How do we increase the insulation in sliding recessed frames?

Most of our customers ask: how do we increase the insulation of sliding frames? Sliding recessed frames (frames that slide into the wall) are aluminum frames, very practical to use because they do not take up space. For this reason, they are quite widespread, especially in Attica. It is known that sliding recessed frames fall short in terms of insulation (waterproofing, thermal insulation, sound insulation, air permeability) compared to hinged frames, and this is because recessed frames use brushes and not rubber seals for their insulation.

Ways for better insulation of sliding frames

sliding recessed insulation

One way to increase the insulation of sliding frames (thermal insulation – sound insulation) is the use of perimeter sealing strips (perimeter sealing angle).
The sealing angle is an aluminum profile in the form of an angle, which is installed vertically in the opening and at the point where there is a gap in the bricks – a hole, that is, at the point where the sliding frame enters the tunnel. In most cases, a sealing strip is installed only on the side where the wall gap – hole is located and not all around it (perimetrically). This means there is no sealing strip on the vertical side where the lock – handle of the sliding frame is located, nor on the top part.

Installation of perimeter strips for better sealing

Insulation of aluminum sliding frames

Fenestral, to increase the insulation of sliding recessed frames, installs a sealing angle around the perimeter of the recessed frame, meaning both on the top part and on the side where the frame’s locks are located. In this way, we increase the insulation of sliding frames, because we add additional brushes (two more – 3 in total). The added brushes are in contact with the glass pane, whereas otherwise they would not exist.

insulation of sliding frames

A great advantage of perimeter sealing strips is that the brushes can be replaced when worn with great ease, unlike all other brushes of the frame which are difficult to replace (Aluminum frames leak), thus increasing the insulation of sliding frames (insulation of recessed frames).

Additionally, we improve aesthetics and achieve uniformity in construction, especially in cases of colored frames, as we cover the entire perimeter masonry with them. With the use of perimeter sealing strips also on the outside of the frame, the security of the frame is also improved, as it is now difficult to access the locks and the frame sashes in case of a potential break-in (use of crowbars, screwdrivers, etc.).

How do we increase the insulation in sliding recessed frames?

The perimeter sealing strips (sealing angles) are available in two forms (see photos):

All extruders (e.g., Europa, Alumil) have perimeter sealing angles in their showrooms. Alternatively, see how we can increase the waterproofing of sliding frames.

insulation of sliding frames

Recessed frames, both double-leaf and especially single-leaf, without perimeter sealing strips as shown in the image, fall short in terms of security, insulation (thermal insulation – sound insulation), and aesthetics.

See more photos of energy-efficient sliding frames.