Balconies made of plastic and metal-plastic in terms of their glazing are today the choice of more than half of those who decide to glaze their balcony. There is no need to be surprised here, since it is of this type glazing allows you to achieve the highest possible thermal insulation when using a multi-chamber profile and double-glazed windows.

However, both materials for glazing and its implementation are quite expensive, since installation companies offer complex glazing, providing a considerable markup for metal-plastic and plastic balconies and demanding a high fee for the work.

There are also alternative option– order windows for your balcony directly from the manufacturer and install them yourself. In some cases, this will save up to 50% of money.

So, in this article we will look at how to mount plastic balcony on one's own.

Preparation for glazing the balcony

Balcony measurements for ordering plastic frames

Before ordering glazing frames, you will need to carry out the necessary measurements and calculations. You should get rid of the old glazing structure - dismantle the frames and fasteners, remove all interfering elements to the base of the parapet and the upper ceiling slab.

Measurements are made as follows:

1. Using a tape measure, measure the distance from the ceiling to the parapet, as well as from one wall to another.
2. Check the parapet for horizontalness using a level.
3. Check the stove in the same way. If the misalignment is more than 2.5 cm, measures will need to be taken to level the surfaces.
4. In addition, you should inspect the bottom one and estimate whether it can withstand additional double-glazed windows and plastic for the balcony, since the weight of the structure is still considerable.

As a rule, this information is enough for the manufacturer to produce frames, and your order will be accepted for processing. In order for the frame to fit exactly into the glazing opening, the dimensions of the frame should be reduced by half a centimeter on each side.

The resulting cracks can subsequently be easily blown out with polyurethane foam.

In addition to the dimensions, you will need to determine the “intimacy” of the profile and double-glazed windows for future glazing.

The more cameras, the more expensive and heavier it is.

It is better to order good fittings for metal-plastic and plastic balconies, since the frequency of adjustment and the service life of the glazing as a whole will depend on it.

Preparing the balcony parapet for glazing installation

If the parapet is not reliable enough to install plastic frames and double-glazed windows on it, it will need to be strengthened or a new one built, preferably brick. As was said, the surface of the parapet must be strictly horizontal.

To attach the frames to the parapet, you can provide a metal corner around the perimeter of the opening where the glazing will be installed, while the plane outlined by the corner must be strictly regular and vertical.

However, you don’t have to mount the corner, since the frames will be fastened directly to the supporting structures.

If you have improved your balcony or loggia with everything necessary, namely: equipped with glazing, insulation and high-quality heating, then now is the time to start creating a beautiful interior decoration. To decorate a balcony room there are many suitable materials, but if you want to save a little and prefer neat, cozy interior, then in this case the best option the balcony will be finished plastic panels. This material is considered universal, practical and well suited for interior cladding.

Balcony finishing with plastic panels

PVC materials

The interior or facade of the balcony can be sheathed with seamless panels, which ready-made version they look like a homogeneous fabric (without installation gaps) or sutures, which have small gaps between the plates.

Also, plastic panels are distinguished by the following characteristics:

1. size;
2. surface finishing of the material;
3. manufacturing method.

For facing work on the inside of a loggia (balcony), PVC material is often used, the average width of which varies from 0.25 to 0.4 m. A good alternative is plastic lining with an even smaller 0.2 meter width (not bad for ceiling cladding).

Thermal printing

Plastic panels have a variety of surface finishing, one of which is thermal printing. Using thermal printing, artistic design of any degree of complexity is applied to the surface of the finishing material, from bright, rich but simple drawings to exotic episodes, photographs and complex mosaics. Each design is transferred to plastic using a special thermal film, after which it is fixed with varnish to protect the artwork and create a more attractive, shiny surface.

Offset printing

Other no less practical way transferring a picture - use offset printing. It can be used to convey almost everything, including complex paintings, photographs, etc., but as practice shows, various imitations of stone are in great demand. Displayed through a typographic printing form and varnished to create a beautiful, glossy plate surface.

Lamination

The third option for finishing plastic is laminated film with a finished image. A sticker on a PVC surface made of laminated film can convey a high-quality image of any drawing, photograph, etc., as well as high-quality imitations of natural elements of nature: stone, wooden materials, leather, etc. Plastic panels covered with laminated film are considered excellent material for finishing work, which is antistatic, low price and easy to clean.

Options for finishing with plastic panels

There are several methods pvc manufacturing material: so-called “sandwich” and pressing and stamping.

• Conventional plastic for cladding is produced by pressing a polymer substance or polyvinyl chloride, which is almost half composed of rock salt and various components such as petroleum products, dyes, etc.
• Standard “sandwich” panel consists of two-layer PVC with heat-insulating material inside.

The single-sided panel has a surface that is stronger than the standard one and is successfully used for interior cladding.

“Sandwich” - slabs, in most cases do not need additional hydro, steam or thermal insulation, but during plastic sheathing, sometimes I have minor difficulties due to the size of the products.

Pros and cons of working with plastic panels

Over the past few decades, finishing balconies with PVC panels has become quite firmly established among the population. Firstly, it is completely environmentally friendly, since the base does not contain polyvinyl chloride. toxic substances, secondly, the material has high resistance to wet environments.

The following factors are also considered significant advantages of the material:

• For installation plastic trim there is no need to additionally level the surface of the wall or ceiling.
• The panel is lightweight, which does not overload general design balcony
• The material is not picky about care (one damp cloth is enough for cleaning).
• It is inexpensive and has huge assortment colors and textures.
• Easy to install.

Covering a balcony with plastic panels has several disadvantages:

1. Change features of PVC under the influence of high temperatures.
2. Sensitivity to low temperatures.
3. Weak resistance to physical stress.

When a temperature rise occurs from direct contact with fire (heating, ignition), plastic emits acrid smoke and a toxic odor that can threaten human health.

It is advisable to decorate the balcony with plastic panels only on insulated structures, since the plastic is deformed from intense exposure to low temperatures.

Some construction PVC is practically unable to reflect even moderate mechanical damage, so the recommended density of the material should be at least 8 mm.

Step-by-step instructions for finishing a balcony with plastic panels

Installation of a balcony room is carried out using:

• Direct mounting metal profile.
• Angular dihedral metal profile.

The straight one is fixed from the side of the crossbar or through the side, wide part of the sheathing, and the angular one is attached to the internal as well as external corners.

Mounting on metal frame

In fact, covering with PVC panels with your own hands is not so difficult, the main thing is to know a certain installation technique. The most important thing you will need is patience, attentiveness and strict adherence to the instructions.

Tools

The first thing you can’t do without when covering a balcony is tools, namely:

1. Electric drill or hammer drill.
2. Screwdriver (with magnetic attachment).
3. Construction level.
4. Foam for installation.
5. Plastic skirting boards and corners.
6. Window sill and galvanized profile.
7. Insulation, hangers and small dowels (screws are also useful).

After the tools are prepared, we can begin cladding the balcony or finishing the loggia with PVC panels.

Lathing

High-quality sheathing of a balcony room is one of the most important matters in lining a balcony, because... it holds all the plastic material.

Floor insulation

To install it, we mark the exact markings of the future structure on the wall surface. After markings, we place the metal profile with a cross-section in the shape of the letter U (distance 0.5-0.7 m) on screws or dowels and attach it to the wall.

Finishing the ceiling

High-quality cladding of a balcony with plastic panels with your own hands begins only with the ceiling, and after you have installed the metal frame, installation is carried out in the following sequence:

• We fix the starting metal profile on the ceiling surface. Using a hammer drill, we drill holes in the profile itself (don’t forget about the wall) and insert dowels. After this, we secure the frame with a screwdriver.
• We determine the middle of the future structure, after which we fix the profile on iron pendants. If the width of the loggia allows, then one central one will be enough, and if it exceeds 120 cm, it is advisable to use two.
• We mount starters designed for installing PVC panels to the central galvanized profile.
• If necessary, we make wiring for future lighting of the balcony.
• We install the first plastic in starting profile, fix it with self-tapping screws.
• We place the following plastic panels butt to each other and also screw them to the profile.
• Shorten latest PVC so that the material extends 5 mm beyond the previous plastic.
• We swap the two outer panels so that the last one fits into the farthest profile without the slightest gap.

Installation of plastic panels on the balcony

If necessary, use plastic moldings to change the length of the sheathing materials.

Installation of wall decoration

After we have dealt with the ceiling, we move on to installing the first wall. The work will be very similar to installing a ceiling, although the installation of finishing the loggia with plastic panels, like the balcony, should begin with the space under the windows.

• We begin to install the galvanized profile below the windows.
• We establish the accuracy of placement of the outer metal profiles using a building level.
• We fix it in the middle of the wall and at floor level.
• We mount several hangers on a metal base under the windows (the gap should be 0.5 meters).
• We fill the empty space between the profile and the wall with construction insulation, for example mineral wool, and then seal all the cracks with foam for installation. Decorating balconies with photo panels should look exactly like this:
• Next, we fix the guide metal profile on the hangers.
• We install plastic panels on fixed profiles using regular dowels or self-tapping screws.
• We eliminate various gaps between the PVC wall cladding and the floor with plastic skirting boards, and close the gaps in the ceiling area with a special ceiling plinth.

Fastening plastic panels

After we installed the last plinth, the covering of your balcony has come to an end. Please note that the cost of covering a balcony with PVC panels is really not high, plus, this is really one of the most basic works in the major improvement of your home. Videos on the material will help clearly.

Every time I start a conversation with a customer about the need to prepare a balcony for glazing, I have to observe the following picture: the customer, who was just in a great mood, begins to look at me strangely and all his enthusiasm disappears. Moreover, the customer becomes nervous and irritable. Do you know why? At this moment, he sees me as a person who is trying to “cheat” him out of his hard-earned money. What kind of preparation is this? Why would that be? Let's maybe do without her? Let's not get by! I’ll say more, we won’t work at all

Why do you need to prepare a balcony?

It’s hard to disagree that installing a frame without preparation is much faster, but, as they say, “the game is not worth the candle.” If such a balcony lasts, it will last for a maximum of 2 years. To be more precise, it will not always hold up on its own, but in windy weather you and your family will begin to hold it, like the heroes of the fairy tale about the turnip. Otherwise, you risk becoming the hero of all news channels.

Well, it’s not so bad if you crash the car of a neighbor who, according to his horoscope, is having a bad day, but if you “damage” Tamara Ivanovna’s flowerbed, you won’t end up with grief, I’m telling you for sure. I would like to note that the journalists were a little “out of touch” and did not report what happened entirely accurately. They claim that some part collapsed plastic frame, but this is not at all true. Looking through the eyes of a “seasoned wolf,” I can confidently say that the fallen part of the glazing is nothing more than a light aluminum frame, and not a PVC structure at all. But this is a lyrical digression; let us return to the essence of the problem.

The thing is that 9 out of 10 balconies still require preparation, and that tenth one also needs it, but not so much. It's all about the design features. A standard balcony is a lonely and gloomy slab, which is fenced with metal bars that look very intimidating. Moreover, such a balcony fence not only runs along the very edge of the slab, but quite often “leaves its boundaries” and simply sticks out.

Why is it better to immediately contact house construction professionals?

It is simply impossible to place the frame directly on such a fence, since there will be nothing to secure its top, and it will begin to dangle, balancing in the air. For some, unscrupulous service providers, in pursuit of a long ruble, undertake to perform such work and simply sit the frame on foam. Well, what can we say? Yes, such a frame will last “on sheer enthusiasm” for a year, maybe two, but no more.

Be sure that one “fine day” such glazing will definitely want to feel all the delights of free fall on the heads of citizens idly staggering under the balconies. However, no one will tell you about this when you place an order, since by the time your balcony collapses, the fly-by-night company will most likely cease to exist. Thus, I strongly do not recommend that you save in this way and immediately turn to professionals who will not agree to do such hackwork under any circumstances.

How to properly glaze a balcony

In order for the glazing to last not 2 years, but all 20, it is necessary to properly prepare the balcony and create the correct installation plane. First of all, for this purpose, a lightweight fence made of wooden beams with a cross-section of 50x70 mm is installed. At the same time, there is no need to dismantle the old fence; it will still serve us well - we can attach siding or any other material for exterior finishing to it.

This timber structure will become a newer and stronger parapet, which will provide a normal plane for installing the glazing of your balcony. You can see all the benefits in the illustration below.

As you can see in the picture, the new support does not always fit closely to the old one metal structure, and is somewhat behind it. On a loggia, the required “shift” can be 14 centimeters, and in a standard “Khrushchev” balcony - only 3-7. Of course, such a design will “steal” a little usable area balcony, but the glazing can serve you not for two years, but for twenty. An undeniable advantage, isn't it? If you compare the cost of preparing a balcony with the cost of a new aluminum frame, which you will have to purchase and install if the old one falls on your neighbors’ heads, then the benefit will be obvious.

Glazing installation

By the way, the cost of preparatory work, as a rule, already includes work on exterior decoration balcony, which is carried out before the start of the glazing process on preparatory stage work. The balcony has been sheathed, the parapet has been strengthened, what next? Then we install the glazing itself and, it would seem, that’s all? But no!

Then the customer is faced with a choice: to complete or partial finishing of the balcony. Partial means that we simply cover with finishing material (for example, plastic) those places where the unsightly underside of the siding that covers our balcony from the outside is visible. Full turnkey finishing means that our craftsmen will cover all the walls, ceiling and floor, attach clothes dryers, and also install electricity with all the necessary sockets, switches, lamps or sconces. On such a balcony you can drink coffee and spend the night if you had a fight with your wife.

Which balcony finishing is better to choose, turnkey or partial?

Here the choice is yours. Of course, turnkey finishing of a balcony seems more attractive, as it has an unparalleled appearance and makes the balcony a completely living space. The only negative is the rather high cost, since a large amount of materials and not free labor of craftsmen are needed. Partial finishing is much cheaper, but here we get an anecdotal situation: “Is it possible to make a bullet out of shit? It’s possible, but the bullet will be shitty!” Well, not exactly, but the appearance is certainly not the same! See for yourself!

Glazing of loggias

So, okay, something took me “to the wrong steppe.” We have already talked about balconies, let's talk about loggias and their glazing. Some skeptics believe that the loggia should be prepared for glazing only if you have chosen “ warm option"or PVC - glazing. They say that a lightweight aluminum frame can be added just like that. This is all nonsense, guys, I’m telling you for sure! Preparation for aluminum frames is equally, if not more, important. Why, if the frame “on snot” (read - on polyurethane foam) lasts a year or two, then it is not at all possible to install such a “structure” on the loggia. Well, of course, it’s possible to install it, but the main thing is to then capture a couple of would-be builders so that they hold this frame like that for 20 years. Otherwise, we remove the handles and the structure goes flying towards the ground. Justify? Yes, easily!

Why you need to glaze “correctly”

In most panel structures, the parapets are simply “glued” external wall. In this case, when installing the glazing, only the lower edge of the structure can be secured properly. The top can be fixed only if external plates are installed, which are in no way able to protect the glazing from wind of even the smallest intensity. Thus, at the first more or less strong wind, the doors of such a frame will simply “slip” out of the grooves and free fall.

Thus, let's sum up the intermediate result. Glazing the loggia as it is is not only a waste of time and money, but also a very unsafe undertaking. Even if such a structure does not collapse on the first day, the entire load of the top plate will fall on the grooves and rollers, and you will still not be able to open and close the doors normally. Unless by pushing sharply and making an effort. The main thing is not to forget to stretch the trampoline under the balcony - then you will have a chance to repeat the experiment several times, and not just once, since the frames will still rush to the ground.

How to avoid troubles after glazing

Thus, in order to avoid the horrors described above, not shudder at night and feel confident, you need to slightly move the installation plane so that it is under the ceiling slab. Then you can sleep peacefully! Everything will work as it should, and for more than one year.

If only one method of strengthening is suitable for preparing balconies, then when preparing a loggia you will have two options at once - strengthening with supporting structure made of wooden beams or foam block masonry. Well, here the choice is relatively simple: if you are installing a PVC structure, a foam block is perfect, and if it’s lightweight aluminum, then a wooden base is sufficient.

What to hide, the preparation will “eat up” a little of the loggia area, but you won’t need to take care of the glazing for 15-20 years. To find out exactly how much your balcony will shrink, simply hang a plumb line from the edge of the top slab. You can use it as a plumb line simple thread and a “hundredth” nail. Wherever the nail points, that’s where the optimal plane for installing the glazing is.

It is this plane that is intended to assemble the structure from timber. Don't think that tree is not the best reliable material. Thanks to modern technologies processing and innovative methods for processing timber, as well as some tricks that are known only good craftsmen(shielding, spacers, etc.), this design will last for decades. If you add a durable and strong aluminum frame to this, you can forget about repairing your balcony for 20 years.

Upon completion of all the preparatory work, you can, with a light heart, order everything you need for glazing the balcony and begin work, which, in this case, is guaranteed to be completed with high quality. Don't forget that all of the above preparatory work Suitable only for “cold” aluminum glazing. If you are planning to install " warm glazing» made of PVC, then you can’t do without masonry made of foam blocks. Yes, of course, there is a lot of work to prepare a balcony or loggia, but it is completely justified and necessary to absolutely increase its service life, as well as your safety and the safety of others.

Balcony covered with plastic panels

When starting to arrange a balcony or loggia, each owner sets the goal of achieving the same comfort, convenience and harmonious design as in living rooms your apartment. Additional square meters renovated space will always come in handy for organizing a recreation area, home workshop, greenhouse, living area, study or library.

The process of finishing a balcony becomes more complicated in the absence and insufficient insulation of the side walls, floor, ceiling, or when glazing is made without the use of glazing. External factors in the territory of such a fenced space will be much more pronounced than in warm, isolated rooms. And hardly any major or cosmetic repairs balcony will withstand the pressure of such destructive unfavorable factors as the impact critical temperatures and their significant differences, high humidity, drafts, direct sunlight, the spread of harmful microorganisms, the risk of fungus formation. Therefore, finishing the balcony will require taking into account these factors, certain knowledge and skills, the right choice finishing materials. One of the most proven materials for covering a large area of ​​a balcony room is a plastic panel.

Advantages of facing material

Owners of balconies that have not yet been equipped with practical plastic are attracted by such positive properties:

1. Durability. The performance qualities of PVC panels ensure the use of cladding material without loss of basic characteristics and properties over a long period (up to 30 years). Replacing panels usually occurs due to the desire to change the appearance of the room, and not due to the loss of attractive appearance or its original properties. In this regard, the material’s characteristics are close to laminate.
2. Environmentally friendly. The material for making panels is safe, without toxic additives. Its environmental friendliness is confirmed by recommendations for use for finishing work in children's and medical institutions. Polyurethane glue, which is often used for installing panels, is also safe.
3. Aesthetics. The inclusion of plastic panels in interiors of any style is explained by their harmonious combination with the surrounding decorative and finishing elements. The manufacturer’s desire to satisfy the tastes of any potential buyer is expressed in the rich variety of panels offered in various colors, textures, designs, and patterns, which can be installed in any combination during installation. Surfaces covered with this quality material look both luxurious and natural.
4. Resistance to adverse external factors. Laminated plastic panels are resistant to ultraviolet radiation and do not fade when exposed to sun rays. They also retain their appearance and shape during temperature and humidity changes. The melamine resin coating serves as protection against thermal and chemical influences.
5. Versatility. Concrete, plywood or brick - it doesn't matter. The panels look the same on any surface they cover.
6. Easy to install. Standard panels can be easily cut to size or installed entirely. They are simply attached to the sheathing and to each other using the tongue-and-groove principle. The assembled structure is solid, without cracks or gaps.
7. Availability. Product price range various manufacturers makes plastic panels an affordable material for every family. The material is also economical - there is almost no waste left after its installation.
8. Plastic panels can be glued directly to the surface or fixed to a pre-prepared sheathing. In both cases, they will hide all defects and irregularities of the walls and partitions being sewn up.
9. After installation of the panels, no joint processing is required and subsequent finishing, as is the case with drywall. This significantly facilitates, speeds up and reduces the cost of finishing work.
10. Caring for the panels will not cause problems. They are easy to clean with soapy water. For matte surfaces, an abrasive cleaner can be used.
11. Air cavities between the ribs of the panels give the material soundproofing functions.

Operational disadvantages of plastic

1. Frequent mechanical impacts on the surface of PVC panels can result in scratches and abrasions. They are especially noticeable on products with a laminated glossy finish.
2. Sheathing made of PVC panels doesn't "breathe" How wooden lining. Therefore, the humidity in closed and insulated balcony boxes is increased. Regular ventilation and forced ventilation help maintain a comfortable microclimate.
3. Panel material sensitive to direct sunlight may deform due to sudden temperature changes. For balconies facing the sunny side of the building, you need to provide thick curtains or blinds.
4. Durability of plastic panels to mechanical shock impacts is quite low.

Preparing the balcony for finishing

Preparing surfaces for installation of panels is very important stage repair work. If it is carried out competently and possible nuances are taken into account, the final quality of the work performed will not disappoint.

Standard training includes:

• Preliminary cleaning of things and garbage.
• Strengthening the balcony parapet metal corners, rods, jumpers.
• Study of the wall surface. Beat off the broken pieces with a hammer. The resulting depressions, cavities and previously discovered cracks and crevices are covered up cement mortar. When affected by fungus, the walls are treated with special solutions or burned with a blowtorch.
• If plastic panels are intended to be glued directly to the wall, then the surface of the latter is properly leveled. When using sheathing to fasten panels, all its slats are aligned so that their outer edges, to which the panels will be attached, lie in the same plane.
• All metal parts and elements need to be primed (painted) or treated protective composition from corrosion.
• If the balcony glazing is not made along the entire perimeter of the parapet, it is necessary to make a frame (metal or wooden beam) for subsequent fastening of the outer and inner cladding. For cold balconies, wooden sheathing is not recommended due to the property of wood to become saturated with moisture, deform upon subsequent drying, and be susceptible to damage by microorganisms. The disadvantage of such lathing is its fire hazard. When using wooden beams and slats, care must be taken to impregnate them with antiseptics or treat them with special mastics. For a warm balcony, energy-saving double-glazed windows are used. The parapet is insulated under the glazing frame cellular concrete, mineral wool, polystyrene foam and other materials.

Important! An insulating “pie” will help avoid many operational problems if it contains a layer of waterproofing (with outside) and a vapor barrier membrane (internal). There must be a gap between the layers of finishing and insulation for ventilation and vapor removal.

Selecting the location of the panels and making the sheathing

The height of the balcony room will visually increase when the panels are laid vertically. But at the same time it will seem less wide. The opposite effect is achieved when laying horizontally.

Lathing made of wooden bars

To speed up the installation process, make it convenient, and smooth out as much as possible the unevenness of the sheathed surface during further installation of the panels is the main task of the sheathing. It can be made of wood or galvanized metal profile. When choosing a vertical option for the arrangement of panels, the lathing is horizontally directed. At horizontal installation– the main guides of the sheathing are mounted vertically. The step between the main beams or profile slats can be 40-100 cm. The rigidity of the entire sheathing is ensured by jumpers. They are installed between the main guides at right angles to them.

Metal profile lathing

Pay attention! The accuracy of the lathing geometry is checked with a level. This point is especially important for installing cladding in one plane on uneven surface areas.

The sheathing bars should be:

• At the end of the installed panels, usually at the top.
• Below, at the junction of the wall and the floor.
• In the corners of the balcony room.
• Under the windows.
• Along the frame of the window and doorway.

Installation of plastic panels

The first strip of the panel, cut to size, is aligned to the mounting location using a level. After this, it is fixed and becomes the base for the correctly oriented installation of subsequent strips.

General rules for installing PVC panels:

• The horizontal cladding option involves sequential installation of panels from bottom to top.
• Vertical - from the corner of the side wall towards the window frame.
• Long walls are sheathed last.
• If this is provided for by the design solution, the ceiling panels are hemmed.
• At the end of the casing, a plinth is installed, ceiling cornice, moldings.

Summarizing the material presented, we can confidently recommend plastic panels for modifying balconies and loggias. Easy-to-work, high-quality material will allow you to carry out repairs with minimal investment, the result of which will delight the eye for decades. And the additional meters of space can be effectively used by the owners for their intended purposes.

The balcony, as an integral part of the apartment, must correspond to it in everything. He must support comfortable temperature, protect from wind, frost and heat, be waterproof and at the same time also aesthetically pleasing. In order to implement the latter function, it is necessary to finish the balcony with plastic panels.

Types of materials for balcony cladding

The construction market sells a huge variety of cladding materials for loggias. Here are just a few of them:

• Wooden lining. It comes in two types - from coniferous trees, represented by pine and cedar, and deciduous - from alder, oak and linden. An undeniable advantage is environmental friendliness and durability of this material, and the downside is the price and weight of the skin.
• Sandwich panels. They have two front layers, between which there is insulation. At flat surface they can be attached using adhesive. The downside is that they only come in white.
• MDF panels. Decorating a balcony with MDF panels is easy to maintain and is one of the most common ways to decorate a balcony. This material is nothing more than compressed wood shavings, which are glued together with lignin. For decoration, such shavings are covered with a thin film, imitating various natural materials, for example, stone or wood.

Balcony finishing scheme PVC panels

PVC panels or plastic

A separate point should be considered the features of plastic panels, as the most popular and affordable cladding material.

• Affordable price. The cost of plastic panels will depend on different configurations. However, for most families with average incomes the price will remain acceptable.
• Easy installation. Finishing a balcony with PVC panels is a very simple process. If you carefully follow the instructions, self-cladding the whole balcony is quite real. An important factor in favor of plastic is the easy replacement of one plate with another in case minor damage, or simple dismantling of all materials during a major overhaul.
• Durability. The service life of plastic panels ranges from 25 to 50 years. This material does not emit harmful substances and is completely harmless (except in case of fire). The safety of the panels is ensured by their resistance to aggressive detergents and accidentally spilled chemical compounds, as well as resistance to all kinds of rot and fungi.
• Quality. When the surface is exposed to sunlight for a long time, the plastic panels do not fade. Therefore, if one plate is replaced with another, there will be no difference and the balcony will retain its original appearance. In addition, PVC is antistatic and has excellent resistance to dust, which greatly facilitates the cleaning process.
• Practicality. Thanks to thoughtful little details, such as micro-gaps between panels, the walls “breathe” freely. This fact perfectly counteracts mold and mildew.
• Cellular structure of panels. Internal plastic chambers guarantee additional sound and thermal insulation of the material, which allows the use additional area as a living space.
• Variety of models. PVC plastic panels have a wide range of shades and textures, so even the most demanding buyer will find “his” option.

Important! Plastic covering easily susceptible to mechanical damage. Even a slight blow from a sharp or hard object will cause it to rupture, so this material must be handled very carefully and carefully.

How to choose plastic panels

In order to purchase high-quality cladding, you need to pay attention to its following properties:

• Thickness of the outer surface. The thicker it is, the more resistant the panel will be to various damages. It can be from 1.5 to 2.5 mm.
• Number of stiffeners. The number of ribs will indicate the strength of the plastic - the more, the better. European standard– 29 pcs.
• Quality of stiffeners. They should be smooth - without destruction.
• Weight. It depends on the thickness of the walls and the number of ribs and can range from 1.7 – 2.2 kg.
• Chalk content in plastic. With a large amount of chalk in the composition, the panel loses its flexibility and cracks. High-quality material, when bent by 30-50% it does not leave a single dent.
• The plates must be from the same batch, otherwise they may differ in color.

Important! The color of the panels should not be greyish. Otherwise, this will mean that the plastic is molded from low-quality recycled materials.

The orientation of the balcony to the cardinal directions is very important aspect, especially when choosing the color scheme of the material. If the balcony is low, oriented to the north, and is shaded by tall bushes, then choosing a dark-colored finish is inappropriate - a small room will look even smaller in volume.

How to calculate the required number of plastic panels

In order not to buy extra squares of material, you need to first make exact calculations planned area for cladding.

• We measure the area of ​​each surface. To do this, multiply the width by the height.
• Let's sum up all the areas.
• We calculate the “unnecessary” area of ​​openings - windows and doors.
• We subtract the square meters of openings from the sum of all areas - this will be the final result.
• Now we divide the resulting difference by the area of ​​one plastic panel. They are different, so it is very important to clarify the dimensions of the selected model in advance.

What tools are needed to decorate a loggia with plastic panels?

Before you start work, you need to take care not only of the material, but also of the availability of all the tools. Below is a list of the main “helpers”:

• Stationery knife or hacksaw. They are needed for cutting plastic panels. Both tools are excellent for these purposes.
• Construction level. It is necessary when installing a wooden base.
• Square and ruler.
• Drill. The wooden sheathing is secured using dowels or long self-tapping screws with plastic sleeves, the installation of which requires a drill.
• Construction stapler. The panel itself is attached to a wooden block with brackets. An option with a screwdriver or screwdriver is possible.

Methods for installing plastic panels

Covering the balcony with plastic panels is possible in two options:

• Glue method. In order to save space, some resort to simply gluing the panels to the wall. This is done very easily and quickly. However, it should be taken into account that work surface must be perfect - smooth and clean. The adhesive method has two significant drawbacks - loss of thermal insulation, because there is no air chamber between the wall and the panel and partial repairs in the future are impracticable.
• Fastening plastic to wooden sheathing. This method requires a little more accuracy than the previous one, but all its disadvantages here turn into advantages.

Important! When using plastic panels, you need to know that at high or low temperatures they may become deformed. Therefore, the fastening should be non-rigid, which will prevent deterioration of the material.

Step-by-step instructions for covering a loggia

In order to cover a balcony with plastic panels with your own hands, you need to follow simple instructions. The master does not require any special training for the job.

Preparing work surfaces

In order for the cladding to be of high quality and durable, you first need to take care of the base:

• First, we carefully inspect the walls for cracks and defects - we need to get rid of them favorably.
• Then you need to slightly enlarge the crack. To widen the gaps, you can use a grinder.
• Then the crack must be thoroughly cleaned of dust and debris.
• The resulting recess is necessary.
• The entire surface must be coated with a protective composition (sealing and antiseptic properties). They are represented on the construction market huge amount, but if you need an economical option, then you should use PVA putty. It has a low cost and acceptable quality.

Surface primer

Fastening the sheathing

The lathing is a special frame that is attached to the wall and on which plastic panels will subsequently be fixed. It comes in two types - wooden and metal. The latter is well suited for damp rooms, because... the profile will not absorb moisture and become damp, but the cost will be significantly higher than wood and installation will require certain professional skills.

High-quality installation of the grille will, in the future, make it possible to make partial renovation, replacing just one or more damaged plates. When completely replacing plastic with some other material, there is no need to change the sheathing - the old one perfectly withstands the same thickness of the material.

• Before installing the sheathing on the walls, you need to make markings. This will greatly simplify the installation of the guides. When drawing lines, you should use a level. Such actions will be useful later in checking the quality of installation.
• Before fastening wooden blocks needs to be treated with a protective compound. To do this, you can take PVA putty or motor oil. This impregnation will protect the wood from rotting, mold and fungi.
• Now you need to fill the slats every 40-50 cm. The first one needs to be attached 5 cm from the ceiling, checking the clarity of the direction building level. All subsequent bars must run in strict parallel to the previous one.
• The planks are fastened using dowels or self-tapping screws with plastic tips. There is no need to rush to tighten the rail to the wall. A situation may arise when the level shows a skew and then you will have to add small plates to restore a perfectly flat surface. The dowel should extend into the wall by 3-4 cm (excluding plaster).

Important! When attaching the grille, you should take into account the places where plastic breaks most often - at the level of the knee, waist and shoulder. In these places, fixing the panels to the wood is mandatory.

Lathing for plastic panels

Insulation of the loggia

How to cover a balcony so that it becomes not only beautiful, but also warm? This worries many who want to cover the balcony themselves. To do this you need:

• Choose insulation. The simplest is inexpensive foam. It is acceptable in density and is not afraid of moisture, which makes it the most popular option. Extruded polystyrene foam will significantly exceed polystyrene foam in its characteristics, but the price of such insulation will be much more expensive. Mineral wool — great option, there is only one drawback - it needs additional waterproofing. Without it, when moisture gets on the material, the insulation immediately loses its properties.
• Place insulation evenly. The polystyrene foam should be placed tightly between the wooden sheathing, and the gaps should be filled with foam.

Important! When warm climatic conditions, as insulation, you can use foil penofol. It is evenly distributed and attached to the wall before work with wooden sheathing begins.

Installation of plastic on walls is usually done vertically, and on the ceiling - in transverse stripes. There is also a third installation option - diagonal, but here you cannot do without the help of specialists - you need very good dexterity. In addition, the amount of waste will be significantly greater than with other methods.

• First you need to staple the first guide. They happen different types: U-shaped, for the initial installation of the first strip, H-shaped for increasing the short strip, F-shaped for hiding cavities, L-shaped, corner, ceiling and floor, respectively, each for its own purpose.
• Fixing the first plank. The sheathing process should begin from the farthest and most difficult corner of the balcony. The bar must be inserted into the guide profile and its verticality must be leveled. Then fix it by attaching the thin side to wooden sheathing self-tapping screws.
• Subsequent strips are inserted into the grooves of the previous one in turn, using special lock(on click).
• Attaching plastic to wooden beams should occur in a checkerboard pattern - through one panel.
• In order to adjust the plastic to the desired size, you need to use a hacksaw for cutting crosswise, and a regular stationery knife for longitudinal cutting.
• For reliable joining, the outer plates should be pre-cut to the required size and only then placed in a row.

Thus, you need to go over all surfaces. The joints must be closed with special plastic corners.