Plastic windows what is the profile difference. The difference between plastic and metal-plastic windows. PVC profile and negative temperatures

All large quantity people chooses more modern designs as a replacement for their outdated wooden windows.

In most cases, consumers give preference to plastic or, as they are also called, metal-plastic windows. But wait, is it the same thing? Let's figure it out.

The easiest way is to combine both of these concepts into a common one and give it a definition (however, this has already been done before) double-glazed windows. But it will not be too complete, since when clarifying, you still need to indicate their type - plastic or metal-plastic. In fact, both of them have much in common but, at the same time, differ in certain parameters.

Plastic windows- the basis for their production is polyvinyl chloride, abbreviated as PVC. Such structures consist of several layers, which are hermetically located in the frame. It is this feature of their design that provides higher heat and sound insulation. Such double-glazed windows are universal in terms of use in interior design in the very different style, they harmoniously fit into it and provide an optimal level of comfort.

Metal-plastic windows- they are characterized by all the above advantages of plastic specimens, however, they have certain structural differences. Compared to conventional plastic double-glazed windows, these windows additionally have a metal frame, which is the basis of the entire structure. It provides them with higher strength and stability, therefore, outwardly looking almost identical to plastic windows, metal-plastic double-glazed windows are more reliable in terms of operation.

Scope and Key Differences

We would like to note that due to additional reinforcement, metal-plastic windows in Kiev, as well as other cities, have greater strength and reliability, so it makes sense to give them preference if they are used in more severe climatic conditions. Due to the structure reinforced with a metal frame, they are able to more effectively withstand strong gusts of wind, therefore, for example, on the upper floors of houses, it is advisable to make a choice in their favor. At the same time, plastic windows have found their application almost everywhere, they are installed in private houses, cottages, apartments. Here are some of the main differences between metal-plastic and plastic windows:

• plastic structures are less durable than their "metal" counterparts;
• the service life of windows with a reinforced structure can reach 50 years, while ordinary PVC copies can last 20-30 years;
• in financial terms, plastic windows will become a more acceptable option, the price of which is significantly lower than for metal-plastic models.

But in any case, the scope of use of both types of double-glazed windows is largely similar and, first of all, it depends on the preferences of the buyer himself, what to give preference to.

Every day the construction services market is filled with various innovative developments. Starting with professional tools and ending with structures and fittings. For example, a couple of decades ago, each of us had standard wooden windows installed, then the era plastic windows, and now it is all considered relics of the past. Currently, frameless glazing technology is enjoying great success, replacing the classic technology of mounting frames and vertical pillars. Plastic windows have been replaced by metal-plastic ones, which are characterized by increased wear resistance and reliability.

At first glance, not everyone can distinguish metal-plastic windows from plastic ones, outwardly they are identical, since plastic is used on the outside in both. But they are significantly modified design features. Reinforcement is used in the production process of metal-plastic windows metal frame for PVC profile. As a result, even under scorching sunbeams the frame and fittings are not deformed.

If you analyze and compare metal-plastic windows with plastic ones, you can identify common functional properties - this is excellent sound and noise insulation, as well as burglar resistance. But, there is an undeniable advantage of metal plastic profile If you wish to glaze a balcony with windows in the form of an arch or some other shape, then plastic windows will not suit you, since they are produced only in a simple rectangular shape.

It is important to consider that a metal-plastic profile is much more expensive than a plastic one, but quality is never cheap. Among the leaders in the field of window production, one can single out the European companies Rehau and Veka, they have been operating in the construction market for several years and have positive feedback among potential consumers.

The first thing to start with is to pay special attention to the choice of thickness and material of the reinforced frame. After all, it depends on the level of exposure to corrosion. The most acceptable thickness is from 1.5 mm, the material is galvanized steel. Also on the construction services market there is a cheaper version of the frame, which is made of black metal. It has an undeniable minus - it can quickly begin to rust, caused marks in the area of ​​​​the drainage holes.

The choice of a metal-plastic window is no different from an ordinary plastic one, here everyone chooses what he wants, the number of cameras, double-glazed windows, fittings, profile thickness, etc. But it is important to consider that the classic plastic profile is mainly chosen for installation in apartments, cottages, country houses. Metal-plastic windows are installed mainly in rooms where high dynamic loads, sudden changes in climate, heavy winds, etc. are common.

Of course, not all manufacturing companies seek to reduce the cost of the profile due to low-quality fittings and a decrease in the thickness of the profile, but there are some. In this connection, take into account the market value when ordering the installation of metal-plastic windows, because a decrease in wall thickness leads to a decrease in strength and durability. Also choose a profile with a closed metal reinforcement, it perfectly withstands sudden changes in dynamic loads.

Window selection video

Do not forget that even the best and most expensive windows can be damaged by unprofessional installation. Choose only proven window installation companies, because their durability directly depends on the craftsmen.

It would seem, what is easier - to buy a plastic window? Now in every yard you can find a window company. But when you start dealing with this issue, you are faced with such a variety of profile systems and a run-up in prices that your head is spinning. What is the difference in window characteristics between different manufacturers? Why, at first glance, the same window has a different cost in different companies? Should I be tempted by cheapness? What hides behind low price PVC windows?

In this article, we will try to figure out what makes the window cheaper and what manufacturers of cheap plastic structures are silent about? It is better to know the answers to these questions in advance in order to really profitably buy a plastic window.

So, what is the difference between cheap plastic windows and expensive ones?

Profile

The first thing we start with the choice of plastic windows is the profile. Recently, a lot of very inexpensive profile systems have appeared, which initially appearance do not differ from well-known brands such as KBE , VEKA , REHAU . Consider how savings are achieved in the production of a cheap profile.

First of all, this is the use of recycled materials, that is, recycled, non-virgin PVC, which leads to a change in color and even to the appearance of an unpleasant odor.

The second way to save money is to replace expensive modifiers and stabilizers responsible for the strength, durability and environmental friendliness of plastic, its color and resistance to atmospheric influences (ultraviolet, precipitation, temperature changes) with inferior analogues of these components. It can be lead, the use of which is prohibited in the EU countries, or chalk, which initially gives a white (unfortunately short-lived) profile, but at the same time increases the fragility of the plastic.

And the third aspect of reducing the price of a profile is a decrease in the thickness of the front walls. On this basis, a profile class is assigned (GOST 30673-99): class A 3mm, class B 2.5mm. This characteristic directly affects the strength of PVC and the quality of its installation.

Reinforcement

German PVC window production technologies involve the use of reinforcing inserts made of galvanized steel with a thickness of at least 1.5 mm to stiffen the profile. Some short-sighted window assemblers are able to replace the metal with thinner (up to 0.6mm) or non-galvanized metal. This leads not only to the desired price reduction, but also to a deterioration in the strength and performance of the plastic window as a whole.

double glazing

Even the most ordinary double-glazed window can be made cheaper by manufacturing it in violation of standards. Some owners of PVC windows have already encountered the sore problem of tightness and fogging of glass from inside the double-glazed window. This is a clear savings in the quantity and quality of the molecular sieve (adsorbent inside the aluminum frame between the glasses). Another problem is associated with a low grade of glass (the highest grade, M1 brand) with visible defects: debris, bubbles, specks.

Seals

The sealing contour in a plastic window plays an important role - it is responsible for the density of pressing the glass unit to the frame and sash profiles, as well as the density of the sash rebate to the frame, thereby ensuring the tightness of plastic windows. To save money, manufacturers of PVC windows often use low-quality sealing contours. With the onset of cold weather, this becomes a problem. A high-quality sealing contour must be evenly distributed in the profile groove intended for this purpose and be elastic, especially in the cold season. In large industries, this is carefully monitored by placing the sealant in special chambers to test elasticity.

accessories

Approximately 60% of the cost of the window is fittings. She is responsible for tight clamping and blowing the sash. High-quality fittings make it possible to easily adjust with an ordinary hexagon, have the first class of anti-burglary in the basic configuration, micro-slot ventilation and a tilt blocker are required, which excludes the sash from hanging on one hinge. Forget about it if you are buying an inexpensive window with fittings of an unknown brand, and get ready to seal the windows for the winter "the old fashioned way" now with plastic windows.

Equipment

Factory quality is valued for a reason. The presence of expensive equipment (as a rule, these are imported machines), the so-called "test room", the technical control department of the QCD allows you to control and guarantee high quality plastic windows. Such windows can be immediately distinguished from self-made ones by special identification marks and a production barcode.

Work force

Skilled labor should be well paid. Otherwise, the end customer has a non-viable product with numerous errors during production. The Internet is replete with such moments: poor-quality soldering of welds and their cleaning, incorrect milling of functional holes, incorrect mechanical connections, handicraft installation of seals and locking devices.

Installation

Now plastic windows have become commonplace, and all and sundry undertake the installation of PVC windows. Therefore, as a result, we observe inverted products with a tilt from below, “littered” towards the street and just crooked windows. All this is a consequence of savings when buying plastic window blocks.

Mandatory certification

Some window companies proudly inform the customer that they have their own production near the city. In such cases, do not hesitate to ask for certificates of their products for compliance with the state standard. Remember that on the territory of the Russian Federation, the requirements of GOST 30674-99 “WINDOW BLOCKS FROM POLYVINYL CHLORIDE PROFILES” are mandatory.

Let's summarize!

An attractively low price is not always the result of a fair discount. changing wooden window on plastic, you must get rid of cracks and blows, low sound insulation, crooked sagging sashes, the need to seal windows for the winter and repair them in the spring. Due to the savings, you run the risk of maintaining old problems by spending money.

The main mistake when buying plastic windows, which is made by more than half of all buyers, is to make a choice based only on the low price of the structure. Indeed, at first glance it may seem that the products of different manufacturers are no different from each other. But this statement is erroneous and can lead to the purchase of a low-quality window.

In our article we will try to figure out what is the difference between plastic windows.

Profile

PVC window element, the choice of which is given the most attention. - this is the basis of the entire structure, thanks to which the geometric stability and wind resistance of the entire window are ensured. What is the difference between PVC profiles from different manufacturers.

1. Mounting width. The mounting width of profile systems varies from 58 mm to 82 mm. This indicator mainly affects the energy-saving properties of the window. The thicker the profile, the wider the double-glazed window can be installed in it, thereby increasing the heat-saving performance of the structure.
2. profile wall thickness. This indicator also plays an important role in the heat saving of a plastic window. Depending on the wall thickness, profiles are divided into three classes:

• A class. Profile with thickness outer wall not less than 2.8 mm. A window from such a profile is installed in apartments, houses and offices.
• B class. The thickness of the outer wall is 2.5-2.8 mm. Designed for warm climates.
• C class. The thickness of the outer wall is less than 2.5 mm. Windows from such a profile are used only in non-residential premises, which are not subject to strict requirements for heat saving.

double glazing

The largest element of a plastic window. occupies 80% of the entire window structure, which is why it is through it that the largest heat losses can occur. The main differences between double-glazed windows, which affect both their characteristics and their cost:

1. number of cameras. There are one-, two- and three-chamber double-glazed windows. For the climate of Belarus, the installation of a double-glazed window will be sufficient. It provides comfortable conditions for human life. The single-chamber double-glazed window will good option for installation in non-residential premises where thermal insulation is not the main requirement. Buying PVC windows with triple glazing is justified only in harsh cold climates.
2. Filling chambers. To fill the chambers in a double-glazed window, it uses dried air or inert gases (argon, krypton, xenon). The presence of gas between the panes makes the PVC window warmer and quieter.
3. Glass thickness. Double-glazed windows can also differ in the thickness of the glasses used in them. The most commonly used float glass is 4 mm thick. Glass of various thicknesses can be installed to provide increased sound insulation or burglary safety.
4. Remote frame. Double-glazed windows differ depending on the spacer used. Highlights plastic and aluminum frames. Plastic spacers have less thermal conductivity than aluminum, so a window with such a frame will be warmer.
5. Glass pane width. The width of the double-glazed window directly affects the heat in the house. The thicker it is, the warmer your window is. The thickness of a single-chamber double-glazed window can be from 16 mm to 32 mm, double-chamber - from 24 mm to 44 mm.
6. Additional glass features. To improve the basic functions of an insulating glass unit, glasses with additional characteristics can be used in their production: glass with tinted, shockproof and laminated films, etc.

accessories

A part of a window that makes it easier to use. Thanks to her, we control the opening and closing of the doors. The durability of the entire window as a whole depends on the quality and reliability of the fittings. Unscrupulous manufacturers most often resort to savings on this element, from which the life of the window can be halved. Therefore, when buying a plastic window, it is worth stopping at the fittings well-known manufacturers, such as Roto.

1. Break Type:

• Swivel.
• Swing-out.
• Folding (fanlight).
• Sliding.
• Deaf.

• The micro-ventilation mode, which becomes simply indispensable for airing the room in winter time of the year.
• Additional anti-burglary elements that will protect your home from burglary.
• Comb and sash opening limiter. These elements allow you to limit the opening angle of the sash: the comb limits the angle when the sash is tilted, the limiter - in the rotary mode.

Additional elements of plastic windows

1. Ventilation valves.
2. Mosquito net.
3. Electric drives, etc.

As you can see, plastic windows from different manufacturers have many differences that affect not only their final cost, but also their quality and durability. In order not to be disappointed in the purchase, approach the choice of your plastic windows with all care and responsibility. Window Factory managers will be happy to answer all your questions and help you make the right decision.

The desire to save money often pushes buyers to choose cheap windows, which at first glance do not differ from expensive ones. This is not surprising: there is a great temptation to buy the same thing, but at a lower price. As the saying goes, if you can't see the difference, why pay more? But is there really no difference? Unfortunately, unscrupulous manufacturers often reduce the price due to the quality of their products. And then today's savings can turn into double spending on repairing or replacing windows.

What saving methods are used by unscrupulous manufacturers and how does this affect the quality of the product? Consider in the article.

• Profile. The manufacturer can save a lot by reducing the cost of the plastic profile. This is achieved in three ways. First, cheaper components and recycled materials are added to the plastic. This can lead to a discoloration of the profile and a bad smell. Secondly, manufacturers can save on modifiers and stabilizers, which provide durability, strength and resistance to adverse conditions. One can imagine how a profile with inferior analogues of these components will behave. Some manufacturers save money by reducing the wall thickness of the profile, which also reduces the strength and durability of the product.
• Reinforcement. PVC does not have high rigidity, therefore, in the manufacture of windows, reinforcing inserts made of galvanized steel are used. Unscrupulous manufacturers reduce the thickness of the liner, use a poor-quality coating, or completely change the galvanized metal to “black”, which is not able to resist corrosion. All this adversely affects the strength and durability of the structure.
• double glazing. The use of cheap low-grade glass can significantly reduce. However, along with savings, the buyer gets problems such as foggy, cloudy glasses with air bubbles.
• Seals. In order to save money, manufacturers choose seals from low-quality material. This can affect the functionality of the window immediately or after a couple of years - the service life and performance of the structure are reduced, and its appearance may change over time.
• accessories. Cheap components will quickly fail, as a result, the window will not open and close well or even lose this ability, drafts and dampness will appear in the house.
• Equipment. Purchase and modification quality equipment require serious investment. But not all manufacturers are ready for this. Some arrange handicraft production in their garage. where windows are made with the help of improvised means. It is easy to imagine the quality of the resulting product.
• Work force. Qualified specialists are also expensive. The result of savings in this area is various errors in production: poor-quality welding of corner joints, incorrect installation of fittings and seals, etc.
• Installation. Do not assume that you can install windows yourself or with the help of friends. The service life largely depends on the quality of the installation of the plastic window, it is not worth saving on it. Otherwise, drafts may appear, the windows will start to fog up, the sashes will not close well, and the fittings may fail.
• Mandatory certification. The lack of certificates for the manufacturer's products should immediately alert. This means that the products have not been tested, and their quality has not been confirmed by anything.

Thus, the main criterion for choosing a window should not be the price, but the quality, confirmed by certificates and a manufacturer's warranty.