How to install UPVC window?

uPVC window?installation methods

There are two basic methods used when installing uPVC windows: direct and indirect. uPVC windows can be installed by using either, but one method may be better over the other in some situations. It mostly depends on the positioning of the uPVC window in the aperture: whether the new uPVC window is put in the middle-depth of the window opening or protruding to the outside.

Drilling through the frame (direct method). A certain number of holes are drilled through the uPVC frame; these are later secured using appropriate screws. All the heads of the screws can be covered with caps so that they would be less visible. Fixing using screws is possible only when uPVC window is to be fixed inside the window opening (not protruding to the outside).

Fixing using cleats or straps (indirect method). At first, the cleats are fixed onto the uPVC window frame in specified locations. Then the frame is fixed to the window opening using screws. uPVC window installation using cleats is better in that internal uPVC window chambers are not damaged in the process. Installation with cleats is suitable when uPVC window is installed outside of the window opening, but it also works well when installing the uPVC window inside the opening. When uPVC window is installed outside the opening, there are special supporting details used below it, which are selected according to the weight of the uPVC widow.

uPVC window?installation step by step

uPVC window installation must follow the safety requirements and building regulations laid by the official bodies. Below is a generalized step by step uPVC window installation guide.

1. Check the size of your new uPVC window, whether it matches your order. If you are replacing an existing window, compare the old window and the new one in order to see if they are exactly of the same size.

2. Prepare the room for uPVC window installation: remove window blinds and decorations, make space around the window opening. Cover the floor and furniture with protective cloth so that not to damage them. Any electrical appliances should also be covered.

3. Remove the old window. Be careful when removing old windows so that damage to the aperture would be kept to minimum. Old masonry buildings are more sensitive so it requires expertise to remove the existing windows without causing damage. It is recommended to rely on professionals in such cases. Old windows are then collected for recycling.

4. Prepare the aperture. Window opening should be cleaned from debris and dust. If the weather is dry, it is advised to moisten the surface. This way polyurethane foam will stick better.

5. Remove the sash of the uPVC window (the part that can be opened, if there is one).

6. Place the frame into the opening (aperture). There have to be small gaps for insulation around the uPVC window perimeter. Window packers made of wood or plastic are used to set and secure the frame in place. Check whether the frame is set correctly by using a spirit level or another device to measure verticality and horizontality of the uPVC frame. Also determine whether the frame is a square by measuring the corners or comparing diagonal lengths. If there are any inaccuracies, use window wedges to further adjust the frame position.

7. Secure the uPVC window frame into the aperture. There are two basic methods to do this, either by using screws or cleats (straps). Follow the advice on fixing locations below.

8. Put the sash back on uPVC window hinges, fix the handle.

9. Adjust the uPVC window hardware. Check whether the uPVC window can be opened and closed smoothly and whether the locks operate correctly. If necessary, make adjustments. Note: you may have to re-adjust the hardware again after several days or weeks after installation, because it takes time for the sash to settle.

10. Seal the perimeter of the uPVC window by using polyurethane foam or another window sealant.

11. Cover the foam by water-resistant window sealing tape (if required).

12. Install window sills (if required).

13. Fit window trimming to finish the project (if required).

14. Remove protective tape from uPVC profiles. Protective tape should be removed in the very end, when all construction works are finished. However, it is important to remove it without delay, because ageing makes the tape extremely difficult to remove. There is a three-month guarantee that protective tape can be removed.

One uPVC window takes around 30 minutes to install, provided that it is done by a professional. It is important to note that uPVC windows can be installed both in summer and in winter. Polyurethane foam that is used nowadays can be used when the outside temperature is up to -10 degrees C. However, from our experience we can tell that the temperature outside should be not lower than -5 degrees C.