Correct dimensioning of openings in the wall for aluminum doors and windows is a key element of the construction process. Adequate space allows for solid assembly, ensures durability of the structure and meets technical standards, especially in the case of fire protection elements. In this article, we describe what dimensions of the opening should be prepared for:
Exterior aluminum doors
Aluminum exterior doors must meet the requirements for thermal, acoustic and weather resistance insulation. The opening in the wall for such doors should be prepared by adding a mounting allowance depending on the type of door profile used:
- Standard opening dimensions based on the passage light of 90 x 200 cm
- MB-86 Doors – the opening for a single-leaf door is 115 cm x 212 cm.
- MB-79N Doors – the opening for a single-leaf door is 114 cm x 212 cm.
- Technical Notes
- The dimensions of the holes include an additional 1–2 cm of allowance for sealing materials such as mounting foams, expansion tapes and insulating layers.
- In the case of passive and energy-saving doors, take into account the professional preparation of window and door recesses for installation.
Aluminum interior doors
Aluminum interior doors are used in offices, homes or commercial facilities. The dimensions of the opening depend on the specific construction of the door:
- Standard opening dimensions based on a passage light of 90 x 200 cm.
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- MB-45 Doors – the opening for a single-leaf door is 109 cm x 209 cm.
- Additional notes
- In the case of sliding or folding doors, a wider opening may be required, especially if the door leaf is to be hidden in a mounting cassette.
- Consult the manufacturer for detailed dimensions, especially for custom-made doors.
External aluminum windows
Aluminum windows are popular due to their durability and modern look. The preparation of the holes depends on the size of the window and its function.
- Standard hole dimensions
- For aluminium windows, the mounting holes should allow for 1,5 cm to 2 cm of mounting clearance on each side to freely and effectively ensure a seal around the perimeter.
- Windows from floor level
- In the case of windows starting from the floor, you should take into account the space for the threshold mounting profiles and the height of the target floor (e.g. screed and panel layers).
- Plan an opening that is 1,5–2 cm larger on each side than the door frame.
External fireproof aluminum doors
External fire doors (e.g. EI30, EI60) must meet fire and smoke protection standards. The dimensions of the opening take into account additional assembly requirements in terms of gaps and the type of insulation materials used:
- Standard opening dimensions based on a passage light of 90 x 200 cm:
- MB-78EI Doors – the opening for a single-leaf door is 116 x 212cm
- Assembly materials
- The space between the door frame and the wall should be filled with fireproof foam or other non-flammable material that is also insulating and weather-resistant.
Internal fireproof aluminum doors
Fireproof internal doors are designed to limit the spread of fire and smoke inside the building.
- Standard opening dimensions based on a passage light of 90 x 200 cm:
- MB-60E EI doors – the opening for a single-leaf door is 112 x 210cm
- Assembly notes
- The gaps should be filled using fireproof mortars or fireproof foams.
- The mounting gaps must not be too large for the door to fulfill its protective function.
Fire-resistant external aluminum windows
Fire-rated windows mounted outside buildings are increasingly used in public and industrial facilities.
- Hole dimensions
- Window dimensions 120 × 150 cm (EI30): opening 123 × 153 cm.
- Window dimensions 90 × 120 cm (EI60): opening 93 × 123 cm.
- Additional requirements
- The opening should be larger by 2-3 cm to allow the use of fireproof materials such as sealing tapes and fireproof mortars.
- In the case of floor-level windows, the height of the floor layers and any mounting profiles or non-flammable and certified foundations should be taken into account.
Summary
Preparing holes in the wall for aluminum doors and windows requires taking into account not only the dimensions of the products, but also the reserve for assembly and insulation materials. In the case of fire protection elements, it is necessary to use special foams, tapes and mortars that provide adequate protection. It is always worth consulting the details with the manufacturer to avoid errors that may affect the durability and functionality of the assembled elements.
Remember: A precisely prepared hole is the basis for correct assembly and a guarantee of the durability of the entire structure!
Openings for proper window installation must be prepared with particular care. The surface on which the insulating element will be mounted must be perfectly level, dry, free from defects and loose material. Window recesses must be plastered and leveled so that window foils and tapes can be stuck freely and smoothly around the perimeter of the window.
