Replacing windows in a house is always accompanied by the installation of protection for the junction of the frame and the wall. Polyurethane foam is applied between the opening and the frame - traditional and proven thermal insulation. The foam performs its role properly, but if exposed to extreme moisture or ultraviolet radiation, its quality may change for the worse.

To eliminate the possibility of such a situation in advance and save yourself from replacement in the future, you should think about sealing the seams. To do this, you need to install additional insulation.

A complete set of insulation allows you to avoid freezing of the room and minimize the penetration of moisture and noise.

The insulation between the wall and the window consists of three layers:

• Outer. Its function is waterproofing, which means protecting the room from any weather conditions - snow and rain.
• The load-bearing insulation layer is located in the middle of the joint and is responsible for heat and sound insulation. Protection from frost is provided by a porous material resembling polyurethane foam. The waterproofing agent prevents moisture from getting inside.
• The inner layer is also considered thermal insulation. Here the mechanism of heat conservation is different. This layer does not allow heat to escape from the inside, unlike the outer layer, which protects the premises from cold air flows from the street.

The vapor barrier of windows refers to the inner layer, but is not always included in the insulation system. Single-sided self-adhesive vapor barrier tape or Double-sided tape for vapor barrier - this is additional protection. The need to use tape increases if the window is installed in a room with a high moisture content: kitchen, sauna, bathhouse.

Installing vapor barrier tapes is no more difficult than installing other types of seam insulation. However, a vapor barrier can help avoid subsequent serious problems with the entire window protection system. When installing a vapor barrier, in some cases you may need a couple of additional accessories, for example, vapor barrier tape. This is worth considering.

Classification of vapor barrier tapes

Vapor barrier tapes are manufactured in two versions:

• tapes with one adhesive side;
• double-sided vapor barrier tapes.

The first type of tape is attached to window frame window. The second allows you to choose the mounting location: both on the frame and in the opening.

In addition to differences in adhesive structure, tapes are divided into two types according to climatic design:

• for predominantly warm average annual weather, “summer” vapor barrier films are suitable;
• in the presence of subzero temperatures“winter” tapes are used.

Adhesive surface of vapor barrier tapes

All vapor barrier films are equipped with an adhesive strip. The absence of the need to apply glue yourself eliminates the possibility of poor-quality fastening of the tape, as well as moisture getting into the thermal insulation environment.

Material for the adhesive layer vapor barrier tape Butyl rubber or, in cases with high humidity, metal is used. Tapes containing rubber film are used for windows, balconies and doors in almost all types of premises. The basis of such a vapor barrier is non-woven fabric.

Types of vapor barrier tapes

The most common types of tapes, depending on the material:

• One of the most popular butyl rubber tapes is PSUL (pre-compressed sealing tapes), which are responsible for external vapor barrier, finishing of external joints and tight connection between frame and wall.
• GPL polyethylene tape is made from foam material. On one side it is treated with lamination. The strip contains metal inserts and an adhesive part along the entire length and width. Thanks to its well-thought-out composition, it is almost universal and is recommended for insulating all types of door and window frames.
• Vapor barrier tape for aircraft windows. Suitable for insulating joints if a subsequent dry method of finishing slopes is planned. Typically used on plastic or plasterboard elements. The connecting tape protects surfaces from condensation. The wide adhesive strip makes the installation of the vapor barrier strip simple and quick.
• Vapor barrier tape VM. Just like other types of tapes, it attaches perfectly to window and door frames. Installation is carried out in sequence from the frame. The strips of tape are attached overlapping in order to avoid possible heat leaks during operation of windows or doors.

Butyl rubber tape has a high specific gravity. PSUL tape weighs approximately 5 times more than tape made with reinforced aluminum foil with the same width. The differences between the types of tapes also lie in the surfaces for which they are usually used. The thick rubber tape can be firmly attached to the wall, and there is no need to use heavy insulating materials for gluing to slopes. For this case, lightweight foil-reinforced strips are preferred.

GPL tapes

GPL are vapor-waterproofing tapes that perform moisture protection as the main task. These tapes form the outer layer of insulation with an additional vapor barrier function. Self-adhesive vapor barrier tape is made of polyethylene foam.

Polyethylene foam has a porous structure and has good thermal insulation properties and practically zero hygroscopicity (does not absorb moisture). The presence of this material in the tape makes it elastic and provides high-quality sealing with any surface, including uneven ones.

On one side the strip is laminated with a thin film of metal, on the other side there is glue. A special moisture-resistant adhesive allows the tape to easily adhere to any materials: plastic, metal, wood, brick, without requiring labor-intensive preparation.

In general, polypropylene film has significant resistance to destruction and chemical resistance to both alkalis and acids. Thanks to these qualities, polypropylene vapor barrier for windows is used without wear and oxidation.

Characteristics of GPL

GPL vapor barrier tape is characterized by:

• heat reflection – at least 95%;
• thermal conductivity – 0.04-0.05 W/m °C;
• specific heat capacity – 1.95 kJ/kg °C;
• zero vapor permeability;
• sound absorption - from 32 dB.

The tape is transported in the form of a twisted roll. There is no gluing of the layers; to prevent it, a paper film is laid.

Dimensions of self-adhesive GPL tape

Dimensions of the insulating strip for plastic windows characterized by width, length and thickness:

• The width varies according to the buyer's needs. Standard sizes– 90/120/150/200 mm;
• Typical tape roll length is 15 m;
• The thickness of the tape has two layers:
  • the first insulating layer is non-crosslinked polyethylene foam, 2 mm;
  • the second is the vapor barrier itself - polypropylene film, 20 microns. This thin film relative to the entire thickness of the layer is enough to prevent condensation from falling onto the slopes of the window opening, and the entire system of protecting the window from weather conditions works better.

Installation of vapor barrier is carried out at a temperature of 10°C.

Installation of vapor barrier tape

Installation of vapor barrier tape is carried out in several stages:

• Preparation and processing of window/door openings. The surface of the opening walls and the frame must be cleaned of dust. The less contamination, the more reliable the thermal insulation.
• It is necessary to mark the line for attaching the vapor barrier tape. To do this, you need to place the frame in the opening without securing it, and visually calculate where you need to draw the line.
• After this, the frame is removed back, and the vapor barrier strip is glued along the marked lines.
• The paper films covering the adhesive part are removed last.
• The installation of the vapor barrier tape is completed by covering the seam with foam.
• If it is necessary to install the tape in the area under the window sill, then it is done at the very end.

When installing a vapor barrier tape, subsequent application of plaster may be required. In this case, the open part of the tape must be made of a material that provides the best adhesion of the insulating strip and decorative covering between themselves.

The vapor barrier tape must be glued around the perimeter of the frame in a continuous layer, without gaps. Optimal thermal insulation is facilitated by the selection of finishing materials adjacent to the insulation, which have acceptable moisture permeability in this case.

Accessories for vapor barriers

When installing a vapor barrier, minor difficulties may arise - overlapping strips and overlaps. You may consider this not dangerous for tightness, but in the end you will most likely get problems with heat and vapor barrier. Therefore, when installing a sealed vapor barrier for PVC windows, you may need additional accessories, for example, self-adhesive tape. In some cases, glue is most convenient.

If vapor barrier metallized tape is attached to a non-smooth surface, it may require additional strengthening force.

Self-adhesive tape can be the same as the vapor barrier sheets themselves, single- or double-sided. They are purchased if it is necessary to additionally glue the joints of vapor barrier strips and correct damage to the strips.

In the case of a double overlap or adhesive tape to wood or metal, double-sided tape is often used. With double overlap, i.e. When attaching a strip to pipes or doors, it is more convenient to use one-sided.

Cost 1 linear m of vapor barrier tape averages from 25 to 45 rubles. The price tag for additional products, for example, double-sided tape, is quite high (up to 1,400 rubles). Therefore, when purchasing them, everyone is guided by the installation process, the desired degree of confidence in the operation of the system and the possibility of spending money.

Video: using vapor barrier film for plastic windows

In general, vapor barrier is not currently considered mandatory. Its installation is often determined by the choice between reinsurance against possible unpleasant situations or saving. Some producers and buyers choose a budget option, which does not include vapor barrier on windows. However, a wide range of vapor barrier products allows for the most suitable choice without compromising the safety of operation of the entire window system.

Capable of increasing quality characteristics design, which extends its service life. On sale you can find tapes that have an adhesive strip on one or both sides. It is designed to fix the tape to the window and wall. Among other things, such materials are classified according to temperature characteristics during operation.

The first variety is suitable for summer period and can be used in a temperature range from +5 to +35°C, while products intended for winter can withstand temperatures below zero degrees. The width of such a strip can vary depending on the tasks, which allows it to provide vapor barrier to seams different sizes. When choosing a vapor barrier tape, you must take into account that its width should be 45 mm larger assembly seam.

general description

The described outdoor installation tapes may consist of foam materials and are required for and may be used in conjunction with plaster mortar, which increases vapor barrier characteristics. There is a vapor barrier tape for windows on sale, the characteristics, photos of which are presented in the article. This material may be based on butyl rubber, which is intended for sealing joints and installation on windows and windows. The product consists of non-woven fabric, during installation it is primed, on next stage it is covered with plaster and finally painted. This type has a self-adhesive layer. If you need a vapor barrier tape that will be used at high humidity, then you should install the material under the dry finishing of the slopes, using the metallized variety.

Characteristics of foil vapor barrier tape

Foil hydro-steam and thermal insulation tape is glued to clean, dry and pre-degreased surfaces. The material itself is supplied in boxes whose dimensions are 420x420x600 mm. It should not be used at temperatures below +10°C. The tapes are based on polyethylene foam, which is laminated and metalized with polypropylene film on one side, while on the other there is a waterproof adhesive layer that reliably ensures fastening of the material to concrete, brick, metal, plastic and wooden structures.

It is based on a material that consists of a closed cellular structure; it has low hygroscopicity and almost does not absorb moisture. Elasticity is ensured thanks to polyethylene foam, which guarantees sealing of seams with varying degrees of unevenness. High mechanical strength was achieved thanks to the presence of polypropylene film, which is resistant to alkalis, organic solvents and acids. The reflective layer is protected from mechanical damage and oxidation. The sticky layer consists of a water-resistant adhesive that is created on a base synthetic rubber. It has improved adhesion properties different materials, which allows you to use the tape without preliminary preparation surfaces.

For reference

You don’t have to worry about the vapor barrier tape sticking together in the roll, since there is a protective siliconized layer on its surface. This type of steam-hydro-thermal insulation is used for seams, assemblies and connections of various building structures, including when installing window blocks, wood, metal, plastic and concrete products.

Material sizes

The film thickness is 20 microns, while the length is 15 m, and the width can vary from 90 to 200 mm. Intermediate values ​​are 120 and 150 mm.

Specifications

Vapor barrier tape for windows has a high coefficient of thermal reflection, which reaches 95%. The thermal conductivity coefficient is very small, and at 20°C it is in the range of 0.038-0.051 W/m °C. The heat absorption coefficient during the day reaches 0.48 W/(m 2 °C). Thermal resistance is 0.031 °C/W, which is true for one millimeter of thickness. Professionals are sometimes also interested in such characteristics as specific heat. In the case of the one described, this parameter is 1.95 kJ/kg °C.

Under a load within 2-5 kPa, the dynamic modulus of elasticity can vary from 0.26 to 0.6 MPa. Vapor barrier tape for windows has another significant advantage, which is expressed in the ability to absorb extraneous noise. Thus, the sound absorption is 32 dB. The material belongs to the flammability group G2, smoke-forming ability - D3. The density of the material can be equal to 50 and 80 kg/m3.

Features of installing sealing tape

Vapor barrier tape for windows, specifications which were presented above, should be installed according to the algorithm developed for this material. For internal sealing of the seam, a duplicated vapor barrier tape based on aluminum foil is used. For reliable and easy fixation, there are adhesive strips on it, which are located on both sides. The tape should be installed around the entire perimeter of the window, and then covered with slopes that are installed using a dry method.

To install the internal vapor barrier tape at the first stage, it should be cut into separate pieces, the length of which will be equal to the width and length of the window. To these values ​​you need to add 10 cm, which will go to corner connections. The length of the tape is joined with an overlap, the width of which should be approximately 1/2 the width of the material.

Work methodology

Vapor barrier tape for PVC windows, the use of which is described in detail in the article, at the next stage is freed from the protective paper on the side of the duplicated strip. Now the material can be glued to the frame profile. This must be done under tension, and the inner edge of the adhesive layer must coincide with the inner edge of the frame. Protective layer, which is on the butyl rubber coating, should not be removed at this stage.

To ensure that the adhesion of the adhesive strips is not reduced, you need to keep the structure in open state less time, and before gluing, the surface of the window must be wiped with a soft rag or paper towel.

Conclusion

Vapor barrier tape for windows, the density of which was mentioned above, should be installed in one piece, with breaks at flat surfaces there shouldn't be. On final stage you need to install the tape on the window sill, and then assemble the window with sashes.

Helpful information

Installation of PVC windows involves the use of special insulating materials. This category includes mounting foam for PVC windows and tape. Each of these materials has specific purpose. As a rule, the tape serves to isolate seams from dust and moisture, preventing the formation of fungus and mold in the joints. In turn, the foam compensates for the effects of temperature changes and provides reliable sound insulation.

Mounting tapes for windows

The tape is selected taking into account functional purpose. We offer mounting tape for plastic windows to buy for any task - for sealing ebbs or slopes, window sills or window openings. We recommend paying attention to the PSUL feed.

At a relatively low cost, it has excellent performance parameters, reliably protecting seams from dust and moisture. In addition, its installation is carried out without special tools. The self-adhesive surface adheres tightly to the base without much effort.

Mounting foam for windows

Window insulation polyurethane foam V Lately especially relevant. By correctly installing the window unit, you can significantly reduce heat loss. Naturally, the effectiveness of such insulation is determined by the properties of the material. And here the question usually arises: polyurethane foam for PVC windows - which is better? Basically, the insulating characteristics depend on the components included in the foam, as well as on the production technologies used by the manufacturer.

Buy PSUL in Moscow

We have a category presented German company Bauset, which has been one of the leading manufacturers in Europe for many years. If you follow the manufacturer's instructions, the consumption of polyurethane foam on the window is minimal - at low costs you can reliably seal the window unit and extend its service life. In the adjacent sections of the catalog you can find everything necessary tools to carry out work.

High-quality glazing requires serious consideration and is impossible without proper insulation of the gap between the opening and the window. Often, organizations that install translucent structures limit themselves to traditional polyurethane foam, which is subsequently covered with plaster or other finishing materials. This approach has proven itself relatively well and in some cases does not cause any complaints from the consumer throughout the entire service life of the window.

However, glazing with one level of sealing of the opening does not meet the state requirements for the quality of services or goods provided, that is, GOST. To comply with these requirements, additional insulation is required at the junction of the window and the opening both from the street side and from the room side. Such insulation is ensured using special mounting tapes.

Scheme for using mounting tapes on windows
View from above

Mounting tape for windows is a self-adhesive material on a polymer or fabric basis, designed for additional sealing of window or door openings.

Types of mounting tapes for windows

The functions performed by the tapes are different and depend on the location of gluing, the condition of the opening, the features of the future finishing of the slopes, as well as the requirements for window block. Next, we will consider the most commonly used materials common in the modern construction market.

PSUL

Pre-compressed sealing tape used mainly on the outside of translucent structures. Its main purpose is to ensure unimpeded drainage of moisture from the area where the hatch connects to the opening.

Essentially, this is a tape product made of elastic polyurethane foam (looks like foam rubber), usually gray or black. One side of the material is covered adhesive composition, isolated with a protective film. The tape is supplied twisted into compact reels or rolls (depending on the size), which need to be unwound only during the installation process, since the material loses its quality over time.

An example of tape expansion over time

The main feature is the ability to fill joints as a result of expansion, which occurs as a result of contact with air. The tape isolates the gap from moisture and external influences with outside, while simultaneously allowing excess liquid from the inside to evaporate.

Scope of application of PSUL:

• Additional sealing of interfaces between elements of prefabricated structures;
• Sealing the gap between the frame and the opening when installing windows and doors;
• Insulation of joints between small-sized moving units of building facades;
• Filling the outer seam between the slope and the frame during PVC installations windows

It is important to understand that to fill the gap efficiently, you need a tape of the appropriate size. For example, if the task is to seal a joint with a maximum width of 40 mm, you will need a PSUL with a nominal size of 45-50 mm.

Water vapor barrier (GPL)

This type of tape product is most popular when installing window blocks. Among its main features it is worth highlighting the following:

• Water vapor barrier mounting tape is designed to seal joints on the room side.
• The most commonly used self-adhesive material is polyethylene film. On one side the tape is equipped with a foil coating, and on the other - with an adhesive composition.
• The adhesive used provides reliable fixation on most surfaces (concrete, brick, cinder block, wood and others). The products of some brands have poor adhesion to foam blocks and aerated concrete, so before purchasing you should consult with the seller or read the attached instructions.
• The structure of the material prevents the penetration of moisture or air both through the tape itself and through the gluing points. This ensures the maximum possible tightness of the joint of the opening and, as a result, the structure as a whole.
• In addition to insulating from moisture, the tape does not collapse during prolonged contact with ultraviolet radiation and is not subject to destruction from impact aggressive environments(household acids, alkalis and other reagents).

GPL is used for waterproofing installation gaps that arise when installing window and door units, as well as for sealing structures made of metal, wood, concrete and plastic.

GPL-S and insulated GPL

VM (VM+) tape

• VM. Vapor barrier tape designed for sealing joints indoors. It is used in cases where wet finishing of slopes is planned (plastering or decorating tiles). Provides protection from moisture entering the joint of the opening and reliable fixation of the finishing coating.
• VM+. A modified analogue of the previous product with similar properties. It has the best waterproofing qualities, which allows it to be used in rooms with high humidity(kitchens, showers).

VS (VS+) tape

Diffuse (vapor-permeable waterproofing tape)

It is used outside structures in conjunction with pre-compressed tape or in situations where it is impossible to use the latter. Traditionally, diffuse tape is used to isolate the area where the molding profile is attached, since PSUL cannot be glued to the place where it is fixed, but there are also frequent cases of use along the entire perimeter of the window block.

The structure of the diffuse tape prevents the penetration of moisture and cold air into the assembly joint; in addition, the material protects the polyurethane foam from the effects of solar ultraviolet radiation. In addition to its protective qualities, the tape has the property of allowing vapor formations to pass through. inside the junction of the frame and the slope, thus providing the necessary ventilation for this section of the structure.

Butyl rubber tape

Butyl rubber, used as the base of the tape, is a fairly elastic material with high adhesion to most surfaces. It is fixed equally firmly on stone, wood or plastic. It is also worth noting that it is environmentally friendly and almost completely harmless to the consumer. The main disadvantage is the flammability of butyl rubber, which requires compliance with appropriate standards for installation and subsequent operation.

Used as an insulating material on the inside of the structure. It is glued to the bottom of the window sill profile as additional protection against blowing from the outside and penetration of steam into the installation seam from the room side.

Installation features

The tape is applied both before fixing the window block in the opening and after installed structures. The first option is more convenient in cases with the installation of external insulation.

Let's consider the algorithm for using tape insulation using the example of gluing pre-compressed sealing tape (PSUL) and internal GPL-S with an additional strip of double-sided tape:

It should be remembered that the tape must be selected in accordance with weather conditions. Working in winter time, it is possible to glue only material intended for use in low temperature conditions.

September 17, 2016
Specialization: professional in the field of construction and renovation ( full cycle carrying out finishing works, both internal and external, from sewerage to electrical and finishing works), installation window designs. Hobbies: see the column "SPECIALIZATION AND SKILLS"

Waterproofing tape for PVC windows, as well as other installation materials, are used relatively rarely: their use increases the cost of work, since a set of high-quality mounting tapes for installing one structure costs approximately 15 - 25% of the cost of the entire window.

And yet, if you plan to glaze the house “for yourself,” use modern materials not only possible, but also necessary. That's why I decided to write short review, dedicated to mounting tapes, their purpose and correct use.

Purpose of mounting tapes

If we approach it from a formal point of view, then use special vapor-permeable and vapor barrier materials for PVC installation designs are necessary primarily to meet the requirements of industry standards. The use of tapes is regulated by the following documents:

• GOST R 53338-2009 “Vapour-permeable, self-expanding, self-adhesive tapes for construction purposes”;
• GOST 30971-2012 “Mounting seams of junctions of window blocks to wall openings. General technical conditions";
• GOST R 52749-2007 “Window installation joints with vapor-permeable self-expanding tapes.”

That is, it is basically impossible to install windows according to GOST without using tapes. But there are also rational explanations for the need to use such materials. Some of them are set out in the already mentioned GOSTs, and some can be formulated based on many years of experience in the installation, repair and operation of translucent structures:

1. To seal the joint between the window and the window opening, self-expanding foam based on liquid polyurethane is used. Despite having a number of objective advantages, foam also has disadvantages - first of all, it is vulnerable to ultraviolet radiation.
2. To protect the foam from UV radiation, self-adhesive tape is used, which covers the mounting seam from the outside.

1. The next aspect that justifies the need to use special tapes for installation is ventilation, or more precisely, liquid drainage. When operating the window without additional protection, which is formed in the room, partially collects inside the assembly seam, reducing the efficiency of heat conservation. To avoid this, it can be used to seal it from inside the room. vapor barrier material.
2. However, it is important not only to protect the foam from moisture, but also to ensure the unimpeded escape of water vapor beyond the assembly seam. For this purpose, exclusively vapor-permeable tape is used for exterior finishing, which guarantees normal diffusion of moist air .

The question of whether it is necessary to glue a vapor barrier tape or use a vapor-permeable material is largely debatable. On the one hand, the efficiency of these materials is really quite high, so their use in installation will clearly affect the functionality of the window in the best possible way.

On the other hand, the price of mounting tapes is also quite high, so to save money you can choose other methods: from the inside, for example, install a slope made of plastic (in principle, it provides good hydro- and vapor barrier), and from the outside, finish the installation seam with vapor-permeable plaster followed by painting .

And yet I repeat: the use of special tapes when installing a window structure into an opening is completely justified both from the point of view of standards and from the point of view of optimizing the indoor climate.

Types of materials

Type 1. Water vapor barrier tape

A variety of tapes are used for installing PVC windows. Each type of such material has its own characteristics and advantages, therefore, to achieve maximum effect, you should combine materials, combining their functional advantages in the best possible way.

I’ll start my review of materials used when installing windows with the most popular - water vapor barrier tape:

1. Self-adhesive water vapor barrier mounting tape (GPL) is tape material, which covers the installation gap from the room side.
2. The basis of the tape is polyethylene or polyethylene foam film. On one side, the plank is laminated with a thin layer of aluminum foil, and on the other, one or two strips of adhesive are applied for installation.
3. The adhesive mixture used for application provides good adhesion to most materials - wood, concrete, brick, etc. Problems may arise when trying to cover an opening made of gas or foam concrete, so before purchasing installation material I recommend consulting with the seller or carefully studying what the manufacturer’s instructions say about this .
4. The structure of the tape ensures almost complete tightness of the finished assembly seam: neither the gluing area nor the polyethylene strip itself allows air and water vapor to pass through.

1. The polymer structure provides the product with additional advantages: finishing material It is not afraid not only of moisture, but also of acids, alkalis, and other chemically active substances, and also does not degrade under the influence of ultraviolet radiation.

Type 2. Insulated water vapor barrier tape

Insulated tape is, in fact, a modification of a conventional water vapor barrier material. Its key features include:

• increased thickness of the base, which is made exclusively from foamed polyethylene;
• a denser foil layer based on a durable polypropylene film.

Thanks to these design features:

1. The product is no worse at preventing the diffusion of liquid and water vapor and the penetration of moisture into the middle part of the assembly seam. This ensures the most effective hydro- and vapor barrier.
2. The increased thickness of the base and its porous structure help reduce heat loss. Foamed polyethylene acts as window insulation.
3. Finally, the foil coating also plays an important role. Thin layer metal on an elastic base reflects infrared radiation, performing the function of a “thermal mirror”. However, most of the heat generated heating devices, returns to the room.

The disadvantages of such products would include their rather large dimensions: finishing the installation gap with insulated tapes requires subsequent masking of the junction unit using slopes, which is not always included in our plans.

Type 3. Pre-compressed tape (PSUL)

Another universal material– PSUL (pre-compressed sealing tape). This material is used to ensure self-ventilation of the installation seam:

1. The tape is a strip of porous polyurethane foam impregnated with a special composition. On one side the strip is equipped adhesive layer, protected by a special protective coating.
2. The product is supplied in rolled form (rolls or reels). It is necessary to unwind the material immediately before installation, since over time the product loses its properties.
3. During installation protective covering is removed and the PSUL is glued to the window structure. After this, the impregnation reacts with air, due to which the linear dimensions products. The tape expands and completely covers the installation gap.

Complete and high-quality overlap is possible only if the nominal size of the product specified by the manufacturer corresponds to the dimensions of the gap. So, for example, if I need to seal a 35 mm gap with my own hands, then for work I take a PSUL about 40 mm wide.

1. After expansion, the material becomes completely vapor permeable. This ensures unimpeded exit of water from the assembly seam.

Type 4. Inner tapes

In addition to the varieties indicated for interior decoration other products are also used on slopes. It is convenient to analyze their main features using the table, which I will give below:

Marking	Description
Sun	A product that you use for installing window structures if you plan to finish slopes using a dry method (plasterboard, plastic, lining, etc.). Provides effective vapor barrier and prevents moisture from entering the thickness of the assembly joint. The tape is installed using a self-adhesive layer with a protective coating.
VS+	It is used for the same purposes as BC tape, but is thicker. An additional advantage is the presence of a foil layer, which provides more effective vapor and heat insulation.
VM	A hydro- and vapor barrier material, which is used if it is planned to plaster the slopes on the inside of the window opening. We protect the mounting foam from moisture, while ensuring maximum adhesion to the plaster mass.
VM+	A more effective version of the previous product, used for the same purposes. Key Feature is increased resistance to moisture.

Other types of mounting tapes

In addition to the products described above, other types of tapes are used for the installation of translucent structures:

1. Diffusion tape for exterior finishing. Used in combination with PSUL or polyurethane foam. Provides protection of the assembly seam from moisture and ultraviolet radiation while maintaining vapor permeability. Finishing the junction unit with diffuse material allows you to maintain a natural level of ventilation: air will freely flow out from the middle part of the installation gap.

1. Butyl rubber mounting tape under the window sill. As the name suggests, it is used to seal the junction under the window sill and protect the insulation from blowing, moisture and heat loss. Like other materials in this category, installation is carried out using a self-adhesive layer.
2. Non-woven material for installation under low tide. It has high vapor permeability and is glued to the base of the opening under the drainage strip. In addition to providing ventilation, it significantly reduces the noise of galvanized metal flashings, acting as a shock absorber and dampening some of the loud sounds.
3. Adhesive tape is a universal material that is used for installing lightweight structures. For example, self-adhesive reflective film is popular, and mosquito net with fastening tape is also very convenient to use.

How to use it correctly?

The technology for using installation years when installing PVC profile windows is quite simple. I use the following algorithm:

1. First, I prepare the opening: I remove the old structure, level the walls, remove dust and dry all surfaces. It is desirable that the edges of the opening be more or less even, therefore, before installing the window, it may be necessary to refine them using a quickly hardening solution.
2. Then I cut water vapor barrier tapes, PSUL and diffuse material. I cut the products along the length of each side of the window with an overlap of at least 10 cm (these areas are used to form a corner joint).

1. I paste the tapes onto the window frame, removing protective film with one of the adhesive strips. I glue PSUL in a compressed state onto the front surface of the structure from the outside.

It is desirable that the PSUL be completely hidden behind the wall fence, so before gluing, I usually fit the window to the opening, making marks at the installation site.

1. I install the structure in the opening and fix it using the chosen method - either using anchors or using mounting plates.

1. I fill all the gaps with self-expanding polyurethane foam.
2. I remove from the inner and outer tape protective stripes and glue their edges to the opening, completely covering the foam.
3. If installation is carried out in winter, I use specialized materials with glue that retains adhesive ability at subzero temperatures.

1. Before installation additional elements I separately glue to the support profile or the bottom of the frame a material that protects the space under the window sill and under the drainage strip.
2. At low tide, I stick a PSUL strip on a horizontal surface: it acts as a shock absorber, and therefore metal visor will not rattle when there are gusts of wind or raindrops falling on it.

Cost of materials

As I noted at the very beginning, the high price of mounting tapes partially limits their distribution. But at the same time, if you know exactly what you need, there is a chance to fit within the budget allocated for glazing.

Conclusion

Both vapor-permeable and vapor barrier tape for plastic windows may not be included in the required set of parts for successful installation. But their use allows you to fully comply with GOST requirements. And also ensure the formation of a favorable microclimate in the room - primarily through the normalization of the installation seam.

The video in this article will help you master the technology of using such parts, and when choosing a product, you can consult with me and other experts by asking questions in the comments.

September 17, 2016

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