operation of the plastic window and doors, is the timely finishing of the external slopes. It is unacceptable to leave open seams for a long time. Under the influence of moisture and ultraviolet, the foam crumbles, collapses and, as a result, loses its insulating properties.
There are a number of installation errors that can lead to undesirable consequences.
The most common mistakes:
What consequences may result from the aforementioned shortcomings?
Errors can cause the destruction of the foam, shedding of the wall and, as a result, the penetration of moisture and the formation of fungus despite regular ventilation. Some problems may appear within a few days, but you will find out about others only after a few months. It is impossible to determine the exact cause of their occurrence without violating the integrity of the slopes. But some signs that mistakes were made while decorating the opening can be identified by education:
Conclusion
To maintain a comfortable microclimate in the house, modern windows are needed. And the first thing to do after installing them is to properly form the external slopes.