Installing metal-plastic windows in Khrushchev-era buildings: how to take into account the specifics of Soviet buildings

When we talk about so-called "Khrushchev-era" buildings, we mean typical Soviet-era apartment buildings that were built en masse throughout the Soviet Union from the late 1950s to the early 1980s. These buildings were constructed from sand-lime brick or reinforced concrete panels. Apartments in Khrushchev-era buildings are characterized by poor thermal and sound insulation.

Replacing windows in such buildings has its own challenges, due to the specific nature of Soviet construction: thin walls, wide slopes in brick buildings or, conversely, thin panels, and often dilapidated openings. Replacing old wooden window frames with Evrookna Kiev will make your apartment warmer and more comfortable, and also make it look more presentable and stylish.

Specifics of Khrushchev-era buildings: brick vs. panel

The cost and scope of installation work are significantly affected by the type of building.

Brick houses

Window openings in brick buildings, for example in the popular series 1-447 have very thick interior slopes and wide window sills (up to 40-50 cm). Old wooden frames often conceal a thick layer of fiberglass, oakum, and construction debris.

During dismantling, the opening "grows" significantly, so measurements should be taken by a professional surveyor after a preliminary inspection. Installation will require a large amount of foam and thick window sills.

"Panel Houses"

Panel houses are characterized by thin walls and narrow slopes and window sills. Installation of plastic windows in this case is faster and produces less debris. However, when installing window structures in panel buildings, it is critical to pay attention to the thermal insulation of the seams, otherwise the corners will freeze.

What to look for when installing windows

When installing window structures, the location of the building and apartment should be taken into account. If the apartment faces north, it would be better to install products with improved heat-saving properties.

If the windows face south or west, installing special double-glazed windows that prevent excess heat from entering the room is an excellent solution.

In apartments facing a noisy street, it is recommended to install wide-profile, double-glazed windows.

The "Khrushchev Refrigerator" Problem

In some homes, a so-called winter closet (popularly known as a "Khrushchev refrigerator") with a thin outer wall was installed under the kitchen window. When replacing a kitchen window, there are several options:

• completely dismantling the winter cabinet;
• replacing wooden doors with metal-plastic ones;
• insulating with expanded polystyrene.

Summary

PVC windows look stylish and neat in any home, whether modern or Soviet-era. These types of windows require little maintenance; simply wiping them with a regular detergent once a week is sufficient.

The key is to order windows from a reputable manufacturer. EuroOkna will replace them quickly and efficiently in any type of home.