Which profile for plastic windows is better - an overview of parameters and manufacturers. Which profile for plastic windows is better? The best plastic windows in terms of quality

I am glad to welcome my readers!

I've installed a lot of windows in my career, but most of the time the quality wasn't very good.

The fact is that the main thing in a plastic window is the profile, but at first glance, all windows look the same. This is why I often encounter clients choosing a low-quality profile.

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

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

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

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

And about the production of window profiles itself. Most profile manufacturing plants have built their factories in Russia. I visited the KBE and VEKA factories - excellent factories, imported equipment, foreign specialists, imported raw materials, so where the profile comes from doesn’t make much difference (I think the situation is similar at other factories of European manufacturers).

True, as always, there is a “BUT”. This is a “BUT” profile system produced specifically for Russia, i.e. they don’t use it abroad - it’s only for us at “our request.” The advantage of this system is that it is cheap, the disadvantage is that to reduce the cost, the profile walls are made thinner, and therefore the thermal resistance is lower and the strength is lower.

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

I can write further which profile I personally prefer.

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

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

A few words about SALAMANDER (not in competition) – a good profile. The main advantage is made in Germany, the main disadvantage is that it is expensive. If it had been produced in Russia, it would have been among the average.

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

Better than others for:

• number of customer reviews,
• the number of defects in the supply of plastic profiles,
• seal,
• conducting seminars, trainings and educational courses for window manufacturers.
• Variety of profile systems.

Another advantage is that it sells the profile only to well-equipped enterprises producing plastic windows, which it regularly inspects and issues its certificate to these factories. Therefore, if you have chosen a plant that works with this profile, then the likelihood of getting into an unpleasant situation is less.

I give second place. This company sells its profile only to well-equipped plastic window production enterprises, which it regularly inspects and issues its certificate to these factories. Therefore, if you have chosen a plant that works with this profile, then the likelihood of getting into an unpleasant situation is less.

Well-deserved 3rd place.

Flaws:

• There are failures in the supply of profiles, defective profiles are more common than with REHAU and VEKA
• Sells the profile to any plastic window factories.

THYSSEN, LG, DIMEX

MOTNTBLANK, PROPLESS, BRUSBOX

They share the last place in the number of positive reviews from people who installed windows, but are very well suited for glazing balconies and loggias, as well as domestic premises. The advantage is low price.

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

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

Which plastic window profile is better to choose? Selection tips and manufacturer ratings

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

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

Profile for PVC windows: characteristics and types

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

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

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

1. Class A profiles – have outer walls with a thickness of 2.8 mm and inner walls with a thickness of 2.5 mm; they provide the best thermal insulation and are considered the optimal choice.
2. Class B profiles – have outer walls with a thickness of 2.5 mm, internal walls with a thickness of 2.0 mm; such windows are not only “cooler”, but also 15% less resistant to deformation.
3. Class C profiles - all others that do not meet standards A and B, there are no strict requirements for them.

Note!

There is a so-called “object” profile, which is intended for installation in non-residential industrial premises. It cannot be used in houses and apartments - due to its thin walls it does not retain heat and is not resistant to deformation.

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

Choosing the best profile for plastic windows

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

Profile uniformity

The plastic must be uniform and absolutely smooth. The grainy surface indicates that the windows were most likely made at home and are fake. The coating should also be uniform, without streaks or gradients.

By the way. To avoid buying a fake at the price of branded windows, pay attention to the factory markings on the inside of the window frame. It should have a stamp with the name of the manufacturer and a series of numbers: shift number, device for producing PVC profiles and date of manufacture.

Profile width

Most often, companies offer a plastic profile for windows with a width of 58 mm - this is a classic option, preferable for residential premises. There is also a profile with a width of 70 mm; this is often installed in high-rise buildings or where the climate is particularly harsh. The 90 mm wide profile is a premium offering and features excellent heat and sound insulation properties. However, not all companies work with such products.

Profile thickness

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

Number of air chambers

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

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

Number of double glazed windows

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

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

For a home, cottage, office or apartment, it is better to choose a double-glazed unit consisting of three sheets of glass and two air chambers. Three-chamber double-glazed windows made of four sheets of glass are rare, they are heavy and transmit less light than other types of double-glazed windows.

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

Helpful advice!

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

Rating of window profiles: comparison of products from key manufacturers

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

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

Editorial opinion

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

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

Which profile of plastic windows is better?

What is a quality profile?

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

Certificates

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

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

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

The width of the profile is one of its main characteristics. Many window manufacturers promise a couple of extra millimeters to the profile width in their advertising campaigns, but is there really any benefit from them?

The most common offers on the market are:

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

The width of 58 mm is due to the “classics of the genre” - wooden frames, which were replaced by plastic windows. Today, the EUROLINE 58 mm profile allows us to produce modern warm windows that meet the requirements of most buyers in different climatic zones. When manufactured and installed correctly, this is the best profile for windows in any room.

The 70 mm wide profile is a proposal that appeared in the 80s of the last century. Having higher heat-saving and sound-insulating characteristics, this profile is especially loved by Russian consumers. In the product group of VEKA profiles with a width of 70 mm, there are SOFTLINE, SWINGLINE and PROLINE.

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

Note!

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

Now another new product has appeared on the market - the SOFTLINE 82 profile. An innovative multi-chamber system, elegant style and the ability to choose from more than 40 modifications guarantee satisfaction of the needs of the most demanding client. The SOFTLINE 82 system provides the best insulating properties, is fully compatible with 70 mm profiles and can be installed in any home.

Number of cameras

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

Three and six chamber profile systems

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

Full package

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

“Triple” windows are warmer. However, they weigh more and require high-quality installation and stable construction. Single-glazed windows are the coldest. It can be used for glazing unheated balconies, as well as summer houses. Double-glazed windows have optimal technical characteristics and allow you to maintain indoor comfort all year round.

Profile class

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

Helpful advice!

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

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

conclusions

To summarize the discussion on the topic of choosing a profile for a metal-plastic window, we emphasize:

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

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

The profile for PVC windows is the main element. It affects the functionality, reliability, and durability of the structure. Despite the same appearance, the profiles are endowed with different properties, which must be chosen very carefully.

What types of designs are there?

Currently, there are a large number of companies producing a variety of products. They can differ significantly from each other even from the same manufacturer, not counting competitive products. What's the difference and is it worth paying more?

There are a variety of products, a comparison of which will help the buyer make the right choice. They are the structural basis; frames and sashes are made from them. Different materials can be used: wood, metal-plastic, aluminum, polyvinyl chloride. The latter is the most popular: it is equipped with special steel inserts that make the product more durable and rigid. Air cavities help achieve good heat and sound insulation. Some manufacturers fill these cavities with nitrogen, so the windows do not fog up due to temperature changes. PVC profiles for windows must comply with Russian GOST 30673-99 or European EN 12608 SR.

PVC window profiles from all manufacturers are divided into the following categories:

• Class A: characterized by an outer wall size of 2.8 mm. The inside thickness does not exceed 2.5 mm. This window provides good protection from weather conditions and perfectly retains heat inside the room.
• Class B: characterized by thinner walls: external - 2.5 mm, internal - 2 mm. This sample copes worse with thermal insulation, but is suitable for use in warm climates or for glazing balcony rooms. It is worth considering that the risk of structural deformation increases by 15%.
• Class C: products that do not meet Russian and import standards. Since there is no certification, there are no strict requirements for it, and manufacturers can choose the thickness at their discretion. As a rule, such windows are cheap, but their quality suffers.

On sale you can find an objective PVC profile. It is used for glazing non-residential technical premises and commercial halls, since it is not capable of retaining heat efficiently, and there is a high probability of deformation. Externally, it differs little from the standard one. You need to pay attention to the presence of the Object designation: unscrupulous traders sell such products for homes.

How to choose a suitable profile?

PVC window profiles have different characteristics, a comparison of which will help you make the right choice. You should not rely on the external characteristics of the products offered. Attention should be paid to the following properties:

• Uniformity of the material. Choose products whose plastic is free from flaws. It should be smooth, pleasant to the touch, homogeneous. If you notice that the surface is coarse-grained, most likely you are dealing with a fake made in violation of technology.
• The coating must be complete, without streaks or traces of paint.

High-quality windows always have factory markings. You should look for it on the inside of the package. Firms put their stamps with their name; numbers may also be present: they indicate the number of the shift that released the batch. The numbers indicate the number of the device used to produce the window and the date of release of the product. Counterfeits either do not have such numbers, or the designations are the same.

• Width. PVC window profiles often have a standard parameter of 58 mm. This window is quite suitable for living rooms and is most often sold in stores. If desired, you can order a thicker version, the width of which will be 70 or 90 mm. The first option is relevant on the upper floors of high-rise buildings, as it can withstand heavy loads and can effectively withstand strong winds. It is also important to use it in cold climates. The second option is considered premium, it has a high ability to insulate sound and heat, has high strength, but the weight of such a product is much higher; it is not recommended to install it everywhere.

If you decide to install a 90 mm PVC window profile, you should not order a window that is too large. Its sash will have a lot of weight and will begin to sag. It is better to take two small ones or make a design with two doors that are independent of each other.

• Thickness. Can vary from 2.5 to 3 mm. However, it is not worth installing such a structure in heavy window blocks. A heavy load may question its reliability.

• Number of air chambers. The profile, whose thickness is 58 mm, has two chambers, less often equipped with three. This is quite enough for good thermal insulation. More chambers are available for the thicker profile, which measures 70 mm. It can have up to 5 cameras. Such profiles are most often used as glazing in apartments of high-rise buildings. If necessary, a 90mm product can be ordered and can have up to 6 chambers. The level of soundproofing and warmth inside the room depend on their number. However, it is worth remembering that the number of glasses and profile dimensions increase the weight of the structure, and the difference between the 3 and 4-chamber package is not very noticeable.
• Number of double-glazed windows. Different brands of plastic windows offer products with different quantities of these elements. They should not be confused with air chambers. A double-glazed window is glass combined with a frame and sealant. Between them there are air chambers; they can be filled with gas. A single-chamber double-glazed window is considered the lightest, since it includes a pair of glasses. Most often, such products are used for finishing terraces, balconies, loggias, since their mass is minimal, but such a window does not insulate heat well. For an apartment or private house, it is better to use a thicker version, which has three sheets of glass and two air chambers.

When choosing a double-glazed window, you should also be aware of this feature of the product: the more glass, the worse the light will pass through. In the server regions of the country, four-chamber products are installed; there is no need to install them in warmer climates, this will only be an extra overpayment. If the frost does not exceed -40 degrees, the difference between this product and the three-chamber one will not be noticeable.

When choosing plastic windows, you must first of all pay attention to the quality of the product, and also make a purchase based on the purpose of the profile and the climatic conditions in which you live. It is worth remembering that too cheap material cannot be of high quality.

The loud slogans of numerous sellers of plastic windows confuse any buyer. Each manufacturer presents its products as the best. Is it really? The answer to this question is known to those who are familiar with the criteria for window profiles from.

The ability to notice the first signs of counterfeits is a guarantee of not becoming a prey for scammers.

They have entered the construction industry very firmly. Very soon, wooden windows will become a curiosity that you will rarely see anywhere. And there are explanations for this.

Advantages of plastic

Firstly, plastic is a cheaper material than wood, secondly, it is easy to use, and thirdly, such windows are very easy to repair.

Replacing any part of a window: sash, glass, opening mechanism takes a couple of minutes, and therefore is inexpensive.

Technical characteristics of PVC windows

They are determined by the type of its profile, of which there are quite a lot. The facade of the windows may be exactly the same, but the functionality and quality are different, due to the structural profiles. Then, if there is a strong intention to purchase plastic windows, then which profile is better to choose?

Brands

A company with a well-known name cannot afford absolutely disgusting products. Most likely, these will be one-day companies.

Therefore, give preference to products from manufacturers who have experience and have collected a list of positive reviews. In addition, the risk of stumbling upon a low-quality product when choosing windows from a large factory is much less. Small firms are unlikely to purchase expensive productive and technological equipment.

REHAU windows

A very well-known manufacturer of plastic windows. Well-deserved reviews, minimum defects, constant training and improvement of our employees, innovative development of manufactured designs. They cooperate with enterprises only if the latter have good equipment.

Interesting! REHAU certified production facilities are constantly inspected. Therefore, the risk of buying a low-quality product from the hands of a company partner is very small.

VEKA

Also a representative of the German ones, loved all over the world. They produce white and colored profiles that are capable of not losing color during prolonged exposure to sunlight.

The seal is made of natural rubber and can withstand very low temperatures. Models are sold from 58 -90 mm thick. In the price category, VEKA and Rehau are approximately the same.

KBE

It ranks third in our ranking after the first two companies. There are minor drawbacks: the number of defects is slightly higher compared to previous giants, there may be delays in deliveries, they do not arrange checks for their partners.

However, the products of this company are considered environmentally friendly and are recommended for installation in kindergartens and hospitals. The service life of such windows is around 50 years. There are offers in both luxury and economy classes. The profile is available in widths from 58 to 70 mm.

Trocal

The company is one of the pioneers in the production of PVC profiles. They offer a huge range of decorative options.

MOTNTBLANK, PROPLESS, BRUSBOX

These companies are still gaining their reputation. There are already reviews of their products on the Internet.

You can even choose a forum and ask the owners of such windows your questions. The main advantage here is the affordable price.