What is a door frame?
A frame is a structural element of a window or door, which is permanently fixed in the wall opening or frame. The frame forms a frame on which the window or door sash is fixed and can be opened or closed.
The door frame performs several important functions:
Sash support: The frame holds the window or door sash in place. It provides stability and even distribution of the load, allowing the opening and closing to function properly.
Sealing: The frame is responsible for ensuring a seal between the leaf and the opening in the wall or frame. This minimizes the penetration of air, moisture, dust and noise through the gaps, which improves thermal and acoustic insulation.
Safety: A solidly fixed frame strengthens the structure of the window or door and contributes to the improvement of safety. It can be equipped with special elements such as reinforcements, locks and anti-burglary systems that provide additional protection against burglary.
The door frame can be made of different materials, such as wood, aluminum, PVC (plastic) or wood-aluminum, depending on aesthetic preferences, durability, thermal insulation and budget. There are different types of frames, such as wall-mounted frames, overlay frames, milled frames, etc., which are adapted to different types and styles of windows and doors.
Types of frames - fixed or adjustable?
To choose the right door frame, you must first decide whether you need a fixed or adjustable door frame. As the names themselves indicate, they differ in construction. The fixed door frame has a fixed and unchanging width, while the adjustable door frame allows you to adjust the width to the thickness of a particular wall.
When considering different types of door frames, it is important to choose a model made of the right material that will match the character of the interior. If the doors or windows are made of wood, it is recommended to choose a frame made of the same material. Alternatively, metal frames are also available, such as galvanized steel, aluminum or PVC.
Fixed door frame
The fixed frame has a fixed width, which makes it a less expensive option. However, it is not always practical. It only fits standard wall thicknesses (6-10 cm) and may be difficult to install on uneven surfaces. Before buying, it is worth measuring the thickness of the walls and making sure they are even. Installation of a fixed door frame is also complicated, requiring additional decorative elements, such as strips, to make it look aesthetically pleasing.
Adjustable door frame
The adjustable door frame is a universal solution that can be adjusted to the thickness of a particular wall. Its main advantage is the possibility of adjustment, which is useful both in standard apartments and in old buildings with thick walls.
Adjustable door frames ensure tight fit, protecting wall edges from damage. They are also easy to install, requiring only dowels or dowels and mounting foam. Removal in the future is not a big problem. They look aesthetically pleasing, requiring no additional decorative elements.
However, they are more expensive than fixed frames. They also have some limitations - they are not suitable for thin walls below 75 mm, they are not suitable for very small rooms, where they can optically reduce the space, or for doors located at the junction of walls.
It is worth noting that the frame is an integral part of the window or door structure, which has a significant impact on their efficiency, insulation and functionality. Therefore, it is important that the door frame is carefully made and installed in accordance with the relevant standards and manufacturer's recommendations.
How to install door frames?
Installation of the door frame, especially the adjustable one, is not difficult. Work can begin after finishing the walls and floors and leveling the wall surface.
Both the fixed and adjustable door frames are installed similarly. In the case of a fixed door frame, additional decorative elements should be installed. With an adjustable door frame, it is necessary to install an adjusting element.
First you need to assemble the door frame, keeping the right angles. Then it is placed in the wall opening and stabilized with wooden wedges. It is important to properly set the level of the upper beam and the perpendiculars of the side beams. The distance between the side beams should be the same at the top and bottom of the frame.
The next step is to drill holes in the hinge post and fix the door frame with pins. Then a test is carried out by putting the sash on and checking the operation. If necessary, the position of the frame is adjusted by pressing or loosening the wedges. After a successful test, the mounting foam is installed, blocking the frame with wooden struts. Then the gap between the wall and the frame is filled with foam and the excess is removed after drying.
