Window frames on the façade are made of polyurethane. What types of windows are found on building facades? Column and its components

Nowadays, designers and builders have at their disposal quite a lot of ways to make the frames of windows and doors on the side of the facade of a house or building neat and aesthetically pleasing.

For example, the easiest way is to use plastic panels and profiles. It turns out cheap, practical, neat, but quite standard and faceless.

Another option is wooden decor. It looks beautiful and extraordinary, but requires careful and constant care, moreover, such window framing is expensive and short-lived, since wooden decor can crack from exposure to precipitation or the activity of bacteria and insects.

An alternative to wooden decor can be carved platbands made of moisture-resistant wood composite, but the classic architectural style requires other shapes and proportions. In the classical style, until recently, to frame windows and doors on the side of the facade of the house with stucco, heavy decor was used, which requires additional work to prepare the building for decoration and not all walls can withstand the heavy weight of stucco.

There are other ways to design openings, but, in our opinion, façade framing of windows and doors using decorative trims and other elements made of polyurethane is the most best option and from the point of view performance characteristics, and in terms of originality of design and compliance with the classical architectural style.

Window frame made of polyurethane - advantages

Design and development of individual facade decor.

In today's story, we will introduce you to twelve amazing and easy-to-implement concepts for decorating the exterior of window units, which were developed and brought to life by talented craftsmen and specialists.

We invite you to immerse yourself in dazzling photography and see the inspiring solutions and creativity that go into these craftsmanship projects.

If you want to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home, then we have an exceptional selection of exterior window decoration ideas for you. So, let's take a look at a few ideas for inspiration that we have presented for you in this exceptional article:

Add boxes of wildflowers to the front of your family home. A cheerful and bright color palette of inflorescences will enliven the exterior of the house and fill it with natural charm and special magnetism. The photo was shown to the public on the drevsol portal.

Build a small pergola over the window opening. It can be painted to match the color of the walls of the building or contrast with them to create greater expressiveness.

Climbing plants and flowers look especially interesting and attractive on it, creating a romantic and gentle atmosphere. You can find out more about the project on the Talefromthecoopkeeper website.

Add sliding structures with colored coating. They will be able to complement the decor of the windows and facade of the house and become wonderful functional element, which will transform the structure, give it greater practicality and allow it to refract the burning rays of the sun. You can get more useful information about the author of this device on the Ncarchitects resource.

Hang a planter with a wooden canopy near the window, thereby giving your mansion an attractive and magnetic appearance. The pergola can be painted to match the color of the wall surfaces of the building, and the oblong slats will function as a holder for a beautiful flower pot. See more data and detailed instructions for installation of the structure on the Twelveoaksmanor Internet portal.

Install a shelf with flower pots near the opening. It can be made using plastic or textured wood, and laconic and sophisticated supports in the form of forged metal will add elegance and grace to the composition. find out Additional information on the Chiotsrun forum.

Add a unique modern art canopy with a thatched roof. This stunning and unusual cottage decoration will appeal to beach lovers, as it reminds of the sea, sun umbrellas and luxury resorts.

A photograph of this architectural masterpiece was shown to the public on the Houzz website.

Install decorative shutters. They can become an elegant addition to the facade of the apartment, and with their rural appearance bring special creativity and originality to the architecture.

In addition, they perform another functional purpose - they close interior spaces from the scorching rays of the sun. A photo of the engineering project for decorating the exterior of the house was presented to the public on the houzz and houzz forums.

Install wrought iron grilles. They can be made in an elegant and strict design, which will decorate the various architectural styles of the building.

They will also look great in the decoration of the windows of a country house, which can perfectly emphasize its natural charm and attractive aesthetics. Images courtesy of houzz forum, houzz.

Decorate your windowsills for the holiday. A wonderful decoration solution - to complement the external facade of the cottage simple flowerpots, in which various flower arrangements or fir branches with New Year's shiny balls.

Such a design can fill the atmosphere with a solemn mood and color. See more design concepts on the2seasons website.

Accentuate the time of year. This decorative solution will attract unusual house the close attention of passers-by, and will also fill its exterior with brightness and special creativity.

You can place summer or spring flowers, New Year's toys or orange pumpkins for Halloween. Photos of the project are shown to the public on the pages of thegraciousposse, redesignguide.

Paint window units bright and cheerful colors, which will bring expressiveness and special depth to the design of the facade. In the example presented, the facade walls and structural elements of the building were painted in rich colors - blue and pink. Image courtesy of Flickr.

Cover the transparent glazing with a canopy with awning fabric, which will ensure the formation of an elegant and creative external design. This solution will also allow you to hide interior decoration and a luxurious interior from the scorching and burning rays of the sun.

They can be the most different sizes, shapes and colors, which will allow you to create the necessary image and attract the attention of guests and passers-by. Interior photography of the masterpiece is presented on the Generalawnings forum.

We have demonstrated to your attention exceptional and extraordinary solutions and conceptual ideas for decorating the facade of a building, which amaze the imagination with their simplicity of execution and magnificent appearance. Did you like these recommendations? Share your opinion with us in the comments...

Window surrounds are traditional decorations that were once a very popular architectural element for decorating the front of a home. Modern architecture for some time I reduced the prevalence of these parts and learned to build without them.

However, you should not abandon traditional window decoration. We will recommend how to choose the appropriate window framing style and what materials are best to use.

Traditional architectural details add charm to older homes. They appear where they are needed: skirting protects the basement walls, cornices protect the walls from rain and connect them with the roof, entrance portal decorates the front door.

Window surrounds are distinctive window decorations that smooth the transition from wall to window opening and emphasize their shape. The delightful architectural elements that can be seen on houses and buildings of the early twentieth and nineteenth centuries are most often embellished with very durable plaster.

Unfortunately, during major renovations they increasingly disappear under a layer of insulation. The original wall surface is covered with a layer of polystyrene or mineral wool, and the decorations are most often damaged. Insulated houses receive new facades. Only in exceptional cases, for example, when an architectural monument is being repaired, is the façade finished or reproduced using traditional methods, using decorative elements to restore architectural elements special mixtures resistant to weather conditions. Owners of old houses that need major repairs and insulation usually do not use such methods for restoring facades.

Benefits of window framing

The window frame is a special accent that draws attention to this part of the facade. What are the advantages of such decorative elements?

• They protect the glass from rain and wind.
• They enliven the facade, providing a play of light and shadow.
• The changes are also visible from the inside of the house - the window is visually well protected.
• The window frame can be prominent, wide, or discrete and linear. With the help of framing, you can change the proportions of the window opening - visually expand it, raise it, or solidly “prop it up”. In this way, you can influence the nature of the window opening, for example, by adding an arch to a rectangular opening or a solid frame to thin mullions.

However, the shape and size of the frame should not be random, but should be in harmony with the design and proportions of the entire facade. There are several options for performing this decor, these are:

• window frames on the façade made of polyurethane;
• decor with foam profiles;
• brick frame;
• framing windows with siding;
• wood frame;
• metal edging.

Framing windows on the facade of a house with brick, photo

We live in a climate that tests our finishing facade materials on the ability to solve problems associated with changes in temperature and humidity. For example, in late winter and spring, water can freeze several times a day, penetrating the finishing layers and destroying weak, poorly designed and constructed building exteriors. This forces us to use some established solutions. On the other hand, finishing with good materials provides good protection from rain, unfavorable temperatures and noise.

Simple brick is well suited for framing arched window openings and door portals. The bricks are rounded on one side and beveled on the other, forming a soft frame, emphasizing the recess in the wall, letting in more sunlight inside. There are more decorative brick Gothic form, it is ideal for houses decorated in gothic style, it is used in prestigious offices, elegant loft-style houses.

Currently, you can find a large assortment of bricks and clinkers on sale, which are distinguished by a varied palette of colors. This choice allows you to realize an exceptional window design, create elegant contrasts and stylish combinations with the facade and window sill.

You can insert colored stripes or inserts of individual bricks of different colors with the wall into a light brick arch. You can create an arch from bricks of two colors, one of which will be the same color as the facade, and the other darker or lighter.

Brick window frames must provide adequate thermal protection, protection against water penetration, structural safety and satisfy the aesthetic needs of the building owner. Brick is an effective solution technical problems, an interesting accent, and sometimes very impressive decorations.

During installation, you need to pay attention to moisture insulation between the invisible part of the window frame and the brick window sill, as well as thermal insulation between the wall and the foam, so that thermal bridges do not arise in these areas.

Framing windows on the facade of the house with foam plastic

In this case, we buy ready-made façade profiles or we can take advantage of the offer of design and finishing companies. Foam profiles adapted to modern technology construction - they are easy to use, made of hydrogenated polystyrene or extruded polystyrene designed for gluing to various substrates.

Moldings, cornices and window sills made of foam plastic are offered by manufacturers of home insulation systems, as well as companies that specialize in the design and decoration of facades. The latter, as a rule, have a larger selection of profiles for cladding - rich artistic ones and more stylish or simple ones.

Photo. Design options for window openings using various architectural elements made of foam plastic

You can order sections of arched foam profiles to frame arched windows and additional elements such as corner and window elements.

For houses of old construction, you can try to restore original jewelry by ordering moldings of the appropriate shape. These can be frames around window openings or decorations on the top of the facade. Renovating an old home in this way will help it retain its character and charm.

Photo. Old house before and after façade insulation. Plaster and brick frames of old windows have been replaced with stylish decor of expanded polystyrene profiles.

Foam window frames are also of interest to investors building stylish houses, classic manor houses or a villa. While designers most often recommend traditional technologies for such houses, many builders choose cheaper solutions. Instead of a three-layer wall, two-layer insulation is used, and instead of thick traditional plaster, a thin layer is used. You can achieve artistic diversity by using special decorative profiles. If this is done as designed, the effect can be satisfactory. Architectural references to the past require appropriate decoration, without which it will be difficult to achieve a convincing effect.

It is difficult to imagine a stylish home without framed window openings. However, not only a tribute to tradition and history is the motive for such decoration of facades. In addition to stylish decors that imitate classical-style decorations, other forms can be seen on the facades of new houses. What is the name for window framing on the facade of a house? There are different decor options.

Stripes

A popular window framing detail modern houses there was a rather simple strip around the windows to divide the façade. Glued strips and panels allow you to enliven the visual composition of the facade. They can be used to differentiate wall thicknesses, create divisions and accents that break the flatness standard.

Pediments

Traditional window frame elements are the top edge of the cornice. This practical detail served as protection against rain leakage. The pediment can be used alone as a decoration, thinner than the thick frame around the window opening.

Window sills

The cornice under the window sill gives the window a solid foundation, regardless of whether it is classically profiled or has a rather simple form. There is a large selection of foam cornices, thin and thick, with imitation stucco or simple minimalist shapes, from which you can choose the option that best suits the style of the building.

Cornice with ears

This is an extension of the window cornice in the upper part with peculiar ears. Classic “ears” are a characteristic folded stripe above top part window. This window opening decoration is not bulky and quite interesting.

Stripes, cornices and other surface finishing elements will help diversify appearance Houses.

Window sill with apron

Supporting the window sill with a cornice with two consoles on the sides refers to traditional “aprons” - this is a decorative form of expanding the window sill. As a motif taken from the past, it primarily appears in stylish homes.

Window frames with trapezoid

The decorative element crowning the window frame is a trapezoid. It fits the profile of a massive closed arc shape.

Cornice framing

A simple strip that runs around the top edge of the window and connects to the cornice that divides the façade along its length. This method of decorating windows in a composition has a long tradition.

Decors instead of stripes

Rectangular panels above the window - original way select and decorate the window. Rectangular roller shutters will look in harmony with this design.

Frames with geometric details

Simplified old design forms can be replaced with an interesting modern alternative in the form of architectural details in a geometric shape. This extraordinary solution will make the façade brighter and more expressive.

Framing windows on the facade with wood

The house is in a rustic style, often decorated with wood. Solid wood in a dark brown color can be used to frame the windows here. Beautiful wooden frames, covered with mastic and varnish, will decorate the light, smooth facade of the building. For harmony, you can emphasize the foundation line with a wooden belt in dark shade brown.

You can also order openwork wooden window decorations, which will emphasize the character and give shape to the house, creating a new aesthetic quality for the facade.

Openwork window decorations attract attention and enliven the appearance, providing a play of light and shadow. Decorative openwork forms, depending on the ornament, can change the proportions of the window opening - visually expand and improve it. Wooden decorative lace, embellishments and relief details can completely change the appearance of a building.

It can be:

• decorative openwork windows;
• bindings and decoration of decorative windows;
• stylized wooden shutters;
• details decorative tree, including moldings, stripes and side stripes, headers.

Modern architecture offers us a large selection of materials and methods that allow us to create practical and aesthetic window framing, which will become a real decoration of the facade of the house and at the same time will perform all the necessary functions to protect the window from weather surprises. We can choose traditional decorations when restoring an old house or when building a new one, or we can resort to architectural elements of a modern form.

Moldings, cornices and window sills are offered by manufacturers thermal insulation systems, as well as many other companies. These architectural elements will help us emphasize window openings and even visually change their shape - make them higher or lower, wider, more massive. You can also change the shape of the window using semicircular arches made of foam, brick or wood, as well as other materials. When choosing a window framing option, moderation and harmony should be observed between the design of window openings, the style and design of the entire facade of the building.

Stucco decorative elements of the facade

The quality and durability of the finishing of the facade largely depends on the correctly selected window frames. The decor of window openings and slopes is also important, which can become the main accent of a spectacular facade. And finally, the design of façade windows depends on the chosen cladding and insulation option.

If the location and shape of the windows depends on the design of the cottage, then the finishing frame can be chosen at your discretion. It seems like such a small thing - stylish slopes and platbands on window frames, but they can completely change the appearance of the facade.

Extraordinary solutions will decorate any, even the simplest cladding, for example, plaster with foam insulation.

Materials for external slopes

It is quite possible to insulate and decorate the facade with your own hands, fortunately there is a choice building materials is huge now.

You cannot put off the finishing cladding for a long time after installing the windows. The polyurethane foam used to fix the frames over time, especially under the influence of moisture, breaks down and after two months cracks already appear. Then execute external cladding it will be more difficult.

Sometimes installing slopes on the facade may not be practical

The choice of material for protective finishing of slopes depends on the method of insulation and finishing of the walls of the cottage. How can you beautifully decorate and protect installation seams and slopes of window openings? For example:

• Framing windows on the facade of a house with foam plastic is the most inexpensive method of insulation, but requires additional finishing (plaster, plastic).

Inexpensive insulation option

• Metal slats – durable and nice option finishing, especially on the first floor of a country house, but requires laying an additional layer of insulation.

A reliable way to protect yourself from the sun and prying eyes

• Plastic lining or siding is a good option if the walls in the cottage are insulated using the same material. In combination with decorative plaster looks good too. But plastic is short-lived, service life up to 15 years, no more.

A common and fairly neat method of transforming the facade and windows

• Sandwich panels - optimal solution finishing cladding of the house. The three-in-one principle guarantees high-quality insulation and reliable finishing protective decor.
• Simple finishing plaster– must be done professionally, since it is the slopes that take on the wind load and quickly get wet in rain and snow. Additional additives and strengthening primers are required.

Polyurethane molding on windows will be an excellent complement to plaster

• Tile or decorative rock– a beautiful and reliable solution for decorating facades and reliable protection windows from rain, wind and snow. The price is from 500 rubles per square, but for one window you need about one and a half to two squares, depending on the chosen framing option.

Beautiful window decoration and slope protection: two in one

From the inside, the slopes can be leveled and protected with drywall. In this case, there is no need for finishing leveling, and you can choose any decorative finish (painting, plaster, tile) over the plasterboard.

Slope protection

Clinker tiles - durable and reliable

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of this or that slope finishing and how to choose the best option based on the chosen cladding of the cottage.

Option 1 – foam insulation

On the picture - beautiful facade with foam trim

Finishing with foam plastic is considered the most inexpensive and reliable option for insulating slopes. But if you calculate the costs, I would not say that this is a budget option. What are the advantages of such thermal insulation:

1. The foam trim is lightweight and can be mounted on almost any cladding.
2. The polyurethane frame provides additional thermal and waterproofing.
3. You can create an original facade decor by painting the trim in any color.

This window frame looks very solid

1. Decorative elements are inexpensive, and choosing the shape of the parts allows you to be creative in design.
2. This decor is indispensable if, due to the poor architecture of the building, it is necessary to install a false window, foam plastic parts are mounted on any surface, and imitation glass can be made from moisture-resistant mirror film.

This window decoration looks good in combination with decorative plaster, but is completely incompatible with brick, stone or vinyl siding. In my opinion, this option can be chosen for a small country house. Still, foam plastic, no matter how you paint it, remains a budget option and looks the part.

Option 2 – plastic

Facing slopes with sheet plastic

Plastic panels are good for internal lining windows, as they are easy to clean, look beautiful and are quite durable. For the external decoration of window openings, you need to choose frost-resistant vinyl siding good quality.

It is not necessary to decorate the entire building with siding; decorative vinyl trims in combination with textured plaster and stone-like decor.

You can't skimp on siding. Cheap types of this cladding quickly fade and crack. Slats made in China are especially prone to defects.

If you choose plastic, make sure it’s high quality!

Most often, plastic is chosen for external reinforcement of slopes in apartment buildings, since washing this cladding is not difficult.

If you do not want to make repairs every five years, then it is better to refuse any type of plastic for external window decoration. My observations lead to disappointing conclusions. Cottages with external finishing siding after five years have a very unsightly appearance.

The material gives unpleasant cracks precisely in the area of ​​window openings. The deformation of the material depends on three reasons:

1. natural shrinkage of the building,
2. professionalism of the craftsmen,
3. the quality of the material itself.

It is also important to note that in regions with winter temperatures below 20 degrees, the instructions do not recommend the use of plastic slats.

Option 3 - universal plaster

Facade decorative plaster

If desired, high-quality plastered slopes can be decorated with any decorative elements. With the cost of one linear meter of slopes being 400 rubles, this is the most reliable and durable option:

• the only disadvantage of plastering is that it is difficult to find a professional craftsman who will perform the work efficiently;
• A great advantage is the ability to install an additional layer of foam insulation.

Plaster is a decent way to finish façade windows

Option 4 – metal

The most reliable and durable, but not the cheapest option. However, metal plastic windows and the same trims look very harmonious. Brown wood-look frames with slopes two shades lighter immediately give the façade a special chic and presentability.

Spectacular design for a classic façade

The only negative is that high-quality thermal insulation and professional installation are required. Installing one window opening will cost about three thousand rubles.

This material is compatible with all decorative finishing options for a cottage, is easy to maintain and install, and does not require frequent expensive repairs.

Option 5 – sandwich panels

Sandwich panels installation diagram

A universal option for a cottage made of stone, brick or foam blocks. Provides high-quality insulation and waterproofing, looks great, is easy to install, and has a service life of more than 30 years.

Another big advantage of such panels is their resistance to temperature changes and lack of deformation. Therefore, this type of window decoration can also be recommended for buildings made of timber.

To install sandwich panels, you need to follow a certain sequence: the panels are mounted around the perimeter of the box on aluminum or PVC profiles. Installation begins from the top profile.

When installing a ventilated façade, the problem of voids under the ebbs often arises. The voids cause noise during rain and deformation of the coating under low tide. How to bypass windows on a ventilated façade correctly?

Installation diagram of a window opening in a ventilated facade

Installation should be carried out with standard units in a certain sequence: the lower connection, then the upper assembly, then the side connections and only after this the connections of the internal and external corners.

To strengthen the space under the flashing, you can replace the tin flashing with a covering made of ceramic tiles or install it on a sheet of moisture-resistant plywood, at least 10 millimeters thick.

Option 6 – tile or stone finish

An effective combination of clinker tiles and decorative plaster

A reliable and durable option for designing slopes. Combines with any type of façade cladding. This finishing allows you to create a spectacular facade at low financial costs.

You should choose only frost-resistant tiles for finishing. Before laying, the slopes must be leveled and plastered at a certain angle.

I like the finish clinker tiles under wild stone or sandstone stone. This decor is durable and practical, goes well with plaster and brick, siding and wood.

Summary

If your house is wooden, you can decorate the windows just like that!

If you want to express gratitude, add a clarification or objection, or ask the author something - add a comment or say thank you!

The use of decorative elements on walls and windows can transform the appearance of any building for the better. Columns, keystones, arches, stucco and consoles allow you to hide various disadvantages and increase attention to the merits of the building. The main thing is to place everything correctly. If you are planning to build a complex Vacation home, but a real cottage, an estate - you need to gain basic knowledge of what architectural elements of the building’s facade exist, what they are made of and how they are installed. You can find all this here.

Architectural elements of the building facade

Architectural elements of facade walls

First, let's look at those decorative elements of the facade that are not located on window openings, but simply on the walls. Most of them are shown in the images above and below.

The main elements of decorative finishing of the facade

An example of what the house looked like before and after the installation of decorative elements

Cornice– protruding element. As a rule, it stretches along the entire wall and visually separates it and the roof, or breaks the plane of the wall itself into several separate zones. Depending on its location, the cornice can be roof, interfloor and basement.

Cornice under the roof

Cornice between floors

Basement cornice. As a rule, it is supplied with low tide

Rust– rectangular overlays at the corners of the walls, also known as bassage. As a rule, they alternate in size and have small indentations between each other. Also called rustication is the external decoration of the facade with rectangular stone slabs, outer part which remains uncouth.

Corner rustication

Socket- a round decorative element on the wall, equipped with a three-dimensional pattern with patterns. As a rule, it is installed above the entrance to the building or in the center of the pediment.

Fresco- a color image applied to the wall using plaster or other materials. When creating such decorative elements, great attention must be paid to resistance to external influences.

Fresco on the facade of the house

Bas-relief- a three-dimensional image protruding half from the wall. One of the most ancient architectural elements of the facade and at the same time the most complex. Has a subspecies called high relief– in it, individual parts of the picture can protrude from the wall by more than 50%. Both elements and other similar wall decorations are generally called stucco.

Bas-relief in modern architecture

High relief

Arch– a through or blind opening with a semicircular top. Most often used for framing front door or large windows. Often complemented by its own decorative elements.

Panel– a rectangular extended or recessed frame of a decorative element, for example, a rosette. Sometimes there are panels of other shapes, as well as those that do not have any decorations inside.

In this image the panels are located under the windows

Frieze- rectangular strip framing certain part facade. Often located next to the cornice (this sometimes causes confusion in terms).

Entablature - the upper horizontal part of the structure

Console- a support protruding from the wall, fixed at only one end. As a rule, it is used to support balconies, cornices and other relatively heavy objects that extend far beyond the plane of the facade. The cornice is not only a load-bearing element, but also a decorative element - it is decorated with stucco molding, patterns and high reliefs.

Example of using consoles

Balustrade– fencing for a balcony, terrace or staircase, made of baluster(curly columns of complex shape). The top is complemented by railings, and in some cases, by vases located on the pedestals.

Balustrade

Column and its components

Separately, it is worth highlighting such an architectural element of the building as Column. This is a pillar of round or rectangular cross-section, used as both a load-bearing part and a decoration for the appearance of the facade. Made from stone, wood, metal and other building materials. Conventionally, the column can be divided into three parts.

1. Base – bottom base columns. As a rule, its diameter is larger than that of the main part of a given architectural element. The base of the column must be very strong, since a significant mass presses on it.
2. Column trunk or body- the main part of the architectural element. As mentioned above, it has a square or round section. Sometimes the column trunk tapers towards its upper part. The body can be either smooth or textured - with horizontal and vertical grooves.
3. Capital– the upper part of the column, as a rule, large sizes than its main part. Evenly distributes the load on the barrel from the supported structure. The capital is equipped with stucco molding and console patterns.

Column and its constituent elements

Various Column Styles

It is also worth noting two subtypes of columns - half column and pilaster. The first is an architectural element in the form of a round or square section, protruding from the wall by 50-75%. As a rule, it is installed at doorways and more often serves not as a structural, but as a decorative element. A pilaster is a small vertical protrusion, reminiscent of a column in its shape and structure. Performs a purely decorative function.

Semi-columns at the corners of the building

Pilasters framing the entrance to the facade

Architectural elements of window and door openings

Let's move on to another very important part of the facade - window and doorways. Let's look at the main decorative elements used to frame and decorate them.

Architectural elements of window openings

Sandrik– a small cornice, often rectangular shape and with a pediment located above the window, door and niche. It is supplied with stucco molding, patterns and other decorative elements. In addition to the function of decorating the facade, sandrik covers window glass from the rain.

Keystone– a wedge-shaped decorative element located in the middle of the cornice or sandrik of a window opening or arch.

Sandrik triangular shape, equipped with a pediment. Underneath you can find several keystones

Platbands– strips installed along the edges of the window opening and oriented vertically. Decorated with molded details and carvings. Are being supplemented slopes– metal or other surfaces decorating the window opening along its inner part.

Carved frames on the windows of a village house

Stucco window sill with consoles

Tympanum- the plane of the pediment above the window and under the arch opening framing it. Decorated with stucco, rosettes, patterns, bas-reliefs, and sometimes frescoes.

Materials from which architectural elements of the facade are made

Decorative elements of the facade are made from a variety of materials; here we will consider the most popular options.

1. Gypsum– a mineral sedimentary rock of natural origin. One of the oldest materials used for the manufacture of architectural facade elements. Gypsum is plastic and very pliable in its soft form, but at the same time, decorations and stucco moldings made from it have a large mass and cost. Plaster decorative elements can only be placed if there is a very solid foundation and walls.

   Console decorated with plaster stucco

2. Glass fiber reinforced concrete – composite material, in which the main part is cement mortar, and the binder is fiberglass. The result is lightweight yet durable decorative elements for walls and openings. At the same time, compared to gypsum, stucco molding and consoles made of glass fiber reinforced concrete have better resistance to atmospheric influences.
3. Polymer concrete– a mixture of different rocks with resins and polymer components. The result is a lightweight and durable material that can replicate the appearance of natural stone.
4. Polyurethane and expanded polystyrene– used for the production of very light and inexpensive decorative products. It is worth noting that if you have some skills and tools, you can make such products yourself. Installation of architectural facade elements made of polystyrene foam and polyurethane also does not represent big problem. You can learn more about this process in the next section of the article.

Decorative elements made of polystyrene foam

Video - Facade decor: step-by-step installation instructions

Installation of architectural façade elements made of polystyrene foam - step-by-step instructions

Let us consider step by step the process of installing architectural elements for the facade made of polystyrene foam.

List of tools

As an introduction, let's look at a list of tools that you may need to do this kind of work.

Table. Installation of architectural facade elements - list of tools.

Combined houses chalet style projects

Mountain romance, simplicity and elusive, special beauty lie in houses built in the chalet style. It’s not for nothing that they are called combined, because they are built simultaneously from wood and stone. Thanks to this, such buildings acquire unique properties. Combined chalet-style houses, the designs of which are quite diverse, have long attracted the attention of architects.

Installation of decorative elements on window openings

Start decorating your home with architectural elements from one of the most important parts of any facade - from window and door openings.

Step 1. Prepare the walls and openings themselves for decorating work - complete the construction of all structures, insulate the house and cover the thermal insulation layer with rough finishing. In this case, the cottage is covered with foam boards, which were then covered with reinforcing mesh and plaster.

First you need to prepare the walls

Step 2. All architectural elements of the house presented in this example will be fixed to the walls using a special adhesive composition. For better adhesion, first apply a primer to window openings and other parts of the building where the decor will be attached.

Applying primer

Step 3. Unpack decorative elements for window openings. Check their integrity and completeness. Cut the parts that will be fastened together at the corners of the window openings at an angle of 45°. At home, use a knife with a retractable blade or a hacksaw with fine teeth to do this. And in the image below you can see how a red-hot nichrome thread is used to perform this task - best tool for cutting foam plastic, allowing you to achieve a perfectly even cut.

Trimming elements with hot nichrome thread

Important! If you wish and have the appropriate tools, you can produce decorative elements for the facade yourself. To do this, assemble a machine for cutting foam plastic with nichrome thread and prepare metal templates that repeat in their shape the profiles of certain architectural details.

Cutting foam plastic with a hot nichrome thread according to a pre-created metal template

Finished decorative element - interfloor cornice, also known as molding

Step 4. Prepare glue mixture for installation of polystyrene foam parts.

Preparation of adhesive mixture for polystyrene foam

Step 5. Apply a layer of glue on the surface near the window openings, where decorative elements made of polystyrene foam will subsequently be applied. Use a notched trowel to do this job.

Applying the adhesive mixture with a notched trowel

Step 6. Apply a thin layer of adhesive mixture to the back of the foam decorative piece you are going to use. this moment install on the facade.

Glue is applied to the decorative element

Step 7 Install decorative trims on window openings. As already shown in the previous step, apply glue to the wall itself and it, but thin layer, on the part itself. Then install it in in the right place and press firmly. Level the position manually or using a building level and move on to the rest of the decorative trim.

Platband installation

The casing is pressed against the wall

Step 8 Carry out similar actions with other decorative elements of the openings - window sill and cornice.

Installing a window sill

The window opening is decorated

Step 9 Install decorative foam elements using an adhesive mixture on the balcony opening.

Decorative elements are installed on the balcony opening

Step 10 Attach keystones and other particularly complex decorative elements for openings to pre-marked places. As a rule, they are installed after reinforcement and puttying of platbands, cornices and other similar parts.

Fastening the keystone

Check the horizontal position of the keystone using a building level

Installing decorative elements on walls and corners

Now let's move on to the wall decorative elements of the facade. In this case, interfloor molding and corner rustication are installed.

Step 1. Along the perimeter of the walls, measure a perfectly straight horizontal line at the transition between the first and second floors. Display it strictly according to the building level indications.

The transition between floors is indicated by a straight line

Step 2. Along the previously drawn line, apply a strip of adhesive mixture, comparable in height to the decorative element being installed. As with window openings, use a notched trowel.

Applying the adhesive mixture

Step 3. Apply a thin layer of adhesive mixture to the back of one piece of the deck molding, and then glue that piece into place. Get started this work from one of the corners of the building.

Gluing part of the interfloor molding

Step 4. Install this part of the interfloor molding on the other side of the corner. To join with the previous element, cut their edges at an angle of 45° in advance.

Installation of the second part of the molding

Step 5. Install the remaining parts of the interfloor molding. At the same time, tightly join them to each other and be sure to check that the horizontal position is consistent with the building level.

Checking the horizontality of molding elements

Important! If for some reason the gap between two adjacent foam elements becomes too large, treat the joint with a special adhesive mixture.

Step 6. Calculate in advance on paper at what heights relative to the ground the corner rustication elements will be located.

The diagram must be drawn in advance

Step 7 Using a ruler and level, transfer the numbers from the plan to the corners themselves - make the necessary marks.

The required marks are placed

Step 8 In front of that part of the rustication that will be adjacent to the base, secure the reinforcing mesh - apply the adhesive mixture, sink the mesh into it and cover it with the same mixture on top.

The reinforcing mesh is covered with an adhesive mixture

Step 9 Apply the adhesive mixture to the back side of one of the rustication elements and press it tightly to the installation site, guided by the pre-made marks.

Applying glue to a rustic element

Fixing an element

Step 10 Repeat the previous step and install all rustication elements. The same principles are used to install other decorative foam products on the façade of the house.

The rest of the rustication elements are fixed

Reinforcement and finishing of architectural façade elements made of expanded polystyrene

The installation does not end with the architectural elements made of polystyrene foam for the facade - they must be protected with reinforcement and putty, and then finished with paint.

Step 1. Prepare a mixture to secure the reinforcing mesh to the façade decor.

Preparation of putty mixture

Step 2. Using spatulas of different sizes, apply a thin layer of this mixture to all surfaces of decorative foam elements at corners, transitions between floors and window openings.

Applying putty to decorative elements

Step 3. Cut out pieces of reinforcing mesh of the required length/width and cover all the foam decorative elements with it. In this case, it is necessary to observe the overlap between adjacent segments. Lay the mesh so that its edges protrude beyond the elements themselves and press against the wall.

Laying reinforcing mesh

Step 4. Using spatulas, press the reinforcing mesh onto the foam parts so that the fabric completely follows the shape of the decorative elements.

The mesh is pressed with a spatula

Step 5. Apply another layer of adhesive mixture on top of the mesh and smooth it all over with a spatula and brush.

Applying glue over the mesh

Step 6. Use additional pieces of mesh to strengthen the corners between the trim and cornices (and window sill elements) at the openings.

Strengthening corners with additional pieces of reinforcing mesh

Step 7 Apply finishing putty to the surfaces of all decorative elements.

Applying finishing putty

Process of applying finishing putty

Step 8 Install window sills, securing them with self-tapping screws. Then seal the joints of this part with the decorative foam elements with sealant.

Window sill installation

Sealing joints with sealant

Step 9 Complete the finishing of the decorative elements of the facade - cover them with several layers of paint.

Painting decorative elements of the facade

The paint must be applied in several layers

After completing all these operations, proceed to finishing the entire surface of the building façade with colored plaster.

Windows are commonly called the eyes of the house. Their appearance reflects the tastes of the owner. The decoration of the windows and their framing give the façade completeness and emphasize the architectural style of the building, its severity and elegance. Realtors claim that framing openings from the outside increases the value of a home by 15–25%. Many decorative elements from various materials allow you to create individual image buildings, imitating any era and direction in architecture.

Window siding

Finishing and framing around the window is an element of architectural decor

Window finishing with facing bricks

Vadik came to me for advice. His elderly relative asked him to prepare and sell the house. It was necessary to maximize the price of the building with minimal costs to give it presentation. The site was located near the city, and we went to have a look.

I immediately noticed the window frames. It was old, faded cladding with cracked paint. It provided sealing of the opening, but lost its aesthetic appearance. There was no cash on the façade. You can create a beautiful facade only in harmony of all elements. It was necessary to start with finishing the doorway and windows in the same style.

We had to replace the wooden frames. We decided to install plastic sandwich panels and frame each opening in the same style along the entire facade. There was also a wooden cash box inside. They prepared polyurethane slopes to replace it.

Plastic frame parts are the most practical

Do-it-yourself window finishing

While we were drawing sketches of the future facade, I was telling my friend what decorative elements there are for cladding an opening, and how to make cashing inside and outside.

The finishing of plastic windows is made from various materials:

• tree;
• stone;
• porcelain stoneware;
• rubber with added crumbs;
• facing tiles;
• plaster stucco;
• plastic parts;
• foam elements.

Wood is most beautiful in its uniqueness and warmth. But it requires constant care and is quickly destroyed by dampness.

Stone and porcelain tiles are difficult to install and require periodic varnishing. Their main drawback is their heavy weight and load on the foundation.

Polystyrene foam and plaster look great, but they are hygroscopic and require a multi-layer protective coating.

Polyurethane parts suited us. Plastic products look good inside and out. They have several advantages over other products made from other materials:

• identical color throughout;
• resistance to abrasion;
• do not fade in the sun;
• serve for more than 20 years outside the building without losing its appearance;
• moisture resistant;
• fireproof;
• easy to install around the opening.

A large selection of parts and accessories made of polyurethane allows a novice specialist to independently make trim and window frames.

Window cladding elements made of polyurethane

Do-it-yourself window cladding

When framing the windows with polyurethane parts, we first installed plastic trim. The windows were too small relative to the size of the house. Therefore, white cladding should visually enlarge them.

Outdoor use a large number of decorative elements made of polyurethane for lining door and window openings:

• sandrik – decorative cornice;
• console;
• rack;
• moldigi;
• pilaster;
• window sills;
• platbands;
• false shutters;
• keystone;
• bracket;
• imitation rust.

It is possible to use other parts, such as stucco molding, rosette. But they are used less frequently, mainly in classic styles Baroque and Renaissance. Before us was modern house with a massive stone-lined foundation. To visually equalize the proportions, it was necessary to lay overlays in the form of rusticated stones on the corners. Framing windows using wide side elements will increase them.

There is a wide range of colors for plastic products. The most popular are white, wood-like and various gray tones. The color scheme is selected to match the chosen style. It is necessary to take into account the size of the building and openings. Light wide cladding enlarges the windows. If you need to reduce or make them less noticeable, you should choose dark-colored plastic that matches the tone of the walls. Then it is enough to install platbands and a window sill.

If you install only a narrow molding around the perimeter of the opening, the facade will look strictly, in a retro style. A bracket and a sander without a console will stretch the window vertically and make it narrower.

The keystone reminds us of the times of the knights, when they could not make even ceilings and instead built arched vaults. In combination with rusticated stone overlays, the illusion of a massive building is created. But such cladding does not look good wooden houses.

Suitable for log houses carved frames and false shutters. It is advisable to choose a color that imitates pine and birch, or just white.

Finishing the doorway and windows in the same style

Window finishing

To give stylish look, we decided to install window sills from acrylic stone under white marble. They are durable, repel water and are not afraid of frost and UV rays. Look more solid and elegant than standard ones plastic castings. Place brackets and moldings under them. On top there is a wide sandstone with a triangular protrusion in the center.

To increase the width of the doorway, we mounted pilasters on the sides, creating the illusion of semi-columns. Similar wide consoles decorated the windows. Moldings along the perimeter of the frame emphasized the geometry of the lines and their severity.

Placed on the second floor plastic window sill, platbands and the finishing of the opening along the side wall were made with false shutters with arched sandstone. On the front side of the facade, they imitated the cladding of the walls around the opening with rustication. At the top were keystones and molding.

A realtor I know, after we completed framing the windows and transforming the facade, said that the value of the house had risen by 30%. A correctly created façade image has great importance. After all, it is external view home makes the main impression.

In addition, we have significantly improved the thermal insulation of windows. Exterior decoration not only decorated, but also reliably protected the walls from getting wet. It became quieter inside; there was almost no noise from outside. The light frame enhanced daylight rooms.

Cladding of openings inside and outside the house

Inside the house we dismantled the old window sills and trim. Installed plastic panels at the bottom. We replaced the insulation on the sides and top. Then we checked the vertical and installed a new profile around the perimeter for support. The upper slope was installed. We adjusted the side panels and positioned them in place by sliding them starting profile around the frame and gluing it to the corner along inside opening.

When the buyer came to look at the house, Vadik and I were convinced that our actions were correct. He was not interested in interior decoration, since each person remodels it in his own way after purchasing it. He checked the condition of the pipes purely mechanically to ensure they were not leaking. But good condition and beautiful finish doors and windows were noticed first.

Of course, it is important to carry out façade cladding correctly and using technology. However, such work as window framing is an important and final stage of all facing work. Properly installed slopes and beautiful window design give the entire façade of the house a complete look. It is a pity that many people do not pay due attention to these important details. After looking at the magnificent houses and their facades, I decided that I would not leave the windows of my home undecorated. I started browsing and selecting all kinds of framing options for the style of my façade.

Beautiful window decoration is the eyes of the house

Do not forget that the framing of windows directly depends on the materials with which the facade is faced. Agree, if you use vinyl siding for the walls of your home, then framing it with stone or stucco will look ridiculous and funny. It's still before the start installation work think about options for window design and slopes and combine possible options with the decor of the facade.

The construction industry is developing very quickly and the availability large assortment I was very pleased with the ready-made architectural elements. To be honest, I didn’t even expect that the choice would be so great, and that it would be so difficult to decide on my desires. For myself, I have identified several options for window decoration, these are:

1. Use of wooden elements
2. Brick frame
3. Stone
4. Gypsum stucco materials
5. Plastic profile panels
6. Wood-polymer composite
7. Finished elements made of polyurethane

A very large selection of ready-made parts allows you to implement even the most original ideas, giving the appearance of the facade a unique look. But, despite the beautiful frame of the windows, do not forget about the slopes and their correct installation. After all, it is important not only correct installation slopes inside the house, but also their external improvement.

Many people, including me, have plastic windows. Everyone knows that they are installed using polyurethane foam, which has poor performance thermal conductivity and is short-lived. Therefore, it is imperative to protect it from the influence of external unfavorable factors. Exterior window decoration is performed for:

• Protects all seams from moisture, which leads to the formation of mold and mildew
• Preventing the destruction of polyurethane foam, which is powerless to adverse factors
• Bringing the entire facade to an impeccable appearance

Important! Slopes should be finished as soon as possible after completion of work.

for window installation.

We remove the slopes ourselves

There are several options for working with slopes that you can do yourself. I used putty. First you need to prepare the surface for work, for this:

1. Using a utility knife, I cut off the protruding and excess pieces of polyurethane foam, and also cleaned up areas with old plaster and paint.
2. Afterwards I treated everything with a primer mixture. deep penetration. Do not forget that it takes a long time to dry, so you need to postpone subsequent work for at least 12-15 hours
3. Next I needed putty, using a spatula, I applied it to the surface and leveled it
4. When the layer had dried, I applied another finishing layer and after drying, I sanded the slopes using a grout mesh
5. At the end, you can paint the slopes to match the facade

This method should also be used to cover slopes indoors. Exists frost-resistant plaster, it is precisely this that should be used for external slopes. When they are smooth and all seams are firmly sealed, you can begin decorative window framing.

Polyurethane stucco

When I chose the style of the facade of my house, I preferred the classic look. I have always admired homes with clean, clean lines, architectural features, and subdued tones. Elements made of polyurethane fit perfectly into any style, be it classicism, stormy baroque or colorful modernism. Any type of antique styles can be combined with ready-made polyurethane framing options.

There are many parts that are used for window space, and some of them are:

• Smooth or patterned cornices
• Moldings with or without drawings
• Decorative bas-reliefs
• Consoles and arches
• Various pilasters

It is possible to use both wide and narrow parts. It is enough to use one hint - if the window is large enough, then it is better to use narrow stucco molding, and if it is small, then use wide elements to make it more noticeable on the facade. This material has plenty of advantages, so I gave it my preference. A light weight, unusual options, opportunity self-installation and reasonable prices for decorative elements make stucco molding in demand and popular. In addition, cladding in this way is durable.

Using elements made of polyurethane, you can not only frame windows, but also create individual compositions for building facades. This way, framing becomes a fun activity in which you can openly experiment.

Don’t worry that the frame will not be durable and its installation will require special

effort. Polyurethane is practical and very lightweight material, even if you use large decorative elements, you can glue them yourself without any problems. And the ability to cut and process it makes installation even easier. Houses where window frames are made of polyurethane stucco look very beautiful and aesthetically pleasing. On average, the service life of stucco molding reaches 25 years; it is enough to wash the elements as needed.

Polyurethane products are not afraid of direct sunlight, sudden temperature changes, and are not afraid of high humidity and keep their shape perfectly throughout the entire period of use.

Results

When you plan to cladding a facade, you should think not only about the materials for finishing the walls, but also about the entire design in general. Framing the window space is the last and final process of all installation work and it requires special attention. If you think about all the architectural details before you start finishing the house, then in the future you will minimize all kinds of design mistakes. If you have a house whose windows require a brick frame, then an option framed with hyper-pressed or figured brick will fit perfectly. But the finished platbands will look great on wooden houses or on a facade made with wood-like siding. You can do the framing yourself, but if you are not confident in your abilities, you should contact specialists who will not only help you complete the installation, but also suggest the best solutions.

The quality and durability of the finishing of the facade largely depends on the correctly selected window frames. The decor of window openings and slopes is also important, which can become the main accent of a spectacular facade. And finally, the design of façade windows depends on the chosen cladding and insulation option.

If the location and shape of the windows depends on the design of the cottage, then the finishing frame can be chosen at your discretion. It seems like such a small thing - stylish slopes and trim on window frames, but they can completely change the appearance of the facade.

Materials for external slopes

It is quite possible to insulate and decorate the facade with your own hands, since the choice of building materials is now huge.

You cannot put off the finishing cladding for a long time after installing the windows. The polyurethane foam used to fix the frames over time, especially under the influence of moisture, breaks down and after two months cracks already appear. Then it will be more difficult to complete the external cladding.

The choice of material for protective finishing of slopes depends on the method of insulation and finishing of the walls of the cottage. How can you beautifully decorate and protect installation seams and slopes of window openings? For example:

• Framing windows on the facade of a house with foam plastic is the most inexpensive method of insulation, but requires additional finishing (plaster, plastic).

• Metal slats are a durable and beautiful finishing option, especially on the first floor of a country house, but they require an additional layer.

• Plastic lining or siding is a good option if the walls in the cottage are insulated using the same material. It also looks good in combination with decorative plaster. But plastic is short-lived, service life up to 15 years, no more.

• Sandwich panels are the optimal solution for finishing the cladding of a house. The “three in one” principle guarantees high-quality insulation and reliable finishing protective decor.
• Simple finishing plaster - must be done professionally, since it is the slopes that take on the wind load and quickly get wet in rain and snow. Additional additives and strengthening primers are required.

• Tile or decorative stone is a beautiful and reliable solution for decorating the facade and reliably protecting windows from rain, wind and snow. The price is from 500 rubles per square, but for one window you need about one and a half to two squares, depending on the chosen framing option.

From the inside, the slopes can be leveled and protected with drywall. In this case, you don’t need a finishing touch, and you can choose any decorative finish (painting, plaster, tile) on the plasterboard.

Slope protection

What are the main advantages and disadvantages of this or that slope finishing and how to choose the best option based on the chosen cladding of the cottage.

Option 1 – foam insulation

In the photo there is a beautiful facade with foam trim

Finishing with foam plastic is considered the most inexpensive and reliable option for insulating slopes. But if you calculate the costs, I would not say that this is a budget option. What are the advantages of such thermal insulation:

1. The foam trim is lightweight and can be mounted on almost any cladding.
2. The polyurethane frame provides additional thermal and waterproofing.
3. You can create an original facade decor by painting the trim in any color.

1. Decorative elements are inexpensive, and choosing the shape of the parts allows you to be creative in design.
2. This decor is indispensable if, due to the poor architecture of the building, it is necessary to install a false window, foam plastic parts are mounted on any surface, and imitation glass can be made from moisture-resistant mirror film.

This window decoration looks good in combination with decorative plaster, but is completely incompatible with brick, stone or vinyl siding. In my opinion, this option can be chosen for a small country house. Still, foam plastic, no matter how you paint it, remains a budget option and looks the part.

Option 2 – plastic

Plastic panels are good for interior cladding of windows, as they are easy to clean, look beautiful and are quite durable. For the external decoration of window openings, you need to choose good quality frost-resistant vinyl siding.

It is not necessary to decorate the entire building with siding; decorative vinyl trims in combination with textured plaster and stone-like decor also look impressive.

You can't skimp on siding. Cheap types of this cladding quickly fade and crack. Slats made in China are especially prone to defects.

Most often, plastic is chosen for external reinforcement of slopes in apartment buildings, since washing this cladding is not difficult.

If you do not want to make repairs every five years, then it is better to refuse any type of plastic for external window decoration. My observations lead to disappointing conclusions. Cottages with external siding already have a very unsightly appearance after five years.

The material gives unpleasant cracks precisely in the area of ​​window openings. The deformation of the material depends on three reasons:

1. natural shrinkage of the building,
2. professionalism of the craftsmen,
3. the quality of the material itself.

It is also important to note that in regions with winter temperatures below 20 degrees, the instructions do not recommend the use of plastic slats.

Option 3 - universal plaster

High-quality plastered slopes can be decorated with any decorative elements if desired. With the cost of one linear meter of slopes being 400 rubles, this is the most reliable and durable option:

• the only disadvantage of plastering is that it is difficult to find a professional craftsman who will perform the work efficiently;
• A great advantage is the ability to install an additional layer of foam insulation.

Option 4 – metal

The most reliable and durable, but not the cheapest option. Nevertheless, metal-plastic windows and the same platbands look very harmonious. Brown wood-look frames with slopes two shades lighter immediately give the façade a special chic and presentability.

The only negative is that high-quality thermal insulation and professional installation are required. Installing one window opening will cost about three thousand rubles.

This material is compatible with all decorative finishing options for a cottage, is easy to maintain and install, and does not require frequent expensive repairs.

Option 5 – sandwich panels

A universal option for a cottage made of stone, brick or foam blocks. Provides high-quality insulation and waterproofing, looks great, is easy to install, and has a service life of more than 30 years.

Another big advantage of such panels is their resistance to temperature changes and lack of deformation. Therefore, this type of window decoration can also be recommended for buildings made of timber.

To install sandwich panels, you need to follow a certain sequence: the panels are mounted around the perimeter of the box on aluminum or PVC profiles. Installation begins from the top profile.

When installing a ventilated façade, the problem of voids under the ebbs often arises. The voids cause noise during rain and deformation of the coating under low tide. How to bypass windows on a ventilated façade correctly?

Installation should be carried out with standard units in a certain sequence: the lower connection, then the upper assembly, then the side connections and only after this the connections of the internal and external corners.

To strengthen the space under the flashing, you can replace the tin flashing with a ceramic tile coating or install it on a sheet of moisture-resistant plywood, at least 10 millimeters thick.

Option 6 – tile or stone finish

A reliable and durable option for designing slopes. Combines with any type of façade cladding. This finishing allows you to create a spectacular facade at low financial costs.

You should choose only frost-resistant tiles for finishing. Before laying, the slopes must be leveled and plastered at a certain angle.

I like the finishing with clinker tiles to look like wild stone or sandstone. This decor is durable and practical, goes well with plaster and brick, siding and wood.

Summary

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