AW113 series installation

Step 1: Prepare the Rough Opening

Begin by preparing the opening to receive the window frame:

1. Clean the opening thoroughly, removing any debris, loose mortar, or protruding nails.
2. Apply a continuous bead of waterproof sealant along the bottom sill of the opening.
3. Install sill pan flashing if required by local building codes, sloping slightly toward the exterior for proper water drainage.
4. Apply weather-resistant barrier or flashing tape around the perimeter of the opening, ensuring proper overlap at corners.

Step 2: Position and Level the Frame

Proper frame alignment is essential for smooth operation and long-term durability:

1. Carefully lift the window frame into the rough opening. Enlist assistance for larger units to prevent damage or injury.
2. Center the frame horizontally in the opening, ensuring equal clearance on both sides.
3. ｉｎｓｅｒｔ shims at the bottom corners to support the frame weight and begin leveling.
4. Use a spirit level to check that the frame is plumb (vertically straight) on both side jambs.
5. Verify that the head (top) and sill (bottom) are perfectly level.
6. Add shims at intermediate points along the jambs, approximately 150mm from each corner and at mid-height. Place shims directly opposite each other on both sides to prevent frame distortion.
7. Confirm squareness by measuring diagonals. Adjust shims as needed until diagonal measurements are equal.

Step 3: Secure the Frame

Once the frame is perfectly plumb, level, and square, secure it permanently in place:

1. Mark fastener locations: Mark hole positions on the side jambs, typically 150mm from the top and bottom corners, with additional fasteners spaced no more than 500mm apart along the height.
2. Drill pilot holes: Drill through the frame profile at marked locations using an appropriate metal drill bit. The AW113 Series frame incorporates internal reinforcement — ensure you drill through the center of the reinforcement chamber.
3. Install fasteners: Drive corrosion-resistant screws through the frame and shims into the wall structure. Use concrete screws for masonry openings or wood screws for timber frames.
4. Check alignment frequently: After installing each fastener, verify that the frame remains plumb and level. Adjust tension as needed — do not over-tighten screws, as this can bow the frame.
5. Seal fastener heads: Apply a small dab of silicone sealant over each screw head to prevent water infiltration.

Step 4: Insulate and Seal

Proper insulation and sealing ensure optimal thermal performance and weather resistance:

1. Foam insulation: Fill the gap between the frame and the rough opening with low-pressure expanding polyurethane foam. Apply foam from the interior side, filling the gap to approximately 70% capacity — the foam will expand to fill the remaining space. Avoid over-filling, as excessive expansion can bow the frame.
2. Allow cure time: Let the foam cure fully according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically 1–2 hours.
3. Trim excess foam: Once cured, use a utility knife to trim any foam that has expanded beyond the wall surface, creating a clean, flush finish.
4. Interior sealing: Apply a continuous bead of interior-grade silicone sealant along the interior perimeter where the frame meets the wall opening.
5. Exterior sealing: Apply exterior-grade weather-resistant sealant along the exterior perimeter. Tool the sealant to create a smooth, concave finish that sheds water effectively.

The AW113 Series features PA66GF25 thermal break strips within the frame profile, which work in conjunction with proper insulation to minimize thermal bridging and deliver exceptional energy efficiency.

Step 5: Install the Sash

The AW113 Series sash comes pre-assembled with glass and hardware. Follow these steps to install it onto the frame:

1. Ensure the handle is in the fully open (horizontal) position before attempting to hang the sash.
2. Position the sash at an angle, aligning the upper hinge pins with the hinge receivers on the frame.
3. Carefully lower the sash into the hinge receivers until you hear a distinct click, indicating the hinges are properly seated.
4. Slowly swing the sash closed, guiding it carefully to avoid pinching fingers or damaging the seal.
5. Test both the turn (full swing) and tilt (top ventilation) modes to confirm the sash operates smoothly.

Step 6: Adjust and Fine-Tune Hardware

The AW113 Series is equipped with premium multi-point locking hardware that allows for precise adjustment:

1. Height adjustment: Use the adjustment screws on the hinge arms to raise or lower the sash for proper alignment with the frame.
2. Lateral adjustment: Adjust side-to-side positioning using the horizontal adjustment screws on the hinges.
3. Compression adjustment: Adjust the locking cams or rollers to increase or decrease the compression of the sash against the weather seals. Proper compression ensures an airtight seal without making the handle difficult to operate.
4. Test operation: After each adjustment, cycle the window through both tilt and turn modes to verify smooth operation and proper locking engagement.
5. Final check: With the window fully closed and locked, visually inspect the perimeter seal. The weatherstripping should make uniform contact around the entire sash perimeter.

For projects sourcing aluminum tilt and turn windows from ALPES, the AW113 Series is compatible with premium hardware systems from ROTO and Winkhaus, both renowned for their precision engineering and long-term reliability.