Which windows are better: plastic or wooden? Which windows are better to choose: wooden or plastic? How much more expensive are wooden windows than plastic?

With the collapse of the Soviet Union, the use of modern building materials balanced with Western countries. Any new products reach Russian consumers almost instantly and gain popularity at the same rapid pace. However, this trend is not followed in the selection of windows. In Europe, 60% of windows in residential premises are made of natural wood, in Russia - more than 90% are made of plastic, or more precisely, metal-plastic. Why is this happening? Which is really better - wooden or plastic windows?

At the time of the market takeover in post-Soviet countries, plastic windows cost 4-5 times more than wooden ones. Despite this, the population massively replaced their wooden windows with them. For the consciousness of the Western consumer, this is nonsense - to overpay for “chemicals” several times, changing natural wood on PVC.

But people of the older generation know very well what the reason is: low quality the windows they had, or rather, any lack of quality. The system for monitoring compliance with GOSTs and technical specifications was only on paper at that time. As a result, wooden windows, popularly called “carpentry,” either dried out or swelled from moisture, making them difficult, and often impossible, to open.

Added problems short term service - they rotted quickly, and constant repainting - the paint on the outside lasted 2-3 years. The younger generation remembers the situation with wooden windows from their childhood impressions and also, according to the tradition laid down by their fathers and grandfathers, prefer metal-plastic windows.

Modern technologies radically changed the process of producing natural wood windows. They have completely different consumer qualities. Many owners of apartments and private houses simply do not know about this. Let's try to figure out which windows are better - plastic or wooden.

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic windows

The first consumers began to install plastic windows for:

• Their practical design. They are quickly produced to fit any window opening, easy to open, and in several planes;
• Long service life;

• Good sound insulation, which increases with the number of chambers between the glass;
• No drafts - rubber seals eliminated the operation of window covering, which is so boring to the population paper tape with the onset of winter;

• Easy maintenance that does not require repainting the frames throughout the entire service life of the windows. In addition, they are easy to clean - water and detergents will remove any type of dirt.

In addition to the above advantages, one should add modern design and high quality fittings. However, like any product made from artificial materials, this type of window also has disadvantages:

• At temperatures above 27 o degrees, heat begins to release from the plastic. harmful substances, as evidenced by a barely noticeable smell;
• The windows do not breathe at all, as a result of which the room during hot weather, if all the doors are tightly closed, becomes very stuffy and hot, which greatly affects indoor plants in the absence of owners for 2-3 days;
• Cannot be repaired or restored. Any mechanical damage(scratches, impact marks, distortions, split seams) cannot be repaired.

Advantages and disadvantages of wooden windows

Windows made of natural wood also have advantages and disadvantages (hereinafter, Euro-windows are compared). The advantages include:

• Environmentally friendly - all window materials are natural;

• Harmonious combination with any wall materials(brick, concrete, stone, wood);
• Long service life - from 50 to 100 years, depending on the type of wood from which the window frame and frame are made;
• High strength - a wooden window is difficult to damage. It can withstand almost any impact load, and scratches, if they are left, are repaired with special compounds;

• Stylish design - a wide range of colors allows you to choose the color of the window to match the color of the walls;
• Good heat and sound insulation. Their level increases with the number of sheets of glass installed in the frame;
• Natural air circulation, allowing you to maintain a comfortable microclimate in the room;
• Durable fittings;
• Ability to open in several planes;
• High level fire safety— the material is treated with fire retardants;
• Ability to repair or replace damaged areas.

Unlike plastic window designs, wooden ones have only one drawback - they need to be repainted every 5 years.

From the above pros and cons, it is difficult to determine which is better - plastic or wood windows, and therefore we will continue the comparison by assigning the number of points for each compared position (the maximum possible score is 100 points).

Performance Comparison

We will compare according to the following criteria:

• cost of acquisition, installation and operation;
• life time;
• thermal insulation;
• soundproofing;
• design;
• practicality;
• breathability;
• environmental cleanliness.

Cost factor

What is cheaper, plastic windows or wooden ones? Replacing windows is an expensive type of repair:

• the price of a plastic double-leaf window starts from 3600 rub./m2, with installation - from 7300 rub./m2;
• wooden (grade III pine) from 3800 rub./m2, with installation - from 7500 rub./m2.

Grade 1 pine costs one and a half times more, oak windows cost 2.5-3 times more. But this is if we take into account one-time costs. If we decompose the cost of materials and installation for each year and month of service life, which economists call depreciation, then the picture is almost equal:

• depreciation charges for PVC windows will be 20.27 rubles. per month (7300/30x12);
• pine (grade III) - 13.39 rubles. (7500/45x12);
• oak - 20.27 rubles. (7500x3/90x12).

Attention: fittings and sealing gaskets for wooden and plastic windows are from the same manufacturers. Therefore, this factor is not taken into account.

Due to the 3 times longer service life, the monthly costs for oak and PVC windows are identical. However, when comparing the factor in points, preference must still be given to plastic windows - there are few people willing to invest in the distant future.

Another factor in favor of metal-plastic is that wooden windows need to be repainted approximately every 5 years, and this again costs money.

Conclusions.

• Expensive oak windows are economically justified when building expensive cottages - the service life of the window practically coincides with the service life of a new building.
• IN apartment buildings It is impractical to install windows with a service life of more than 50 years - it is unknown how long it will take for high-rise buildings to be demolished due to complete wear and tear of the load-bearing structures.
• Money for installing windows is paid here and now. Considering that most people do not look into the distant future (in our subjective opinion), advantage in points 90 to 65 in favor of PVC windows.

Lifetime

Manufacturers of plastic windows until 2010-2012 guaranteed a service life of their products of 20-30 years, recently 40-45. It is not yet possible to verify their approval in practice - windows with changes in production technology lasted no more than 8 years. However, there are significant doubts about the stated figures.

• Under the influence of ultraviolet rays from the sun, rain and temperature changes, plastic turns yellow. It is doubtful that the owners of wealthy apartments and private houses will tolerate windows that spoil the design. Most likely they will replace them.
• A different coefficient of expansion when the temperature of the plastic and metal profiles fluctuates leads to a gradual loosening of the frame itself and a violation of the strength of the fastening of the window block to the window opening.

Wooden windows do not have such problems. In villages and towns in old houses Can be seen wooden frames with a service life of 100 years or more. The tree is afraid of dampness, but with proper care it lasts a very long time. At modern methods wood processing, it is not afraid of dampness and mold.

Therefore, as in the case of plastic windows, the manufacturers’ statement about the service life of pine windows of 45-55 years is questionable. Real time their service life is 70-80 years. Conclusion: the assessment of the service life of PVC windows is 60 points, wooden ones - 100.

Which is warmer

For the consumer, knowing which windows are warmer is very important. Therefore, the thermal conductivity coefficient is one of the main indicators by which consumers choose the type of window. The ability to retain heat in a house or apartment near a window depends on the glass unit and frame. Since the number of cameras of both types of windows can be equal, consider thermal insulation properties ram.

For plastic, the heat transfer coefficient is 0.15-0.2 W/m 2 xK (the range of spread depends on the number of chambers and the width of the PVC profile). Solid wood frames also have different heat transfer rates. The lowest for larch is 0.13 W/m2 xK, oak and pine are 0.15 W/m2 xK. However, for a frame made of laminated veneer lumber it is much less - 0.1 W/m2 xK.

Conclusion: plastic windows deserve 85 points, wooden ones - 100.

Which windows have the best sound insulation?

Wood has porosity - the capillaries contain air, plastic does not. With the same profile thickness, wood on average dampens sound waves better by 15-20%. Conclusion: PVC windows - 80, wooden - 100 points.

Design

The aesthetic perception of windows is no less important than their functionality. When choosing windows, you always pay attention to how they fit into the interior and how they look against the background of the facade.

Plastic windows have much more design possibilities (they can be laminated, painted in different colors, give different shape) than wooden ones. But there is one thing. Any laminate flooring natural materials It immediately catches your eye - artificial material will always remain artificial. Wood has no equal materials in terms of beauty.

Conclusion: judging by a combination of factors (design capabilities and aesthetic perception). a plastic window has 85 points, a wooden one - 100.

Practicality

When choosing what is more practical, consumers present different requirements to the windows. For some, it is important how easy it is to wash them, for others, maintenance of windows during operation comes to the fore, for others, the ability to repair the frame and window unit if damaged, etc.

It is easier to care for plastic - it is easy to clean with any detergent. Wood is a little inferior in this regard. During operation, the most complex problem wooden windows require regular painting, approximately every 5 years. Especially outside.

Manufacturers have taken this disadvantage into account and offer owners of wooden windows aluminum overlays that protect the paint from exposure to UV rays. Firstly, they need to be painted less often, and secondly, they can be removed and painted in an apartment or garage, which is much more convenient.

Plastic windows cannot even undergo minor repairs, unlike wooden ones, where frame and window elements can be replaced. Conclusion: PVC windows - 80, wooden - 65.

Breathability

Oddly enough, at the "carpentry" Soviet period there was one undoubted advantage - there was always fresh air in the apartment, even with the window closed. The advent of plastic windows saved homeowners from constant drafts, but created new problem— blocked the air exchange, since the polyvinyl chloride material does not allow air to pass through at all. Wood breathes - the fibrous structure of the material allows air to pass through.

Manufacturers took into account the shortcomings of plastic and began to produce PVC windows with ventilation valve, which radically changed the assessment - wood allows air to pass through, but not to such an extent that it can provide complete air exchange without special ventilation.

Conclusion: plastic windows with a ventilation valve do not require ventilation, so the score is 80 points. Wooden windows have 60 points.

Which is healthier?

Both types of windows fully comply sanitary standards and rules. However. as the temperature rises. plastic begins to smell and release lead atoms into the air (fouling), which wood does not. In the West, manufacturers have abandoned lead additives, but in Russia they have not yet.

Therefore, when purchasing PVC for windows in Germany, the risk of harm to health tends to zero. Artificial materials from Russia have risks negative influence on the health of family members. Note that this factor is the main one when choosing the type of windows in Western countries.

Conclusion: despite the highlighting of plastic windows when high temperatures ah a certain amount of harmful substances, they do not exceed the limits established by sanitary services. Therefore, plastic is 85 points, wood is 100.

For clarity, let us summarize the results obtained in a table:

Comparable parameters	Their windows are PVC, points	Wooden windows, points
Price 1 m 2 windows	90	65
Lifetime	60	100
Thermal insulation	85	100
Soundproofing	80	100
Design	85	100
Practicality	80	65
Breathability	80	60
Environmental friendliness	85	100
Result:	645	690

The table shows that in a comprehensive analysis, wooden windows have an undoubted advantage. However, window buyers are primarily interested in cost, practicality and the ability to retain heat. Here PVC already has an advantage (255 by 230), which mainly explains the very high popularity of plastic windows.

Where and what windows are best to install?

We looked at the pros and cons of installing plastic and wooden windows for an apartment. For a bathhouse, a summer house and an attic type of living space, the criteria are slightly different.

Country house. Install expensive wooden windows in country house not rational. Some disadvantages of polyvinyl chloride are not noticeable during periodic visits summer cottage And simple design building. Therefore, PVC windows are an ideal option.

Bathhouse. Those who like to take a steam bath, despite the price, will prefer a window made of alder or pine. Such windows hold steam perfectly and smell like natural wood, not plastic.

Studio apartment. Attic type housing requires glazing large area. This automatically excludes the choice of wooden windows due to the high cost of work.

Loggia. To install windows in the loggia you need frame type window. Wood is very expensive to use. That's why they're made of plastic.

Conclusion

Each type of window has its own advantages and disadvantages. The comparative analysis showed that:

• plastic is cheaper;
• wood lasts longer;
• Thermal and sound insulation is better for wooden windows;
• the design of PVC is more varied, but aesthetically wood looks much better;
• practicality and breathability are higher for plastic windows;
• healthier wooden windows.

In bathhouses it is better to install windows made of alder or pine; in the country house, in a studio apartment and in a loggia - the best option windows made of polyvinyl chloride.

Since their appearance on the market, plastic windows have become the undisputed leader in sales, and consumers have not puzzled themselves for a long time with the question of choice. They ordered this modification without hesitation. This dominance of PVC profile structures continued until wooden window production technologies made it possible to significantly improve their performance characteristics and reduce costs. From that moment on, many buyers began to doubt which windows are better - wooden or plastic?

Surprisingly, there are no clear criteria for selection in this matter. Both options are good in their own way. Products from wooden profile In some ways they outperform PVC windows, but in some respects they are inferior. The final decision is made based on the allocated budget, operating features and personal preferences.

Structural differences between plastic and wooden windows

Wooden and plastic windows differ not only in the material used to make the frame. When assembling them, they are used different technologies and opening mechanisms.

Options	Plastic	Tree
Method of connecting parts	Solid weld	Joinery joints "tenon and groove" and "dovetail"
Internal structure of profiles for assembling the structure	A hollow profile, which is internally divided into several isolated air chambers	Solid timber
Material structure	Homogeneous	Recently, it has been practiced to manufacture euro-beams - gluing individual plots (small boards) into a solid beam in a press, however, it is still possible to manufacture windows from solid wood
Number of sealing circuits	2 or 3	1 or 2
Fixing beads	Snaps into special slots	Nailed with nails
Sealing of double-glazed windows	Pressed tightly using sealing contours integrated into the profile and glazing beads	They are insulated using transparent silicone, which is applied from the outside and inside
Hinges for hanging active sashes	Standard kit	Screw-in hinges can be used
Accessories	Standard	It is allowed to use handles with a wrap, a slider and a vertical bolt
Availability of universal auxiliary profiles for assembling structures complex shape	Eat	No
Availability drainage system	Eat	No
Internal reinforcement with galvanized steel profiles	Eat	No

Comparison design features will not help you clearly decide which windows are best to install, since these differences do not have a fundamental impact on the performance characteristics. For example, profiles made of timber do not need air chambers, since wood itself is very warm material. It also does not require reinforcement, because properly formed and processed timber has high dimensional stability.

When considering these parameters, plastic windows are superior to wooden ones only in the matter of fixation, as well as sealing of double-glazed windows and glazing beads. This difference is felt not during operation, but when dismantling these elements. Glazing beads and double-glazed windows from wooden models It is much more difficult and longer to remove than from plastic ones. This nuance must be taken into account when ordering windows, since double-glazed windows various reasons have to change. In addition to the problems with removing stuck glass units and removing old silicone, you need to keep in mind the need to restore glazing beads, the surface of which can be damaged during the work.

Plastic and wooden windows – which is better?

To find out which is better, wooden or plastic windows, you need to compare the performance characteristics. A comprehensive study of the main parameters will help you make a choice in favor of one or another material.

Options	Wooden windows	Plastic windows
Maximum energy efficiency of the entire structure	1.35 W/m²×°C	1.13 W/m²×°C
Achievable sound absorption level	48 dB	44 dB
Durability of structures	50-100 years	40-60 years
Number of ways to open the doors	7	7
Durability of the external side of the structure	5-25 years	20-60 years*
Compatibility with auxiliary elements: blinds, devices supply ventilation and electric drives	Compatible	Compatible
Minimum price for 1 m² of construction**	4000-5000 rubles	2000-2500 rubles
Frost resistance	Up to -60 °C	Withstands temperatures below – 60 °C***
Frame thermal conductivity	0.15-0.2 W/m×°C	0.1 W/m×°C

*Plastic windows without decorative coating retain their aesthetic characteristics virtually unchanged throughout their service life - 40-60 years. But for painted and laminated profiles this time is reduced to 20-40 years.

**This is an example minimum cost pine windows. If larch, oak, ash or mahogany are used to make structures, the price difference will increase.

***Since European timber is mainly used in the manufacture of windows, it is necessary to take into account the frost resistance not of the material itself, but adhesive joints. Typically this indicator varies from -40 to -50 °C, and is sufficient for our climatic conditions.

As can be seen from the table, wooden windows are superior to plastic ones in some parameters and inferior in others. Wood structures are more durable, retain heat better and absorb noise. But plastic windows are more resistant to weather conditions and have an affordable price. When comparing thermal and sound insulation of structures, it should be taken into account that maximum performance observed in, read more about which in detailed review on WindowsTrade.

Some sellers of wooden windows still claim that their products, unlike plastic ones, breathe. This is not true, because after treating the wood surface with primers and paints, the pores become clogged. In terms of airtightness, timber models are no different from PVC windows.

Which plastic windows are better?

Compare plastic windows from different profile systems possible only if they are equipped with the same double-glazed windows and fittings. In this case, the characteristics of the sashes and frames are considered. Subsequently, this analysis and consultation with managers will help figure out which plastic windows are best installed in different situations. The quality of polyvinyl chloride, from which profiles are made by reputable manufacturers, is approximately the same today. As a result, products must be evaluated according to the following criteria:

• thickness of outer walls (2.2-3mm) – ideally one should strive for higher value;
• number of internal chambers (from 3 to 9)- in our climatic conditions to equip residential heated premises, it is recommended to use systems with at least 5 chambers;
• installation depth (58-150 mm)– the larger this parameter, the better;
• rebate depth for double glazed windows– it is desirable that this size be at least 20 mm, but optimal value considered – 23-25 ​​mm;
• maximum possible thickness installed double-glazed windows (30-56 mm)– thick double-glazed windows retain heat better and dampen sound waves, so in this case you need to strive for the maximum value.

You can find out what types of plastic windows there are on OknaTrade from reviews of different types of PVC profiles from leading European and domestic producers. When considering parameters, it is necessary to take into account what functions the structures will need to perform. For example, 3-chamber systems are suitable for glazing unheated balconies or dachas, while apartments, cottages and offices require windows made of more warm profiles.

Pros and cons of plastic windows

To evaluate the attractiveness of this type of product, all technical characteristics need to be translated into a language understandable to the buyer. The best way to do this is by listing their advantages:

1. Durability– thanks to special plasticizers and additives, PVC profiles with proper care do not change their shape, color and size within the period stated by the manufacturers.


2. Minimal care – plastic windows are easy to maintain in working and aesthetically attractive condition. It is enough to clean and lubricate fittings with sealing contours on time, as well as periodically wash the surface of profiles and double-glazed windows.


3. Tightness– structures made of PVC profiles do not allow air, water, dust and noise to pass in both directions.


4. Energy efficiency- at correct selection type of profile and double-glazed windows, plastic windows prevent slopes from freezing and retain heat well in interior spaces.


5. Versatility– these models can be adapted to any interior design. The exception is luxury furnishings in a classic style.

The disadvantages of plastic windows include the monotonous appearance structures, the inability to use them in respectable interiors. Also, during the operation of these products, one has to solve the problem of absolute tightness, which can be both a plus and a minus. It will help to understand this issue in detail special material on WindowsTrade.

Since PVC profiles have significantly more advantages than disadvantages, they are readily purchased for installation in residential, municipal, commercial, sports and industrial facilities. These unpretentious structures can be used wherever they are in harmony with the facades and interior.

Which wooden windows are better?

Although approximately the same techniques are used today for the manufacture of wooden windows, the operational and aesthetic characteristics of different modifications differ significantly. They depend on several factors:

• wood species– larch, pine, ash, oak, meranti and mahogany, which are used today for the assembly of sashes and frames, have different properties;
• window type– there are single- and double-leaf, vertical-sliding and sliding models, and their thermal characteristics largely depend on the design of the binding;
• type of paint coating- quality finishing the surface of the wood determines the appearance of the windows and the durability of the protective and decorative coating;
• type of timber– parts for assembling windows can be made from solid or spliced ​​solid wood.

The warmest and most resistant to deformation are double-glazed windows made from laminated veneer lumber. There are several modifications of such structures with different energy efficiency and methods of opening the doors. Such models are selected depending on the climate of the region, the level of street noise and the area of ​​the openings.

Advantages and disadvantages of wooden windows

Modern wooden windows have almost the same advantages as plastic ones - tightness, energy efficiency, durability and functionality. In addition, these products have individual advantages:

1. Fire resistance- soaked special composition wooden beam When exposed to heat, it chars and does not melt like a PVC profile. This gives more time to escape through windows during a fire.


2. Pleasant tactile sensations– touching natural wood cannot be confused with anything else.


3. Wide choice of decors– despite the limited number of species used to produce wooden windows, surface finishing technologies have expanded the design capabilities of manufacturers. Thanks to the use various techniques, stains and paint and varnish mixtures, any window texture can be created.


4. Respectable appearance– even products from inexpensive species improve the interior interior spaces and make it more solid. In terms of aesthetics quality models Neither plastic nor aluminum structures can compete with wood.


5. Possibility of manufacturing structures with large active sashes– according to GOST, an increase in the base section of the timber allows the maximum permissible dimensions of products to be increased by 10%.

The main and perhaps the only disadvantage of wooden windows is the vulnerability of their outer side to atmospheric phenomena. Impregnations against fungus and mold slow down the process of wood deterioration, but only temporarily. In addition, after a few years, the decorative coating gradually begins to fade and lose its aesthetic appeal. We have learned to effectively combat this drawback by installing protective aluminum linings on the outside of the sashes and frames. However, when installing wooden windows in a private house with a beautiful facade, this method is unlikely to work, so it has not yet been possible to completely solve the problem.

It is advisable to install wooden windows in cases where the use of plastic structures will negatively affect the interior interior or the appearance of the facade. In addition, such products should be used when necessary to minimize the heat exchange processes between the walls and the frame. However, in any case, it is desirable that there is free access to the outside of the structure. This will allow you to regularly care for the surface of the wood and maintain its aesthetic appeal longer.

Which windows are best to install in an apartment?

To figure out which windows are best installed in an apartment, it is recommended to consider the possibility of caring for them. outside. Wooden windows will sooner or later require restoration of the frame and sashes from the street side. On upper floors This procedure is quite difficult to perform even with the involvement of specialists for high-altitude work with special equipment. The paint layer must be applied in sealed chambers, and it is impossible to create such conditions from the outside of a multi-story building.

In addition, multi-storey buildings are usually located in the most polluted areas of the city. Unfavorable environment quickly destroys the paintwork and the wood itself. PVC is more resistant to such conditions. As a result, plastic windows for apartments are best option. If the interior design requires the use of wooden frames and sashes, you can laminate the profile. It is possible to imitate the surface of natural wood only on one or both sides of frames and sashes.

When installing wooden windows, you must immediately take into account the problems that you will encounter during their restoration. To perform a high-quality replacement of the paint layer, it is often necessary to dismantle the structure, and on the upper floors this is almost impossible.

Which windows are better for a wooden house?

For installation in houses made of logs or timber, it is better to give preference to wooden windows. There are several reasons for this:

1. The laminated PVC profile retains its rich color for decades, while natural wood gradually fades. In a few years, plastic wood-look windows will stand out strongly against the background of the facade of a house made of timber or logs.


2. The proximity of natural and artificial materials often harms the interior and negatively affects the overall environment.


3. Wooden windows go much better with decorative trims, which are used to decorate openings.

Most often, laminated or paint-painted plastic windows are used for installation in houses that are lined with molded elements that imitate solid logs or beams. In all other cases, it is advisable to use the same material in construction and repair.

Regardless of the type of windows, they must be installed in wooden houses using a special technology that will eliminate distortions. This technique ensures the frames are mobile relative to the walls, so that the frame structures do not deform even with significant subsidence.

Probably, each of us, when building a house, or when replacing dilapidated frames in an apartment, was faced with the problem of choosing windows - plastic or wooden? Distorted and cracked, difficult to close, dusty between the cloudy openings of rattling glass, these construction elements from Soviet times have become the subject of numerous ridicule and are an eyesore. caring owners families

Why plastic windows?

In many ways, it was the stereotype formed from the past that contributed to the boom in construction know-how - plastic windows. More precisely, metal-plastic, because the frame is reinforced with metal from the inside for rigidity. Production of products began back in the 1960s in Europe. At first there were imported ones from Germany and Poland. Then production was established in our country.

Plastic quickly conquered the window market in Russia, standing out primarily for its insulation characteristics, tightness, durability, and aesthetics. And also the absence of constantly jamming vents and latches, since it is equipped convenient system opening in two (three) directions.

Competently and culturally structured service marketing also played a major role in activating demand for plastic windows. Manufacturers and PVC suppliers windows, we immediately established service and maintenance, offering the buyer turnkey installation of products.

PVC – polyvinyl chloride – the main composition of the material.

It is enough to pay the purchase price - and there are no problems: delivery, replacement of old structures, installation, even cleaning and removal of construction waste.

Wooden windows could not boast of such attention to themselves.

Firstly, they were not included in the assortment at woodworking enterprises, therefore significant changes in production technologies laid down back in the days of the USSR, they did not receive it.

Secondly, manufacturing in the 90s was in the artisanal segment of the economy, and therefore there was a high percentage of defects. Moreover, it was difficult to legally punish such a manufacturer for dishonest work.

Thirdly, an inexperienced buyer had to both choose wooden frames and look for an installation specialist - again, from the above-mentioned “traditional craftsmen”.

And most importantly, the ease of use of PVC windows and their cleaning, compared to wooden ones, was undeniable.

Why wooden?

Few people know, but plastic windows in Europe have long lost ground to wooden ones. For example, today wood accounts for 60% of the European market. It is not without reason that in the EU countries a huge amount of appropriate tools and lines for the production of wooden windows are produced.

Therefore, in the 90s, manufacturers of plastic windows, in order not to lose sales, began to develop the markets of post-Soviet countries, offering tempting prices and service, the quality of which we mentioned above.

Gradually, thanks to thoughtful marketing and advertising, a stereotype was created for residents of the “scoop” that PVC windows are a symbol of wealth and prestige. At the same time, in Germany, Austria, France or Switzerland, on the contrary, wooden Euro-windows are a symbol of prosperity and respectability, being aesthetically attractive and environmentally friendly.

But also more expensive, because the manufacturing technology cannot be compared with the Soviet “ancestors”.

Previously, in the USSR, solid pine timber was used to make windows, which was economically beneficial, but caused deformation window frames influenced by humidity and temperature.

In Europe it is used wooden blank made of three-four-layer laminated veneer lumber. For production, pine (the inside of the timber), oak, ash, and Siberian larch are selected, but there are also production technologies from mahogany - meranti.

For example, light red meranti has characteristics similar to oak, slightly inferior in hardness.

Products made from beech and chestnut are classified as elite and expensive. There are almost no of them on the market, not so much because of the high cost, but because of the complexity of preparation source material and processing. For example, the manufacture of an oak window is preceded by three years of drying of the blanks under certain conditions.

Manufacturers - especially small ones - replace the natural drying of wood with an electric dryer. This leads to the fact that the profiles may become covered with black spots.

Note that a compromise in terms of “price-quality” is windows made of expensive wood on the outside and a layer of pine on the inside.

The workpieces are processed and impregnated chemical compounds, improving moisture resistance, protecting against rotting, but at the same time not preventing the wood from “breathing”.

It is worth noting the variety of paint and varnish coatings for wooden windows. It is better to give preference to German, Finnish and Dutch paints, which preserve the properties of wood, improve the appearance of products, and emphasize the structure of wood (if “varnished”). Wide color and texture palette.

Differences between wooden and plastic windows: pros and cons

There are conflicting reviews both heard and on the Internet. But it is worth noting that most of them are initiated by interested parties, and therefore are subjective, speculative, and pursue the goal of “drowning” a competitor or promoting their product.

To objectively evaluate wooden and plastic windows, it is more correct to compare the advantages and disadvantages that have appeared during many years of operation. From the point of view of how these products have proven themselves in practice, common reviews and opinions are analyzed. So let's get started.

1. PVC windows are easy to use

Because of this quality, they have gained popularity in our country. But let us remember that plastic windows appeared in our country against the backdrop of a pitiful state in the production of similar wood products. Modern wooden ones have an elegant appearance, and the profile is in no way inferior to plastic ones in terms of convenience. In addition, partial repairs of wooden windows are provided; the color can be easily refreshed or changed.

2. Plastic windows have excellent tightness

But, unfortunately, they are even too sealed, and poor ventilation leads to the formation of mold and moisture condensation. This is one of the main disadvantages of metal-plastic products. To avoid this problem, you must either buy windows with a built-in ventilation system, or purchase a supply valve separately. Wooden ones are almost free of this drawback, because, as they say, they “breathe”. According to average data, a standard wooden frame passes about 2.5 cubic meters through its pores per day. air. Thus, wooden products help maintain optimal air consistency, since wood stabilizes the humidity regime better than other materials.

3. PVC windows have high thermal insulation

The question is controversial. Air chambers metal-plastic windows significantly reduce heat transfer. But the main merit in this is not so much the profiles as the double-glazed windows. And modern wooden frames are also equipped with high-quality one- or two-chamber packages (glasses connected along the contour, between which an air-filled space is formed). In addition, the wooden frame itself, due to its natural porous structure, has lower thermal conductivity than PVC, which is especially important in conditions of Siberian cold or Asian heat. The same quality of wood prevents, unlike plastic, the appearance of condensation on the doors.

4. Plastic is highly sound insulating

The statement is also controversial. As in the previous paragraph, everything depends on the quality of the double-glazed window and the number of glasses in it: the more, the more noise is delayed. But wood, thanks to its texture, is an excellent soundproofing material, not inferior to, or even superior to, plastic profiles.

5. Plastics are easy to care for and wash, even with the use of abrasives

It's right. Wooden products are more demanding when it comes to the use of detergent compositions, and especially do not tolerate abrasive ones. Without proper care, they age quite quickly and become unusable. But on the other hand, unlike metal-plastic wooden structures They do not have electrostatic properties - they do not attract dust - so they do not need to be washed as often as plastic ones. This is especially important in industrial or arid steppe areas.

6. PVC windows can withstand high humidity without problems

This is true. Even more: plastic is a hydrophobic substance (repels water). Unlike wooden competitors, plastic windows very well withstand even prolonged contact with moisture or the influence of precipitation. Modern technologies are not yet able to completely protect wood from destructive moisture, which is the main cause of rot and mold.

7. Metal-plastic windows tolerate temperature changes well and are frost-resistant

The statement is quite controversial. Frost resistance - this function is assigned exclusively to double-glazed windows. But very low or high temperatures (-40 – +40) are perceived differently by wooden and plastic structures. Wood is a natural material, hardened in the mentioned temperature conditions, so it is physically more durable. Due to its natural origin, wood, unlike all other materials, also has the lowest coefficient of expansion, which makes it ideal for use, for example, in very cold conditions. That is why wooden windows are especially popular in the northern countries - Finland and Sweden. PVC windows, especially considering the presence of metal parts in their designs, are quite vulnerable in this regard: a large temperature difference over time leads to a loss of insulating properties and, in general, structural strength.

8. PVC windows are less susceptible to deformation and are more durable

A very controversial statement. It is too early to draw conclusions about the durability of metal-plastic windows, since this product has been in use for at most 20-30 years. In fact, each of us has often seen old houses in which the wooden frames have not been changed for a hundred years or more. Even if their paint is peeling, the doors may not fit well, but with proper repairs they can last for many more years. And these are windows made in those times when they did not even think about advanced technologies and materials currently in use. The only enemy of wooden windows is moisture, which leads to their deformation and infection with fungus and mold. But with proper care, this danger can be avoided. Plastic windows are also susceptible to other misfortunes. The main one is the high coefficient of expansion with temperature changes, which gradually leads to loosening and loss of strength. And not only in the plastic itself, but also in the places where it meets the window opening.

The fact is that wooden frames are made from homogeneous materials (the same in physical properties), which have a similar expansion coefficient and perceive the same external influences. PVC windows have different materials in their design (especially metal reinforcement inside), and therefore they tolerate significant temperature changes worse than wooden ones.
There are no plastic ones without a metal base: polyvinyl chloride itself is a very fragile material, so without proper reinforcement the profile can be deformed. Another significant problem with metal-plastic windows is rubber seals. Even high-quality ones lose their properties over time, harden, begin to crumble, especially under the influence of low and high temperatures, detergents, exhaust gases from the street, etc. They are inexpensive, but replacing the entire profile is a troublesome task.

9. Plastic is dangerous for the environment

The polyvinyl chloride from which window profiles are made is extremely dangerous for humans. No less dangerous are various additives (plasticizers, dyes), which are released into the air in small quantities (especially when heated). It is this fact that is often cited as the main argument in favor of wooden windows. But not everything is so scary. Firstly, most toxic and poisonous substances enter the atmosphere not from the finished window, but during the production of PVC raw materials.

Secondly, if you take into account the amount of plastic in the window and the volume of the room in which it is located, then the “harmfulness” from the released substances is reduced to virtually zero.

Thirdly, although the structure of the material contains harmful substances, this does not mean that they must necessarily enter our body (unless, of course, we burn or inhale combustion products). In addition, we are already surrounded by a huge number of products containing plastic: linoleum, toys, vinyl wallpapers, various packaging, etc.

Yes, there is virtually not a single thing around that does not contain some kind of poison. Another argument popular among opponents of plastic windows is that, unlike wooden ones, when polyvinyl chloride ignites, very toxic and poisonous substances are released. In this case, there is only one piece of advice: do not burn plastic windows in your apartment! Just a joke, but... But if, God forbid, it comes to a situation where the windows in the room are already on fire, then these fumes are unlikely to be significant in the overall picture of the tragedy. As is the environmentally friendly burning of wooden windows.

A person values ​​his health more than anything in the world, so concepts such as the harm or safety of a product have become one of the main tools in the struggle for consumers between competitors. Not surprisingly, this is the area most susceptible to subjectivity and bias. Sometimes a product that is hazardous to health is advertised as almost healing, and vice versa: a neutral product is presented as an environmental disaster.

10. Wooden windows look attractive

Wood products have always been valued for their beautiful texture, aesthetic and attractive appearance. But there is no arguing about tastes. For example, to modern building“concrete-glass-aluminum” metal-plastic structures are more suitable than wooden ones. In addition, PVC windows are now very diverse both in shape and color (about 50). Wooden ones are somewhat limited in the arbitrariness of their designs (the radius of the arch is limited).

Probably, each of us, when building a house, or when replacing dilapidated frames in an apartment, was faced with the problem of choosing windows - plastic or wooden? Warped and cracked, difficult to close, dusty between the cloudy openings of rattling glass, these construction elements dating back to Soviet times have become the subject of numerous ridicule and are an eyesore for caring family owners.

Why plastic windows?

In many ways, it was the stereotype formed from the past that contributed to the boom in construction know-how - plastic windows. More precisely, metal-plastic, because the frame is reinforced with metal from the inside for rigidity. Production of products began back in the 1960s in Europe. At first there were imported ones from Germany and Poland. Then production was established in our country.

Plastic quickly conquered the window market in Russia, standing out primarily for its insulation characteristics, tightness, durability, and aesthetics. And also the absence of constantly jamming vents and latches, as it is equipped with a convenient opening system in two (three) directions.

Competently and culturally structured service marketing also played a major role in activating demand for plastic windows. Manufacturers and suppliers of PVC windows immediately established service and maintenance, offering the buyer turnkey installation of products.

PVC – polyvinyl chloride – the main composition of the material.

It is enough to pay the purchase price - and there are no problems: delivery, replacement of old structures, installation, even cleaning and removal of construction waste.

Wooden windows could not boast of such attention to themselves.

Firstly, they were not included in the assortment at woodworking enterprises, so there were no significant changes in production technologies established back in Soviet times.

Secondly, manufacturing in the 90s was in the artisanal segment of the economy, and therefore there was a high percentage of defects. Moreover, it was difficult to legally punish such a manufacturer for dishonest work.

Thirdly, an inexperienced buyer had to both choose wooden frames and look for an installation specialist - again, from the above-mentioned “traditional craftsmen”.

And most importantly, the ease of use of PVC windows and their cleaning, compared to wooden ones, was undeniable.

Why wooden?

Few people know, but plastic windows in Europe have long lost ground to wooden ones. For example, today wood accounts for 60% of the European market. It is not without reason that in the EU countries a huge amount of appropriate tools and lines for the production of wooden windows are produced.

Therefore, in the 90s, manufacturers of plastic windows, in order not to lose sales, began to develop the markets of post-Soviet countries, offering tempting prices and service, the quality of which we mentioned above.

Gradually, thanks to thoughtful marketing and advertising, a stereotype was created for residents of the “scoop” that PVC windows are a symbol of wealth and prestige. At the same time, in Germany, Austria, France or Switzerland, on the contrary, wooden Euro-windows are a symbol of prosperity and respectability, being aesthetically attractive and environmentally friendly.

But also more expensive, because the manufacturing technology cannot be compared with the Soviet “ancestors”.

Previously, in the USSR, solid pine timber was used to make windows, which was economically beneficial, but caused the window frames to deform under the influence of humidity and temperature.

In Europe, a wooden blank made of three or four-layer laminated veneer lumber is used. For production, pine (the inside of the timber), oak, ash, and Siberian larch are selected, but there are also production technologies from mahogany - meranti.

For example, light red meranti has characteristics similar to oak, slightly inferior in hardness.

Products made from beech and chestnut are classified as elite and expensive. There are almost none of them on the market, not so much because of the high cost, but because of the complexity of preparing the source material and processing. For example, the manufacture of an oak window is preceded by three years of drying of the blanks under certain conditions.

Manufacturers - especially small ones - replace the natural drying of wood with an electric dryer. This leads to the fact that the profiles may become covered with black spots.

Note that a compromise in terms of “price-quality” is windows made of expensive wood on the outside and a layer of pine on the inside.

The blanks are processed and impregnated with chemical compounds that improve moisture resistance, protect against rotting, but at the same time do not interfere with the wood’s ability to “breathe.”

It is worth noting the variety of paint and varnish coatings for wooden windows. It is better to give preference to German, Finnish and Dutch paints, which preserve the properties of wood, improve the appearance of products, and emphasize the structure of wood (if “varnished”). Wide color and texture palette.

Differences between wooden and plastic windows: pros and cons

There are conflicting reviews both heard and on the Internet. But it is worth noting that most of them are initiated by interested parties, and therefore are subjective, speculative, and pursue the goal of “drowning” a competitor or promoting their product.

To objectively evaluate wooden and plastic windows, it is more correct to compare the advantages and disadvantages that have appeared during many years of operation. From the point of view of how these products have proven themselves in practice, common reviews and opinions are analyzed. So let's get started.

1. PVC windows are easy to use

Because of this quality, they have gained popularity in our country. But let us remember that plastic windows appeared in our country against the backdrop of a pitiful state in the production of similar wood products. Modern wooden ones have an elegant appearance, and the profile is in no way inferior to plastic ones in terms of convenience. In addition, partial repairs of wooden windows are provided; the color can be easily refreshed or changed.

2. Plastic windows have excellent tightness

But, unfortunately, they are even too sealed, and poor ventilation leads to the formation of mold and moisture condensation. This is one of the main disadvantages of metal-plastic products. To avoid this problem, you must either buy windows with a built-in ventilation system, or purchase a supply valve separately. Wooden ones are almost free of this drawback, because, as they say, they “breathe”. According to average data, a standard wooden frame passes about 2.5 cubic meters through its pores per day. air. Thus, wooden products help maintain optimal air consistency, since wood stabilizes the humidity regime better than other materials.

3. PVC windows have high thermal insulation

The question is controversial. The air chambers of metal-plastic windows significantly reduce heat transfer. But the main merit in this is not so much the profiles as the double-glazed windows. And modern wooden frames are also equipped with high-quality one- or two-chamber packages (glasses connected along the contour, between which an air-filled space is formed). In addition, the wooden frame itself, due to its natural porous structure, has lower thermal conductivity than PVC, which is especially important in conditions of Siberian cold or Asian heat. The same quality of wood prevents, unlike plastic, the appearance of condensation on the doors.

4. Plastic is highly sound insulating

The statement is also controversial. As in the previous paragraph, everything depends on the quality of the double-glazed window and the number of glasses in it: the more, the more noise is delayed. But wood, thanks to its texture, is an excellent soundproofing material, not inferior to, or even superior to, plastic profiles.

5. Plastics are easy to care for and wash, even with the use of abrasives

It's right. Wooden products are more demanding when it comes to the use of detergent compositions, and especially do not tolerate abrasive ones. Without proper care, they age quite quickly and become unusable. But on the other hand, unlike metal-plastic structures, wooden structures do not have electrostatic properties - they do not attract dust - so they do not need to be washed as often as plastic ones. This is especially important in industrial or arid steppe areas.

6. PVC windows can withstand high humidity without problems

This is true. Even more: plastic is a hydrophobic substance (repels water). Unlike wooden competitors, plastic windows very well withstand even prolonged contact with moisture or the influence of precipitation. Modern technologies are not yet able to completely protect wood from destructive moisture, which is the main cause of rot and mold.

7. Metal-plastic windows tolerate temperature changes well and are frost-resistant

The statement is quite controversial. Frost resistance - this function is assigned exclusively to double-glazed windows. But very low or high temperatures (-40 – +40) are perceived differently by wooden and plastic structures. Wood is a natural material, hardened under the mentioned temperature conditions, so it is physically more resistant. Due to its natural origin, wood, unlike all other materials, also has the lowest coefficient of expansion, which makes it ideal for use, for example, in very cold conditions. That is why wooden windows are especially popular in the northern countries - Finland and Sweden. PVC windows, especially considering the presence of metal parts in their designs, are quite vulnerable in this regard: a large temperature difference over time leads to a loss of insulating properties and, in general, structural strength.

8. PVC windows are less susceptible to deformation and are more durable

A very controversial statement. It is too early to draw conclusions about the durability of metal-plastic windows, since this product has been in use for at most 20-30 years. In fact, each of us has often seen old houses in which the wooden frames have not been changed for a hundred years or more. Even if their paint is peeling, the doors may not fit well, but with proper repairs they can last for many more years. And these are windows made at a time when they did not even think about the advanced technologies and materials used now. The only enemy of wooden windows is moisture, which leads to their deformation and infection with fungus and mold. But with proper care, this danger can be avoided. Plastic windows are also susceptible to other misfortunes. The main one is the high coefficient of expansion with temperature changes, which gradually leads to loosening and loss of strength. And not only in the plastic itself, but also in the places where it meets the window opening.

The fact is that wooden frames are made from homogeneous materials (identical in physical properties), which have a similar expansion coefficient and equally perceive external influences. PVC windows have different materials in their design (especially metal reinforcement inside), and therefore they tolerate significant temperature changes worse than wooden ones.
There are no plastic ones without a metal base: polyvinyl chloride itself is a very fragile material, so without proper reinforcement the profile can be deformed. Another significant problem with metal-plastic windows is rubber seals. Even high-quality ones lose their properties over time, harden, and begin to crumble, especially under the influence of low and high temperatures, detergents, exhaust gases from the street, etc. They are inexpensive, but replacing the entire profile is a troublesome task.

9. Plastic is dangerous for the environment

The polyvinyl chloride from which window profiles are made is extremely dangerous for humans. No less dangerous are various additives (plasticizers, dyes), which are released into the air in small quantities (especially when heated). It is this fact that is often cited as the main argument in favor of wooden windows. But not everything is so scary. Firstly, most toxic and poisonous substances enter the atmosphere not from the finished window, but during the production of PVC raw materials.

Secondly, if you take into account the amount of plastic in the window and the volume of the room in which it is located, then the “harmfulness” from the released substances is reduced to virtually zero.

Thirdly, although the structure of the material contains harmful substances, this does not mean that they must necessarily enter our body (unless, of course, we burn or inhale combustion products). In addition, we are already surrounded by a huge number of products containing plastic: linoleum, toys, vinyl wallpaper, various packaging, etc.

Yes, there is virtually not a single thing around that does not contain some kind of poison. Another argument popular among opponents of plastic windows is that, unlike wooden ones, when polyvinyl chloride ignites, very toxic and poisonous substances are released. In this case, there is only one piece of advice: do not burn plastic windows in your apartment! Just a joke, but... But if, God forbid, it comes to a situation where the windows in the room are already on fire, then these fumes are unlikely to be significant in the overall picture of the tragedy. As is the environmentally friendly burning of wooden windows.

A person values ​​his health more than anything in the world, so concepts such as the harm or safety of a product have become one of the main tools in the struggle for consumers between competitors. Not surprisingly, this is the area most susceptible to subjectivity and bias. Sometimes a product that is hazardous to health is advertised as almost healing, and vice versa: a neutral product is presented as an environmental disaster.

10. Wooden windows look attractive

Wood products have always been valued for their beautiful texture, aesthetic and attractive appearance. But there is no arguing about tastes. For example, metal-plastic structures are more suitable for a modern concrete-glass-aluminium building than wooden ones. In addition, PVC windows are now very diverse both in shape and color (about 50). Wooden ones are somewhat limited in the arbitrariness of their designs (the radius of the arch is limited).

Hello, dear friends!
My name is Dmitry Provorov, I work as the head of the client department at the Just Windows company. As you may have guessed, I will talk about windows in my blog. And I know about windows.

There are a lot of offers on the window market: there are so many! And there are not many areas where the spread of prices for the same order would be as great as in windows. And this is if we talk about honest companies. I will definitely talk in detail about dishonest people and how to recognize them in the future. I’m going to boil down the essence of my blogs to one thing: how to understand which windows you need, how to recognize truly useful offers from advertising “tricks,” and choose the best option in terms of price and quality ratio. With all this, we will destroy marketing myths) I hope it turns out interesting and informative.
So let's get started. Let's start with what to choose: plastic windows or wooden windows? Many articles have been written about this topic. But the whole point is what their marketers write, either to the company that produces plastic windows, or to their rivals, the “wood workers.” Well, and, of course, marketers are very far from construction physics and practical experience. Well, I have more than enough knowledge in these areas. At the same time, I will try to maintain neutrality and objectivity in my assessments.
Plastic windows, I think everyone can imagine it quite clearly, since at present this is the most common option. These windows are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Naturally, the composition also contains various stabilizers, pigments, etc. Many people think that this is not environmentally friendly. But I’m sure you won’t find a single chemist who thinks the same way. Because all these materials strictly comply with all sanitary and epidemiological standards, guest standards, specifications and others. However, I still don’t recommend eating or smoking plastic windows, but I think you weren’t going to do that anyway)

A small nuance. The windows are positioned as German, English, Austrian and God knows what. It doesn't matter. Everything pvc profiles are produced in Russia. There is, of course, the same Rehau Brilliant or Geneo, which many position as brought from Germany itself. I know only one company that brings Rehau Diamond from Germany, but their price will be about 25 thousand per square meter window. And I know many companies that deliberately mislead the client, simply deceiving. They can even make fake certificates.

There is nothing wrong, of course, that the profiles are made in Russia. But everyone positions their profile differently. And this often occurs with a loss in quality in order to reduce the cost. Therefore, the company that will implement your order must be chosen very carefully. I think my next post will be about this.

Everything is much more complicated with those windows that are made of wood.

They can be divided into several types: old Soviet (carpentry); new cheap ones (these are sometimes installed in new buildings); wooden euro windows; Swedish; Finnish.
Everyone has probably seen old Soviet windows and many still have them. They sometimes last for decades. They knew how to build back then! But everything comes to an end and they also need to be changed.
Sometimes, quite rarely, wooden windows with installed double glazing and modern fittings. The quality of the wood and processing is simply disgusting. I myself once lived in a new student dormitory with just such windows. A cold winter, then a hot summer - and the windows were incredibly warped. The gaps are so big that birds almost flew in. This option is even worse than the cheapest plastic windows from the developer.

Wooden Euro-windows. This is exactly what they mean when they ask: which windows are better - plastic or wooden.

According to the principle of operation and the sash with frame, such windows are similar to plastic ones. The double-glazed windows installed there are the same. They differ only in the profile material.

Such windows are made from three-layer laminated timber of various, usually valuable, types of wood. (Pine, larch, oak). Accurate technical characteristics, for example, you will not find sound insulation or heat transfer resistance. Each case is individual. But, approximately, according to these two indicators, these windows correspond to the middle class of plastic windows.

Everywhere they write that such windows “breathe” and are environmentally friendly. This clean water marketing. Nothing breathes there - it’s not just untreated solid wood, it’s three-layer laminated veneer lumber. Which is carefully treated with aseptics, fire protection, painted and so on. The environmental friendliness here is questionable, it’s like inserting a wooden beam inside a PVC profile.

These windows cost 3-4 times more than plastic ones.

It would seem then: why are they needed at all? But, for example, in Germany, where plastic windows were everywhere already in the 70s, they are being replaced by wooden Euro-windows. Here, of course, it is worth making an allowance that in Germany everything is in order with quality, but here they can deceive. It is not so easy to distinguish an ordinary Moscow pine from a Siberian larch. Although, perhaps, in 20 years, plastic windows will be perceived in our country as Soviet carpentry is now.

Well, for now, wooden windows are a matter of image. It's expensive, it's cool. It's like an insert in a dashboard in a Maybach made of Karelian birch. Otherwise, they are definitely no better than many plastic ones. At the same time, they require more careful care.
Well, now let's move on to the exotic) Swedish windows . Sweden is a country where people are clearly not fools natural conditions with a climate similar to ours. That’s why their windows are really cool) If we talk about regular Euro windows, then their design principle is approximately the same as that of PVC. Everything is clear here.

Swedish windows have a different design. There are two paired doors. The inner (the one in the room) sash is equipped with a single-chamber double-glazed window. And this flap is paired with another flap, which is 10 centimeters smaller than the inner one. And there is no longer a double-glazed window, but sheet glass. The outer sash itself is attached to the inner one and can be opened to, for example, wash the windows. Doesn't this design, by the way, resemble our joinery?)

It turns out that there is, as it were, a double frame: one for the inner sash and one for the outer one. This results in more connection points between the frame and the sash compared to classic design. This is, of course, good) Plus, there is a wide space between the outer and inner doors. It's really not airtight. And due to convection, it’s difficult to say for sure whether it’s good or bad that there will be a wide distance. But you can install blinds there)

There is also Finnish windows) They are almost the same as the Swedish ones, only the doors are not paired. That is, two separate doors. The rest is all the same.

In my opinion, the most significant difference between Swedish/Finnish windows and Euro/PVC windows is the wide frame. Due to this, the slopes freeze less. Another big plus is more sealing points for the frame and sash. If money allows, this is a very good option.

Well, and again about the price. Swedish/Finnish windows will cost 2 times more than wooden euro-windows. At the same time, in Russia there are still few people doing this. Therefore, you need to look in very large cities.

In general, a start has been made. I will add new posts regularly. And this is just a test of the pen. Happy repair everyone. And remember, windows are actually not that difficult. I would even say, Simple)