Which windows are better, expert opinion. Which profile is better to choose plastic windows from?

Double-glazed windows framed in a plastic profile have become very popular among residents of modern megacities. They not only have a large number of advantages, but are also very easy to maintain and are also affordable.

However, it is not enough to just buy the model you like; you need to know how to choose plastic windows for your home so that they not only last a long time, but also protect the apartment from street noise, cold and heat loss.

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Advantages

Advantages of window designs made of plastic:

1. Excellent heat and sound insulation.
2. Protecting the room from sun rays in the summer.
3. Energy saving properties.
4. Tightness.
5. Easy to install and maintain.
6. Reliable protection of the room from moisture, dust and wind.
7. Affordable price.
8. Aesthetic appeal.
9. Frost resistance.
10. Safety For environment and human health.
11. Wide selection of shapes and sizes.

There are no serious disadvantages to metal-plastic window structures. The only thing that can be noted is the insufficient resistance to ultraviolet radiation, and the not very high temperature stability of the polyvinyl chloride, which is used in the production of the base profile.

However, most manufacturers are constantly improving their products, trying to correct all the shortcomings that exist in them.

Having weighed all the pros and cons, we can come to the conclusion that plastic window structures are a great option for apartments and private houses.

Attention! At incorrect installation Mold may form on slopes.

Forms

To choose the right windows for your home, you need to successfully select their shape and size. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the interior and size of the room. The selected form should look harmonious with the surrounding space.

Today there are the following forms:

1. Standard rectangular with doors that open into the room.
2. T-shaped.
3. Arched.
4. With a trapezoidal cross-section and a profile width of more than 10 cm.

If you are interested in which plastic windows are of the highest quality - standard rectangular or trapezoidal, it is worth noting that the latter are more reliable and efficient. Plus, they don't require installation external slopes.

Leading manufacturers

Main criteria The choice of plastic windows for an apartment is their energy saving, high quality materials and thermal insulation . On modern market There are several dozen manufacturers of metal-plastic window structures that have proven themselves well, thanks to the excellent characteristics of the models they produce. Rating of world manufacturers that produce the most best windows for apartments, presented in the table.

In choosing which windows better than Century or Rehau, reviews of people who have already purchased will help metal-plastic structures from manufacturers' data.

Both brands are reliable. Their products are characterized by high quality, availability anti-burglary system, excellent thermal insulation and noise insulation characteristics.

When choosing which windows are better than Vek or Rehau, you should not focus only on the manufacturer. Even with a high quality base profile, the performance characteristics of the window structure may not be very good. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the fittings, the glass itself and the seal, as well as company reputation, which will carry out all installation work.

Main characteristics

Longitudinal air chambers play an important role in heat and sound insulation. Let's consider, how to choose the right one air chamber:

1. there should be air chambers at least 3.
2. The chambers prevent the formation of condensation, which can accumulate inside the cavity due to the difference in temperature in the heated room and outside. This is done thanks to special holes located on the surface of the front part. The absence of such holes indicates low quality the entire structure.
3. Models whose air chamber cavities are filled with expanded polystyrene have excellent thermal insulation characteristics.

Direct impact on the thermal insulation properties, thickness of the glass unit and the ability to install good fittings is determined by the profile width, which is also called the installation depth.

What should you pay attention to when choosing window profile:

1. For standard models, the width varies between 5-8 cm. With a width of up to 6 cm, only 3 air chambers can be installed; if the width is more than 7 cm, 4 or more.
2. The installation depth does not always indicate the number of cameras. On the modern market there are designs with a profile width of 80-90 mm, but with a small supply of air cavities. However, in its own way thermal insulation characteristics they are better than multi-chamber narrow profiles.
3. The thickness of the external walls and partitions of the profile should be not less than 2.5 mm. A lower figure is only suitable for garages and other unheated premises.
4. An important component of the window structure is a U-shaped or square profile made of galvanized steel. It protects the plastic profile from deformation, which is formed under the influence of cold or sun rays. Its absence will significantly worsen the sealing and negatively affect the opening of the valves.

Good light transmission and thermal insulation will be ensured by a correctly and successfully selected double-glazed window. better to choose for residential premises:

1. When choosing suitable option you should pay attention to the mounting depth of the glass unit, which should be at least 15-18 mm. With a smaller size, the glass will fog up and freeze faster.
2. Most manufacturers produce double-glazed windows with a thickness of 24, 26 or 32 mm. The thicker the glass unit, the better its sound insulation.
3. Single-chamber (SPO) and double-glazed windows (SPD) have become widespread. The more chambers, the better the thermal insulation and the higher the cost.
4. There are glasses various types: transparent, tinted, self-cleaning, shockproof, matte, with energy-saving coating and mirror. Which option to choose depends on financial capabilities, purpose and characteristics of the room where the window structure will be installed.
5. What double-glazed windows are the best thickness for apartments? For residential premises, a glass thickness of 4-5 mm is sufficient.
6. When choosing a double-glazed window, you should pay attention to the presence of markings.
7. There should be no defects on the surface of the glass, such as chips and cracks.
8. There should be no visible traces of liquid sealant on the spacer bar.

Prices for double glazed windows

double glazed windows

Selection of seals and fittings

Good tightness of the window structure is achieved through the use of special sealing components that prevent moisture and cold air from the street from entering the room.

Which ones are better select seals:

1. High quality seal must be durable, elastic, resistant to high and low temperatures, without any unpleasant odors.
2. Thermoplastic and thermopolymer seals are very popular. They have excellent characteristics and affordable prices.
3. The most durable and resistant to temperature changes is silicone seal b. It is worth noting that it has a fairly high cost. A rubber seal has a more affordable price, which in its characteristics is not inferior to silicone. However, it is quite short-lived.

Important! The simplicity and ease of use of a window structure directly depends on the quality of the fittings. Among the most the best companies that produce excellent fittings are: Winkhaus, Siegenia-Aubi, G-U and Maco.

Fittings are not just latches and hinges. It also includes systems for reliable sealing, air exchange, opening and clamping. In addition, it includes an anti-burglary system, which will be needed by owners of private houses and apartments located on the 1st or 2nd floor.

Exists 3 type of fittings, providing different positions of the valves:

• sliding;
• rotary;
• folding;
• universal, which combines the characteristics of rotary and folding fittings.

However, it is quite expensive. At an affordable price, you can buy accessories for 10 thousand cycles.

Professional advice will help you choose which windows are best to install in your apartment. Similar recommendations can be read on the Internet on specialized sites or find out what better options for residential premises by contacting a company that sells and installs metal-plastic window systems.

Important Tips by choice of plastic windows:

1. Residents major cities For those living in close proximity to a busy road or highway, when choosing a suitable option for an apartment, you should first of all pay attention to the noise insulation properties of the selected model. To ensure excellent insulation of the room from street noise, it is recommended to choose the thickness of the glass unit not less than 32 mm. It is worth noting that the greater the distance between the glasses, the better the sound insulation. However, as the distance increases, the thermal insulation properties deteriorate.
2. Before choosing plastic windows from a particular company, you should look work examples, and ask to show a section of the reinforcing profile, which must be made of galvanized steel and have a thickness of 1.5-2 mm. Only in this case will it be reliable and durable.
3. When installing metal-plastic window structures, do not forget about mosquito nets and other little things that will help get rid of insects and various minor troubles.

Plastic windows firmly occupy a leading position. They are distinguished by a high level of heat and sound insulation, and also provide the opportunity to choose fittings, window opening method and profile color. You can also choose a double-glazed window with required quantity cameras But few people think that it is the window profile that ensures the strength and durability of the entire structure. In this article we compare plastic window profiles with different characteristics and manufacturers.

General information about the profile of plastic windows

On average, the profile thickness of plastic windows varies from 58 mm to 86 mm, but some companies produce products up to 127 mm wide.

Its interior is hollow, but is divided by bridges that create several air chambers. A special technical calculation determines their dimensions and location. The wider the profile, the greater the number of chambers in it, increasing the heat-saving properties. Another characteristic of the profile system is the filling width, which determines what type of double-glazed windows can be installed in the profile. They come in single- or double-chamber types, the width of the glass in a standard double-glazed window is 4 mm (grade M1).

Each cavity has its own purpose:

• for water drainage;
• fastening accessories;
• responsible for strength, etc.

The color of the profile can be varied; painting is applied in several ways:

• coextrusion method - multilayer films create a kind of barrier that allows the product to withstand dynamic loads without damage;

• lamination - with imitation texture, for example, marble or wood;
• monochromatic coloring.

Characteristics of PVC profiles for plastic windows

Material

• This product is made from a type of plastic - white polyvinyl chloride.
• The material is highly resistant to chemical attack by alkalis, solvents, acids and mineral oils.
• It is harmless to humans and the environment.

• Due to its distinctive properties, polyvinyl chloride makes it possible to produce frames for double-glazed windows not only rectangular or square shape, but also in the form of arches, triangles, circles and so on. Thus, giving absolutely any simple or complex configuration to the window, allowing even the most non-standard idea of ​​designers and architects to become a reality.

Design

The inner part of the plastic profile body is divided by longitudinal partitions, in turn they form cavities (air chambers). Minimal amount There are 3 chambers in the profile, the maximum is 8. The number of chambers determines the degree of thermal insulation and sound absorption of the window; the more air cavities, the higher these indicators. It should be noted right away that 3- and 5-chamber profiles are popular.

Reinforcement

To provide rigidity, the profile is additionally reinforced. The metal frame provides the necessary structural strength and reliability during operation of the window. Galvanized steel is used to reinforce the profile, so it does not deform due to temperature changes or other environmental influences.

• L-shaped type of reinforcement - a metal insert is installed along two walls;
• U-shaped type of reinforcement, where metal strengthens three walls;
• Closed type of reinforcement - a metal insert is located along four walls.

For window structures that have double-glazed windows up to 1900 mm in height, a U-shaped reinforced profile is suitable. However, for plastic windows of large dimensions, for example, for a loggia or balcony, a profile with closed reinforcement is required.

Profile class

The thickness of the profile walls determines whether it belongs to a certain class:

• Class A - the thickness of the profile walls must be at least 3 mm;
• Class B - profile where the wall thickness is from 2.5 mm;
• Class C - non-standardized wall thickness.

As a result, the width of the profile of plastic windows directly depends on its class. The higher it is, the correspondingly wider the profile.

Comparison of manufacturers of plastic window profiles

Many domestic and foreign manufacturers present their products on the Russian market. The leading positions in the ranking of profiles for plastic windows are occupied by the following companies:

• Germany - REHAU, VEKA, KBE, SALAMANDER, SCHUCO, KOMMERLING;
• Slovakia - INTERNOVA;
• Korea - LG CHEM;
• Belgium - DECEUNINCK;
• Russia - MONTBLANC and PROPLEX.

VEKA

• The profile is produced using German technology in Russia, they always correspond to class A, suitable for all regions, with any climate.

• BEKA profile systems are presented in 8 types, the installation depth ranges from 58 to 90 mm, and the number of chambers varies from 3 to 6. As a result of all the improvements, this profile is reliable, environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

REHAU

• World famous profile from a German company.
• She presents these products from economy to elite class, taking into account all weather conditions.
• Mounting width from 60 to 86 mm, number of chambers - from 3 to 6.

• Windows with REHAU profiles are distinguished by a high level of sound insulation (class 5), good thermal insulation, and can be equipped with gray seals if desired.
• Excellent value for money and quality.

SCHUKO

This company is equipped with modern equipment, uses quality materials and is staffed by qualified personnel. Thanks to this, it produces a full line of profiles, fittings and seals.

• Window profile designs are available in widths from 60 to 82 mm, the number of chambers is from 3 to 8.
• SCHUKO windows are easy to use and have good burglar-resistant properties.

MONTBLANC

There are 4 manufacturing plants producing profiles in Russia.

• The Russian-Austrian company is equipped with a production base where the latest technologies are being developed and implemented.

• The Mont Blanc line contains 6 types of profiles, where the installation width ranges from 58 mm to 120 mm, chambers - from 3 to 6.
• The durability of the profile system (60 years) is achieved using specially designed performance characteristics for harsh climates.

PROPLEX

• The plant, located in Podolsk, produces profiles using German equipment using Austrian technologies.
• These products are produced in widths that can range from 58 mm to 127 mm, chambers - from 3 to 6.
• The original recipe allows us to produce high-quality profiles characterized by impact strength and special whiteness.

You can also compare the characteristics of plastic window profiles using the tables below.

Profiles of the German company KBE

It is believed that German profiles of plastic windows are superior to the products of other manufacturers in terms of quality, whiteness of color, and technical characteristics. They do not lose their properties even over a long service life and can withstand almost any dynamic loads and significant temperature changes (from -50°C to +50°C).

The KBE company produces and supplies 2 types of the most popular profiles: KBE Etalon and KBE Expert.

KBE Etalon - three-chamber profile

• The installation width is 58 mm;
• width of front walls - 3 mm;
• the thickness of the glass unit can be up to 34 mm;
• 3 chambers in the frame, sashes, impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• can be used in harsh conditions (-60°C);
• service life - 40 years;

Advantages:

• with a profile width of 58 mm, it has 3 air chambers, their size and optimal position provide heat transfer resistance. Such windows have high degree tightness, which exceeds the existing GOST requirements by 5 (!) times, which guarantees the complete absence of dust and drafts in the room;
• two sealed sealing gaskets provide excellent sound insulation (up to 46 dB). The profile is additionally equipped with horizontal lintels, thereby increasing the strength of the lock when closing the window;
• The KBE profile has stiffening ribs that provide additional strength to the window structure. Also, special stops can increase rigidity, with the help of which the precise location of the reinforcing metal insert is achieved.

KBE Expert - five-chamber profile

• Installation width is 70 mm;
• width of front walls - 3 mm;
• glass unit thickness is up to 42 mm;
• 5 chambers in the frame and sashes, 3 or 4 in the impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• Suitable for use in harsh conditions (-60°C);
• sealing contours correspond to class A;
• service life - 40 years;
• used environmentally in production clean materials, does not contain lead.

Advantages:

• The five-chamber structure allows for better thermal insulation values; this profile is capable of retaining heat 20% more than typical three-chamber systems. You can achieve excellent sound insulation by installing wide double-glazed windows with a 70 mm profile;
• The 13 mm groove of the profile allows you to install anti-burglary fittings, thereby ensuring the security of the room;
• the KBE Expert profile has additional horizontal jumpers, thanks to which the handles and hinges will be securely fastened;
• When installed, the mounting seam becomes approximately 20% wider, in turn allowing for additional insulation.

Estimated cost of windows from KBE profile

An important factor when choosing a particular double-glazed window is its price. It is often decisive, but German window profiles High Quality can't be cheap. Below is the approximate market value in Russia.

• On average, a single-chamber double-hung window with dimensions of 140x130 cm, in which one sash is fixed and the other is tilt-and-turn, will cost:
  • from a 58 mm profile from RUB 7,500,
  • from 70 mm - from 10,000 rub.

• The price of a two-chamber three-leaf window measuring 140x203 cm, in which the first sash is rotary, the central one is blind, and the third is tilt-and-turn, will range from:
  • from 58 mm profile 13,000 rubles;
  • from 70 mm 14500 rub. and higher.

• When purchasing a balcony block with an opening door measuring 210x67 cm and a blind window - 140x136 cm, you will have to pay at least:
  • from a 58 mm profile 11,000 rubles;
  • from 70 mm from 13,000 rub.

What to look for when choosing a plastic profile with double-glazed windows

In order to determine what profile thickness is required, you should have basic knowledge and about the double-glazed window, because up to 70% of heat losses occur through it.

This transparent element consists of 2 or more glasses that are tightly connected to the frame. A chamber (air gap) is formed between them, filled with rarefied air or an inert gas, such as argon or krypton. This kind of filling is used in the production of energy-saving double-glazed windows.

A single-chamber double-glazed window is a design of 2 glasses of 4 mm each and air gap 16 mm, abbreviated as 4-16-4. Thus, its installation width is 24 mm. The design, equal to 36 mm, is obtained from a two-chamber double-glazed window, which consists of 3 glasses of 4 mm each and 2 layers of 10 mm each - 4-10-4-10-4.

Consequently, an appropriate profile is selected for the required double-glazed window. For example, optimal solution For ordinary apartment or at home, a 5-chamber profile with a 70 mm installation width and a 30 mm double-glazed unit will serve, where a heat-reflecting coating should be applied to one glass.

If the windows face the north side and there is a busy road nearby, then the following option is suitable: a 5-chamber profile with a depth of 86 mm, complemented by a 32 mm double-glazed window with a protective noise-insulating film.

When a balcony (loggia) is combined with an adjacent room or it is planned to make a small office (rest room) out of it, then the profile should be 5-chamber with an installation depth of 86 mm, and the double-glazed window should be energy-saving, two-chamber with a width of no less than 40 mm.

For simple insulation For a balcony, a 60 mm 3-chamber profile and a 30 mm single-chamber double-glazed window are suitable.

But it’s not enough just to choose the optimal PVC profile and double-glazed window. It is equally important to entrust the installation of the finished window to professionals. Otherwise, no matter how expensive the design, poor-quality installation will cancel all its high characteristics.

Before you start planning an apartment renovation, it is necessary, in addition to the future architectural features of the premises being renovated, to also think about options for glazing the window opening. Most Russian families prefer to stop their choice on plastic windows, since they have a number of advantages that, along with an affordable price, make their installation in the home the best solution. These positive qualities include a high level of heat and noise insulation, excellent appearance, long service life. These are not all the advantages that modern PVC windows have.

With all this, due to the lack of information provided by managers of companies selling plastic windows, when choosing a future light-transmitting structure, the question often arises: how to navigate the sea of ​​proposals and, from the many presented models, choose the one that would be optimally suited both in cost and by functionality?

To do this, you need to consider several of the most common solutions and settle on the best. We hope you have already read the article about, but in this one we will present the best of them. In a sense, you will get a kind of overview of the existing rating of plastic windows, after reading which and making certain conclusions for yourself, you can safely go to a company where you can buy plastic windows.

What to consider when purchasing.

If we briefly summarize the information given in that article, we can highlight the following: the main components of a modern light-transmitting block are double glazing And metal-plastic profile.

Important! Decide in advance on the requirements that the new window must meet. For example, it is not practical to install warm windows to the kitchen, where it is constantly maintained comfortable temperature through constant cooking. Also, warm windows will be unnecessary in a room with access to a well-insulated balcony.

In turn, for metal plastic profile The main characteristic is its intimacy. Today, modern industry is ready to offer the end buyer a choice of several types of double-glazed windows, differing, first of all, in the properties laid down in them by the manufacturer and their purpose.

Rating of companies engaged in the production of plastic windows.

Before proceeding with a detailed analysis of products from well-known brands, it is necessary to make the following clarification: the top position in the ranking does not mean that the presented brand is better than the rest - there is a simple listing of the best companies in the field of production of light-transmitting plastic products.

Rehau. Brand of a German manufacturer. It so happened that standard of quality It is German designs that are recognized in the window ratings. They are distinguished by a beautiful appearance, an excellent level of heat and sound insulation, as well as a fairly wide selection of possible profile colors.

Rehau BLITZ-Design. The best option for a limited budget. The three-chamber double-glazed window model is good combination indicators for heat, sound insulation and design. All this can be purchased at an attractive price. Great choice for those who want to buy a plastic window made from high-quality materials for little money. The possibilities of the profile can please fans of non-standard plastic windows - due to the properties inherent in metal-plastic, the task of glazing an opening of any shape is now quite feasible. For this purpose, triangular, oval, trapezoidal and other window shapes are produced. In addition, the color of the profile can be matched to the tone of the interior - to do this, you just need to order products with a film applied to the profile (the so-called film is used). It is possible to order a version of the film made to match the color of the wood.

Rehau THERMO-DESIGN. Due to the fact that in this model a five-chamber double-glazed window is built in, such windows are endowed with significantly best characteristics than the previous version of the light-transmitting design. This fact has a positive effect on the amount of heat retained in the room - more of it remains. The model is recommended for installation for residents of areas where most the year is cold. In addition, the colors of window lamination in this line are more varied.

Rehau EURO-DESIGN. The most popular model on the Russian market. Has high performance. IN this moment production of this profile has been suspended. The characteristics are similar to Rehau BLITZ-Design.

Rehau BASIC-DESIGN. The solution is equipped with a three-chamber double-glazed window, has standard specifications. Due to this fact its cost remains at an acceptable level for every potential buyer.

Rehau BRILLIANT-DESIGN. Top solution from Rehau. The design is a five-chamber double-glazed window with the highest possible characteristics among all window models of this German company. The technology used, reinforced with a thermal insert, allows the thermal insulation properties of the structure to be raised to a new level. This series is distinguished by an increased service life. According to the manufacturer, it is at least 50 years old.

Another popular German brand of PVC windows in our country. A distinctive feature of the plastic profile is its structure. It comes in two versions: matte and glossy. Moreover, regardless of the structure used, the profile does not turn yellow or fade under the influence of sunlight. Veka windows are environmentally friendly, and the natural rubber seal used does not damage even in the bitterest frosts.

Veka Euroline. A model with a three-chamber profile, made in smooth outlines and equipped with a choice of: single-chamber or double-glazed window, or just one glass. Mainly used as a standard window installed during the construction phase of buildings. Therefore, there is no need to talk about any additional functions and characteristics besides the standard ones. Has energy efficiency class “A”.

Veka Softline. Includes a five-chamber profile with two or three-chamber double-glazed windows, which is responsible for good level thermal insulation and noise insulation in the room. The two-layer sealing system between the frame and the glass unit makes this model ideal for combating window drafts. It is this line that is especially popular among Russian buyers. This was mainly possible due to optimal ratio price quality. Has energy efficiency class “A+”.

Veka Alphaline. The crown of all the company's lines. The model has a six-chamber (!) premium class profile coupled with a two-chamber double-glazed window. Provides excellent protection from cold and possible drafts. The highest characteristics embedded in it affect its cost - the price of “Veka” windows in this line is the highest. Overall #1. Has energy efficiency class “A++”.

Any presented series of Veka windows includes, designed for 50,000 opening/closing cycles, two sealing contours (three colors to choose from), the highest 4th class of corrosion resistance, 43 possible profile colors and a warranty period of 5 years.

The German brand KBE is popular in Russia no less than the others listed above. Let us present the advantages and characteristics of three models of different price categories.

KBE Etalon. For little money it provides acceptable heat retention in the room. The simplest option from the presented KBE model range. It is a three-chamber “standard” class profile coupled with a 32 mm double-glazed window. Possible glass thickness is 6 or 8 mm.
The seal can be: white, black or light gray. Window reinforcement used: steel.

KBE Expert. Windows of this series perfectly retain heat in winter time, and cool in the summer. This is evidenced by a five-chamber profile of the “standard” class and a double-glazed window with a thickness of 32-40 mm. Possible glass thickness is 6 or 8 mm. Designed for installation in both panel and wooden houses. Seal contour: black or light grey. Window reinforcement: steel extra.

KBE Select. This model is a new level in home insulation from the KBE window manufacturer. The five-chamber premium profile successfully copes with heat retention, and the 24-42 mm double-glazed window perfectly retains heat in winter and coolness in summer. Possible glass thickness is 6 or 8 mm. Seal outline: light gray only. Window reinforcement used: extra steel.

KBE 88. The pinnacle of perfection from KBE. Recommended for installation in any residential and. The combination of a 24-52 mm double-glazed window, equipped with a thermal package, and a six-chamber (!) premium class profile perfectly retains heat even in the coldest season. Seal contour: black or light grey. Possible glass thickness is only 8 mm. Window reinforcement: steel extra. Today, the KBE 88 series is the best among all lines of this brand.

Summing up all of the above, we can safely say: you can and should choose PVC windows, fortunately interesting options on the Russian market building materials Quite a lot is presented today. We hope that the rating of the top models of plastic windows from our website will help you navigate the rich variety of products available for purchase in the relevant companies located in the vastness of our vast country.

Human nature is indestructible: some are looking for a “freebie”, others are trying to slip a beautiful candy wrapper with “slag” inside under the guise of candy. Our portal has already described ways to deceive consumers when ordering suspended ceilings. It turned out that this is also possible when installing plastic windows. An unenlightened customer may think that this is impossible - all windows consist of glass and profiles. At the same time, plastic profiles from all manufacturers are made of the same material - polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and the assembled windows look almost the same.

The difference begins to appear after a few years (sometimes within a year), when the frame and sashes become deformed - they are difficult to open and close, there is wind from the street, condensation appears between the glass panes, and then black mold.

Therefore, it is very important to know the criteria to avoid fakes when choosing a profile for plastic windows.

Types of profiles and their classification

The main structural element of the doors and frame is the profile. It determines not only the aesthetic perception of the window, but also its strength characteristics and service life. European standard EN 12608 SR and GOST 30673-99 profiles made of polyvinyl chloride are classified according to several parameters.

1. Thickness of outer walls. The profile is a closed hollow structure with a system of partitions inside. All the main components depend on the thickness of the walls that form the structure. consumer properties windows: cost, strength and durability.

The European standard distinguishes the internal and external walls of a plastic profile. The internal walls include all the outer walls of the profile in an already installed window that are invisible to the eye. From the first definition it logically follows that the outer (outer) walls are the front walls of the window and are visible both from inside the room and from the street (see photo).

Depending on the thickness of the polyvinyl chloride in the external and internal walls, there are three classes of profiles (in this regard, the Russian standard is more stringent):

• "A"— the thickness of the external walls is >= 2.8 mm, the internal one is >= 2.5 mm according to the European standard (minimum 3.0 mm for the external wall according to GOST), which ensures a high level of window strength and the best heat and sound insulation;
• "IN"— the outer walls have a thickness of 2.5 mm, the inner walls have a thickness of 2.0 mm (coincides with GOST). A profile of this class retains heat 10-15% worse, is 12-17% less resistant to various types of deformation, and blocks street noise 10-20% worse;
• "WITH"— the European standard and GOST do not impose certain requirements for this class of profile. It is mainly used to make windows for non-industrial facilities. A number of companies, meeting the requirements of one of the parameters of class B, which is important, make economy class windows for the population (in general, this is a class C profile).

Unscrupulous window installers, emphasizing the low price, persuade customers to install an “object” profile (class C, not a single parameter corresponds to classes A and B), intended for non-residential premises(in fact, the price is almost twice as high as the real one, but significantly lower than the cost of profile B).

Such windows do not retain heat and quickly become deformed. It is visually difficult to distinguish such a profile from a standard one (class B or A) - measurements with a caliper are required. The inscriptions on the profile can also help determine the quality of the proposed profile. protective film"object".

Attention: only if both parameters meet the requirements of the standard, the profile belongs to a certain class, which must be confirmed by the corresponding certificate. Without presenting documents confirming quality, it is better to refuse the transaction.

It is easier for consumers who understand profile classes to decide which plastic to choose for their windows.

2. By temperature zones. In Europe and Asia there are countries with very hot, temperate and cold climates. Window manufacturers took the current situation into account and produced their own line of products for each zone. In Europe it is tied to the hottest month of the year, in Russia - to January.

Depending on the average temperature in January, the profiles produced may be:

• lightweight version - for countries with hot climates, where the average temperature of the coldest month remains positive (must withstand short-term temperature drops down to -5 degrees Celsius);
• standard version - for a temperate climate zone with an average temperature of -20 o C in January (maximum permissible negative temperature–45 degrees Celsius);
• frost-resistant - for the Far North, where temperatures drop to minus 55 degrees Celsius.

The last two types are mass produced in Russia. Lightweight windows are produced only by the Russian company “Krauss” (Krasnodar) - they cover the entire south of Russia.

3. According to impact resistance, the profile is divided into class I and class II. Class I PVC must withstand the fall of a special striker weighing 1.0 kg from a height of 1.0 m at a plastic temperature of minus 10 degrees Celsius. For class II, the fall height is increased to 1.5 m.

This classification allows you to determine how correctly located internal partitions(they counteract the deflection of the outer walls into the structure under mechanical stress) and how plastic reacts to lower temperatures (everyone knows the property of plastics to become brittle in severe frosts).

Consumer properties of profiles that you need to pay attention to

Which profile to choose for PVC windows so that it is warm, quiet, airtight, inaccessible to burglary and, at the same time, not to contact scammers? The main characteristics will help with this.

System width

The first indicator you should pay attention to is the width of the profile structure. It depends on it how warm and cozy it will be in the apartment or wooden house. For consumers who are encountering plastic windows for the first time, it is difficult to understand how the width of the frame and sash affect the comfort in the room. Let's try to explain.

A double-glazed window is installed in the window sash, which consists of several glasses fixed around the perimeter with a PVC profile frame. The air pockets between the glasses are called chambers. In standard windows, there is simply air in them; in the “Premium” segment, inert gas is pumped into the chambers to improve all the characteristics of the double-glazed window.

From school physics lessons we know that air is a poor conductor of heat, and glass with an air pocket is a poor conductor of sound. Therefore, the more cameras in a double-glazed window and, consequently, the number of glasses, the more comfortable it is to stay in the room. Window manufacturers mainly offer classic version profile width is 58 mm, allowing the installation of single-chamber windows. For two cameras a minimum of 70mm is required.

For regions of the Far North with their extreme temperatures, windows with three or even four chambers are offered. But this requires an appropriate profile width: 90 mm for 3 chambers, 110-120 mm for 4. This type products belong to the “Premium” class. Due to their heavy weight, such windows are not recommended for installation on balconies and loggias.

Number of profile cameras

The window design has two units with cameras. One is a double-glazed window, which is discussed above. The second is the profile itself. The profile is hollow. To create structural strength, fasten fittings and increase the level of heat and sound insulation, there are partitions inside the profile. The hollow volumes created by them are called chambers. The more there are, the better the performance of the window. The location of the jumpers is calculated mathematically - each of them performs a specific function.

On sale you can find 3-chamber profiles (this is the minimum possible number of cameras) and 7-chamber profiles. The most popular ones are 5-chamber ones. They offer the best combination of price and quality.

It is difficult to check the quality of the samples offered by the company by the installer, but you can pay attention to the little things that will say a lot:

• The company logo, date and place of manufacture applied to the protective tape will with a 90% probability confirm the origin of the product;

• The surface texture will also help: for high-quality windows, the surface of the plastic should be perfectly smooth. Graininess speaks of Chinese origin goods or Russian handicraft production;
• The applied paint should be uniform in color and without streaks.

Profile Manufacturers Rating

The manufacturers' ratings will help you figure out which profile for plastic windows is better. In this case, the rating can be compiled based on the popularity of the product, its cost, levels of heat and sound protection, strength, etc.

There is also a commercial factor involved. Some manufacturers buy sites from sites in general ratings, which is difficult to do when ranking products based on one indicator. Therefore, so that the portal’s editors are not suspected of a commercial approach to ranking windows, we will create two types of ratings: for global brands and Russian manufacturers.

Rating of the world's best manufacturers of plastic windows

Various specialized sites put KBE, Rehau, Century, Salamander, Mont Blanc in first place. It all depends on the indicators that were taken as a basis. But these manufacturers are distinguished by nuances, and it may turn out that the leading Rehau is not exactly suitable for a particular buyer. Therefore, we will consider the products of these companies without determining a specific place in the ranking - they all deserve to be in first place.

In terms of popularity on the Russian market, it is inferior to all the companies listed in the rating, since there is no plant in Russia. In terms of technical indicators, it is not inferior to any manufacturer.

Produces profiles with a width of 60-76 mm:

• Design 2D - 60 mm, number of cameras 3.5 (4);
• Design 3D - 76 mm, number of cameras 4.5 (5);
• Streamline - 76 mm, 5 cameras.

Advantages:

• excellent design;
• European quality control;
• control of sales points (dealers) throughout Europe.

The main and only disadvantage is the high cost (compared to Veka and Rehau, it is 35-40% higher).

KBE

A famous German company with factories in Russia (the cities of Voskresensk and Khabarovsk). Experts did not find any differences in the quality of windows from the products of competing companies, with the exception of some nuances.

Attention: the company has come up with an excellent marketing ploy - it issues an “Official Partner Certificate” to the best window assemblers, which does not give any guarantees to the customer regarding the quality of the windows.

The factories offer the customer a fairly impressive line of profiles, with a width from 58 to 127 mm:

• “Engine” and “Etalon” - 58 mm, 3 cameras;
• "KVE-Expert" - 70 mm, 5 cameras;
• “KVE-88” - 88 mm, 6 cameras;
• “KVE-Expert+” - 127 mm with 5 cameras in the frame and sash and 4 in the impost.

Among the advantages it should be noted:

• democratic price - products are available to mass consumers;
• high quality;
• launch of the greenline technological line.

There are no disadvantages in either consumer reviews or expert environment not found.

MONT BLANC

Austrian manufacturer of budget, high-quality products. After the construction of a plant in the Moscow region (Elektrostal), it became well known to the Russian consumer.

Produces a line of 7 types of profiles with a width from 58 to 120 mm:

• “Logic” - 58 mm, 3-chamber;
• "Tempo 60" - 60 mm, 5-chamber;
• “Nord 70” - 70 mm, 5-chamber;
• "City 120" - 120 mm, 5-chamber.

Among the advantages:

• budget price;
• long period of operation without loss of consumer properties;
• wide range of produced profiles.

Among the disadvantages, one can note the shortcomings of the marketing service - for 15 years the company has not made any attempts to obtain an ISO certificate for the products of the Russian plant.

VEKA

The German company with half a century of experience is one of the sales leaders. Built the VEKA Rus plant in the Moscow region. It produces white and colored profiles with a width from 58 to 90 mm, which do not turn yellow when exposed to UV rays.

The profile line consists of a number of models with a width of 58-90 mm:

• “Euroline” - 58 mm, 3-chamber;
• “Proline” - 70 mm, 4-chamber;
• “Swigline” - 82 mm, 5-chamber;
• "Alphline" - 90 mm, 6-chamber;
• "Softline 82" - 82 mm with 7 cameras.

Product advantages:

• Consistently high quality;
• big the lineup.

A significant disadvantage of the product is that the consumer significantly overpays for the brand - product Russian production practically does not differ in price from the profile made in Germany.

REHAU

Another German company with extensive experience in the production of plastic windows. The company was created to produce products for the middle class. Currently, this line has been erased - at a price you can find products for every taste. It adheres to an interesting tactic: it maintains the price level of its main competitor, the Veka company, on the market.

In 2002 the company launched own factory in Gzhel (Russia). Profiles are available in widths of 60 mm, 70 mm, 80 mm and 86 mm:

• “Blitz” (economy class products) - 60 mm, 3 cameras;
• “Brillant-Design” - 70 and 80 mm, 5 and 6 cameras;
• "Geneo" - 86 mm, 6 cameras.

The manufacturer’s pros and cons completely replicate the advantages and disadvantages of its competitor, Veka (see above).

Rating of the best Russian manufacturers of plastic windows

Enterprises with purely Russian origin have a short history, but have managed to compete with Western manufacturers - the sales volume of Russian windows is increasing every year. Among the best:

Kaleva

A Russian company with a Finnish name, the only one in the country that operates on a full cycle: from profile production to installation of windows for the customer. This is both a plus and a minus for the company at the same time.

• Plus: by producing and installing a very high quality profile yourself, the manufacturer significantly reduces the price of the finished window.
• Disadvantage: in the regions, the majority are not ready to work at the level of the parent enterprise installed windows do not meet the warranty period and have to be reinstalled again. The company is not yet eager to somehow influence the work of its regional centers, leaving customers alone with dealers.

PANORAMA

The company from St. Petersburg has 20 years of experience. According to experts and consumers, the product quality is one of the best - it can easily compete with German brands. The profiles have an ideal balance of rigidity, good noise and heat insulation, and a pleasant design.

However, the legacy of the Soviet past is taking its toll - the company’s management works poorly with consumers and pays little attention to advertising. In terms of potential, the company is capable of becoming the leader of PVC windows in Russia.

PROPLEX

Proplex - young Russian company, which is rapidly winning the market from old-timers. Windows developed specifically for Russian conditions (the model range consists of profiles with a width of 58-127 mm) have affordable prices and high consumer characteristics.

Further expansion in the Russian market and entry to the international level is hampered by two unpleasant moments:

• backward profile design;
• lack of an international ISO quality certificate.

Selecting the StroyGuru portal

When choosing a leader among global brands, the portal's editors unanimously voted for Rehau. Our choice is explained simply: thanks to this company, window production is on the verge of revolutionary changes - the innovative material “Rau-fipro” has been patented.

The portal’s employees would personally install windows from only two companies: “Mont Blanc” and “Panorama” - why pay for a brand if the quality of the named companies is no worse. The votes were evenly divided.

Conclusion

The polyvinyl chloride profiles presented on the Russian construction market are able to satisfy consumer requests in all basic parameters: cost, strength, durability, design, level of heat and sound protection. The only thing is to be careful and not fall into the hands of scammers.