Pros and Cons Of Installing French Windows In India

French windows add a unique touch to every home, transforming regular spaces into open, light-filled regions. They improve the idea of space by effortlessly integrating interiors with the outdoors, providing a sense of elegance and fluidity. Beyond usefulness, these windows have an impact on the mood, bringing in natural light and fresh air while complementing the architectural design.

Their timeless charm and ability to enrich both traditional and modern settings have made them a popular option among today's homeowners. To further comprehend their growing popularity, let's look at what distinguishes French windows, how to install them properly, and the pros and cons of using them in Indian houses.

What is a French Window?

A French window is like the first child of doors and windows. It combines the best of both worlds and offers unique features to add a functional and aesthetic element to your home.

French windows are full-length hinged windows with twin panels. Unlike other windows that fold in half or open partially, these windows swing open inwards and outwards, leaving more room for fresh air while illuminating your living space with natural light.

You can choose between sliding, in-swing, and out-swing French windows to match your preference while optimising the available space.

Tips for a Smooth French Window Installation

French window installation can improve the appearance and use of your house. For a flawless installation, keep the following advice in mind:

• Make sure the French window fits perfectly in the opening by taking precise measurements.
• Verify that the weight of the window can be supported by the surrounding structure.
• Install proper flashing to avoid water leaks and damage.
• Pay close attention to the installation instructions for alignment, seals, and fasteners.
• To ensure smooth operation, make sure the window is plumb and level.
• To reduce drafts and increase energy efficiency, properly seal and insulate.
• For long-lasting performance and durability, select high-quality hardware.
• When necessary, hire experts to ensure warranty compliance and prevent expensive errors.

Pros of Installing French Windows in India

French windows are popular because of their high glass-to-frame ratio, which offers numerous benefits.

• Design Freedom

French windows are extremely versatile. From design to material, all specifics are under your control, making you the sole person in charge of your home decor. We understand your needs and provide options that reflect your style and creative vision.

• Bright Sunlight All Day

Imagine a room beaming with bright light, even with no artificial systems at play. French windows are here to flood your living space with natural light from morning to sunset, complementing the interiors and making your home the perfect spot for sunkissed pictures.

The massive glass panes offer uninterrupted outdoor views while contributing to an energy-efficient environment. The inflow of natural light not only brightens every corner but also adds an aesthetically pleasing element to your interiors.

• Perfect For Every Weather

India experiences harsh summers, cold winters and heavy rains, increasing our dependency on cooling and heating systems. But what if you can skip them and enjoy every weather?

French windows are made of advanced material engineering techniques that offer thermal efficiency, weather resistance and more, allowing them to withstand any weather easily.

• Easy Maintenance

French windows are very easy to clean and maintain. You just need a glass cleaner solution and a soft cloth to do it regularly. This minimal maintenance, in addition to the durable material composition, makes French windows a practical solution for your home.

• Superior Security

Unwanted intruders? Not with French windows. At AIS Windows, we prioritise quality materials for all French window designs. All styles use double—and triple-layer insulated glass to provide a solid barrier to your home. In addition, they come with a multiple-point locking mechanism that further reduces the risk of forced entry.

Cons of French Windows in India

Among the various benefits of French windows, here are some potential drawbacks:

• French windows require more floor space due to their inward or outward swinging design.
• Large glass panes can pose injury risks, so tempered or toughened glass like AIS Securityglas™ is recommended.
• French windows are more expensive, reflecting their durability, weather resistance, and low maintenance.
• Large glass panels may reduce privacy, but options like frosted, textured, or smart glass can help.

Precautions to Take While Installing French Windows

1. Take Accurate Measurements

Take accurate measurements of the window opening's width and height at the top, middle, and bottom before installation starts. Correct fitting and alignment might be impacted by even a small variance. Double-checking dimensions and using a steel measuring tape help ensure that the new French windows fit precisely in the allotted space.

2. Check Structural Load Capacity

French windows tend to be much heavier than other window styles due to their dual sashes made with numerous panes of glass. Verifying that the wall, ceiling joists, and surrounding structural system can sustain this extra weight is essential. Before continuing, strengthen the area if necessary with brackets, stronger headers, or more framing support.

3. Ensure Proper Waterproof Flashing

Waterproof flashing is one of the most damaging yet commonly neglected aspects of proper French window installation. This material seals joints vulnerable to moisture intrusion from rain and melting snow. Make sure an experienced contractor correctly flashes at the rough sill, between window assemblies, at shingle joints, and anywhere water can penetrate the home’s underlying structure or interior. Using premium grade, UV-resistant self-adhered flashing designed explicitly for fenestrations helps satisfy building code requirements while preventing exponential damage from water rot, mould, and pests over time.

4. Follow Manufacturer Installation Guidelines

French window installation differs from typical window methods, requiring meticulous technical execution. Consult manufacturer guidelines and building codes to determine appropriate picture framing, nailing fins, flanges, fastener types, trimming, and sealing methods. Using corrosion-resistant screws specifically sized for fenestrations and applying frames with compressible foam insulation maintains structural integrity. Ensure the team has expertise garnered from specialised fenestration training and credentials.

5. Take Extra Care with Stucco Finishes

When installing French doors or windows onto existing stucco siding, avoid compromising the weather-resistant barrier, allowing moisture intrusion. Attach components using manufacturer-approved stucco perimeter accessory trim, properly counter flash and seal the nailing fin interfacing with the stucco, and apply high-grade elastomeric sealant rated for stucco adhesion at trim joints. Prevent cracks from developing in the finish by pre-drilling screw holes after confirming structural backing. Use non-corrosive fasteners to avoid rust bleeding through light-coloured stucco over time.

6. Allow for Structural Movement

Even perfectly square and plumb fenestrations installed onto well-built structures experience minor settling shifts over time. Failure to accommodate this can warp operating sashes, compromise weather seals, impede smooth opening/closing and locking functions, and stress vulnerable joints. Periodically checking for level and plumb can identify problems early before damage occurs.

7. Apply Protective Finishes

Once installed, applying protective finishes ensures French windows sustain optimal integrity and appearance despite weathering elements and normal wear-and-tear. Carefully check manufacturer guidelines to determine appropriate exterior treatments that can withstand UV rays and atmospheric pollution without degrading over decades.

8. Test Thoroughly After Installation

Before considering the job officially complete, meticulously operate all window components multiple times to confirm proper functionality. Check if operating sashes, associated hardware, screens, and locking mechanisms work smoothly. Identify any sticking points requiring adjustment and touch up trim gaps or unfinished paint lines. Complete this quality assurance process while the contractor remains onsite to address any issues immediately under warranty policies before paying final invoices.

Conclusion

French windows add timeless elegance to modern houses and flood them with ample natural light and air for a peaceful environment. Installing these windows also elevates your overall home decor and increases your home’s resale value.

The benefits of French windows outweigh the potential drawbacks, making them a must-have architectural feature in your home. Don’t wait any longer; contact AIS Windows for specialised French windows that promise durability, functionality and flexibility.