What is the difference between plastic and double-glazed windows. What is the difference between plastic and plastic windows? What affects the width of the profile

Today, the problem of energy saving is very acute, and therefore the replacement or installation of new windows remains relevant, which will reduce the heat loss of your home, being more airtight compared to traditional wooden ones. At the same time, it is desirable that they have beauty, ease of use, practicality and quality. Today, many companies offer windows different designs, material of manufacture, purpose and price.

A good plastic window should protect from cold and noise, be not only beautiful, but also reliable. And, of course, the window should last a long time.

So what is different plastic windows between themselves and from other windows?

plastic device

The window consists of:

• frames;
• double-glazed windows;
• accessories;
• window sill;
• drainage.

Frame

In the conditions of the southern coastal climate with sufficiently strong seasonal winds, especially for multi-storey buildings, the use of windows with a profile less than 60 mm thick is not recommended.

The frame makes up 20-30% of the window area and is made of a plastic profile reinforced with metal. The profile can be three- and five-chamber with different configurations and mutual positions of the cameras. At the same time, its width is either 58 mm or 70 mm (for the northern regions of the continent it may be thicker). The chambers are formed inside the profile by partitions so that air rollers are placed along the perimeter of the frame, which help to achieve high sound and thermal insulation, and affect the strength and rigidity of the frames.

In addition, frame profiles differ in their wall thickness, material and reinforcement technology. The profile can be reinforced on all 4 sides of the window or only on 3 sides.

In inexpensive systems, to save plastic, the thickness of the walls of the chambers is sometimes reduced, which leads to a decrease in strength and frost resistance. The outer surface of the frames can be glossy or matte.

Double-glazed windows

Double-glazed windows are a construction with a thickness of 34 mm or 44 mm, consisting of several glass sheets connected along the edge, between which the space is filled with rarefied air or argon (which does not greatly affect their thermal conductivity). They are one-, two- and three-chamber with a chamber thickness of 6 to 16 mm and are differentiated depending on the severity of the climate. The quality and thickness of the glass in the package varies (from 4 to 7 mm), as well as their properties: ordinary glass, energy-saving K-glass or I-glass (with silver ions sputtered on their surface). For the best sound insulation and for different climatic zones, the thickness of the glass in the package is combined.

accessories

The picture shows: handles, blocker-lifter, micro-ventilation function, locking adjustable pins, built-in latch, clamping of the bottom hinge of the sash.

Fittings are locks, hinges, handles, that is, all those mechanical elements due to which windows have the ability to open and close and on which convenience of use mainly depends. They are resistant to wear, stress and safety. Windows in the direction of opening can be pivoting or tilting with the possibility of slotted ventilation or without it. And the systems allow you to install: mosquito nets, blinds, ventilation systems etc. Recently, in the manufacture of plastic windows, they began to install climate control, which smoothly regulates the flow of fresh air without dirt and dust. The hinges of cheap fittings do not have the ability to adjust them, which can lead to unregulated gaps, which will lead to additional loss of thermal energy.

window sills

Window sills are a cut of a special plastic profile with special plugs. The main requirement for them is their strength, which depends on the thickness of the walls and the number of internal partitions. Their appearance depends on the material of manufacture.

Aluminum

Windows whose frames are made of aluminum alloy (and not pure aluminum, as some might think) are windows with a wide range of uses. The aluminum profile is similar to the plastic one: it has internal chambers, places for mounting double-glazed windows and seals.

Differences from plastic

Thermal conductivity of frames

Aluminum windows have more high cost compared to others, but they have durability, high thermal conductivity, easy to clean and can have any complex shape.

The ability to transfer heat from aluminum is much greater than that of PVC, so frames made of aluminum must have more chambers and special insulating fillers. aluminum profiles are 'cold' and 'warm'. "Cold" - these are profiles with a small number of chambers (about two), designed for installation in places where there is no need for thermal insulation (indoors, balconies, technical buildings). There are a lot of "warm" cameras and they successfully compete with plastic ones. In addition, in aluminum profiles, in order to avoid the appearance of a thermal bridge, walls made of a special polyamide material are inserted along the contour - a thermal break is arranged.

Frame rigidity

Plastic is softer than aluminum, and to increase the rigidity and strength of frames from them, they are reinforced with metal, eliminating this difference.

Durability

It is clear that the metal retains a neat appearance longer. Aluminum window profiles remain attractive almost twice as long as plastic ones. In addition, if aluminum frames are damaged, the profile can be restored or replaced, which cannot be done with PVC frames. But scratches on metal are more clearly visible, and it is almost impossible to eliminate or mask them.

In the event of a fire, an aluminum window is resistant to high temperatures, while a plastic window is not.

It is possible to make windows of very large sizes only from aluminum. In addition, aluminum is absolutely fireproof.

Light transmission

Due to the greater strength of aluminum windows compared to plastic ones, they have thin frames, which increases the area of ​​​​the double-glazed window, so more light will enter the rooms.

Environmental friendliness

Plastic profiles contain oil-derived chlorine, which is converted into dioxins when used windows are burned, and aluminum alloys easily recycled.

Sound conductivity

Of course, plastic window systems are more resistant to sound penetration than aluminum ones.

Price

Plastic profiles are much cheaper than aluminum ones, which attracts the average buyer and is the key to their popularity.

Winter is not far off. It is getting colder outside, frosts follow one after another, snow will soon fall and it will be possible to say that winter period came into his own. And this, as you know, requires the owners of apartments and houses, a deliberate approach to the insulation of homes. One such solution is the installation of double-glazed windows. They are stronger, more reliable, more convenient to use than conventional wooden windows. But there is one nuance here: there are plastic windows and metal-plastic ones - what's the difference? Not every person can immediately answer this question.

Definition

Plastic windows- made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride. In their design, they look similar to ordinary wooden windows, but differ in a more complex design. They consist of several layers, separated from each other and hermetically installed in a special frame. Due to this, in comparison with ordinary windows, double-glazed windows have better sound and heat insulation. You can install them not only in city apartments, but almost everywhere where there is a need for this.

Metal-plastic windows- also have all the above advantages, which are described in conventional plastic structures. And even in appearance they are very similar. However, from the point of view design features there are certain differences. These products use an optional metal carcass, built into the profile, it is also the basis of the whole structure. From the outside, it's still the same plastic, so there are no differences in appearance. But in terms of strength and stability, metal-plastic windows are ahead of simple plastic. In professional language, they say that such structures are "reinforced with a galvanized profile."

Comparison

Ordinary plastic windows are mainly installed in houses, cottages, apartments. At the same time, metal-plastic structures are the strength and reliability required in more extreme conditions- on upper floors skyscrapers, as well as in harsh climatic conditions where strong winds prevail.

The durability of ordinary plastic is somewhat lower due to the fact that it does not have additional reinforcement, while metal-plastic is able to “survive” much longer.

Ordinary plastic windows are distinguished by their simple geometry, at the same time, metal-plastic windows can be given various shapes: lancet, arched, round, and so on.

The price of plastic windows is lower than metal-plastic ones. Although such savings may not always be justified.

Findings site

1. Plastic windows can be installed in ordinary houses or apartments, and metal-plastic products justify themselves more on the top floors of skyscrapers, where strong gusts of wind prevail.
2. Plastic windows are less durable, and metal-plastic, due to additional reinforcement, provides the necessary reliability.
3. The service life of plastic windows is 2-3 decades, and metal-plastic windows can live for more than 50 years.
4. Plastic windows most often go in the usual rectangular shape, and others can be given to metal-plastic ones.
5. The price of plastic windows is much lower than metal-plastic ones.

Modern window manufacturers offer customers a wide range of translucent structures with different characteristics, operating parameters and features of external design. Buyers are often lost in the variety of options, not knowing by what criteria to compare models, evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Windows from are the most popular today, but not all customers know that there are two categories of these structures, each of which has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

What is the difference between plastic and metal-plastic windows

Ordinary plastic windows are structures, the frame and sashes of which are made of PVC profile without the addition of additional reinforcing elements. This type of windows has average strength and durability, but is beneficial for the budget due to the ease of manufacture and the relatively low cost of the finished product.

Metal-plastic windows do not outwardly differ from simple PVC products, however, if you look at such a profile in a section, the presence of an important additional detail will open to your eyes - an internal metal liner -. The internal metal framework increases durability and reliability of a design. It is made of steel with anti-corrosion coating, placed inside the frame and sash chambers around the entire perimeter. The reinforcing frame can be closed - with a sectional shape in the form of a quadrangle or open - with a section resembling the shape of the letters G or P. The thickness of the steel plate, as a rule, is 1.2 -1.5 mm and depends on what load the structure must withstand . The main requirements for the quality of the material and the method of installing the frame are set out in GOST 30674-99, which is valid throughout the Russian Federation.

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal-plastic windows

plastic windows

The advantages of plastic windows include their low cost (compared to reinforced counterparts) and low weight. These window systems are available to most consumers and perform their functions well for a certain period of time. The light weight of non-reinforced profile windows allows them to be installed on balconies, producing minimal reinforcement of the parapet.

However, as mentioned above, plastic windows without a reinforcing metal frame are less durable. Most manufacturing plants guarantee 20-30 years of serviceability of such structures when used under normal conditions. A heavy load is constantly placed on the profile: in addition to its own weight, it holds a heavy double-glazed window that can weigh up to 80 kg.

It is worth noting that even the highest quality plastic can be deformed by sharp temperature fluctuations and prolonged exposure to it. sun rays. For this reason, the service life of plastic windows in regions with an unstable or hot climate will be shorter.

Metal-plastic windows

Reinforcement gives PVC windows additional strength, prolonging their life and increasing their ability to withstand diverse loads. Metal-plastic windows are not afraid strong wind, tested by temperature changes, their doors rarely sag under the weight of a double-glazed window and work even in an ultra-intensive mode. Average service life plastic windows- 40-50 years. The metal reinforcement of the profile allows manufacturers to create structures of various shapes and not worry about their possible deformation.

There are metal-plastic windows and individual shortcomings things to consider when buying:

1. The appearance of "cold bridges". Metal elements, compared to plastic, have a higher thermal conductivity and reduce the thermal insulation characteristics of the entire structure. To minimize the influence of this factor, manufacturers have come up with the following: they reduce the contact area of ​​​​the frame with plastic by installing vertical ribs inside that hold the metal in the desired position.


2. High price. Any windows made of reinforced profile (naturally, we are talking about high-quality products) are more expensive than similar models made of ordinary plastic. Galvanized steel is a rather expensive material, and therefore the price of structures increases in proportion to the amount of metal used.

When choosing windows with reinforcement, it must be taken into account that, along with an increase in the strength of the window system, the internal metal frame significantly increases its mass. Accordingly, metal-plastic windows are noticeably heavier than conventional plastic counterparts. Due to their severity, such windows are unlikely to be suitable for installation in buildings with dilapidated walls, and the front parapet must be reinforced.

Applications

Having studied the main characteristics, as well as weak and strengths plastic and metal-plastic windows, you can start choosing the most suitable option for your premises. Each case is different, but there are a number of general recommendations experts to listen to:

• For rooms on the upper floors of "skyscrapers", as well as for installation in houses located in open space (with the maximum likelihood of regular exposure to strong winds), it is worth choosing metal-plastic windows.
• Apartments in standard high-rise buildings in large cities located in middle lane Russia (and other regions with a temperate climate) can be equipped with simple plastic windows.
• Ordinary plastic windows are a worthy option for buyers with a limited budget.
• For installation in buildings with large window openings or it is recommended to use only metal-plastic windows.
• Windows designed according to individual projects, designs of non-standard shape, original models for designer interiors are made mainly of PVC profile with reinforcement.
• Glazing of structures that cannot withstand a significant load, for example, balconies with a fragile fence, should be performed with plastic profile products without a steel liner - they have less weight and minimize the likelihood of damage or destruction.

Today, the problem of energy saving is very acute, and therefore the replacement or installation of new windows remains relevant, which will reduce the heat loss of your home, being more airtight compared to traditional wooden ones. At the same time, it is desirable that they have beauty, ease of use, practicality and quality. Today, many companies offer windows of different designs, materials of manufacture, purpose and prices.

A good plastic window should protect from cold and noise, be not only beautiful, but also reliable. And, of course, the window should last a long time.

So how do plastic windows differ from each other and from other windows?

Difference from each other

plastic device

The window consists of:

• frames;
• double-glazed windows;
• accessories;
• window sill;
• drainage.

Frame

In the conditions of the southern coastal climate with sufficiently strong seasonal winds, especially for multi-storey buildings, the use of windows with a profile less than 60 mm thick is not recommended.

The frame makes up 20-30% of the window area and is made of a plastic profile reinforced with metal. The profile can be three- and five-chamber with different configurations and mutual positions of the cameras. At the same time, its width is either 58 mm or 70 mm (for the northern regions of the continent it may be thicker). The chambers are formed inside the profile by partitions so that air rollers are placed along the perimeter of the frame, which help to achieve high sound and thermal insulation, and affect the strength and rigidity of the frames.

In addition, frame profiles differ in their wall thickness, material and reinforcement technology. The profile can be reinforced on all 4 sides of the window or only on 3 sides.

In inexpensive systems, to save plastic, the thickness of the walls of the chambers is sometimes reduced, which leads to a decrease in strength and frost resistance. The outer surface of the frames can be glossy or matte.

Related article: Wall stabilizer for home

Double-glazed windows

Double-glazed windows are a construction with a thickness of 34 mm or 44 mm, consisting of several glass sheets connected along the edge, between which the space is filled with rarefied air or argon (which does not greatly affect their thermal conductivity). They are one-, two- and three-chamber with a chamber thickness of 6 to 16 mm and are differentiated depending on the severity of the climate. The quality and thickness of the glass in the package varies (from 4 to 7 mm), as well as their properties: ordinary glass, energy-saving K-glass or I-glass (with silver ions sputtered on their surface). For the best sound insulation and for different climatic zones, the thickness of the glass in the package is combined.

accessories

The picture shows: handles, blocker-lifter, micro-ventilation function, locking adjustable pins, built-in latch, clamping of the bottom hinge of the sash.

Fittings are locks, hinges, handles, that is, all those mechanical elements due to which windows have the ability to open and close and on which convenience of use mainly depends. They are resistant to wear, stress and safety. Windows in the direction of opening can be pivoting or tilting with the possibility of slotted ventilation or without it. And the systems also allow you to install: mosquito nets, blinds, ventilation systems, etc. Recently, in the manufacture of plastic windows, climate control has been installed, which smoothly regulates the flow of fresh air without dirt and dust. The hinges of cheap fittings do not have the ability to adjust them, which can lead to unregulated gaps, which will lead to additional loss of thermal energy.

window sills

Window sills are a cut of a special plastic profile with special plugs. The main requirement for them is their strength, which depends on the thickness of the walls and the number of internal partitions. Their appearance depends on the material of manufacture.

Aluminum

Windows whose frames are made of aluminum alloy (and not pure aluminum, as some might think) are windows with a wide range of uses. The aluminum profile is similar to the plastic one: it has internal chambers, places for mounting double-glazed windows and seals.

Related article: Advantages of children's carpet, how to choose which one is better?

Differences from plastic

Thermal conductivity of frames

Aluminum windows are more expensive than others, but they are durable, have high thermal conductivity, are easy to clean and can be of any complex shape.

The ability to transfer heat from aluminum is much greater than that of PVC, so frames made of aluminum must have more chambers and special insulating fillers. Aluminum profiles are "cold" and "warm". "Cold" - these are profiles with a small number of chambers (about two), designed for installation in places where there is no need for thermal insulation (indoors, balconies, technical buildings). There are a lot of "warm" cameras and they successfully compete with plastic ones. In addition, in aluminum profiles, in order to avoid the appearance of a thermal bridge, walls made of a special polyamide material are inserted along the contour - a thermal break is arranged.

Frame rigidity

Plastic is softer than aluminum, and to increase the rigidity and strength of frames from them, they are reinforced with metal, eliminating this difference.

Durability

It is clear that the metal retains a neat appearance longer. Aluminum window profiles remain attractive almost twice as long as plastic ones. In addition, if aluminum frames are damaged, the profile can be restored or replaced, which cannot be done with PVC frames. But scratches on metal are more clearly visible, and it is almost impossible to eliminate or mask them.

In the event of a fire, an aluminum window is resistant to high temperatures, while a plastic window is not.

It is possible to make windows of very large sizes only from aluminum. In addition, aluminum is absolutely fireproof.

Light transmission

Due to the greater strength of aluminum windows compared to plastic ones, they have thin frames, which increases the area of ​​​​the double-glazed window, so more light will enter the rooms.

Environmental friendliness

Plastic profiles contain oil-derived chlorine, which turns into dioxins when used windows are burned, and aluminum alloys are easily recycled.