December 5, 2022, 5:03 am | Read time: 5 minutes
A window with a windowsill is always an asset indoors. They offer more space for decor and plants, and some can even be used for seating. For this reason, indoor windowsills need to be quite durable. This article outlines what to consider when purchasing one.
Indoor windowsills come in many designs. They are available in different materials: Popular choices include natural stone, wood, and plastic. Depending on your needs, you should choose a suitable windowsill.
Overview
Indoor Windowsills–What Matters?
Indoor windowsills are easier to maintain than outdoor ones. However, they are still frequently used and should be durable and long-lasting, depending on their purpose. Whether you place plants or selected decorative items on them, windowsills should be easy to clean and wipe down, especially if you have plants on them. After all, water can sometimes spill during watering. Good materials are crucial to ensure a certain level of durability.
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What to Consider When Buying a Windowsill
When purchasing or planning an indoor windowsill, materials play a significant role. But the depth of the windowsill should not be underestimated either. If you want to place plants and larger pots on it, you should consider windowsills that can easily hide water stains or prevent them altogether.
Natural stone like marble or granite is popular and looks elegant, but the material can negatively affect room temperature. The thermal bridge that occurs, especially in winter with natural stone and tiles, can be prevented with a warmer material like wood or a windowsill with a plastic coating.
A thermal bridge definitely increases heating costs in winter. Therefore, wooden windowsills are a better alternative in this case. It’s best to consider in advance what purposes the windowsill should serve in each room. This way, you can specifically choose the right material for the desired windowsill.
Materials at a Glance
Natural Stone
Natural stones are undoubtedly appealing but also very high-maintenance. The heavy, massive stone can also break easily and should be impregnated before installation. You often see natural stone windowsills in office buildings, but also in new constructions. Since natural stone looks very modern and timeless, it can be combined with almost any style. Granite and marble are the most purchased types of natural stone, but they are also in the higher price range. Natural stone is also quite heavy, which should be considered during installation.
Wood
Wood definitely has a natural look and exudes warmth and coziness. Additionally, it can be stained and painted in various colors. If you choose natural wood, it should be treated beforehand. Wood is unfortunately susceptible to moisture. However, you can regularly oil and seal indoor windowsills to make them more resistant to moisture and dirt.
Windowsill
A windowsill made of plastic is easy to maintain and durable. Additionally, plastic-coated windowsills are available in all possible colors. A wood and stone look is also possible. A downside of plastic is that it can scratch easily. The cost of a plastic windowsill is low.
Artificial Stone
An artificial stone windowsill is very durable and looks almost indistinguishable from natural stone. This includes quartz composite or cast marble. The materials are particularly durable, scratch and wear-resistant, and easy to maintain. The appearance ranges from white, black, or gray to the classic natural stone look.
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Buying a Windowsill
Once you have chosen the right material, the dimensions of the windowsill should be determined. Pay attention to the appropriate depth as well. Normally, windowsills extend two to three centimeters beyond the ledge. Once the correct dimensions are determined, the windowsills can be ordered from a specialist retailer. It is often advisable to think about the installation in advance. If you plan to install the boards yourself, you should definitely be skilled in craftsmanship. Otherwise, it is also advisable to hire a professional company. They are usually experienced and proceed more routinely.
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Installing an Indoor Windowsill
In addition to the appropriate windowsill, the right tools for installation are also important:
- Level
- Shims
- Construction adhesive
- Caulking gun
- Silicone, acrylic
Once you have chosen a suitable material, the ledge should be cleaned and small cracks, holes, and unevenness should be fixed. It is essential that the ledge is level. A level is necessary and helps with horizontal alignment.
The windowsill should also be brought to an appropriate height level. Shims can be a great help in this. Once they are placed on the ledge, you should check again with the level to ensure everything is straight. Now you can place the board on it without gluing it and check again with the level. If everything fits, you can start gluing.
It is best to apply the construction adhesive to the ledge and the underside of the windowsill. Important: The adhesive should only be applied to a clean and dry surface. Afterward, a heavy object can better fix the windowsill. Once the adhesive has dried, you can apply silicone to the joints.