Foam or screw in windows/doors

[Harald Blåtumme]

The biggest disadvantage of foam as I see it is that even if everything is perfect today, it can't be adjusted if needs arise tomorrow.

Exactly this is why I would never use foam for installing windows/doors. The usual solutions like Adjufix frame sleeves are extremely easy to work with even when adjusting afterward. Sealing with fiberglass, super easy.
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PS. I only have experience with installing windows and doors in a wooden frame structure.

 

[gorcot]

The biggest disadvantage of foam as I see it is that even if everything is perfect today, it can't be adjusted if a need arises tomorrow.

new foams are somewhat flexible, about 20%. It's possible to adjust 1-2 turns on the screw. Otherwise, you take a jigsaw and make one or more cuts in the foam sealant depending on how much you want to adjust.

 

[Friteradräka]

The biggest disadvantage of foam, as I see it, is that even if everything is perfect today, it can't be adjusted if needs arise tomorrow.

Well, we'll see how it looks in a few years.

 

[Thomas_Blekinge]

I usually skim in brick basement walls. Remember to mask the window frame and the wall, so the excess is easy to remove. I first apply a smaller bead around and when it has finished expanding, I fill in the rest. As simple and good as that.

 

[Harrison2667]

Read a bit and understand that people have different opinions. Of course, it would be best to use frame screws, but it would be nice to hear from someone who has actually installed a door and window with just foam without screws. What are the disadvantages of using foam to attach patio doors and windows? How are your windows/doors installed today? The reason I'm asking is that it's almost impossible to drill without the brick cracking.

Well, I've been installing windows and doors and patio doors etc with foam for 15 years. Loctite foam is the best for me. Sometimes a screw may be needed in front of the frame or wherever just to hold until the foam sets. Make sure to allow the window to relax in the hole. Don't force or tweak to the structure to the point you inhibit proper function. Doors are a little more involved. You need to shim the pre hung door gap to the frame. And shim the frame to the opening to be square n plumb. Then foam it. Let it set. Pull or cut the shims. And it's good. My opinion is screws tend to warp and distort. Shims tend to crush and not stay as intended when screwed. Foam is just so much more simple. And plus it's insulated, and glued 99%. Screws don't give you that. It's faster, stronger and better to use foam. If you don't believe then foam your door shut and then tomorrow try and get out. Lol.

 

[Harrison2667]

When the foam presses in the frame so the window becomes difficult to open or cannot be opened.

Use the right closed foam minimum expansion. Then you won't have that problem. Pay attention to the install

 

[Harrison2667]

You need to be careful that the door is exactly in place before you foam and place spacers between the frame and the door leaf to prevent the foam from pushing the frame towards the door leaf.
Foam usually holds, but don't buy something like Biltema's or any other cheap junk; instead, buy quality brands for the foam sealant.

Quality foam low expansion. Don't fill everything the first time if you're just a beginner. Put enough to set the door. Make sure all is good. Add a screw to tweak. Then total foam. Set. Then remove screw. Shim the door/frame gap. Then that won't move and bind later when foam sets. Foam is always better in my opinion