Installing windows in small-family apartments: what to consider

Installing windows in small-family apartments: what to consider

Summary

• Typical features of small-family apartments and their window openings.
• Choosing profile and insulating glass for thermal and sound performance.
• Ventilation needs when using airtight modern windows.
• Safe demolition of old frames and neighbour coordination.
• Sills, reveals and finishing after installation.
• Measurement nuances and preparation of the opening.

Introduction

Small-family apartments (compact units often found in Soviet-era and post-Soviet housing) have specific structural characteristics: small window openings, thin wall sections and shared ventilation systems. Choosing and installing PVC windows correctly can significantly improve thermal comfort and reduce noise, but requires careful planning.

What makes small-family apartments different?

• Narrow reveals and limited sill depth — often necessitate custom sills or reveal insulation.
• Thin wall constructions — proper selection of mounting spacers and foam usage is critical to avoid thermal bridges.
• Shared ventilation systems — airtight windows can reduce incoming fresh air and should be complemented by ventilation solutions.

Note: altering window shapes or external appearance may require approval from the housing association or local authorities.

Choosing profile and insulating glass units (IGUs)

• 5- or 6-chamber profiles offer better insulation. A 70 mm or deeper profile is a sensible choice for compact apartments.
• Double- or triple-glazed IGUs with Low-E coatings and argon fill improve thermal performance.
• For noisy streets, consider acoustic glass combinations with asymmetric glass thicknesses for better sound reduction.

Measurement and preparation

• Accurate measurement is crucial. Account for wall irregularities, expansion gaps and finishing layers.
• Clear the window area and ensure safe access outside if installers need it.
• Discuss fixing methods with installers: anchors, mounting plates or chemical anchors depending on the wall material.

Removal of old frames and neighbour relations

• Older wooden frames may be fixed non-standardly; careful dismantling will protect existing reveals.
• Inform neighbours about noise and schedule to minimise inconvenience.
• Balcony or high-elevation work requires additional safety measures.

Thermal performance, noise and ventilation

• Airtight windows reduce infiltration; to maintain healthy indoor air quality, install trickle vents or mechanical ventilation when necessary.
• Good sealing and correct installation can cut noise by 30–40 dB depending on the IGU.
• Insulated reveals and correctly installed drip caps prevent condensation problems.

Finishing (reveals, sills and drip caps)

• Reveal finishes include insulated plasterboard, PVC panels or sandwich panels. Choose based on durability and budget.
• Drip caps must be installed with slight slope and sealed joints to prevent water ingress.

Safety and regulations

• Ground-floor apartments often benefit from anti-burglary hardware: reinforced profiles, multi-point locks, and security glazing where needed.
• Confirm that the work complies with local building codes and HOA rules.

Budget and timeline

• A typical replacement job in a small apartment takes 1–3 days including removal and basic finishing.
• Costs depend on profile class, IGU type, extras (vents, security hardware), and reveal finishing.

FAQ

Do I need permission from the housing association?

If you change the appearance of the facade or alter the structural opening, permission may be required. Replacing windows with like-for-like options often does not need approval, but check local rules.

How to keep ventilation with airtight windows?

Install trickle vents, a controlled ventilation system, or use regular micro-ventilation. Ensure kitchens and bathrooms have functioning exhausts.

How to avoid condensation on glass?

Correct installation, insulated reveals and good ventilation reduce condensation. Also control indoor humidity.

What extras are useful in small apartments?

Trickle vents, anti-burglary fittings, insect screens and easy-clean hinges are practical options.

Which is more important: profile or IGU?

Both matter: the profile provides structural stability and mounting, the IGU affects thermal and acoustic performance. Allocate budget to both accordingly.

How to prepare for installation?

Clear the workspace, remove curtains and pots from the sill, and notify neighbours. Ensure access for installers and safe conditions outside.

If you need, DK-Logi can provide an on-site measurement and a tailored quote for your apartment. Contact us to book a free survey.