French is a balcony that performs a purely decorative function. Due to the very small area, it is impossible to arrange a storage room on it. There is no point in glazing it, much less adding it to the room. Essentially, a French balcony is a door in the wall with decorative fencing, protruding 20-30 cm from the wall.

It is sometimes difficult to even place a chair on such a balcony. You can only go out onto a narrow platform with a cup of tea. Sometimes the depth of the balcony is increased using a curved lattice. In the photo, French balconies are almost always decorated with fresh flowers in pots. The facade of the building only benefits from this design and looks stylish and noble.

Features of a French balcony

Owners of French balconies have mixed feelings about this design. Some see a lot of advantages in it, others see only disadvantages. The main advantage is that there is no need to spend money on its glazing and cladding. In addition, he:

• visually expands the space;
• does not interfere with the penetration of sunlight into the apartment;
• makes it possible to implement a lot of decorating ideas. In other words, a French balcony is needed solely as an aesthetic and even romantic element.

People who are far from romantic think that they are unlucky with a balcony. Among its shortcomings they note:

• lack of space to store household belongings;
• inability to use it for drying clothes;
• a panoramic window in summer is more of a disadvantage than an advantage, since the sun's rays provide even more heat, requiring the installation of an air conditioner or fan;
• the lattice sometimes requires additional strengthening so that you can safely go out onto the balcony and lean on it.

French balconies differ from each other in the height of the grille, depth, width, the presence or absence of a mosquito net, the material from which the grille is made, and other characteristics. The fencing of a French balcony can be cast iron, aluminum, plastic, etc.

The choice of material depends on whether or not it is necessary to lighten the structure. Aluminum and metal-plastic are used for this purpose. The latter is cheaper, but superior to aluminum in soundproofing properties.

The width of the balcony depends on the width of the panoramic window. The doors to the balcony may have different designs, from ordinary hinged to rising or sliding.

What are French balconies?

The classic design of a French balcony is enclosing it with a convex lattice of elegant forging. There is also a decorative cornice along the bottom to strengthen the structure. the modern version is much simpler in design and is a box made of double-glazed windows with a small protrusion outward.

Decoration of the balcony located on brick facade, is a relief arch made of the same brick, framing the upper part of the window, and sometimes turning into a frame around the entire window.

Modern design is close to high-tech style: a metal rectangular grille made of straight elements without any smooth bends and in the complete absence of decorative elements. The window in a strict frame of a metallic shade also corresponds to it. It is the modern design that allows full glazing, unlike a wrought-iron balcony, on which the glazing looks ridiculous.

Although today French balcony glazing is increasingly used, when the structure has a minimum of frames and looks quite light due to the large amount of glass.

It is used not only for narrow, but also for ordinary balconies and loggias. However, you need to understand that you can no longer arrange a warehouse of things on it, since it will be on public display. French glazing should be accompanied by a stylish design.

Today, glass with one-sided transparency is at the peak of popularity. From inside the apartment through it is provided good review streets. But when you look from the outside, you don’t even suspect that the owner of the apartment might be looking at you, since the glass seems opaque.

If space allows, you can install a small bench and table on the balcony to drink tea and survey the surroundings. The main thing is not to allow any clutter.

Even though French balconies are not at the peak of popularity today, the number of their fans is increasing every year. And if there are enough other places in the house where you can store things, why not make a piece of space that unites the inner and outer worlds a relaxation corner?

Photos of French balconies

Often, when asked what a French balcony looks like, not everyone can answer.

However, almost everyone has seen it at least once.

Translated from French literally the name sounds like “a door with a window.” In fact, this is what it looks like.

And with an ordinary door and window, a similar design differs in the presence of a forged lattice instead of a parapet.

Previously, the French balcony was the name given to all balconies that were a narrow protruding area for one person with a wrought-iron parapet. Usually they had the function of ventilating the apartment.

Let's look at modern French-type balconies in more detail, talk about their positive and negative qualities, as well as the nuances that need to be taken into account when installing such a balcony.

What are balconies of this type?

Let's first look at the appearance of these atypical structures.

Nowadays, French balconies are mainly called balconies, glazed with panoramic windows from top to bottom with a transition to a small ledge with a fence in the form of a lattice, most often forged. Externally, such balconies have a slightly curved shape.

Such a structure does not have any specific tasks.

French balconies

Since the site is small in size, the balcony is not used as a storage room or for the purpose of arranging a living area. But such a balcony looks very original and will decorate the building well.

And if you love houseplants, then you are doubly lucky - here they can be placed in huge numbers, which will also decorate the building and allow you to enjoy a pleasant evening in this small greenhouse.

Positive and negative traits

Like all balconies, a French-type balcony has its advantages and disadvantages.

Most often, its advantages are considered:

1) not required additional expenses for installation of railings, Finishing work and strengthening works;

2) not required exterior decoration balcony;

3) insulation and internal lining of the balcony are not required;

4) visual expansion of the balcony space with the achievement of its maximum illumination;

5) a panoramic window is created;

6) no need for welding work during installation;

7) budget savings when purchasing finishing materials;

8) a lot of design options.

But there are also disadvantages:

1) the design does not provide for the presence of a window sill;

2) reinforcement of the concrete slab is required;

3) additional ventilation is required in summer and additional heating in winter;

4) high cost;

5) difficulty of care, because wet cleaning of large glass surfaces is necessary.

Parameters of French balconies

The main parameters are the width and height of the balcony, the presence of a mosquito net, drainage, and so on.

In addition, it is important to take into account the material from which the balcony is made, its quality, properties and color.

To reduce the weight of the balcony, aluminum profiles are most often used. True, they are more expensive than other options, and their thermal and noise insulation rates are much lower. One of the main characteristics of glazing is the number of sashes in the windows, depending on the measurements and the required final result.

Glazing sashes can be hinged (opening outwards), blind (do not open at all) and partially opening.

The choice depends on you and on the structure of the double-glazed windows. Also take into account the finish of the facade on which the balcony will be installed and the installation height.

Variety of types

French-type balconies come in different types.

Most often there is a balcony in the form glazed door with a fence outside or inside it. Another option is a balcony with a small concrete overhang, most often supported by a decorative cornice. This is the traditional option.

Balconies also differ in how they are connected to the load-bearing wall.

Fastenings can be point-based (with a small use of metal parts), using a pipe profile, or using a metal profile fixed directly to the load-bearing wall.

In any case, what your balcony will look like depends only on you. You can install additional handrails or a wrought-iron parapet, or you can simply choose panoramic glazing across the entire wall.

Installation of a French balcony

Installing a balcony of this type is not an easy process, so it is better to entrust it to specialists.

The installation process itself takes place in several steps.

If the installation is taking place for the first time, then first of all you need to measure the installation site and inspect the finishing elements. Installing such a balcony will take less time than installing a traditional balcony, especially since welding and finishing work is not required.

To install a French balcony you will have to, along with metal-plastic construction install a reinforcing profile and reinforcement elements. Such balconies have reliable fastenings thanks to special technology installation

In addition, you can regular balcony convert to French.

To do this, you need to remove the concrete parapet or metal fence.

It is preferable to choose aluminum profiles, as they have sliding doors, which is very convenient.

True, such glazing costs much more than metal-plastic. Choose 2-chamber double-glazed windows with energy-saving glass to improve the thermal insulation of the room.

Moreover, there is a lot of glass in this design, so the balcony will need good insulation.

It is also possible to install balconies with partial glazing, in which glazing is installed at the top of the balcony and sandwich panels at the bottom. This design does not require insulation or finishing.

It is better to choose double-glazed windows of maximum strength. This design is more practical and safe, especially if you have children in your family.

An excellent choice would be glazing that is transparent only with inside. It will perfectly hide everything that happens in the room from prying eyes.

French balconies are becoming more and more popular. If you like to admire the beautiful view directly from the apartment, then this type of balconies is just for you.

A French balcony will emphasize your sense of taste and add elegance and aesthetics to the apartment.

They are even suitable for private homes and decorate them perfectly.

So add a balcony with a wrought-iron parapet to the facade, and then decorate it with a small flower garden and get a chic decor for the whole house, accessible to many and at a low cost.

Video - wrought iron French balcony

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 of space 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 opens at least beautiful view to everything that is outside the windows.

French glazing of a loggia or balcony is considered a modern finishing option. 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 from the 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 increases noticeably. 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 balcony reconstruction 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 of glass, which 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

On this moment There are two types of French style glazing:

• Group;
• Full frame.

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

The first is with the help French glazing much more light is obtained, 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 a 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.

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 sense of the concept, but a beautiful window railing.

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 made of 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. House decorated with French balconies flower 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. Modern version differs from the classic one in the absence of a parapet.

Instead, the balcony space is completely glazed from ceiling to floor.

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

Excellent decorative properties.

1. Flaws:
2. No window sill.
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. Different materials are used for its manufacture, and its cost will directly depend on this. The doors can be blind, open partially or completely. Can be used for decoration forged metal, stained glass, frosted glass, mirror film or a combination of several materials.

Kinds

Balcony without a platform - a very simple but elegant design with 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 number of metal elements, using metal pipes or profiles.

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.

The materials from which the window is made have a significant impact on the appearance of the finished product. 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 wrought iron 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.

Metal is most often used as an ornament to create decorative elements. plant patterns, flowers, fruits. 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 decorations it 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 dim the sunlight, 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 windows have been considered one of the most beautiful and expensive decorations of palaces and churches since ancient times.

It has long been known that it is the little things that give an image a complete and beautiful look. 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 are a win-win option for decorating a balcony of any type.

Small or large curls, flower buds, butterflies, sculptural compositions invariably attract the admiring glances of others. 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 is 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 of 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 are the best decoration for 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.