Replacing windows is not an easy and responsible business, because they not only close the opening, but also perform many other functions. The level of heat in the house and the degree of sound insulation depend on the quality of the structure, which is of great importance under modern living conditions. And there are so many offers on the market that you can be confused by the huge variety. How to choose? How to save money? Which manufacturer to entrust your comfort and coziness?
The classic arrangement of all windows is almost identical - the box and binders, which include sashes, a window leaf and a transom. But each type of profile has its own specific characteristics, which depend on the material of the frame, the type and structural elements, as well as the purpose. Further, we understand the problem in detail.
Content
Types of window profiles
There are several types of windows to fill the openings of residential premises.
Wooden - are made from natural raw materials, and therefore are considered the most environmentally friendly. Modern models are equipped with ergonomic fittings that make operation convenient and practical. The frame is made in such a way as not to let noise and extraneous sounds into the room. The main material is cedar pine, larch, Canadian hemlock, teak. Keeping warm and preventing cold penetration, wooden modules provide air circulation.
Wood-Aluminum - The main feature is the aluminum overlay over the wood frame. Wood provides aesthetic beauty as well as thermal and sound insulation. Aluminum protection increases product life by preventing damage from external factors.
Plastic - for their production, a colorless plastic known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is used, which has high noise insulation performance and protects from the effects of cold. There are cavities inside the plastic devices that are necessary to reduce noise and thermal resistance. They are considered versatile and practical due to their strength, durability and light weight.
Reinforced plastic - at the heart of the frame is made of reinforced steel in combination with PVC. The models are popular for their numerous design variations, durability and heat retention function. Installations made of quality materials do not need painting and are not flammable.
Types of window structures
According to the glazing method, there are structures with inserted cast glass and modules using double-glazed windows.
Glasses are possible different - ordinary, translucent, energy-saving, shatterproof, sun-protection, impact-resistant.
Double-glazed windows consist of several glasses, the spaces between them are called chambers. The most common are single-chamber and double-chamber sets. There are also more rare three- and four-chamber kits. The more cavities in the glass unit, the higher the resistance to noise and heat transfer.
By the number of leaves, profiles are single-leaf, double-leaf, three-leaf, balcony-type block and structures for glazing loggias.
By plowing method:
- deaf - without valves;
- flap - the sash folds inward in the horizontal direction;
- rotary - with the help of handles and hinges, the sash opens into the room along the vertical plane;
- suspended - similar to folding, but the hinges are located on the upper part of the frame, and a thrust mechanism is used for fixing;
- swing-out - the sashes swing open completely inward and recline for ventilation mode;
- sliding and lifting - the sash moves to the left or right in a given direction, or rises up and is fixed with spacers.
According to the method of constructing the bindings, they are distinguished:
- single - with one row of glazing, suitable for a summer terrace or veranda;
- paired - consist of two frames tightly connected to each other by screw fasteners in one hard cover. Used to decorate blind windows;
- separate - two frames with hinged and variable sashes, transoms, vents relative to each other. The inner part is removed if necessary;
- separately-paired - a combination with glazing in three to four rows, in which the outer sashes are single, and paired ones are installed on the inside.
The shape of the product is rectangular, round, triangular, arched, trapezoidal and curved.
The main elements of the window block
- Frame is a supporting frame that is fixedly installed in the opening and is attached to the wall from all sides. The main function is to hold the structure, preventing deformation;
- Sash is a functional component of a module, consisting of movable and fixed components. They are hinged to the frame and can be opened in different ways. The task is to provide air exchange and ventilation;
- Impost - a vertical or horizontal crossbar that stabilizes the device and divides the frame into several sections;
- Shtulps - mechanisms that are located on the sash and compensate for the absence of impost;
- Slopes - panel elements adjacent to the walls on three sides along the perimeter of the frame;
- Fittings - mobile and stationary parts that ensure the opening and closing of the sashes, as well as the external aesthetic appearance;
- Double-glazed windows are sets of glasses fastened along a contour. In standard double-glazed windows, the glass is joined into a single structure with butyl sealant and a frame. The chambers between the sheets are filled with dried air or inert gas to increase the thermal insulation properties;
- Glazing beads and seals - fastenings that hold the glass unit in the frame or sash, contributing to its snug fit;
- The window sill is an internal element of the module, located horizontally flush with the bottom of the frame. Available in wood, granite, marble, artificial stone and PVC;
- Drainage is an external window sill that gives the structure a finished look, protects the facade from precipitation and prevents moisture from penetrating into the joints between the frame and the wall.
How to choose a window profile for a house and an apartment?
The criteria to be guided by when choosing a suitable model depend not only on the frame material, but also on the characteristics of the glass unit, opening methods, installation complexity and the type of building.
For typical openings in apartments, it is best to choose wooden products from pine species. The choice of double-glazed windows depends on the region of residence, for the middle lane, two-chamber are suitable, in the northern regions it is better to install three-chamber sets. A more economical option would be a wood-aluminum module with one swing-out leaf.
For small and unheated rooms in an apartment (loggias), three-chamber PVC modules with lifting, folding or sliding doors and a two-layer glass unit are suitable.
When choosing a profile for a house, one should take into account the structure and thickness of the walls. For a panel or frame house, a lightweight plastic version is required, but walls made of timber and logs will withstand any structure after the foundation has settled - metal-plastic, wood and wood-aluminum.
Low rectangular and dormer windows for summer cottages (including those located in the plane of the roof) are best made suspended with a raised pivot axis made of moisture-resistant material.
In conditions of limited space, when furniture or large household appliances are close to the openings, it is worth opting for models with tilt-and-turn doors. In this case, the material must be plastic for the installation of complex fittings.
For windows exposed to strong wind loads, as well as for non-standard openings, it is worth choosing metal-plastic blocks.
For glazing rooms in multi-storey buildings of an old building, you should choose light PVC systems that do not load the facade.
Advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal-plastic profiles
Advantages of plastic products:
- They have a high degree of tightness, which contributes to the retention of heat and sound insulation;
- PVC is resistant to direct sunlight, low temperatures, atmospheric precipitation;
- Polyvinyl chloride is self-extinguishing and fire safe;
- Plastic allows you to make a model of any color and shape, and with the help of laminated films, you can create an imitation of stone or wood;
- Does not need additional protective treatment and the use of special detergents;
- Easy to operate and maintain;
- They are lightweight and carry minimal stress on the building facade;
- They do not emit toxic substances and are safe for human health.
Disadvantages:
- They have low throughput rates, and therefore need additional organization of air exchange to maintain optimal temperature and humidity conditions;
- The plastic surface is easy to scratch or otherwise damage;
- Due to its high electrostatic properties, dust accumulates quickly on PVC.
Advantages of metal-plastic profiles:
- Fireproof;
- Suitable for glazing rooms on the upper floors of high-rise buildings;
- Durable and designed for a long service life;
- The reinforcing frame allows you to implement various design ideas and curly shapes;
- Resistant to precipitation and temperature changes;
- Keep warm well;
- No special care needed.
Disadvantages:
- Susceptible to rapid dust pollution;
- They create a greenhouse effect indoors due to low throughput.
Advantages and disadvantages of wood and wood-aluminum frames
Advantages of wooden frames:
- Natural materials ensure environmental friendliness and safety;
- Wooden frames are more aesthetically pleasing than plastic ones;
- Provide air circulation;
- Suitable for repair, durable and strong.
Disadvantages:
- The high price of wood products;
- The frame is not made of solid wood, but of glued laminated timber;
- Wooden frames must be regularly treated with special impregnating compounds to protect against insects and environmental influences;
- Subject to fire even when treated with refractory agents.
Advantages of wood-aluminum windows:
- An aluminum lining on the outside protects the tree from damage and negative weather factors;
- Increased strength, due to which the structure is able to withstand even massive glass units;
- Models in which one of the frames is all-aluminum weigh less than all-wood models;
- Aluminum has a long service life;
- High soundproofing and heat-saving performance in comparison with wood and plastic products;
- Wood and aluminum make up an aesthetically pleasing blend;
- Neither aluminum nor wood emit harmful substances.
Disadvantages:
- High cost compared to frames made of other materials;
- The need to treat the aluminum surface with an anti-corrosion agent, and the wooden one - to restore;
- Aluminum makes air exchange difficult.
Main technical characteristics
| room | Specifications | Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Material | PVC and metal-plastic profiles must be made of a homogeneous and smooth material, without streaks, damage and roughness. Wooden frames should be free from knots, gaps, cracks and resin pockets. |
| 2 | Profile thickness and width (for PVC and metal-plastic windows) | For houses and apartments, the thickness of the outer walls must be from 2.8 mm, and the inner walls must be from 2.5 mm. The width of single-chamber devices is from 12 to 36 mm, two-chamber devices are from 24 to 58 mm, three-chamber devices are from 40 to 64 mm and four-chamber devices are from 70 to 80 mm. |
| 3 | Number of thermal insulation chambers (for PVC and metal-plastic windows) | Plastic modules must have at least three cavities. |
| 4 | Glass unit | For unheated rooms, single double-glazed windows are suitable, for warm and medium climates - two-chamber, for cold weather conditions and rooms whose windows overlook a busy highway, you can choose sets with three cameras. |
| 5 | Sealant | Plastic frames require two sealing beads. The rings should be solid, preferably natural rubber. The wooden frame seal can be in the form of an adhesive elastic tape or mounted directly into the groove. |
| 6 | Fittings | Auxiliary components must have a certificate of conformity. Roto is considered one of the best manufacturers. |
| 7 | Manufacturer | Companies such as Veka, Rehau and KBE are well received. According to buyers, Salamander, Proplex, Montblanc also deserve trust. |
| 8 | Lifetime | PVC windows will last from 20 to 30 years; the functionality of metal-plastic is designed for 50 years or more. Wooden models, depending on care, will last 25-40 years, wood-aluminum ones - up to 50 years. Double-glazed windows are designed for 10-20 years, fittings - for 15-20 years. |
| 9 | The form | Popular PVC models are traditionally rectangular. For the implementation of original design drawings, you should choose reinforced or wooden frames. |
| 10 | The cost | The average price of a plastic single-leaf structure is 2,000 rubles, a metal-plastic one is 3,000 rubles. The wooden module will cost 6,000 rubles. |
What to look for when buying?
When deciding which profile is better to buy, you should be aware of additional options that increase the functionality of the structures. These include:
- ventilation system - allows you to fix the sash in a slightly open state;
- the vent valve is a small device that fits into a frame. Provides air exchange even with tightly closed doors, without affecting sound insulation. It is regulated both automatically and manually. Most often installed on PVC modules;
- automatic system of opening and closing flaps with a remote control function - allows for manipulations without touching the structure. Convenient for structures installed in hard-to-reach places;
- energy saving function - keeps warm in winter and freshness in summer with the help of a special transparent film, which covers the glass;
- comb - allows you to reliably fix the sash in a given position, preventing it from slamming even under the influence of strong wind;
- system of hidden hinges - gives the structure a more elegant look, and also increases the tightness of the structure;
- anti-vandal and anti-burglar fittings - depending on the model, protects against physical impact, prevents burglary;
- laminated film coating - strengthens the glass. The degree of protection depends on the thickness of the film - the thickest is capable of withstanding an impact up to 70 kg;
- blocker - prevents the door from opening with a standard turn of the handle. It is presented in various variations - from a button to a special groove closed with a plug;
- the insect screen keeps the sash open in summer.
Selection errors
Air chambers in double-glazed windows are usually filled with argon, the cheapest inert gas. Krypton is more expensive but has better performance. The most expensive is xenon, which is rarely used. Argon-filled sets retain heat several times better than air-filled ones. But it is necessary to replenish the volume of inert gas every ten years, since it is impossible to completely prevent leakage. Sometimes the manufacturer claims the air cushion is inert gas. When buying, it is necessary to check the concentration of gas and clarify the rate of its loss - these data must be indicated in the technical description of the product.
It is also a mistake to believe that the more cameras in a glass unit, the better. Even single-glazed windows from good manufacturers have high energy-saving properties. Three-chamber double-glazed windows are relevant only in a harsh climate with low temperatures.
The properties of the entire window block depend on the type of glass. Products that have special characteristics due to a special coating or special production technology are not a trick of sellers, contrary to popular belief. Low-emission (energy-saving) glass reflects the sun's rays in summer, does not allow the cold to penetrate in winter and maintain a stable indoor temperature all year round. Tinted ones are recommended for rooms with south-facing windows. Hardened ones have increased strength, sound insulation and do not fly into fragments in case of damage. When buying, you should pay attention to the correct installation of the glass - with a special coating outside, and not inside the glass unit. You should also clarify whether the edge of the glass has been processed, since if the spraying is not removed from it, the coating will begin to peel off along with the frame and the glass unit will lose its tightness.
Installation and operating tips
When choosing between plastic and wooden modules, it should be borne in mind that with the same technical characteristics, polyvinyl chloride is much cheaper than wood, does not require additional processing and special maintenance.
Installation also plays an important role. When installing a plastic profile, it is necessary to use heat and waterproofing tapes. Maintenance of PVC is minimal and is reduced to the simplest operations - wash the frame, clean the glass, grease the hinges and locks with any technical oil (once every six months). Worn fittings must be replaced.
Wood, in turn, will perfectly fit into any interior design. The material "breathes", creating an optimal microclimate and even with closed doors there is no complete sealing of the room, as is the case with plastic. The air will not stagnate and condensation will not form. But for a long and successful operation of wooden windows, they should be monitored. The procedure, which must be repeated every five years, includes:
- treatment with impregnation to protect against fungi and mold;
- applying a primer to prepare for painting;
- finishing with paint in two layers with intermediate drying.
The best and safest formulations are made on a water basis - they do not emit harmful substances, do not interfere with the penetration of air and increase resistance to ultraviolet rays.
Wooden frames are repairable. With the help of a putty, you can mask minor damage, and varnish coatings will protect you from new defects.
Rating of quality manufacturers of window profiles for homes and apartments for 2020
SALAMANDER
Manufacturer: Germany
Material: plastic
Systems: Salamander 2D (60 mm, 3 chambers), Salamander Streamline (76/5), Salamander bluEvolution (92/6)
The price for a two-section window with the size of 1500x1500 is 16,000 rubles.
A German corporation that produces products of the middle price and luxury categories. All products are manufactured in European factories. The warranty period is 5 years.
Advantages:
- interesting design of models;
- suitable for harsh climates;
- 3 gasket contours;
- reinforced reinforcement;
- built-in water drain;
- high impact resistance.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Novotex
Manufacturer: Russia
Material: PVC and reinforced plastic
Optional systems: Novotex Termo (70 mm, 5 chambers), NOVOTEX Tehno (58/3)
The price for a standard double-leaf window (1450x1400) is 8500 rubles.
Products are adapted to Russian climatic conditions, functional and environmentally friendly. According to their characteristics, they meet all the basic requirements for sound insulation and heat conservation. Operation warranty from 5 years. Service life - up to 40 years. The production is carried out on German and Italian equipment.
Advantages:
- affordable cost;
- snow-white coating;
- with handle and energy-saving glass unit (24 mm) included;
- reduced width of frames, due to which there is more light in the room;
- classic design.
Disadvantages:
- U-shaped, not closed reinforcement.
Montblanc
Manufacturer: Russia
Material: plastic and metal-plastic
System lines: Termo (60 mm, 5 chambers), Quadro (70/4), Nord (70/5), Grand (80/6), Eco (60/3)
The price for a two-section window with a transom (1370x2000) is 7000 rubles.
Products are manufactured at the company's own factories, where there is a scientific laboratory engaged in the development of new technologies and product quality control. Profiles and accessories for them are made from European raw materials, and are also tested and tested. Service life - up to 60 years.
Advantages:
- democratic prices;
- large selection of models;
- rounded edges;
- increased energy saving properties.
Disadvantages:
- there is no perfect whiteness and glossy surface;
- no information about ISO certification.
WINTECH
Manufacturer: Turkey
Material: PVC and other polymers
System lines: Isotech 530 (58 mm / 3 chambers), Poletech W80 (80/6), Thermotech 742 (70/4), Thermotech 750 (70/2), Thermotech 752 (70/5)
The price of a double-leaf window (1420 × 1300) is 7000 rubles.
The concern is one of the five leaders in its category and is one of the few that produces not only modules, but also its own accessories. The service life of the systems is over 40 years.
Advantages:
- recommended for children's and medical institutions;
- suitable for all climatic zones;
- U-shaped reinforcement;
- non-toxic materials.
Disadvantages:
- complaints about the seal.
DANA LLC
Manufacturer: Russia
Material: wood
System lines: single-leaf (6 * 6, 10 * 6), double-leaf (12 * 10, 12 * 12)
The price for a standard two-section module is 5500 rubles.
The company has been on the market for over 15 years. The production uses high-tech European equipment. The warranty period for products is 24 months. Individual projects are carried out.
Advantages:
- pine log frames;
- classic design;
- two contours of the seal;
- the presence of drainage holes.
Disadvantages:
- limited choice of models;
- high price.
Veka
Manufacturer: Germany
Material: PVC and reinforced plastic
Choice of systems: Euroline (58 mm, 3 chambers), Proline (70/4), Softline (70/5), Softline 82 (82 mm / 6), Alphaline (90/6).
The price for a double-leaf window (1420x1100) is 3500 rubles.
Veka products have been awarded the European RAL quality mark, which is stricter than GOST standards. The products are suitable for harsh climates.
Advantages:
- wide range of models;
- ISO certification;
- high quality;
- elegant design;
- durability.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Kaleva
Manufacturer: Russia
Material: plastic and metal-plastic
Systems: Standart (40 mm, 4 chambers), Design (70/4), Titan (80/5), Titan + (80/3)
The price for a two-leaf model (1460х1400) of the Standart system is 12,500 rubles.
A Moscow company that has been manufacturing windows for over 20 years. The factory carries out a full production cycle, all products are created according to the principle of a designer.
Advantages:
- good design;
- quality material from Germany;
- 5-year warranty;
- closed steel reinforcement.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
PROPLEX
Manufacturer: Russia
Material: PVC and reinforced plastic
Systems: Basis (58 mm, 3 chambers), Optima (58/3), Comfort (70/4), Hit (70/5), Premium (70/5), Out-door (58/3), Out- line (46/2)
The price for a two-section window (1180 × 1450) is 8000 rubles.
The company is making significant efforts to modernize production and introduce new technologies. Joint developments with Austrian colleagues made it possible to create the latest thermal insulation complexes based on the implemented design systems. The conditional life of the products is 60 years.
Advantages:
- state certification;
- wide color palette;
- quality materials.
Disadvantages:
- there is no international quality certificate;
- high price.
KBE
Manufacturer: Germany
Material: PVC and reinforced plastic
Systems: KBE 88 New (56 mm, 7 chambers), KBE Premium (76/6), KBE Expert (70/5), KBE Energy (70/3), KBE Master (70/4), KBE Etalon (58 / 3), KBE Engine (58/3).
The price for a finished double-leaf module (1200x1200) is 7000 rubles.
One of the largest German global brands in its industry. The products are manufactured on the basis of special greenline technologies using calcium-zinc compounds to preserve the environment. The company's products are ISO certified. The service life is 40 years.
Advantages:
- high quality raw materials;
- a wide range of;
- elegant design;
- improved thermal insulation properties;
- with a handle;
- with decorative overlays on the hinges;
- with a glass unit (24 mm).
Disadvantages:
- high price.
REHAU
Manufacturer: Germany
Material: PVC and reinforced plastic
Systems: Blitz new (60 mm / 3 cameras), Thermo-Design (60/4), Grazio (70/5), Brilliant-Design (70/5), Intelio (80/6), Intelio (86/6) , Geneo (86/6), Delight-Design (70/5), Sib-Design (70/2 + 3 fuser), Euro-Design (60/3).
German manufacturer with its own factories in the CIS. Leader in terms of sales. Certified according to quality standards by international independent experts. In the opinion of buyers, the products meet the declared characteristics.
The price for a finished shtulp window with two sashes (1510x1550) is 14,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- German quality;
- updated design;
- wide range of models;
- ease of care;
- manufacturer's warranty.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Overview of budget firms
As a rule, products of foreign brands are manufactured at Russian factories in accordance with the developed technologies and quality standards. With rare exceptions, modules, for example, of a German brand, are actually brought from Germany.
Price is also not always an indicator of the strength and durability of the structure. Most often, on sites selling profiles, the cost is indicated for the structure itself, a turnkey system will cost more. Therefore, when making a purchase, you should give preference to a trusted manufacturer who guarantees compliance with the declared level and will offer not only high-quality goods, but also provide competent installation.
Which company is better to entrust the design of window space in a house or apartment depends on many factors. First of all, from the financial capabilities and those technical requirements that apply to the product. If the main goal is to save money, then you should pay attention to lesser known and large manufacturers.
Inexpensive products are produced by the following companies:
- Plafen;
- WDS;
- LG Hausys;
- AGF "Agrisovgaz";
- Schuco;
- DECEUNINCK;
- JUICE.
These firms have accumulated a standard ratio of positive to negative reviews.
The disadvantages include outdated modifications, a limited choice, the absence of such additional options as, for example, glass lamination. But they can offer good glazing options for a lower price than the famous brands.
If the price is not so significant, and the quality of the profile is at the forefront, then it is worth purchasing windows for an apartment only from the best manufacturers.
