Overview of window profiles. Which profile is better to choose for windows? KBE Etalon - three-chamber profile

A window profile is a frame that holds a glass unit. Different types of window profiles differ in the material of manufacture and internal structure. Let us consider in detail the differences and advantages of profile structures, their quality, cost and performance characteristics.

What types of windows are there?

Modern window profiles for double-glazed windows are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), wood or metal (aluminum profile). Each of the above materials has its own advantages, which determine its popularity and cost.

Wooden window profile

Wooden frames represent the most expensive, prestigious design of a window opening. Natural wood requires long-term drying, thorough impregnation with an antiseptic and protection from moisture. Therefore, the cost of a wooden window is an order of magnitude higher than a plastic profile. If the wood is not dried enough or treated incorrectly, expensive windows can collapse within a year of their installation.

The look of natural wood creates a prestigious design and attractive aesthetics. With proper preparation, wood is quite durable and reliable. The best wood for making window profiles is oak, larch; alder and pine wood are more accessible.

Let's summarize the advantages of wooden profiles:

• aesthetics and prestige;
• natural environmentally friendly material;
• good heat capacity.

Flaws:

• Possibility of warping, swelling, cracking and other types of damage;
• Expensive;
• High professionalism of the master manufacturer is required.

An option for using wood for double glazed windows is wood-aluminum profile. In it, the wooden material is covered on the outside with metal plates. From the inside, on the living side, the frame shows natural wood; on the outside, the frame is protected from moisture by metal.

Aluminum profile

Aluminum window profiles are made with a small number of chambers (two or three). Metal itself is an insufficient heat insulator, which is why metal windows are cold. They are mainly used for glazing large retail areas, airports, but also balconies and loggias. "Warm" metal windows are equipped with a thermal liner, which increases the heat capacity of the profile structure. The cost of such windows is significantly higher than “cold” ones.

A metal window is characterized by the following advantages:

• strength;
• low flammability;
• durability.

Flaws:

• low heat capacity (for “cold” profiles);
• high cost (applies to “warm” structures).

Two main types of aluminum alloy profiles are in demand in various buildings. “Cold” aluminum profile is used where an inexpensive frame is needed, good strength, without special requirements for heat conservation. The “warm” expensive profile is installed in heated rooms for durable operation in cold winter conditions.

PVC profile

PVC profile is called a plastic window. Its characteristics:

• high thermal insulation;
• moisture resistance;
• various designs (thanks to gluing laminated film).

Thermal insulation properties are ensured by the presence of hollow chambers inside. Due to the resistance of plastic to atmospheric precipitation, it does not absorb moisture, does not swell, does not rot or crack.

PVC has some disadvantages:

• flammability (characteristic of most plastics);
• The more cameras, the greater the weight of the structure, the higher the requirements for window installation.

Due to its affordable cost, PVC profiles have become the most popular material for the manufacture of double-glazed windows. Dozens of different manufacturers produce PVC. Their profiles differ in the number of chambers and the thickness of the plastic wall. Let's consider what characteristics are used to evaluate PVC profiles.

Characteristics of PVC window profile

Popular manufacturers of window profiles

1. REHAU is a German manufacturer and has its own production in Russia. It supplies the Russian market with six models of profiles: 3-6 chambers, the width of a standard double-glazed window is 32–40 mm; in wide double-glazed windows (86 mm), special glass is installed and fiber is used. The heat transfer resistance coefficient is from 0.64 to 1.05 (for fiberglass profiles). The manufacturer regulates that a coefficient of 0.95 corresponds to the heat capacity of a brick wall one meter thick.
2. KBE is a German manufacturer with two subsidiaries in Russia. It produces 8 models of profiles with different characteristics: 3-6 chambers, glass unit thickness from 32 to 52 mm. The heat transfer coefficient of the KBE profile is 0.7 – 1.04.
3. VEKA is a Russian-German manufacturer, VEKA Rus is a subsidiary of VEKA AG. It produces standard blocks and non-standard design structures for window openings and balconies in accordance with the European RAL standard. The main models produced: Softline (for double-glazed windows from 4 to 42 mm, five chambers, heat transfer resistance coefficient 0.75), Softline 82 (glazing unit width 24-52 mm, seven chambers, coefficient 1.0), Euroline (three chambers, double-glazed window 32 mm, coefficient 0.64), Proline (four chambers, 4-42 mm, coefficient 0.75), Swingline (6-42 mm, five chambers, coefficient 0.77), Alphaline (elite 6-chamber profile with high coefficient 1.04).

   

4. MONTBLANC is a German manufacturer that supplies four types of profiles from 3 to 6 chambers (eco, thermo, nord and grand) to Russia. The width of the double-glazed windows is 32, 42 and 52 mm. Heat transfer resistance ranges from 0.6 to 0.82 mm. Frame thickness from 60 to 80 mm. Six air chambers fit into a width of 80 mm. High heat-saving functions make the profile popular in Russia.
5. SALAMANDER (also Germany) - produces profiles of 3, 5 and 6 chambers with frame thicknesses from 60 to 92 mm. Dimensions of mounted double-glazed windows: 32 mm, 48 and 60 mm. The widest Salamander BluEvolution profile has a heat transfer resistance of 1.0. The manufacturer regulates high burglary resistance of windows(thanks to a closed reinforcement system).
6. Schuco is a German manufacturer that produces 3-7 chamber PVC profiles for standard and energy-efficient construction. The maximum heat transfer resistance coefficient is 0.94. Double-glazed windows up to 36 mm thick. In wide frames with a thickness of 82 mm, it is possible to install anti-burglary fittings. Schuco also produces warm aluminum profiles with a number of chambers from 3 to 7, steel profiles for cold glazing.
7. TROCAL is a German manufacturer, the founder of the industry, which introduced the first plastic window to the construction market (in 1954). Has been producing window profiles for almost 60 years. The width of the double-glazed windows is from 30 to 58 mm. Four to five chamber profile, 70 and 88 mm installation width. The heat transfer coefficient is 0.82. Lead-free technology allows you to install the profile in child care institutions (kindergartens and schools).

http://site/idei-dlya-dizayna/variantyi/frantsuzskiy-balkon-chto-eto.html

And finally: accessories

Fittings are a set of metal parts that provide a movable connection of various elements in the overall structure of the window. The durability of the window product depends on the quality of the fittings.. It is important to know that famous brand manufacturers have cheap lines of lower quality fittings for Eastern European countries.

Types of window fittings:

• Tilt and turn (for opening the window and tilting the transom).
• The lock and handle are a multifunctional design that locks the frame in any position using an internal axis.
• Parallel-sliding (for retractable sashes).
• Tilt-and-slide.
• Vertical sliding.

In addition to fittings, the design of double-glazed windows uses. They provide the necessary insulation from noise and cold.

The selection of a window profile, its main characteristics and fittings is carried out in accordance with the required thermal capacity of the window and the price level for its manufacture. The quality of the profile and fittings determines the appearance of the double-glazed window and its performance characteristics: thermal insulation, sound absorption, strength and durability.

Anton Tsugunov

Reading time: 12 minutes

When purchasing plastic windows, we count on their long and trouble-free operation. I would like to avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of warped frames or cracks in them after several months or years. A properly selected profile for plastic windows is the key to the strength and durability of the entire structure. What types of profiles exist, how to choose the right one and what to pay attention to?

Types of profiles for plastic windows

GOST 30673-99 specifies the classification of a profile according to its design features.

By class (by wall thickness)

Based on the thickness of the external and internal walls, profiles are divided into the following classes:

• A – the thickness of the outer walls is from 2.8 mm, the inner walls are from 2.5. The best indicators of strength and thermal insulation among all types.
• B – external walls from 2.5, internal walls from 2.0. Compared to class A, they retain heat worse and are more susceptible to deformation.
• C – all profiles that do not fit the parameters of classes A and B. There are no strict requirements for them. It is not advisable to use this type for window frames in apartments.

In non-residential industrial premises, frames from the so-called object profile are often installed. It is thin, does not retain heat well, is easily deformed and therefore is not suitable for an apartment. It happens that unscrupulous companies offer cheap windows made of such material. The “objekt” marking on the protective film will help you recognize deception. Based on other signs, it is problematic to identify a fake at first glance.

Width

The profile has different widths:

• 58 mm is the most common, most often installed in apartments and houses.
• 70 mm – profile width for windows in high-rise buildings or buildings located in cold climate zones.
• 90 mm – premium class with the best sound insulation and insulation characteristics. Piece products, which are not in the assortment of most companies that install plastic windows.

By number of cameras

The number of air chambers in it depends on the thickness of the profile:

• The 58mm has a maximum of three cameras.
• In a product 70 mm thick there can be from three to five.
• With a width of 90 mm, the norm is six chambers.

The more internal chambers, the higher the thermal insulation and noise reduction rates. But in reality, the difference between frames, for example, with a 3- or 4-chamber profile is insignificant.

The corporate profile is uniform in structure and color. To ensure its authenticity, look for the manufacturer's markings on the inside. In addition to the company name, there should be numbers indicating the shift number, date of manufacture and other data related to production.

A few words about double-glazed windows

An important aspect is the number of chambers between the glasses in a double-glazed window. They should not be confused with profile cameras.

• For glazing of unheated rooms (balconies, summer terraces) single-chamber double-glazed windows are used.
• For living rooms, a double package is optimal - three glasses separated by two air chambers.
• In cold winter conditions, three-chamber structures are used. They have the best thermal insulation performance, but transmit less sunlight and weigh more. It makes sense to install such windows in the northern regions.

Read about all the intricacies of choosing the elements of a plastic window - profiles, double-glazed windows, seals, fittings.

In Russian climatic conditions, where there are significant temperature differences between summer and winter, only reinforced frames are used.

Structurally, the reinforcing profile is a contour made of galvanized stainless steel. There are two types of circuits available:

• Closed, or O-shaped.
• Open, U- or G-shaped.

There are several important points to note:

• Manufacturers sometimes refer to O-shaped reinforcement as “warm” reinforcement. However, this is not true: the thermal conductivity of metal is higher than that of plastic. Therefore, the more there is in the frame, the worse it will retain heat.
• O-shaped reinforcement is called closed, but to compensate for temperature changes in the dimensions of the metal, a technological break is necessarily made in the circuit.
• A frame with a closed contour is stronger, while a frame with an open contour is lighter and warmer.

According to GOST, the wall thickness of the reinforcing profile must be at least 1.2 mm for standard systems and at least 1.5 mm for colored and frost-resistant structures (painted plastic heats up more).

Connecting profile

Designed for joining individual frames that make up a single glazing structure, which are attached at a certain angle. It is needed if you need to glaze a complex broken structure with large windows: a winter garden, a loggia or a partition.

Depending on the required location of the elements to be connected, there are different types of connecting profiles:

• With connection angle 0˚.
• With docking at right angles – 90˚.
• With variable rotation angle, or simply rotary.
• Companies that produce connecting elements unify them with the products of well-known companies (KBE, Rehau, Veka), so choosing the right profile for the frame is not difficult.

Additional (expansion) profile

It is used to increase the size of the window frame when the thickness of its plastic part is not enough, taking into account the insulation or finishing of the walls or ceiling. Most often, this element is used for glazing balconies and loggias.

Important! It is strictly not recommended to use an expansion profile only to adjust the frame to the size of the window opening. No matter how competently the additional element is selected and installed, such a design will still be inferior to a monolithic frame in terms of thermal conductivity and strength.

Additional profiles are produced with a width of 2 to 10 cm. The grooves in them are arranged in such a way that to obtain the desired height, parts can be combined: simply insert one into the other. For example, to expand the frame by 8 cm, two extensions 4 cm thick are used. The standard length of the element is 6 meters.

For an insulated balcony, an extension is selected that is identical in quality to the main frame, including with the same reinforcement. Without it, the window block will not have the necessary rigidity.

Stand (installation) profile

A detail that is often overlooked when installing plastic windows. If a replacement profile is included in the delivery, it is usually already attached to the frame. Its functions:

• Protects the frame from damage during transportation.
• Strengthens the structure and prevents it from freezing in the lower part, where the window block adjoins the wall.
• Provides reliable fastening of the window sill and ebb.

Dimensions of the stand element:

• Standard length is 6 meters.
• Width – from 2 to 4 cm.
• Height – from 2 to 3 cm.

Read more about choosing and installing a stand profile.

Starting profile for slopes of plastic windows

Needed for attaching to the base and joining them together. This is a kind of plastic bracket mounted at attachment points.

The variety of their types is due to the methods of installing the panels. The types of starting profiles got their names from the Latin letters that their sections resemble:

• I-variety. Installed in any position so that the long central shelf is perpendicular to the surface on which the slope is mounted. Plastic panels are attached to a short profile shelf.
• The F-variety has two short shelves and one long one. It serves not only for fastening slope panels, but also covers the joint. With it there is no need for a decorative corner.

• L-profile is the most versatile and popular. Installed perpendicular to the plane of the window, with a wide shelf against the wall. The narrow transverse part is adjacent to the window frame, and a strip parallel to the opening masks the junction of the frame and the slope.

• The P-variety is very similar to the previous one, but has two wide shelves, which allows the element to cover a wider seam.

These starting elements are attached with screws or glue. With their help, it is easy to install plastic slopes without the complex procedure of leveling the window opening with plaster.

Color profile

Many people don’t like the usual white plastic windows precisely because of their uniform design. However, there has long been a way out of this situation: windows made of colored plastic. Technologies make it possible to obtain a profile of any color, but shades of brown are the most successful: this is how different types of wood are imitated.

Products of the desired color are obtained in several ways:

• Lamination in bulk - color is added at the manufacturing stage, and a protective film is applied to the surface of the element to protect it from sunlight. The cost of such a window is from 14 to 21 thousand rubles.

• Film lamination - the white profile is covered with a multi-layer durable film that imitates expensive wood species. The film can also be applied to the ends of frames, as well as to fittings, such as hinges. It costs less than the previous option: from 9 to 17 thousand rubles. out the window.

• Painting with acrylic paints. The most budgetary method: from 7 to 18 thousand rubles.

• Application of colored plexiglass melt using an extruder. From 15 to 20 thousand rubles.

Manufacturers of profiles for PVC windows: rating

The variety of window profiles makes choosing difficult. On the one hand, I want the quality guarantee that well-known manufacturers provide. On the other hand, it is undesirable to overpay for brand popularity.

All brands, with the exception of Salamander, are manufactured in Russia according to Western standards and using imported equipment. Therefore, the quality of products of the same brand produced at different factories may differ slightly in quality.

• Veka. A German company, profile systems are produced at factories in the Moscow region, Novosibirsk and Khabarovsk. There is an ISO 9001 certificate, the products are awarded the German RAL quality mark. The buyer can choose from 6 types of profiles with 3, 4, 5 and 6 chambers with a width of 58–90 mm.

• Rehau. A company from Germany has been producing profiles in Russia since 2002 at a certified plant in Gzhel. The leader in the number of products produced per year, it offers 7 models with 3, 5 and 6 chambers and mounting widths of 60, 70 and 86 mm.

• KBE. A German company with factories in Voskresensk and Khabarovsk. 7 modifications of profile systems, there are 3-, 4-, 5- and 6-chamber options, width – 58, 70, 88 and 127 mm. With the same level of quality, KBE frames will cost about a quarter less than Veka and Rehau products. The manufacturer issues an Official Partner Certificate to the best window assembly companies.

• MONTBLANC. The manufacturer is an international company with 4 factories in the CIS. Produces 7 models from 58 to 120 mm wide with 3, 4, 5 and 6 chambers.

• Salamander. The entire profile is produced only in Germany, so it costs more than competitors with Russian factories. It has an attractive design; there are 3 types of profile systems with a width of 60 and 76 mm.

• Grain. Domestic manufacturer with a plant in Ufa. The line includes 6 types of profiles with a width of 58 and 70 mm with 3 and 5 chambers. The most famous models are Vector70 and Vector58.
• Expr. A large Russian company that produces profiles adapted to the conditions of Siberia using German and Austrian equipment. Offers 9 types of profile systems: 2-chamber for balconies and 4-, 5- and 6-chamber with widths of 70, 101 and 118 mm. 4 types have a built-in ventilation system.
• Proplex. Russian company with a full production cycle from profile manufacturing to final assembly. The structures were designed jointly with Austrian developers. The line includes 6 models with 3, 4 and 5 cameras with a width of 58–127 mm.
• Deceuninck. A Belgian concern with a factory in the Moscow region produces 5 types of profiles, 3-, 5- and 6-chamber, 60–84 mm wide.
• Kaleva. Moscow profile manufacturer and window assembler rolled into one. Offers 2 classic models and 3 designer ones with the same mounting width of 70 mm and 4–6 chambers.
• Wintech. A Turkish company that makes profiles and accessories for them using German equipment has a certificate of conformity. The line includes 6 models with a width of 50–80 mm and a number of cameras from 3 to 6.

When choosing, beware of fakes and purchase only from trusted sellers. A high-quality profile is the key to the reliability of a plastic window.

Currently, the market for windows made on a PVC basis offers a wide range of different products. In order to attract buyers, companies are developing new types of double-glazed windows, and also use various types of profiles from which plastic windows are made.

In this regard, the consumer has reasonable questions: which window profile to choose and what will serve as the criteria for its selection?

When choosing a profile used in the manufacture of plastic windows, you must be guided by the following criteria that determine the purpose of the window and its operating conditions:

1. The ability to provide the required level of heat and sound insulation of the room where it is planned to install a window of this design.
2. The quality of the material used.
3. Profile class.
4. Possibility of installing double-glazed windows of various designs.
5. Geometric dimensions of the profile (width and height).
6. Availability of reinforcement.
7. Possibility of installing additional elements.
8. Conditions of use and maintenance.
9. Manufacturer's brand and its reliability.
10. Price.

In practice, a PVC profile is used, which has a different number of chambers in its design, which ensure the ability of this structural element to retain heat indoors and maintain the required level of sound insulation.

Structurally, this is expressed in the division of the internal space into several air chambers through the installation of partitions. There can be from three to eight such chambers (air cavities), of which the most popular among household consumers are three and five chamber ones.

By class, PVC profiles are classified as:

• Class “A” – wall thickness from 3.0 mm.
• Class “B” – wall thickness from 2.5 to 3.0 mm.
• Class “C” - wall thickness is not standardized.

Window profile materials

In the manufacture of windows, various types of profiles can be used, both in terms of its design and the material from which it is made.

It could be:

• Tree.

This is a natural and environmentally friendly material that has always been widely used in the manufacture of windows.

Currently, due to the advent of new technologies and the high cost of natural raw materials, it is used less widely.

Coniferous trees are used in the manufacture of cheaper structures, but, nevertheless, they are still more expensive than products made from various types of plastic and some types of composites.

• Aluminum.

Pure aluminum is not a very good material in terms of its use for the manufacture of window blocks. The reason for this is its high thermal conductivity and low elasticity.

In this regard, aluminum faucets are rarely used in their pure form for these structural elements, but in combination with polyvinyl chloride materials they are an excellent component of such products.

• Fiber composites.

Fiber composites are fiberglass made from a reinforced profile and a fiberglass composite.

This material has good thermal insulation properties and strength indicators that exceed those of wood and metal, respectively.

The disadvantage that determines its rather narrow distribution is that under the influence of the external environment (precipitation, sunlight, etc.), this material delaminates.

When using a composite made from carbon fiber, this disadvantage is absent, but in this case the product is very expensive.

• Metal-plastic.

The use of aluminum, which serves as a frame in the manufacture of window profiles and plastic, made it possible to create a wonderful tandem of materials, which made it possible to combine their advantages and create a durable product with good thermal insulation properties.

Metal-plastic profiles are currently widely used in the manufacture of window blocks of various designs.

Selection of accessories

The choice of fittings is an important point when manufacturing and equipping a window, no matter how strange it may seem at first glance. In order to make the right choice, you must:

• Familiarize yourself with the types and purposes of fittings.
• Choose the most reliable manufacturer that produces high-quality products (based on user reviews).
• Determine the needs of various types of fittings and their technical characteristics.
• Determine the relationship between price and service life of the products.

The configuration and type of fittings for each specific window is individual, which is determined by its design and the method of opening the sashes (right or left, sliding or hinged type, blind or tilt-and-turn design, etc.).

The standard package of a window made from PVC profile includes the following elements:

• Window hinges (bottom and top).
• Compensator.
• Protective mechanism (fuse) against slamming.
• Devices for lifting window sash.
• Retainers.
• Brackets.
• Tilt-and-turn mechanism.

In addition to the products listed above, the kit may include window sash rotation limiters, slot ventilators, mosquito nets and locks that ensure the window is closed from the inside.

In the manufacture of fittings, various metals and their alloys are used, which characterizes their strength and reliability. On the outside, the fittings are coated with anti-corrosion paints and varnishes.

The criteria for choosing accessories are:

• Wear resistance.
• Resistance to external influences.
• Availability of warranty period and certificate of conformity.
• Appearance (aesthetics) and ease of use.

Choosing a plastic window manufacturer

When the user is faced with a question related to the choice of plastic windows, in addition to the technical components that determine the characteristics of the window (the type of profile and the material from which it is made, the type of double-glazed window, the availability and quality of seals and fittings), an organizational component also appears - which manufacturer’s windows to choose.

A large number of large and small companies of various forms of ownership operate on the domestic market for such products. However, the main manufacturers of metal-plastic profiles are only a few companies, whose products have their own inherent advantages and disadvantages; below are the most popular of them.

KBE (Kunststoffproduktion für Bau und Elektrotechnik), Germany

The KBE company operates in different countries and on different continents. In Russia, this company has representative offices in many regions; the production of metal-plastic profiles is located in the Moscow region. The representative of the company in Russia is ZAO Profine RUS (Moscow).

The advantages of KVE products are:

• High rates of heat and sound insulation.
• Wide operating temperature range.
• Availability of a ventilation system that ensures that glass units do not fog up.

The disadvantages include:

• High price.
• White plastic may turn yellow when exposed to sunlight.

Rehau, Germany

The Rehau company operates in various industries and in different countries around the world. One of the areas of activity is the production of translucent structures, including metal-plastic profiles.

The company's central office for Eastern Europe is located in Moscow, and representative offices are in the cities of St. Petersburg, Voronezh, Nizhny Novgorod, Samara, Yekaterinburg, Rostov-on-Don, Novosibirsk, Krasnodar, Irkutsk, Khabarovsk and Simferopol.

The advantages of Rehau products are:

• Strength.
• Large range of different profile types.
• Good performance in terms of heat and sound insulation.
• Frost resistance of products.

• High price.
• Limited height of sashes on manufactured products.

"PROPLEX", Russia

"PROPLEX" is one of the first domestic enterprises that began working in the market of metal-plastic windows through the full cycle of their production.

The advantages of products manufactured at this enterprise are:

• Relatively low cost.
• Long service life.
• They are adapted to operating conditions in Russia.

The disadvantages are:

• There is no international quality certificate.

VEKA AG, Germany

In Russia, the German company is represented by its branch, the subsidiary VEKA Rus, whose head office and production are located in Moscow. In addition, the company has representative offices in a number of regions of our country.

The advantages of VEKA products are:

• Wide selection of models.
• High technical performance (heat and sound insulation).
• Durability.
• The use of special rubber-based seals that are not afraid of low ambient temperatures.

The main disadvantage is the high cost.

Montblanc, Russia

The Mont Blanc company has been successfully operating in the PVC products market since 2000. The head office is located in Moscow, and factories are in Elektrostal, Moscow Region, and Krasnoyarsk.

The advantages of the products manufactured by this company are:

• Low cost.
• Adaptation of products to operating conditions in our country.
• Well executed design.
• Large selection of models.
• Strength and durability of products.

The disadvantages are:

• Lack of international quality certificate.
• Low quality of fittings used.
• Possibility of odor from the type of sealant used.

Which profiles are most often chosen?

The type of profile chosen depends on the purpose of the window and its operating conditions. In addition, another important factor influencing the choice is the service life and cost of the product.

When choosing, there are always personal preferences for a particular brand, as well as the presence of representative offices of the manufacturer in the region of residence of the potential buyer. In the regions of our country, the products of various companies are popular, which is characterized by the presence of a similar type of production and competition between manufacturers.

For installation in residential buildings, the greatest demand is for 3- and 5-chamber metal-plastic profiles with a width of 58.0 and 70.0 mm, respectively. For northern regions, 6 and 8 chamber profiles with a width of 90.0 mm are recommended.

It is not recommended to install in residential buildings plastic windows made from a profile intended for industrial buildings and facilities, for which there should be appropriate markings on its surface (OBJECT, object, engine, Tender, etc.).

In addition to the fact that when choosing a window you need to be careful and thoroughly familiarize yourself with the type and design of the profile, glass unit and fittings, you also need to take care of the high-quality installation of the purchased product. Incorrect installation can negate all the advantages of a window made from a metal-plastic profile.

Reading time: 7 minutes.

The profile is the basis for the manufacture of window frames and sashes. The appearance, durability and reliability of the entire window structure depend on its quality.

Classification by materials

Wood, aluminum, and PVC are used to produce modern window blocks. Each type of material has its own advantages and disadvantages, features and limitations in use.

Tree

The best and most expensive types of wood for the production of window profiles are oak and larch; alder and pine are also used. The high cost of wooden structures is associated not only with the use of natural wood, but also with the peculiarities of the technological process. The material for window profiles needs careful processing (drying, impregnation with antiseptics, painting, varnishing), and in the manufacture of the product, high precision and skill play a key role.

Advantages of wooden windows:

• environmental friendliness;
• good heat-shielding properties;
• maintaining natural air exchange between indoors and outdoors;
• aesthetic natural appearance.

Flaws:

• the possibility of warping and swelling if the production and installation technology is violated;
• low fire resistance;
• high price.

Aluminum

Since metal is not capable of retaining heat, aluminum profiles are mainly used for utility rooms when there is no possibility or need to install warm glazing.

Exist . A special thermal liner is placed in the profile, which provides high thermal insulation properties of such window structures.

The advantages of aluminum profiles include:

• strength and durability;
• ease;
• resistance to external influences;
• fire resistance.

Minuses:

• low heat-protective properties of the “cold” profile;
• high price of the “warm” option.

Polyvinyl chloride

PVC profiles have become the most widespread for the production of modern windows, due to their low cost compared to wood and aluminum and excellent thermal insulation and performance properties. The main competitive advantages of PVC:

• high level of thermal insulation;
• ease of manufacturing and installation of finished products;
• high resistance to the influence of precipitation and chemical reagents;
• the ability to produce products of various designs and shapes;
• affordable price.

Main disadvantage– flammability, like all plastics. All other user complaints in most cases are related to the choice of low-quality products or installation errors.

Characteristics of PVC profile

The lion's share of all installed window units is made up of plastic products. The market offers windows from the profiles of dozens of manufacturers, which at first glance look the same. Often, a low level of quality manifests itself only after some time of operation, when it becomes obvious that the profile cannot cope with its functions and does not provide the proper level of thermal protection. When choosing a product, it is useful to know the main significant characteristics of a PVC window profile.

Wall thickness

According to this indicator, 3 product groups are distinguished:

• Class A. This includes products that have an outer wall thickness of 2.8 mm and an inner wall thickness of 2.5 mm. Such indicators are considered optimal for ensuring the best thermal insulation of a living space.
• Class B. Products with an outer wall thickness of 2.5 mm and an inner wall thickness of 2.0 mm. Such products provide less reliable protection against heat loss and are more susceptible to deformation during operation. The main purpose is installation in shops and public institutions.
• Class C. Products with thinner walls than in previous classes. Windows made from it are intended for glazing non-residential, warehouse, and industrial premises.

Read also: Using tape to insulate windows

Profile width

The indicator determines which double-glazed window can be mounted in a given profile. A double-glazed window consists of several glasses connected by a frame around the perimeter. The spaces formed between the glasses are filled with ordinary air or inert gases (in premium segment products) to improve thermal insulation performance.

A single-chamber package consists of two glasses and one air chamber between them. A two-chamber glass consists of 3 glasses, between which there are, respectively, 2 chambers, etc. The greater the number of glasses, the warmer the finished product.

Also, the width of the profile determines the installation dimensions for installing the window. As the width increases, the overall weight of the structure increases - this must be taken into account, for example, when glazing a balcony with weak base slabs.

Typically the standard value is 58-80 mm, some brands offer products up to 120 mm wide to produce products designed for use in harsh climatic conditions and characterized by improved sound and heat insulation characteristics.

Number of profile cameras

Not to be confused with the air chambers of a double-glazed window!

The plastic profile is hollow inside and separated by partitions. The thermal insulation properties of PVC profiles are due to the presence of hollow chambers between the lintels - the more of them, the lower the thermal conductivity of the window frame and sash.

Each cavity performs a specific function (moisture removal, fastening of fittings, ensuring strength), and their number (usually 3-8) and location are determined by technological calculations. The most in demand are 3-5-chamber types of plastic profiles.

Metal reinforcement

The plastic profile is additionally reinforced with a metal frame to impart rigidity to the structure. This significantly reduces the likelihood of deformation and sagging of the window sash due to many opening-closing cycles, temperature changes and other influences during use.

The shape of the frame depends on the size of the window:

• L-shaped– reinforcement is laid along 2 walls; sufficient for small windows;
• U-shaped– strengthening of 3 walls of the profile; suitable for window sizes up to 1.9 m in height;
• closed– the reinforcement is located along 4 planes and ensures the greatest rigidity of the product; For glazing large areas of loggias and panoramic balconies, it is recommended to choose this type of profile.

What to look for when choosing

It is difficult for the buyer to determine the quality of the profile on exhibition samples. In most cases, you have to rely on the integrity of the seller and the manufacturer of window structures. There are some features that will help you avoid buying a low-quality product: