How to choose good plastic windows. What profile of a plastic window is better to choose? Tips for choosing and rating manufacturers. Class B profiles

I am glad to welcome my readers!

During my work, I installed many windows, but most often the quality was not very good.

The fact is that the main thing in a plastic window is the profile, but at first glance, all windows look the same. That is why, I often encountered the fact that customers choose a low-quality profile.

What is the main thing in plastic windows? The basis of plastic windows is a profile. A good profile is a guarantee of high-quality and reliable plastic windows.

How to choose a quality profile and what to look for when choosing? I want to help you find the answer to this question in this article.

We go outside or take a newspaper and what we see are the windows of KBE, REHAU, VEKA, SALAMAHDER, LG, PROPLEX, BRUSBOX and the like. What is behind all these names? - These are the names of window profile manufacturers and nothing else, and your windows will be made by completely different companies, and we know perfectly well what our manufacturers can make from the best raw materials.

And yet a little about the profile manufacturers. When ordering windows, you will hear from the manager that windows (for example, KBE, VEKA, REHAU, SALAMANDER) are German windows made in Germany - naturally the best and highest quality. What is true in these words and what is not? Of all those listed, only SALAMANDER is 100% produced abroad (therefore, it has an appropriate price), the rest have long been produced in Russia.

And about the production of the window profile. Most profile manufacturers have built their factories in Russia. I was at the KBE and VEKA factories - excellent factories, imported equipment, foreign specialists, imported raw materials, so there is not much difference from where the profile comes from (I think the situation is similar at other factories of European manufacturers).

True, as always, there is a "BUT". This is a "BUT" profile system produced specifically for Russia, i.e. it is not used abroad - it is only for us at "our request". The advantage of this system is cheap, the disadvantage is to reduce the cost, the profile walls make thinner, respectively, the thermal resistance is less, the strength is less.

For the south, this is quite acceptable, in the middle lane - it is doubtful, in the north they can freeze. Usually this profile system is called an object profile and is used for glazing large objects - multi-storey residential buildings, industrial enterprises, etc. There are also Russian and Turkish systems, but since we are going to glaze our house, we will not consider these systems in detail.

Which profile I personally prefer, I can write further.

Which profile do you think is better? What is better Rehau or Brusbox? Veka or Proplex? KBE or LG? etc.

The most difficult and annoying question, to which it is almost impossible to give a reasoned answer, I can only express my personal opinion. I emphasize once again - this is my personal opinion, and not advertising, and the conversation will only focus on the profile systems with which I worked.

A few words about SALAMANDER (goes to non-competition) – good profile. The main advantage is made in Germany, the main disadvantage is that it is expensive. It would have been produced in Russia - it was among the middle peasants.

Now, in order about the profile systems produced in Russia:

Better than others in:

  • number of customer reviews
  • the number of defects in the supply of plastic profiles,
  • sealant,
  • holding seminars, trainings and training courses for window manufacturers.
  • Variety of profile systems.

Another advantage is that it sells the profile only to well-equipped enterprises for the production of plastic windows, which it regularly checks and issues its certificate to these plants. Therefore, if you have chosen a factory working with this profile, then the likelihood of getting into an unpleasant situation is less.

I give second place. This company sells its profile only to well-equipped plastic window manufacturing plants, which it regularly checks and issues its certificate to these plants. Therefore, if you have chosen a factory working with this profile, then the likelihood of getting into an unpleasant situation is less.

Deserved 3rd place.

Disadvantages:

  • There are disruptions in the supply of the profile, the rejection of the profile is more often than - for REHAU and VEKA
  • Sells a profile to any factories of plastic windows.

THYSSEN, LG, DIMEX

MOTNTBLANK, PROPLESS, BRUBEBOX

They share the last place by the number of positive reviews of people who installed windows, but they are very well suited for glazing balconies and loggias, as well as domestic premises. Advantage - low price.

P.S. I have not worked with other profile systems, so I can’t say anything about them.

source: http://infokna.narod.ru/

What profile of a plastic window is better to choose? Selection tips and manufacturer rating

The profile is the main element of any window; the durability and reliability of the entire structure depends on it. At first glance, the profile for PVC windows from different manufacturers looks almost the same.

The difference in quality becomes apparent after several months (or even years!) of use, when cheap windows begin to warp and cracks form in them. How to choose a good plastic profile for windows? How are products of different brands different from each other? And does it make sense to save on glazing by choosing an economy class profile?

Profile for PVC windows: characteristics and types

The profile is the basis of the entire structure, from which window sashes and frames are made. They determine not only the appearance of the window, but also its strength. Common materials for window profiles are wood (cedar and larch) and aluminum.

But most often the profile for windows is made of PVC, or polyvinyl chloride. Such a profile is reinforced with metal inserts and has air cavities inside, which increase the thermal insulation of the structure.

According to the European standard EN 12608 SR "Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) for the manufacture of windows and doors" and similar Russian GOST 30673-99 "Polyvinyl chloride profiles for window and door blocks. Specifications” profiles are classified according to a number of characteristics. In particular, in terms of the thickness of the outer and inner walls, the following are distinguished:

  1. Class A profiles - have outer walls with a thickness of 2.8 mm and inner walls with a thickness of 2.5 mm; they provide the best thermal insulation and are considered the best choice.
  2. Class B profiles - have outer walls with a thickness of 2.5 mm, internal - from 2.0 mm; such windows are not only “colder”, but also 15% less resistant to deformation.
  3. Class C profiles - all others that do not fit the standards A and B, they are not subject to strict requirements.

Note!

There is a so-called "object" profile, which is designed for installation in non-residential industrial premises. It cannot be used in houses and apartments - because of the thin walls, it does not hold heat and is unstable to deformation.

At first glance, such a profile is no different from the usual one - except that you can see the object marking on the protective film. Often, unscrupulous companies offering very low prices for their goods sell windows from just such a profile.

Choosing the best profile for plastic windows

It is not easy to determine "by eye" which profile of plastic windows is better, but there are some features that can say a lot about its quality.

Profile uniformity

The plastic must be homogeneous and absolutely smooth. The grainy surface suggests that the windows were most likely made in artisanal conditions and are fake. The coating must also be uniform, free of streaks and gradients.

By the way. In order not to buy a fake at the price of branded windows, pay attention to the factory markings on the inside of the window box. It should be stamped with the name of the manufacturer and a number of numbers: shift number, devices for the production of PVC profiles and date of manufacture.

Profile width

Most often, companies offer a plastic profile for windows with a width of 58 mm - this is a classic option, preferred for residential premises. There is also a profile with a width of 70 mm, this is often installed in high-rise buildings or where the climate is especially harsh. The 90 mm wide profile belongs to the premium class, it is characterized by excellent heat and sound insulation characteristics. However, not all companies work with such products.

Profile thickness

The thickness of the profile should be the same, from 2.5 mm to 3 mm. However, thin walls are not suitable for heavy window blocks - in this case, the welding seam is less durable, which means that the reliability of the entire structure suffers.

Number of air chambers

The number of cameras also depends on the width of the profile. A 58 mm profile can have a maximum of three chambers - which, however, is quite enough for the windows to retain heat. 70mm - three, four and even five cameras. The last of those mentioned (70 mm) are most in demand for glazing apartments and houses.

The norm for a 90 mm profile is six chambers. The more cameras, the warmer and quieter it will be in the house. However, in fairness it should be said that the difference between, for example, a three- and four-chamber package is not so significant.

Number of double-glazed windows

The number of air chambers in a PVC profile should not be confused with the number of double-glazed windows. A double-glazed window is several sheets of glass interconnected along the contour using a special frame and sealants. Airtight chambers with air or other gas inside are formed between the panes.

A single-chamber double-glazed window is the lightest, it consists of two glasses and one air chamber between them. Such double-glazed windows are very light, suitable for glazing large openings, so they are often installed on balconies, loggias and terraces. However, they are not suitable for windows due to insufficient thermal insulation.

For a house, cottage, office or apartment, it is better to choose a double-glazed window consisting of three sheets of glass and two air chambers. Three-pane double-glazed windows made of four sheets of glass are not common, they are heavy and let in less light than other types of double-glazed windows.

Such windows are in demand only in the North, where the temperature in winter can drop to -40 o C and lower. At higher temperatures, there is almost no difference between two- and three-chamber double-glazed windows.

Helpful advice!

When choosing a plastic profile for windows, pay attention to the frame seals. There should be two of them, otherwise condensation will settle under the frame, and this spoils the insulation and creates a favorable environment for bacteria and mold.

Window profile rating: comparison of products from key manufacturers

  • rehau
    One of the most famous companies that has been producing reliable windows for more than half a century and is considered the main innovator in this area - Rehau engineers are constantly improving the design and configuration of the profile - so the company pays great attention to environmental friendliness and energy-saving technologies. The company produces a profile with a width of 60-70 mm. Rehau products belong to the middle class.
  • VEKA
    Another German "giant", whose products are valued all over the world. VEKA produces white and colored profiles that do not fade or turn yellow when exposed to direct sunlight. The seal is made of natural rubber, which does not freeze even under the influence of very low temperatures - a valuable quality for the Russian climate. The line includes models with a width of 58 to 90 mm. In terms of price, VEKA windows are comparable to Rehau.
  • Trocal
    This is a company with a long history, one of the pioneers in the production of plastic windows. The first model was released in 1954. For decorative finishes, the company offers a wide range of options - from lamination to acrylic coating. The profile is produced using the environmentally friendly Greenline technology and provides perfect thermal insulation. Profile width - 70 mm.
  • Salamander
    This German company is not as well known as KBE or VEKA, but Salamander products are in no way inferior to them in quality. The profile is produced exclusively in Germany, which means that by purchasing such windows, you can count on truly European quality - at the same European price. The company produces bags with a width of 60 to 76 mm.
  • KBE
    One of the most popular German brands that produces environmentally friendly windows recommended for installation in children's institutions and hospitals. KBE windows are of high quality and durability (they can serve up to 50 years!), and the line includes both luxury models and economy options. Profile width - from 58 to 70 mm.
  • Proplex
    Proplex is a Russian company that, despite its youth, has already managed to establish a wide production and significantly modernize window systems. The profile is developed with the participation of Austrian specialists and taking into account Russian conditions. With a very good quality of products, the company still manages to maintain affordable prices. Proplex offers models in widths from 58mm to 127mm.

This is only a small part of the manufacturers of plastic windows, in fact there are dozens, if not hundreds. What plastic windows are better? When choosing glazing, you should give preference to well-known brands, but be sure to check all the documentation - famous brands are often faked. Branded windows at too low a price are a sign that they may be trying to deceive you.

Editorial opinion

Even the best windows will not last long if mistakes were made during their installation. Better simple economy class windows installed by professionals than expensive German windows installed by amateurs.

source: http://www.kp.ru/

Which profile of plastic windows is better

What is a quality profile?

The key to the quality and durability of a metal-plastic window is a high-quality profile. Even if at first glance the entire profile for plastic windows is the same, in reality this is far from being the case. What profile for plastic windows is better, and how to choose the right window, experts from VEKA Rus advise you.

Certificates

The entire profile from which the windows are made is certified. The most significant is the RAL Certificate, which certifies not only the type of product, but also the place of its production. In other words, a profile of the same brand, but manufactured at different factories, will not always have this certificate.

The ISO 9001:2000 quality management system certificate is issued to industries that have a well-organized management system in compliance with all technological, economic and organizational requirements typical for the production of developed countries. Both Russian VEKA plants have this certificate.

If the profile is wider, is it more reliable and warmer?

Profile width is one of its main characteristics. Many window manufacturers promise a couple of extra millimeters to the profile width in their advertising campaigns, but are they really useful?

The following offers are most often found on the market:

  1. classic profile 58 mm;
  2. profile 70 mm with increased installation width;
  3. profile VEKA ALPHALINE 90 mm.

The width of 58 mm is due to the "classics of the genre" - wooden frames, which were replaced by plastic windows. Today, the EUROLINE 58 mm profile allows the production of modern warm windows that meet the requirements of most customers in different climatic zones. Properly manufactured and installed, this is the best window profile for any room.

A profile with a width of 70 mm is a proposal that appeared in the 80s of the last century. Having higher heat-saving soundproofing characteristics, this profile is especially fond of Russian consumers. In the product group of VEKA profiles, SOFTLINE, SWINGLINE and PROLINE have a width of 70 mm.

The 90 mm wide profile is a premium product that appeared about 5 years ago. The VEKA ALPHALINE profile allows the use of double-glazed windows up to 50 mm thick and is currently the unsurpassed leader among window profiles with enhanced energy-saving characteristics.

Note!

The choice of profile width largely depends on the installation location (window in the office, vestibule door, front door to the store, windows in a country house) and climate.

Now another novelty has appeared on the market - the SOFTLINE 82 profile. The innovative multi-chamber system, elegant style and the choice of more than 40 modifications guarantee the satisfaction of the most demanding customer. The SOFTLINE 82 system provides the best insulating performance, is fully compatible with 70 mm profiles and can be installed in any home.

Number of cameras

The second characteristic of the window is the number of cameras in the profile. There are three in the standard. The first one is for condensate drainage, the second one is for placing a reinforcing metal insert, and the third one is for fixing parts of the fittings and creating an additional air gap for better window tightness. The number of chambers depends on the width of the profile. So, a 58 mm profile can have a maximum of three cameras, but a 70 mm profile - preferably four. For a profile of 90 mm, the norm is 6 cameras.

Three and six chamber profile systems

Increasing the number of cameras with the same profile width does not significantly change the characteristics of the window. To improve heat-saving characteristics, a wider profile is needed, and not more partitions in it.

Full package

Another important point is the double-glazed window. The number of glasses in the window affects its characteristics and cost. The most common are double glazing, but you can also order windows with single glazing or triple glazing.

"Triple" windows are warmer. However, they weigh more and require high-quality assembly and stable construction. Single glazing is the coldest. It can be used for glazing unheated balconies, as well as summer houses. Double glazing is optimal in terms of technical characteristics, and allows you to maintain comfort indoors all year round.

Profile class

There are two classes of metal-plastic profiles. The first, class A, with a thickened outer wall, is certified by the RAL system as the optimal profile for windows, doors and frame glazing.

Helpful advice!

The second, class B, is a lightweight profile with a thinner outer wall, the so-called "object" profile. It has a slightly lower cost, but does not guarantee the preservation of the characteristics of the window throughout its operation.

Windows from the "object" profile, as an economical option, can be offered by absolutely all manufacturers, but you must remember that such a window may have weaker corner joints, poorer dimensional stability, lower energy-saving characteristics, the risk of premature wear of fittings, shorter service life.

findings

Summing up the reasoning on the topic of choosing a profile for a metal-plastic window, we emphasize:

  • The presence of certificates confirms the quality.
  • According to the mounting width, all profiles are divided into two main classes: 58, 64 mm and 70 -76 mm. Within the class, the thermal characteristics are the same. A profile with a width of 68 mm and a profile with a width of 72 mm do not differ from each other.
  • The number of cameras affects the window quality only if the profile belongs to different width classes.
  • The most common is double glazing.
  • Class A profile is the leader in reliability and quality.

When choosing windows, be able to hear the necessary information and filter out ads. The quality of your windows depends on your choice. Take the time to make the right choice!

source: http://www.veka.ru/

Which plastic PVC windows are better - 2-chamber, 3-chamber or 5-chamber?

Often we encounter confusion when discussing plastic windows, they confuse cameras in a double-glazed window and cameras in a profile, I hope that this article will help you deal with cameras in modern plastic windows.

In my article 3-chamber and 5-chamber profile - what is the difference? we have already figured out how the 3- and 5-chamber profiles differ, now let's see which profiles are better.

Here, the more the better - there are no many cameras.

Plastic windows consist of a profile and a double-glazed window and fittings.

A double-glazed window can be single-chamber (2 glasses and one air chamber between them) and 2-chamber (three glasses and two air chambers between them), and the profile can also be 3-chamber and 5-chamber (there are profile systems with a large number of air chambers).

A 2-chamber double-glazed window is almost 1.5 times warmer than a single-chamber one. The heat transfer resistance of a double-glazed window from 3 glasses is 0.42 sq.m C / W, and for 2 glasses - 0.33 sq.m C / W. Many people mistakenly believe that an additional third glass is installed solely for soundproofing.

In fact, first of all, the third glass is placed for heat saving and only then for additional sound insulation.

The same is true with the profile. Not only is the 5-chamber profile warmer, it is also tougher, it does not have a cold bridge in the loop area (a 3-chamber profile often freezes in these places in winter).

But the most important thing is that the 5-chamber profile has a thickness of 70 mm and you can install a double-glazed window up to 44 mm thick in it, while in a 3-chamber profile no more than 38 mm, and this is additional thermal insulation and energy saving.

Which double-glazed window and which profile to choose.

If the window opens onto a glazed balcony / loggia or you plan to glaze them later, then in this case you should not overpay and you should choose a window with a single-chamber double-glazed window and a 3-chamber profile, in all other cases, a 2-chamber double-glazed window and a 5- This camera profile (or more cameras) will be preferred.

So you decided to change your old windows for new plastic ones. You went around and called a huge number of window companies, but there were only more questions. You do not see how one window company differs from another and how plastic windows offered by one company differ from windows offered by another company, and if there is no difference, then why pay more?

And here you make the most common mistake - you start looking for a company that can offer the lowest price for plastic windows.

Do not rush, now we will figure out how windows differ and what window companies are trying to hide from you.

PROFILE

When it comes to PVC windows, the most common question that is asked is “what profile are your windows made of?”. At the moment, there are more than 40 profile manufacturers on the market, and each manufacturer has a large number of different profile lines in its arsenal.

All European manufacturers offer a quality product (KBE, Gealan, Veka, Rehau, SCHUCO, etc.) - a guarantee for such a profile is at least 40 years, such a profile does not crack or turn yellow. A slightly different picture with the Turkish and Chinese profile systems. Without going into unnecessary details, I will say that a European manufacturer is preferable, but we simply forget about the rest, especially since there is practically no difference in price.

As we have already said, each manufacturer offers not one, but a whole line of profiles. Various profile systems differ from each other in thickness, number of sealing contours, design. As for the design, here, as they say, the taste and color, the number of sealing contours does not affect the blowing in any way and it’s definitely not worth overpaying for it, but the thickness of the profile is not an unimportant factor.

For the middle strip, the recommended profile has a thickness of 58-60 mm, but in practice, at low temperatures at the points of fastening of the loops, a cold bridge appears and freezing and ice formation occurs. We recommend a profile from 68 to 84 mm, and a double-glazed window can be installed thicker in such a profile. The difference with a thinner profile is insignificant, but the rigidity and heat saving of such windows are much higher.

Many manufacturers produce the so-called object profile for installation in non-residential premises, outwardly such a profile is no different from the usual one, but the wall thickness of such a profile is much thinner and the plastic used in such profiles is recycled plastic. Many companies, wishing to give the lowest price on the market, sell such windows under the guise of ordinary ones, relying on the client's lack of education. But this is not about us.

It is not easy to determine such a profile: the protective film often does not have any inscriptions at all, or there is a word: OBJECT, object, engine, Tender or something similar. Be extremely careful - such a profile cannot be used categorically in residential premises - it does not have the required rigidity, thermal conductivity and can emit an unpleasant odor.

Drainage bar

The vast majority of companies do not install dewatering strips that are required to be installed. Drainage strips protect you from water ingress during rain in the ventilation mode (in tilt mode)

There is a possibility that such a company could save on something else that will become clear only during the operation of the window.

REINFORCEMENT

It is more correct to call plastic windows metal-plastic, since inside the plastic profile is reinforced with metal. The metal gives strength and rigidity to the structure, but the reinforcement is located inside the profile and is hidden from the eyes of the consumer, which is what unscrupulous sellers use. They just don't reinforce their windows. Such windows are very often installed in new buildings.

Take a magnet, and the frame and sash of the window should be reinforced with metal, which is easy to check with a magnet. If it was not possible to find metal with a magnet, then let such a window look for another owner.

ASSEMBLY

In order to assemble a high-quality plastic window, you need good (read expensive) equipment, special stands for setting up fittings and checking welds, and qualified craftsmen. Only a large manufacturer can afford this.

Otherwise, as a result, the window geometry is not correct, a bad porch, blowing out, a quick failure of the fittings. The build quality is very difficult to determine by eye, you need to take measurements and so on, so just ask the seller who the manufacturer is. If this is a small local company in a small town, then quality is out of the question.

ACCESSORIES

Fittings are a very important component of your window, the quality of fittings determines the life of the window and how comfortable this operation will be. Here the leaders are the Germans. These are the companies Roto, SIEGENIA-AUBI, Maco, we avoid everything else. But there are many ways to save money by installing high-quality fittings.

Mistake Blocker

Required to install! If you opened the window, and then switched the handle to tilt mode and the window hung on one lower hinge, then you do not have a blocker installed. Such a window will not last long, and may cause harm to health. We witnessed when the sash just fell out, almost killing a small child.

Be sure to check the presence of a blocker in the window before buying and after the window has already been mounted to you.

striker

The reciprocal bar is placed along the inner perimeter of the frame and is responsible for the density of the porch. After all, we chose plastic windows for their tightness and energy-saving properties.
The number of strikers depends on the size of the window, but they cannot be less than 4.

Note!

We are aware of companies that put 2 strikers on the window, nullifying all the advantages of plastic windows. In this case, it will blow from the window, and frost may form on the glass and window sill.

Often, cheap plastic handles are installed on the windows, which quickly fail. Good pens are produced by Maco and Roto, which should be written on the pen. These handles are made of aluminum and covered with plastic, they differ from cheap plastic ones in their greater weight and long service life.

SLOPES

High-quality slopes are made of insulated sandwich panels. Fungus does not form on such slopes, they are warm, rigid and do not have joints.

The joints between the slopes should be covered with liquid plastic, and not with silicone, which blackens and falls off after a month. The joints on the slopes are covered with liquid plastic.

Liquid plastic has the same structure as the PVC from which your windows are made, which means that liquid plastic will not differ in color, fungus will not form on it and it will not crack. has the same expansion factor.

Many companies continue to use low-quality cold wall panels, covering the gaps with sealant. As a result, cold slopes, fungus, silicone must be changed every six months, the silicone darkens and such slopes look much worse.

MOUNTING

The use of Vapor Permeable Tape PSUL (Pre-Compressed Sealing Tape) is mandatory. The tape is needed to protect the foam from the sun and to remove moisture from the foam.

But PSUL also requires protection from ultraviolet radiation, for which flashings or external slopes are used.

We talked about just a few ways to save money. The rest are either less significant, or it is not possible to identify them to a non-specialist.

Be careful when choosing plastic windows.

Hide

The popularity of such a product as metal-plastic window structures can be explained by their attractive appearance. Despite the fact that the consumer is increasingly choosing this option over wooden or aluminum windows, there is not much information about the product. Therefore, you should carefully understand which plastic windows are the best. , and on what criteria they should be selected.

To make a competent choice, first of all, it is important to navigate the design features and principles of operation of this mechanism. After all, the level of sound insulation, heat saving and the passage of dust and moisture depends on how high the quality of the acquired window will be. If you understand the question, which plastic windows are better , then they will serve you as long as possible, performing all their functions.

Do you want to choose high-quality plastic windows? The German company is famous for windows with excellent heat-shielding properties.

Read also consumer reviews about Brugmann windows in our material at the link.

For more information on how to choose fittings for plastic windows, which manufacturers to give preference to, read

Choose a profile

This element is the main part of the window metal-plastic construction. It is on its quality that the life and efficiency of window operation, its insulating characteristics, and aesthetic appearance depend.

There is no fundamental difference between the profiles from the world's leading manufacturers. Therefore, when choosing which plastic windows to install, be guided, first of all, by a certified profile that meets GOST and other standards.

Studying the characteristics of the profile, attention should be paid to such a concept as reinforcement. This technological process turns the profile from ordinary plastic into metal-plastic, making it more durable and rigid. The essence of this process is as follows: a steel or galvanized profile is placed in the inner chamber of the profile. The thickness of the latter varies from 0.5 to 2 mm. It is necessary to select this parameter based on technical requirements.

Reinforced profile

The best plastic windows have a more complex design. Thus, a quality product from leading manufacturers is characterized by a wall thickness of 3 mm. It will not bend, deform, form cracks.

A high-quality profile must be made of galvanized steel, since this metal makes the structure lighter, fixes the shape of the window as much as possible, and also protects the window from sudden temperature changes. If the manufacturer uses non-galvanized metal, it is likely that such structures will begin to rust long before installation.

Depending on the wall thickness, the profile can be assigned to one of three classes:

  1. Class A. In such structures, the thickness of the inner walls is 2.5 mm, the outer - 2.8 mm. These are the best windows for living spaces, as they do the most effective job of thermal insulation.
  2. Class B. This option is most often used in non-residential premises, since it retains heat much worse. The thickness of the outer wall is 2.5 mm, the inner wall is 2.0 mm.
  3. Class C. Products for which there are no particularly stringent requirements.

Wall thickness of class A profiles

Wall thickness of class B profiles

The thicker the profile, the better and stronger the construction.

As for materials, most often this component is made of PVC. The latter is completely environmentally friendly, it is not prone to deformation. It is not affected by temperature changes, high humidity, acids, solvents. From PVC, you can create structures of almost any shape, which will differ in uniformity of color, texture, and the absence of smell.

If you choose the right profile, you can put windows , which will last up to 50-60 years.

Choosing accessories: functionality and brand

This category includes various hinges, brackets, and other connecting elements. All of them are responsible for opening/closing the window. Since this action can be carried out more than 50 thousand times during the life of the structure, the correct choice of fittings is extremely important.

Before deciding which windows to install , you should carefully study the offers of different brands that have been offering similar products for several years. A modern window performs a number of important functions, so the selected fittings must meet the following requirements:

  • provide maximum convenience and practicality of the window design;
  • create a single whole with the structure, a mechanism that will optimally distribute the load on the window sashes.

Practice shows that today the most reliable manufacturers are German brands.

The importance of choosing a double-glazed window

The answer to the question which plastic windows are the highest quality , quite difficult. And much in the right choice depends on the double-glazed window. This structural element is responsible for noise and thermal insulation. It is a set of glasses separated by special sealed chambers.

When choosing a double-glazed window, you should pay special attention to the thickness of the glass. According to existing standards, this indicator should be at least 4 mm. But, often, manufacturers, trying to save money, offer the buyer glass with a thickness of 3 mm. This is considered a gross violation of quality standards.

Another important point in this matter is the number of cameras. The most common option is considered to be a double-glazed window.

There are also three-, four-chamber options. They are used in regions with particularly cold climatic conditions. The best choice would be polished M glass. Manufacturers also offer refractory and energy-saving options. When choosing, always pay attention to the country of origin. To date, domestic brands are not yet able to compete with recognized global companies.

Thus, we can safely say that there are no secondary details in modern window designs. It is important to consider every little thing when choosing which plastic windows are best placed in an apartment or house. Even the smallest components of poor quality can lead to the fact that the design will not be able to properly perform its main functions.

Services for the production and installation of such windows have been on the construction market for quite a long time. During this period, the range of materials and variations of PVC window products has greatly expanded. As a result, buyers face a rather difficult question: which design is better to choose for installation?

When choosing, it is important to take into account not only the configuration, but the materials from which this or that part of the window is assembled. An incorrectly selected frame or double-glazed window can adversely affect not only the appearance of the final product, but also create an unfavorable microclimate in the room in which the window will be installed.

What parts does a modern plastic window consist of

Many of us are accustomed to the components of the window to refer only to the supporting frame and window sashes, which can be both deaf and opening. However, the classification of the components that make up modern plastic windows is very different and includes the following elements:

  1. Plastic profile.

The fundamental part of the entire window is the profile, which can be made of different types of plastics. It is used to assemble window frames, imposts (stands between sashes) and sashes that make up the main, basic parts of any PVC window.

  1. Reinforcement.

A properly made plastic profile, in itself, has good strength, but to strengthen it, it is almost always reinforced by building metal structures inside.

  1. Stand profile.

After installing the window, it is not visible, but it plays an important role, as it is installed under the frame and holds the entire structure.

  1. Double glazing.

This element is called the part of the window that is inserted directly into its sashes. The double-glazed window consists of a metal profile that serves as a frame, on which glass is glued with a sealant, the quantity and quality of which directly affects such parameters as noise and heat insulation of the room.

  1. Bead.

A glazing bead is a small plastic strip that securely fixes the double-glazed windows inside the sashes. The material of its manufacture is identical to that used in the production of frame profiles.

  1. Rubber seal.

It is installed along the perimeter of the opened doors. It is necessary in order to provide reliable insulation and reduce the risk of drafts.

  1. Accessories.

Fittings include all small window parts, such as handles, locks, as well as hinges and other types of fasteners.

  1. Sandwich panel.

Installed in a window instead of glass if the sash should be light-tight.

  1. Slopes.

Slopes are called the side and upper part of the interior decoration of the window.

  1. Window sill and threshold.

The threshold and window sill are made of certain types of materials, as they must have special strength in order to withstand various types of loads for a long time.

  1. Low tide.

The lower part of the window must be protected not only from the inside, but also from the outside, so iron window sills are often installed on the street side. They protect the base profile from external influences such as rain or strong winds.

Also, at the request of the client, a mosquito net can be installed on the window. Due to the diversity of the range on the market, you can find windows with almost any combination of materials, which means it makes sense to consider each component separately.

Ordering a plastic window

You can buy a plastic window in specialized companies that provide a full range of services: from the supply of window structures to their installation in the premises. In addition, windows can be purchased at construction hypermarkets and directly from the manufacturer. The price of windows purchased from the manufacturer will be significantly lower than in other options.

However, the installation service is not offered by everyone from whom you can buy a window. Some customers who want to install plastic windows in the room believe that there are no difficulties in assembling the structure. In reality, installation does not involve only drilling holes in the wall, screwing screws and working with mounting foam. Before installing a plastic window, it is important to properly dismantle the old window structure. And during the installation itself, nuances and details appear that only professional installers know.

Those who do not understand the intricacies of window installation can be advised to order a service for their installation along with windows. Of course, you will have to pay extra for it, but professionals in their field will install a window without flaws.

When ordering a window with installation in a specialized company, the client will need to choose from the proposed design configuration options those that suit him the most. Let's analyze these parameters in more detail.

Who is the manufacturer of the profile?

The Russian production of plastic windows has long been "put on its feet." However, the quality of Russian plastic often leaves much to be desired. The technology by which a double-glazed window is produced is borrowed from a number of world foreign leaders in this field of production. Although the production technology from Russian manufacturers is copied, however, the workmanship is by no means at the highest level. Often, manufacturers want to save money on the profile of the Russian assembly, as a result of which the products come out of not very high quality.

Russian-made profiles have an undeniable advantage - this is their cost. Such windows are several times cheaper than foreign-made window structures. If you want your house to have high-quality windows, then it is worth, despite the cost, to pay attention to manufacturers that have proven themselves on the good side. One of these is the German Rehau. Previously installed window profiles from this manufacturer have been in perfect condition for more than 10 years, without losing their appearance and quality.

The most famous, top profile manufacturers and the average price for a window with dimensions of 1470 mm × 1420 mm:

  • Rehau - 9500 rubles;
  • Veka - 9500 rubles;
  • Proplex - 8800 rubles;
  • Salamander - 26,000 rubles;
  • Montblanc - 7800 rubles.

What type of plastic is used in the production

Profiles of the worst quality are made of matte plastic. This type of plastic literally “absorbs” dirt due to the fact that the matte surface, unlike the glossy one, is rough. Windows installed with matte plastic elements become dirty over time and acquire a grayish tint that cannot be scrubbed off with detergents. Therefore, if you are offered the installation of windows with a matte plastic surface, it is better to refuse.

Glossy plastic costs a little more than matte plastic. But it is worth taking a closer look at inexpensive types of glossy plastic: this option is still better than installing a matte one. Glossy plastic is not so susceptible to dirt, and if they do happen, they are easily rubbed off the plastic surface. In addition, the appearance of glossy plastic is more attractive.

Double glazing - single or double glazing?

If your house is located in an area where there is an unfavorable atmosphere in terms of noise or if the window overlooks the highway, you should order a double-glazed window. It costs a little more than a single-chamber, however, it is better in terms of heat loss and sound insulation.

Single-chamber double-glazed window

Double glazing

Some customers of window installation companies think that a double-glazed window is a double-glazed window in which there are 2 glasses, which is not at all the case. Double glazing has 3 panes with two air gaps. A double-glazed window, where there are only 2 glasses, has one air chamber.

For the best sound insulation performance, manufacturers make different distances between the air chambers. The most ideal option is one in which the thickness of the inner glass is slightly larger than the middle and outer glass. This greatly reduces the noise level.

If a two-chamber double-glazed window has such advantages over a single-chamber one, then why are 4-chamber and 5-chamber ones not put into mass production? They are also made, but extremely rarely. It will not be difficult for manufacturers to make a ten-chamber double-glazed window, but it simply does not make sense to install such a design for a number of reasons:

  1. Large structure weight. Even double-glazed windows weigh about 70 kg and more. Depending on the thickness of the glasses installed in them, the weight may increase or decrease. The more cameras - the more massive the double-glazed window, and the more difficulties are created during its installation.
  2. None of the currently existing sets of fittings and profiles can withstand a large mass of the structure. Of course, there is the option of manufacturing sashes and frames from alloy steels, but at the same time, the cost of the window will increase greatly.
  3. A number of companies are engaged in the manufacture of double-glazed windows with energy-saving glass. When using them, excellent heat saving indicators are achieved, which means that it makes no sense to install multi-chamber double-glazed windows from the point of view of preserving heat in the room.

Reinforcing elements

Each plastic window is completed with a reinforcing belt consisting of a metal profile. Its purpose is to maintain the framed window itself in the face of seasonal temperature changes. Window manufacturers also sometimes save on this, completely ignoring the realities of the climate. Indeed, in a number of Russian regions, the temperature ranges from -30 degrees in winter to 40 degrees in summer.

Such conditions for plastic windows are quite extreme. That is why the steel insert inside all window elements should not be thin, its maximum thickness should be no less than 1.5 mm. Already with such an insert thickness, the window will not be subject to significant deformations during operation, which will provide it with a long service life and the almost complete absence of drafts in the room.

Heat reflective glass

The design of the double-glazed unit usually includes standard float glass with increased transparency. But if the energy efficiency of the room is important to you, it is better to order special energy-saving glass. Its other name is IR glass. It is standard, it is distinguished by a special type of coating, which is designed specifically to reflect infrared waves or heat.

When installing such windows, in winter the heat will not go out of the room, and in the summer the IR coating of the glass will greatly alleviate the heat from the sun's rays. You will have to pay extra for special glass, but thanks to it, the room will be much more comfortable.

Ventilation

One of the main problems that the owners of plastic windows face is ventilation. In old, wooden windows, it was provided with the help of cracks from a loose fit of the window sashes. A plastic window is manufactured according to standards that provide hermetic isolation from the external environment outside the premises. Because of this, a significant drawback of such a window manifests itself - in the room the air becomes stale and stuffy, and the glasses themselves "sweat".

Provide ventilation in the room allow different options for opening the window:

  1. Swivel. With this option, the window opens to its full width. This allows large masses of air to enter the room, providing ventilation. The window sashes open inwards, to the left or to the right, depending on the customer's wishes.

  1. Folding. In this version, the window sash opens vertically, creating an angle of approximately 45 degrees at maximum opening.

  1. slotted. This is a kind of "winter" ventilation. The window opens a little at a very small distance, so the air masses enter the room in a small amount, without creating discomfort for people when ventilating in the cold season.

There is an option to combine types of opening, but it will cost more. Initially, standard designs of window structures provide for all opening methods, but if the client wants to save money and does not pay for any of them, then these types of opening remain blocked. You won't be able to use them if you don't know how to unlock them.

accessories

By right, fittings can be called an important component of the window design. It holds the sash in position and provides a snug fit and window safety features.

Poor-quality fittings in the window structure promise problems within a few months after its installation. Cheap fittings may simply not be able to cope with the weight of a heavy window sash after installation. The sash will eventually "fall over" to one side, and the adjustment of its position will also be violated.

Poor fittings poorly presses the sash to the frame. Due to this, gaps and drafts may appear in the room. The only advantage of using low-quality fittings is the appearance of natural ventilation, but this is unlikely to please anyone in the winter season.

What should not be saved when ordering a plastic window?

It is unlikely that the client will try to save money by ordering a plastic window without a window sill. However, some future window owners believe that the presence of low tides, high-quality slopes and mosquito nets is not necessary. As practice shows, such savings often result in unforeseen expenses in the future.

What is desirable to purchase with a plastic window:

  1. Drainage Without it, moisture from the rain will be poured into the joint gap between the wall and the window, damaging the mounting foam, which absorbs moisture like a sponge.

  1. Mosquito net. In winter, it is not needed, but in summer, if you want to open the window wide open, an annoying midge will fly into a room that is not protected by a net.

  1. Quality slopes. Plastic window structures are mounted taking into account the maximum extension to the outside. Due to the shift in the dew point, the window and slopes can fog up. Moisture will cause mold. Artisanally made slopes can become moldy already in the first winter, and the window will lose its aesthetic qualities.

  1. Sealant. A standard rubber seal tends to freeze and tan at low temperatures outside the window. Some firms have a service for installing a transparent or white sealant made on the basis of an elastomer. It costs more than usual, but it has a longer service life and is less dependent on temperature fluctuations. In winter, it is recommended to lubricate any seal with silicone oil or a special compound as recommended by the manufacturer.

Plastic windows have already become so familiar that almost no building can be imagined without them. And it is worth remembering that a few decades ago they were a luxury that many could not afford. Now there is a large selection of manufacturers on the market, and many are wondering which plastic windows are better to install?

The best solution is to listen to the feedback of your friends and acquaintances. Surely, one of them installed good windows for themselves in your city. At the same time, choose well-known companies that have good reviews far beyond your area.

Criterias of choice

There are several features that you need to pay special attention to when choosing plastic double-glazed windows.

  1. All plastic double-glazed windows are divided into one-, two-, three-, four-, five-chamber and more. Single-chamber and two-chamber are the least heat-saving, although the cheapest. Five-chamber and above are the warmest, but often their price covers all useful qualities. The most suitable three-chamber and four-chamber window systems in terms of price-quality ratio. They are great for the harsh Russian winters and do not hit hard on the wallet.
  2. Next, pay attention to the double-glazed window. The wider the gap between the panes, the higher the heat-saving function will be.
  3. The manufacturer matters a lot. Well-known companies, thanks to the latest technologies, make plastic safe for human health. When buying double-glazed windows from an unverified manufacturer, you run the risk of acquiring a chemical compound. When heated, cheap plastic releases chemical fumes that are dangerous to humans, which are carcinogens and can lead to cancer.
  4. Be sure to require a license for the window system. It is she who will be able to prove the quality and safety of the material.

By following these tips, and carefully reading manufacturer's documents, you can decide for yourself which plastic windows are the best.

Leading manufacturing companies: TOP-5

There are a number of companies of world importance that produce plastic double-glazed windows. After considering each of them, it will be easier to understand which plastic windows are better to choose.

At one of the factories

KBE is a German manufacturer of window systems. Although the company has been operating for about twenty years, it appeared on the Ukrainian and Russian markets quite recently, but has already managed to gain its popularity. KBE windows are among the most environmentally friendly. The company does not use lead in the manufacture of window systems, which makes their products 99% safe. It is important that the manufacturer makes window frames in different colors. That is why many consumers call KBE one of the best plastic window manufacturing companies. The only disadvantage of this brand is its rather high price.