By using French glazing, you can feel the real spirit of the city. Various types of glazing are becoming increasingly popular French windows to the balcony. A design, the peculiarity of which is the installation of a translucent material - glass, transparent PVC– from ceiling to floor, becomes an expressive accent of both the interior and the facade of the building. This glazing creates the feeling of a large free space filled with light.

French glazing of the balcony

Surely many city residents have noticed the unusual glazing of the balconies of high-rise buildings, which seem to serve as a huge window for one of the rooms. They seem to be its continuation or the original veranda adjacent to the apartment. Behind the high glass you can see flowing curtains from the ceiling to the floor, and the side of the balcony is decorated with a beautiful lattice. This design is called a French balcony.

Some modern variations of the French balcony do not have railings: this will make it look more industrial and fashionable.

The French balcony has a long history. Previously, it consisted of doors surrounded by metal forged railings in the opening of the outer wall.

To a greater extent they:

1. Performed the function of windows;
2. Served for ventilation and lighting of rooms.

This type of architectural solutions was mostly common in France, Italy, and Spain. Having opened the door, only one person could go out onto such a balcony, not to mention placing furniture or arranging shelves there. The maximum that could fit on them was a few flower pots and containers.

IN modern construction the decorative function of the French balcony has given way to practice, and it already has its own platform protruding from the facade of the building, usually glazed panoramic windows. Its main feature is that French balcony glazing, instead of standard reinforced concrete or metal fences, uses double-glazed windows in PVC, aluminum or wooden structures.

Such glazing is suitable for balconies located on the highest floors

As a rule, this type of glazing is performed on separately located balconies. The loggia is an unsuitable place for this, since the blank walls on the sides do not allow achieving the desired effect of a full panoramic view.

French windows in the interior of a balcony (video)

Pros and cons of a French balcony

When deciding whether it is really rational to install French windows on your balcony in your case, you need to thoroughly weigh the pros and cons.

Among the advantages:

• Created visual effect expansion of space;
• Due to panoramic glazing there is good lighting;
• The use of energy-saving materials allows you to save on insulation and cladding;
• During the installation process, you do not have to resort to expensive welding work;
• Provides good sound insulation;
• Guaranteed durability of the structure;
• Provides ample opportunities for exclusive elegant design interior

Panoramic balconies are made of the highest quality and modern materials: in addition, due to good lighting, the balcony becomes visually larger

Some features of French glazing are considered disadvantages:

• Sometimes it's not easy to get used to completely transparent balcony, especially in an apartment on a high floor - then it is recommended to cover the lower part with matte sandwich panels;
• In summer, in regions with a hot climate, on sunny days such rooms can create a greenhouse effect - in this case, shading with thick curtains and frequent ventilation will help;
• On frosty winter days, additional heating will be needed to avoid hypothermia;
• The design features the absence of a window sill;
• The frame must be further strengthened with reinforcing elements;
• The glass surface requires special care products to maintain crystal cleanliness;
• Glass is a relatively fragile material, and it is not advisable to allow small children to play near it.

The interior of your balcony will always be visible even from the street

Protect privacy You can protect yourself from curious prying eyes by installing blinds on the balcony. An alternative is to order tinted glass, which will open up a wide panorama of the street, but the apartment’s residents will not be visible from the yard.

Features of a French door on a balcony

Doors are an important part of the design of not only the balcony, but also the interior of the room to which it adjoins. Therefore, it is important that this detail fits into the styles of both rooms. It is immediately necessary to take into account that a standard narrow balcony door will distort the entire effect of the panoramic expanse of French glazing. And this will not brighten up even a completely glass door.

You should pay attention not only to form, but also to functionality:

1. Double swing option – perfect solution, only if the doors open into the room, so as not to take away the already small area of ​​the balcony;
2. Sliding doors– chosen when the width of the room and the furniture allow the use of part of the wall on both sides for the movement of the product;
3. Accordion door– convenient in that it is easy to mount to any opening width, but small areas It is recommended to choose narrow sections.

Sliding doors are designed for small rooms: they are great for saving space

During installation french door As a rule, a part of the wall with a window opening in the room is demolished. This is only allowed if you balcony design allows it on its own technical specifications. This partition is not only load-bearing, but also supports the balcony slab.

Installation procedure for a French balcony

The process of installing a French balcony consists of several stages, but it is much faster than installing a traditional one, since there is no need to carry out welding, insulation and finishing.

To ensure a high-quality result, the structure is installed using a level

The work order is as follows:

• The required measurements are taken.
• If necessary and with permission, the window opening and partition of the balcony block are dismantled.
• Concrete and metal fences are being dismantled.
• The concrete slab is being strengthened.
• Double-glazed windows made of aluminum and plastic are installed, which can also be combined with sandwich panels if desired.
• IN doorway install the frame and sashes.
• The cracks and voids are filled polyurethane foam. The excess is cut off before it hardens. The joints are treated with plaster.

Which curtains to choose for French windows (video)

French glazing can transform not only the balcony, but also the interior design of the adjacent room. To remain satisfied with the installation work performed, it is important to weigh the pros and cons and choose the right one suitable door. Trust the specialists, and the process will not take much time.

Currently, French balconies are decorated apartment buildings and cottages not only in Europe, but also in our country. The photo of the article shows a selection various options that can be found in any city. Such designs give the façade of the building an original look.

An example of a classic version.

IN classic version there is never too much space. Only indoor flowers can be placed here.

What is a French balcony?

A modern version of this design is continuous glazing of the room, which is installed on concrete base with or without lattice fencing. The frame consists of aluminum and metal-plastic profiles; special fittings connect the elements together. From the front side, such a structure resembles a voluminous basket.

Modern model of a French balcony. Aluminum profile and miniature fencing bars.

To create the bottom part, select following materials: frosted glass, plastic, glass with mirror film or make a combined version.

Design advantages:

• There is no need for external and internal cladding of the parapet, unlike standard options(saving money on the purchase of finishing materials);
• Gets into the room a large number of Sveta;
• No need to carry out welding work during installation;
• Large selection of decor options.

Modern design: strict lines, a combination of metal and decorative plaster on the facade.

Terrace on a modern French balcony. The interior decoration uses natural shades and natural textures: wooden lining, wicker furniture, profiles with wood texture.

Minuses:

• No window sill. However this disadvantage eliminates dust accumulation;
• The design must be as reliable as possible; for this purpose, the frame is supplemented with special elements;
• Massive glazing requires protection from the sun in summer period and additional heating in winter;
• High price;
• A lot of work when cleaning glass.

Types of structures

French balconies with wrought iron elements

The classic option is a window or doorway with decorative metal parapet. Often load-bearing slab does not exceed the length of the foot, but sometimes reaches a maximum of half a meter. This design does not imply prolonged recreation in the fresh air.

Used for fencing artistic forging. The design is usually chosen to be elegant, often seen plant patterns.

Sometimes ready hardware covered with gold leaf or patinated their surface (aging effect). The use of these methods turns the fence into an original detail that primarily attracts attention.

The small base area does not allow organizing storage space. A French balcony adorns the facade of the house and the room that is hidden behind it. A lot of light enters a window or doorway.

Forged fencing in a private house. The chocolate shade of the forged metal and metal-plastic profile goes well with the color of the brick wall.

The classic version is not functional, it only serves a decorative role.

The doors can open partially or completely, outward or inward, or be blind. These details directly depend on your desires.

Artistic forging complements the exterior in an original way. In the workshop, designers can develop a unique pattern to order.

Radial wrought iron fence in a private house.

To create a unified ensemble, you can install forged grilles on the windows. They must be made in the same style as the fence.

French balcony in Khrushchev

View from inside an apartment in Khrushchev.

Metal-plastic profiles have significant weight. On the eve of installation in the Khrushchev building, you should check the condition of the concrete slab. If defects are found during inspection, the base must be carefully repaired.

Flower pots are mounted on a metal fence.

French doors to the balcony photo

Fencing with plant pattern.

French balconies without railings

In new buildings you can find French glazing without fences.

Other options

Interior decoration of a room with an area of ​​6 sq. m. For interior decoration we chose natural colors and natural materials.

Insulation

In order to use the balcony all year round, it is necessary to insulate this room. Besides quality profile and heat-saving double-glazed windows, it is necessary to additionally protect the surface of the ceiling and floor. They help create a comfortable microclimate additional sources heating systems, such as an oil heater, underfloor heating or an independent radiator. There is also a special film that protects against heat loss in winter and keeps the room cool in summer.

The French balcony is the most fashionable, stylish and elegant decoration of the facades of private and apartment buildings recent years. It can be found in many European countries. It embodies exquisite design, affordable price and impeccable workmanship. Despite all my undeniable advantages, many people still have not heard and do not know about this amazingly beautiful architectural element. We will talk about him and everything that concerns him in our article.

What is it and what advantages does it have?

Surely people who have never heard of such a balcony have seen it anyway. This type of French glazing translated means a door to a window. In fact, this is not a balcony in the usual understanding of this concept, but beautiful fencing window.

Initially, this tiny platform protruding from the window, on which only one person could fit, was used as ventilation. Today, this name refers to a miniature platform with a fence (most often from forged metal) for panoramic windows.

Wrought iron fences can have different shapes, most often they are made in the form of a curved, convex basket.

The functional load performed by such a balcony is minimal, and it can no longer be called the main source of ventilation. Now it is a magnificent, unusually beautiful decoration for the facade.

In addition, such a platform, fence and railings can be used to create winter garden or a small greenhouse. The house, decorated with French balconies with floral arrangements, looks very sophisticated and elegant.

Today there are two main types of such balconies: traditional and modern. The first option is characterized by the complete absence of an observation deck, and the fence is located around the doorway. Some models allow for a minimum platform size of approximately one step.

The modern version differs from the classic one in the absence of a parapet. Instead, the balcony space is completely glazed from ceiling to floor.

Advantages:

1. Significant savings Money on installation, additional reinforcement and finishing of the fence.
2. No need for external balcony decoration(corrugated sheeting, metal or vinyl siding).
3. Savings on internal lining and insulation.
4. Good source of natural light.
5. Lack of insulation and internal lining does not reduce usable area designs.
6. Luxurious panoramic view, unavailable to conventional balcony models.
7. Fast and clean installation.
8. Excellent decorative properties.

Flaws:

1. No window sill.
2. The need for additional reinforcement of the frame.
3. In the cold season, such a balcony needs heating, and in the summer it needs additional ventilation.
4. Quite high installation cost.
5. Impracticality (panoramic glazing needs frequent and thorough cleaning).

The French balcony can be equipped with additional accessories, for example, mosquito net. For its production are used different materials, its cost will directly depend on this. The doors can be blind, open partially or completely. For decoration, forged metal, stained glass, frosted glass, mirror film or a combination of several materials.

Kinds

A balcony without a platform is a very simple but elegant design with a glass balcony door and metal fencing from the outside. Ideal for opening the window and breathing fresh air or enjoy the beautiful view.

A balcony with a small platform is a more complex design option. It implies the presence of a protruding concrete element. This balcony allows you to literally go one step outside the room and enjoy your morning coffee in the fresh air.

These are the main types of this architectural structure. They differ from each other not only in their structural features and design, but also in the method of attachment to the building. Fastening can be point-based using a small amount of metal elements, using metal pipes or profile.

The choice of the type of French balcony depends on the wishes of the customer. Some people just want to decorate the window opening in an original way, while others will prefer a full-fledged structure with doors, fencing and railings.

Significant impact on appearance finished product influence the materials from which the window is made. The window profile can be made of wood, metal or plastic, and the glass can be chosen transparent, frosted, tinted or colored.

The design of the balcony can also be very different. Some people like strict classics and clear geometric lines, some will like forged lattices with petals, curls and shells. Fencing and railings can have very different geometric shape, thickness, size, decor. To make them, you can use standard options or use an individual sketch from the customer.

Wrought iron balcony- the most popular type of this type of architectural structures. Forged metal elements allow you to create fragile and delicate compositions that perfectly highlight the beauty of the balcony and emphasize its impeccable appearance. Metal is a very flexible and docile material. This property determines the widest the lineup forged products: from the simplest geometric elements to complex compositions.

A forged balcony can have a square, rectangular, round shape, be convex or concave, have railings and fences, be decorated with decor or remain strict and laconic.

Plant patterns, flowers, and fruits are most often used as an ornament to create decorative elements made of metal. Balconies with artificially aged or gold leaf-covered fencing look even more stylish and impressive. Such models resemble the balconies of ancient castles and palaces.

Decor and arrangement

The elegant and sophisticated shape of French balconies in itself is a wonderful decorative addition to any facade. However, with the help of some additional elements and its decorations can be further refined and landscaped. For example, using gratings - decorative or structural window grilles. Black, golden, silver, snow-white frames can divide the window into regular geometric shapes (diamonds, squares, rectangles) or create more complex and unusual compositions using semicircles, cells, honeycombs.

Using multi-colored glass is another great way to highlight your balcony. Tinted glass will help muffle solar lighting, frosted glass will create a beautiful decorative effect. And multi-colored pieces of glass, laid out in an intricate pattern or picture, will give the balcony a well-groomed and expensive look. It is not for nothing that stained glass has been considered one of the most beautiful and expensive jewelry palaces and churches.

It has long been known that it is the little things that make an image complete and complete. beautiful view. This applies to accessories for decorating a balcony. It can be gold or silver in color, made in a graceful, elegant form, and decorated with decor.

Forged elements – a win-win for decorating any type of balcony. Small or large curls, flower buds, butterflies, sculptural compositions invariably attract the admiring glances of others.

Design feature The French balcony has panoramic glazing, that is, from floor to ceiling. Naturally, you need to think about how to hide the room from excessive light, as well as prying eyes. The best option for this purpose - curtains, drapes or blinds.

Choosing suitable option curtains, you need to remember a few nuances:

• One of the advantages of panoramic glazing is the feeling free space, so curtains or drapes should only enhance this effect. The materials for their manufacture must be light, lightweight, and transparent;
• functionality (blinds or curtains should quickly and easily cover and open the window if necessary);
• practicality in care (curtains should be easy to wash, clean or wash),

A French balcony implies a very small external space, which, no less than standard architectural structures, needs arrangement and decoration. Elements made of wood, forging, and plastic can be used as external and internal decor. These can be original lanterns or elegant candlesticks. A small country umbrella or other structure in the form of a canopy will help protect the balcony space from rain or scorching rays of the sun.

Flowers - best decoration any balcony. Flower arrangements placed on the parapet, along the fence or climbing vines decorating the entire balcony create a real “living” hedge that will delight the eyes of the owners and others for several months a year.

Many of us have a vague idea of ​​what a French balcony is. However, each of us saw it. This type of site has its own term in French - “portefenetre”, which literally means “door-window”. This translation perfectly describes such a structure.

Types of French balconies

According to the type of construction, French balconies are divided into two types:

• With platform:

• Without platform:

The most common are French balconies that do not have a small attached area. This design is distinguished by its sophistication. She represents the usual standard door made of glass. On the outside there is a fence made using the figured forging method.

This structure cannot be called a balcony - in the general understanding of the word. There is not even a small platform here, and you cannot go outside. But you can open the door and enjoy plenty of fresh air, leaning on the railing.

In fact, a French balcony without a platform is an elegant big window, which is located on the entire wall.

Another type of French balcony is a design with a small platform. The platform is a protrusion from the wall. It is executed from durable concrete. You should not think that this protrusion is enough for the structure to be considered a full-fledged balcony.

Usually the width of the site hardly exceeds half a meter.

Despite the fact that there is no traditional access to the balcony, the size of the area allows you to stand outside. This is very convenient for people who like to drink tea or coffee in the fresh air in the morning.

If we consider the types from a design point of view, there will also be two of them:

1. classical;
2. modern.

Classic version– . The gratings are made of forged metal. This is a beautiful and reliable design in terms of safety. Sometimes for forged finish additional materials are used.

Photo gallery:

Modern version has continuous glazing, both the upper and lower parts. Installation is carried out on concrete slabs. The glazing is made from a durable profile.

Photos:

Characteristics of French balconies

The characteristics of French balconies of any type include the following parameters:

Speaking about the characteristics, you should take into account the material of production, its color, as well as technical specifications. Material is a very important factor when installing a lightweight structure is required. Then lighter options are chosen, for example, aluminum. To save money, you can also use metal-plastic.

The sashes are installed as hinged, blind or only partially opening. It depends on the possibilities interior space. We must not forget that the material of the facade and the height from the ground are taken into account.

Other characteristics include:

• lack of parapet;
• lack of external cladding;
• lack of insulation;

Listed features of French balconies different types give people who choose this option several important advantages that allow them to save a lot of money on the purchase of materials for interior and exterior finishing, as well as for glazing and insulation.

Another important feature of balconies is.



The panoramic design can significantly visually expand the space of the interior.

Design of French balconies

Classic

Each type of balcony can be decorated differently. When designing small classic French balconies, you can use decorative elements, obtained by forging. Imitation made from various materials also looks great.

If possible, it is advisable to provide lighting. These can be either lanterns or special closed candlesticks. They all hang on outside classic French balcony.

In general, in most cases, the basis of design in classic balconies serve flower arrangements (read more).

Flowers are usually placed in stylish pots or flowerpots.

These products must have special holes that allow them to be firmly attached to the railings. But also hanging options look great. Look unusual climbing plants. They are planted in small narrow containers along the fence to decorate the forging. Read all about balcony railings.

If a canopy is required, it can be arranged in the form of an umbrella or a sun lounger-type canopy. This addition is not only very impressive. It provides reliable protection from precipitation or bright sun.

Modern

Modern French balconies have almost as wide a range of design options as regular balcony. Of course, in a slightly smaller format. Here you can place a lot compact furniture with unusual decor.

On modern balconies A variety of flowers really look great. They can be placed in several tiers or placed vertically. The last option is ideal if the plants climb. Another stylish performance flower arrangement- on the ceiling.

As for the rest interior decoration, then it completely depends on the taste of the owner of the apartment or house.

Today there are many design trends for exclusive interior and exterior decoration of apartments and country houses. French glazing of the balconies allows you to open a unique panoramic view of the city. Such glazing is acceptable for both apartments and charging houses. In addition to the practicality of this technology, the aesthetic appearance is also a plus. Externally, the balcony will become more attractive and elegant. Glazing technology requires special skills and has several important nuances, which we will examine in detail later.

Features of French glazing of balconies

Before starting to consider the installation technology, we will analyze the main aspects of such glazing. When planning balcony glazing french style, the end result will be a beautiful and comfortable balcony, whether Vacation home or an apartment.

The balcony structure itself consists of windows and doors. The material used to prepare the frame can be of two types: aluminum or metal-plastic. Such a balcony will allow maximum illumination of the premises, thereby visually adding square meters area and improving its appearance. And the peculiarity of such a balcony is the opening panorama of the city behind it.

It is noteworthy that this type of balconies is more popular for residential buildings or country cottages, but glazing technology is often used in apartments on the upper floors. The point is that by equipping a balcony in this way, it will not in any way compromise the integrity of the structure, which affects the reliability and cost of the work.

After the reconstruction is completed, the French-style balcony will turn the former gray building into beautiful terrace, which offers an equally beautiful view of everything that is outside the windows.

French glazing of a loggia or balcony is considered modern version finishing. During the refurbishment, the previous enclosing structure is dismantled, and then new windows are installed - they occupy absolutely the entire window space from ceiling to floor. There are two options for this glazing. In the first one, a solid frame is installed and double-glazed windows are installed. The second option is to install glass in the upper part of the balcony, while the lower part is glazed in several options:

• glass (transparent);
• sandwich panels;
• frosted glass;
• double-glazed windows with tinting;

By installing a French balcony, it becomes much more attractive both with outside, and from the inside. So that visitors and ordinary passers-by will not pass by without noticing all this beauty.

Advantages of French glazing

Not taking into account the aesthetic improvements of the balcony, there are also many other advantages:

Based on the above, it is possible to save money, since the surfaces do not require additional finishing.

Disadvantages of French-style balconies

By installing high-quality French windows, sound insulation and thermal insulation significantly increases. Therefore, the annoying noise outside the balcony is forgotten. But still, there is bad sides such configuration of the balcony, namely:

Algorithm for glazing a French balcony

French balcony glazing is used in various designs houses. Multi-storey, private and cottages. The peculiarity of this reconstruction of the balcony is the fact that the integrity of the structure does not change, and the end result is a very beautiful and unique panoramic view.

Before installation, you must dismantle old frame to clear the space. After this, they begin to install window frames for glass. Installation can occur in two ways: you can install a complete structure. can you install sectional system, separated by bindings.

In the lower part window frame install Various types glasses that were given above.

The frame can be of two types - aluminum or metal-plastic. The final price of French-style windows depends on the choice of material. Metal-plastic double-glazed windows are installed in cases where protection from the cold is necessary; in other cases, an aluminum frame is excellent.

Characteristics such as sound insulation and thermal insulation depend on the materials that were used during installation.

Unlike other types of balconies French look differs in that the windows are installed along the entire perimeter, from the base to the ceiling. Because of this installation, there is no need for various types of parapets, and installation is carried out directly into the floor.

Types of French glazing of balconies

At the moment there are two types of glazing in the French style:

• Group;
• Full frame.

When determining the type of glazing, various characteristics must be taken into account.

First, with the help of French glazing you get much more light, even indoors. Secondly, there are huge savings associated with materials; there are no costs for upholstery, external finishing, energy costs are also reduced. Third, the square footage of the balcony itself increases noticeably.

In addition to the above advantages, there are also disadvantages. Such as the complexity of caring for glass, the price for installing a French balcony is an order of magnitude higher than installing other types, the need for ventilation, for ventilation in summer seasons, as well as the need for heating systems in order not to freeze in winter.

But still, putting aside all the shortcomings, we can safely say that the French balcony is one of the most beautiful and elegant balconies. You can also order an individual design that is different from all the others.

Legal aspects of French glazing of a balcony in an apartment

To install a French balcony, it is imperative to coordinate everything with the authorities that will confirm or deny the installation of such a structure.

If the balcony is located on the front side, you must obtain permission for installation, since there is a ban on changing the front side of the house.

If permission was not obtained, but the installation was carried out, then there may be a trial in this case. To prevent this from happening, you need to collect all the necessary documents. The resolution is also affected by the material of the balcony itself. Quite old buildings have concrete barriers and should not be altered at all. It is also worth considering the maximum load; this value cannot be exceeded. And in the event of a possible collapse, installation will be impossible.

Fittings and double glazed windows

There are various designer varieties when installing French glazing. There are 3 options for panoramic glazing, namely:

• Plastic fittings;
• No frames;
• Application of aluminum profile.

If the balcony is connected to the room, it is necessary to install double-glazed windows made of plastic, due to which the sound insulation and thermal insulation in the room will significantly increase. When the balcony is not connected to the rest of the building, it is possible to use a frameless connection. It is impossible not to take into account the fact that the glass takes up all the space and is absolutely transparent. So city residents passing by can easily see what is happening on the balcony. This factor can be neutralized by gluing a reflective film, and then no one will be able to invade your personal space.

To maintain privacy, you can also use blinds. Protective structures can reduce the penetration of light, which will protect the room from overheating. When arranging a French balcony, only shockproof glass is used. This is necessary to ensure the safety of people inside the premises.

If you use multi-chamber packages during your work, you can significantly save on heating, namely, approximately three times. You can also use polyvinyl chloride profile, it will help to insulate the loggia much better. The thickness of this material is only 7 cm.

When it comes to balcony insulation, you can use foil penofol or penoplex. These building materials will help make a French-style glazed balcony even warmer and more comfortable.

To summarize, we can say that a balcony made in the French style has more advantages than disadvantages, so if it is possible to install such glazing, then it is better to decide without a doubt.