Civil Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
10
Installation of windows
and sliding doors
Head
Components of a window
Figure 10.1 illustrates the main components of a
window.
Mullion
Two sources of moisture penetration
around windows
It is paramount when installing windows and external
doors to give thorough consideration to the prevention
of moisture into the walls about the windows. This
moisture can enter in two forms, either as liquid or gas
that condenses. In my opinion, the latter is the more
dangerous of the two. Installing the windows in line
with the external face of the wall will reduce the
amount of horizontal or semi-horizontal render, which
is the most vulnerable to degradation by the weather.
Stile
Sash
Sill
Figure 10.1
Awning window
Preparation of windows and doors prior to rendering
To gain a better fixing of the render to the windows I recommend that all surfaces of the
windows that are to be coated with render, whether aluminium or timber, be coated first
with a mixture of coarse sand and adhesive. The type of adhesive might need to be varied
in accordance with the surface on which it is applied, however I find that Bondcrete® is
most often appropriate. When fixing to metal, construction adhesive would be a good
alternative.
