Non-standard windows: what you need to pay attention to?

90% of PVC windows have a rectangular shape - and this is quite logical, since they are designed to be installed in standard window openings. Such windows are produced on automated lines, which makes it possible to shorten the production time and reduce the cost.

But not all window openings have a rectangular configuration — and therefore they need appropriate windows. Most often, non-rectangular structures are installed in private houses or cottages, in commercial facilities based on original design projects or in similar buildings. In any case, both the design and production of a non-standard window will be a more difficult task.

What can be a non-standard window

It is considered that a window belongs to the category of non-standard if at least one of its corners differs from 90°, or there is at least one curved element in the design. Typical shapes of non-standard windows:

• Trapezoid. Due to the fact that the sides of the trapezoid are not vertically positioned, but at an angle, the design has a more complex shape and requires additional effort during production. Trapezoids can be symmetrical or asymmetrical, in addition, windows are sometimes produced in the form of incomplete trapezoids. In this case, part of the side remains vertical, and part is made inclined. Trapezoids are used for glazing attics, attics or similar premises — the beveled shape of the sides allows you to embed a trapezoid in the front part.
• Triangle. The small area and the presence of indirect angles complicate the task in the manufacture of a triangular window. This design is suitable for installation in an opening that is limited by the roof slopes on one or two sides — this will make it possible to provide natural lighting.
• Arch. Semicircular or swept arches look very beautiful — that is why the popularity of arched windows is so great. Today, various profile bending technologies are used, because arches can be bent at different radii. In addition, there are more and more hardware kits that allow you to make arched windows open.
• Circle. Two arched segments connected into a single structure are a frame for a round window. Round porthole windows can have different sizes — and with sufficiently large dimensions, such a window can be made to open.

In addition, non-standard windows include structures with bent or oblique imposts. This is due to the fact that non—rectangular shutters or double-glazed windows will have to be installed in a rectangular frame - and this also complicates the manufacturing process.

Profile bending in the production of non-standard structures

The production of non—rectangular structures requires a large share of manual labor - but in general does not differ from the manufacture of standard rectangular windows. It is much more difficult with structures in which there are bent elements — imposts or arched parts. Simply bending the PVC profile to the desired radius will not work - despite the elasticity of polyvinyl chloride, the probability of cracks or deformation of the inner chambers is close to 100%.

Therefore, a special technology is used to bend the plastic profile:

• The blank for the impost or arched part is heated to a temperature at which PVC becomes plastic. Previously, the technology of heating in a glycerin bath was used, but today a dry technique is more often used, in which the profile is heated with infrared lamps or electrical devices.
• On a special bending table, the heated workpiece is formed. For molding, a template is used that allows you to bend the part exactly to the desired radius. The part is fixed in several places — so the arcs are smooth, without distortions and deformations.
• The workpiece cools down slowly — at the same time, PVC acquires the desired shape. Then the configuration of the part is checked against the template, and if the dimensions match, they are welded together with the main structure.

To date, it is not possible to automate the process of profile bending. The operation requires manual labor, and a highly qualified master must perform all manipulations with the profile system.

Custom window order: what should I pay attention to?

As you can see, the production of non-standard windows is associated with a number of difficulties. That is why when ordering such structures — arches, trapezoids, triangles, windows with curved imposts — several factors must be taken into account:

• Limitations. They are also available for rectangular structures, but with non-standard windows, you need to be especially careful. Restrictions may relate to the minimum angles of attachment of the impost or the connection of the sides of the frame, the minimum bending radius of the arch, etc. A highly qualified specialist should design a non—standard window - otherwise it may turn out that the design simply cannot be done or it will not withstand the declared operating mode.
• Cost. The production of standard windows is a standardized and automated process that minimizes the cost of the product. Non-standard windows are made manually, because the price of a plastic window of a non-standard shape will be higher.
• Deadlines. The reason for the increase in the production time of non—standard windows is the same as the rise in price - a large proportion of manual labor in production. In addition, profile bending is one of the longest stages in the manufacture of a window, and it cannot be reduced precisely because of the peculiarities of the technology. Therefore, urgent production of a non-standard window is possible only in very rare cases.
• Mounting. It is more difficult to install a non-standard window than a typical rectangular design. So it is possible to avoid unpleasant surprises during installation or during the most efficient operation only by involving highly qualified craftsmen in the installation.

The quality of raw materials and components — from the profile to double—glazed windows and fittings - also affects the final result. Therefore, it is worth ordering metal-plastic windows of non-standard shape from trusted manufacturers, and when choosing a complete set, listen to the advice of a consultant manager of the window salon. 

You can order a high-quality professional installation of metal-plastic windows by following the link