Advantages and device of window stops

Today almost all plastic windows are installed. They are durable, functional, provide reliable heat and sound insulation. To increase the comfort of PVC glass, while making them safe for children and pets, allow window guards.

The window stop is a design that allows you to slightly open the window, leaving a small gap and fixing the window sash in a predetermined position. The device got the name “comb” for its external similarity to the comb. It has several slots.A rod can be placed in any of them, which allows keeping the ajar window in one position, and for households and pets - not to approach too close to the window opening.

The comb is installed on the windows of the rotary type, that is, on those where the sash opens exclusively in the horizontal direction. In fact, the limiter allows, if necessary, to open the sash like a window leaf. However, nothing prevents to install the comb on the windows with tilt-and-turn mechanism. Its use will reduce the gap formed when the sash is opened in the vertical direction.

The design consists of a strip with slots and a latch position of the window sash (rod). The plate is mounted to the frame, the lock is installed in the casement window. By installing the retainer in one or another groove, it is possible to open the window within 1-10 cm. The opening angle depends on the length of the groove with the grooves and the number of the latter.

The manufacturers of limiters usually indicate 2 main functions of the comb:

• ventilation premises (especially important for windows that do not have inlet valves, flaps that open horizontally only);
• protection glass unit from damage due to sudden slamming of the sash due to the draft, strong wind.

Ensuring the safety of children and pets is another advantage of the limiter.

In this position, you can leave the window at least for the whole day (which is especially important in the warm season). Opening the window literally 5-15 cm and using the limiter, you will ensure optimal air circulation in the room. However, it is important to understand that the comb only fixes the window, but is by no means a locking device. Residents of the first floors should not leave the windows open and fixed limiters, leaving the house.

In addition to the obvious advantages, the design also has "cons", which are better known until the purchase and installation of the comb.Installation of the device assumes the presence of additional perforations in the profile, which slightly reduces the insulating properties of the glass unit. Sound insulation coefficient is also reduced by 2-3 dB. Finally, the presence of holes leads to a decrease in the strength of the profile, possible violations of the geometry.

If we compare the inlet valves with limiters, then the latter, of course, lose to them in their safety and functionality. Operation of glass with valves is more convenient, but such products are more expensive.

Limiting elements can vary in the number of slots. Standard models have 4 slots, but there are also versions with 5 slots. In addition, there are several types of combs.

Designed for window flaps (eg window vents). It has 3-4 slots, fixes the sash during ventilation of the room.

Imperceptible to the eye analogue outer comb. In terms of its function and the number of slots, this option is identical to that described above. The difference is the large aesthetics of the window, since the built-in limiter is imperceptible.

Probably, such a name will seem unknown to many, although everyone has come across, probably, with such mechanisms for the valves. A continuous brake is usually installed on the doors of shops and offices. A person can only pull the door and open it. No need to close. Thanks to the built-in mechanism, the door will slam shut automatically.

A similar system is mounted on the window, not allowing the sash to close spontaneously or to open too much. Such a mechanism can not be pulled by force, trying to cover the window, because it can break.

Structurally, it consists of 2 elements, one of which is fixed on the frame, and the second - on the profile. Between themselves, they are connected by a metal-based cable (sometimes in a plastic sheath). There are models where the cable is replaced by a thin chain. The micro-ventilation function is realized due to the small (up to 20 cm) cable length.

Unlike the standard comb, it does not allow to fix the flap, but only holds it, preventing further plowing of the window. At the same time, the cable stop is stronger than the comb and can withstand a tensile force of up to 550 kg (depending on the model).

For protection against children and unauthorized penetration from the outside, a cable stop is more suitable than a comb. For airing is better to choose the latter.

It is the most effective stop, providing protection from children opening the window. It is a metal handle with valves. On its outer part is a castle. Opening is made by key.

Using the key, you can securely close the sash or give it a folding position. In appearance, such constructions are indistinguishable from ordinary pens. The inconvenience is the need to preserve the key. To do this, find a place inaccessible to children. The use of a key also provides for installed on the double-glazed window of the invoice and mortise locks, as well as a wrap-stop and blockers for sliding-type windows.

Depending on the material used, there are also several types of combs.

This is the most accessible type.It can have several color options, it goes well with PVC structures. The basis is ABS (impact resistant) plastic. The standard number of slots is 3-4.

Among the disadvantages, we can single out the smallest indicator of strength and, accordingly, a shorter period of operation. It is not recommended to install such products on windows facing the windy side, because under heavy loads they can deform and burst.

Metal combs stronger and more durable, and therefore have a higher cost. It is important to consider that the metal of the product must have anti-corrosion protection. Brass is considered to be the best material for the construction. To protect it from corrosion, a zinc layer is required. Usually such products have 4-5 teeth. The color range is very wide (copper, gold, silver, gray shades).

Such a device includes 2 materials at once - plastic and metal. As a rule, the latter serves as the basis for the retainer, while the comb is made of plastic. The number of teeth can vary from 3 to 5. More often produce white products of this type.Sometimes you can find brown combs designed for windows with a profile for wood. Color options are usually made to order.

Depending on the type of installation, there are limiters mounted under the sash handle, as well as analogs installed in the end of the window sash.

You can buy products in specialized stores, departments of household supplies, as well as from specialists involved in the production and installation of windows. It is better to give preference to designs from durable materials of simple forms. This will increase the durability of the limiter, reduce the risk of breaking off of its individual elements.

For example, on the balcony doors it is better to install the mechanisms included brake. For overall windows, as well as dormer windows, opening upward, you should choose only metal limiters of increased strength.

If active use of a double-glazed window and its frequent opening / closing is supposed, it is better to give preference to a mechanism with a lock and a key, rather than a usual comb.Then the device will last longer.

The cost of products ranges from 100-500 rubles. It depends on the material of manufacture, manufacturer, number of grooves. The most affordable are plastic models, the more expensive are metallic and combined. Also usually, combs with more slots have a higher price.

Installing the comb will take literally 5 minutes. The process does not require professional skills, all the work can be done by hand. You will need the following tools and materials:

• directly window limiter, the kit which includes the comb itself, the latch and brackets;
• self-tapping screws, which are usually also included in the kit (you can pick them up yourself, the main thing is not to take fasteners that are longer than 12 mm, otherwise it will damage the profile);
• screwdriver or screwdriver;
• a knife (construction or ordinary kitchen), with which you will need to pick up the cap;
• pencil or washable marker for marking;
• drill.

Put a limiter can be in several stages.

• After preparing all the necessary work, drill a few holes in the window using a drill.With this tool you will get perforations without damaging the plastic profile. If we neglect this stage and try to screw in the screws right away, it will not be possible to avoid cracking the profile material.
• Turn the plug at a right angle. To do this, find on its surface a special groove, pick it up with a knife and make a turn of 90 degrees. As soon as the procedure is completed, 2 bolts will be found under the plug. They need to unscrew.
• Remember the position in which the window handle is, then remove it. Avoiding confusion will help to give the handle the same position that it has when the window is open, that is, the handle must be perpendicular to the vertical window.

• Place the limiter bracket in the profile space so that it will later be under the window handle. Perforations for screws should be visible in the holes of the bracket. After that, the handle is installed on the bracket, that is, returns to its original place.
• Take the retainer, align it with the bracket axis (it should fit into the grooves correctly). Having determined the optimum position of the lock, you should make the appropriate marks on the profile.
• In the marked places with the help of a drill with a thin gimlet 2 holes are made. Then you can mount the limiter using screws. After this installation is considered complete.

​​​​A little different installation of the lock in the end of the leaf. This type of installation allows the comb to be located anywhere in the fixed part of the frame. For fastening the latch, use a long self-tapping screw so that it can pierce both internal bridges of the end part of the sash (it is also called overlap). Only in this case, you can count on the reliability of fastening. As with the previous method, it is important to pre-drill the holes for the screws, and already screw the fasteners into them.

Installing a limiter in the end part of the sash usually acts as an alternative option. It is resorted to in the event that under the window handle or in front of it there are fittings, because of which it is impossible to fix the lock.

It is important to note that the window stopper installed in the floating cusps can only be used for plastic windows. Using it in a wooden profile threatens to crack wood in the direction of its fibers.

With this method of installation minimized the risks of leakage of glass, deformation of the frame.

• Among manufacturers of window stoppers products are trusted by customers. Penkid. These are cable holders made of steel, the strength characteristics of which are admirable - they withstand pressures up to 550 kg. They can not be broken, cut with a knife or snack with pliers. The cable length is 200 mm.
• The unmatched German quality is demonstrated by the Roto limiters. For some of them, the manufacturer gives a 10-year warranty. The plastic restraints of this brand are completely safe from the point of view of environmental friendliness, and the metal ones have multi-layer protection against the appearance of corrosion.
• The accessories of another German brand are characterized by high reliability. Rehau.

• If you are looking for more affordable, but quality products, pay attention to the products "Bertha" from domestic producer.
• Accessories of the Turkish brand will be a compromise solution between more expensive and very cheap options. Vorne. Buyers note its durability. Among the disadvantages, there is only the tendency of plastic products to turn yellow after a short period of operation.
• Among reliable blockers emit metal products Palladium wl with a high degree of protection against penetration from the street, a cable stop WR (Russia), complete with which is also attached a key.

• The best limiter to ensure the safety of children, you can call the product "Patrol" from the catalogs Ikea. Users note that the package bundle, including clamps at once for 2 windows and the required number of self-tapping screws, is very convenient. The advantages of this option are universal use. Elements can be installed on wooden and plastic windows that open both outward and inward. In addition, products can be used on sliding windows.

Doctors recommend at least 2-3 times a day to open the window for 4-10 minutes. In winter, airing can be reduced to 2-5 minutes. In addition to the desired temperature regime should monitor the level of humidity in the room. For these purposes, you can use a hydrometer.Optimum humidity indicators for residential premises are 40-60%.

Weak fastening can cause breakage not only of the limiting element, but also of the window profile.

With strong, squally gusts of wind, it is recommended to abandon the use of a comb and close the window. This is due to excessive load on the sash and limiter, which the latter is not able to withstand.

On how to install a window limiter, see the following video.