Currently, a wide range of different products is presented on the market of PVC-based windows. In order to attract the buyer of the company, manufacturers are developing new types of double-glazed windows, and also use different types of profiles from which plastic windows are made.

In this regard, the consumer has reasonable questions: what profile for windows to choose and what will serve as the criteria for his choice?

When choosing a profile used in the manufacture of plastic windows, it is necessary to be guided by the following criteria, which determine the purpose of the window and the conditions for its operation, these are:

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 installation of double-glazed windows of various design.
5. Geometric dimensions of the profile (width and height).
6. The presence of reinforcement.
7. Possibility to install additional elements.
8. Terms of use and care.
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 inside the room and maintain the required level of sound insulation.

Structurally, this is expressed in the division inner space on several air chambers by means 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 chambers.

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:

• Wood.

It is natural and environmentally friendly safe material, which has always been widely used in the manufacture of windows.

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

Wood species such as: teak, larch, oak, Canadian hemlock and teak wood are used in the manufacture of windows for individual orders and in the construction of premium housing.

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

• Aluminum.

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

In this regard, aluminum crane is rarely used in its pure form for these structural elements, but in combination with polyvinyl chloride materials it is an excellent component of such products.

• fiber composites.

Fiber composites are glass-reinforced plastics made on the basis of a reinforced profile and a fiberglass composite.

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

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

When using a composite made on the basis of 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.

It is metal plastic profiles, at present, are widely used in the manufacture of window blocks of various designs.

Hardware selection

The choice of hardware is important point, in the manufacture and equipment of the window, oddly enough it may seem at first glance. To make right choice, necessary:

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

The complete set and type of fittings for each particular 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 of PVC profile includes the following elements, such as:

• Window hinges (lower and upper).
• Compensator.
• Protective mechanism (fuse) against slamming.
• Window sash lifters.
• Fasteners.
• Brackets.
• Tilt and turn mechanism.

In addition to the above products, the kit may include swivel limiters casement, slotted ventilators, mosquito nets and locks to close the window from the inside.

In the manufacture of fittings are used various metals and their alloys, which characterizes their strength and reliability. FROM outside the fittings are covered with paint and varnish anticorrosive materials.

The selection criteria for fittings are:

• Wear resistance.
• Resistance to external influences.
• Existence of a warranty period of operation and the certificate of conformity.
• Appearance (aesthetics) and usability.

Choosing a manufacturer of plastic windows

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 presence and quality of seals and accessories), there is also an organizational component - windows of which manufacturer to choose.

On the domestic market similar products works a large number of large and small companies various shapes property. However, the main manufacturers of metal-plastic profiles are only a few companies whose products have inherent advantages and disadvantages, the most popular of them are listed below.

KBE (Kunststoffproduktion für Bau und Elektrotechnik), Germany

The company "KVE" works in different countries and on different continents. On the territory of Russia, there are representative offices of this company in many regions, the production of metal-plastic profiles is located in the Moscow region. The representative of the company in Russia is CJSC Profine RUS (Moscow).

The advantages of KBE products are:

• High performance in terms of heat and sound insulation.
• Wide operating temperature range.
• Existence of the system of the ventilation providing not fogging of double-glazed windows.

The disadvantages include:

• High price.
• Under influence sunlight plastic white color may turn yellow.

Rehau, Germany

Rehau operates in various industries and in various countries around the world. One of the activities is the manufacture of translucent structures, including metal-plastic profiles.

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

The advantages of Rehau products are:

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

• High price.
• Limited leaf height on manufactured products.

PROPLEX, Russia

"PROPLEX" is one of the first domestic enterprises that began to work on the market plastic windows on full cycle their production.

The advantages of products manufactured at this enterprise are:

• Relatively low cost.
• Long terms of operation.
• They are adapted to the 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 subsidiary, a subsidiary of VEKA Rus, headquartered and manufactured in Moscow. In addition, representative offices of the company have been opened in a number of regions of our country.

The advantages of VEKA products are:

• Wide range 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

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

The advantages of products manufactured by this company are:

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

The disadvantages are:

• Lack of international quality certificate.
• Poor quality of the fittings used.
• The possibility of the presence of odor from the type of seal used.

What profiles are most often chosen?

The type of selected profile depends on the purpose of the window and its operating conditions. In addition to this, an 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 a potential buyer. In the regions of our country, the products of various companies are popular, which is characterized by the presence of this 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 the northern regions, 6 and 8 are recommended chamber profiles 90.0 mm wide.

Not recommended for residential use plastic windows made from a profile intended for industrial buildings and objects, about which there must be an appropriate marking on its surface (OBJECT, object, engine, Tender, etc.).

In addition to the fact that when choosing a window you need to be careful and scrupulously familiarize yourself with the type and design of the profile, double-glazed windows and fittings, you need to take care of quality installation purchased product. An incorrectly performed installation can cross out all the advantages of a window made of a metal-plastic profile.

Installing PVC windows instead of old ones wooden frames, apartment owners want to protect their home from cold, dust and noise. Therefore, the choice of profile types for plastic windows is a serious task.
Windows made of modern PVC give comfort to the room, long years preserve the original appearance. They are easy to care for, quickly installed and perform the above functions better.
How to choose the right profile for plastic windows, how do the quality compare with the brand of the manufacturer and the price of the product?

The profile in the plastic window is the basis of the design. Sashes are made from it, a double-glazed window is installed, framed with fittings. The choice of PVC profile affects the characteristics of the window structure as a whole - the ability to soundproof, seal and retain heat in the room. An important aspect of the choice is the types of external design of the window frame.

The structure and material of the profile

A plastic window frame is a complex design. Its cross section makes it possible to see many air chambers inside the structure that retain heat. Naturally, the more cameras, the better the thermal protection.

A metal frame (reinforcement) is inserted into the PVC base. It provides the strength of the profile, is the key to maintaining its shape when exposed to plastic rain, wind and frost.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a material for the manufacture of plastic windows.

Main characteristics:

• does not oxidize in air;
• not afraid of moisture;
• does not collapse from extreme heat;
• harmless to human health;
• better washes than a wooden frame;
• has a great color scheme, but mostly used in white. But you can choose and order lamination "under the tree" or marble.

The type of profile should be selected in accordance with the conditions in which it is supposed to be used. If winters are windy and frosty, you need to choose a chamber with a large number of air compartments and thick double-glazed windows. But the air chambers in the frame should not be less than three.

PVC profiles are classified into three types - economy, standard, luxury. The most popular and well-established types today are the German profiles of the Rehau, Veka, KBE and Trocal brands. Choose profile types carefully. Special stickers on branded products testify to their quality and authenticity.

The production of high-quality plastic for the manufacture of windows has also been established in Russia. These are PVC profiles "Novotex" from the Moscow region, "Exprof" from Tyumen. These are cheaper models. The Montblanc brand is resistant to temperature extremes and severe frosts.
The rigidity of the frame depends on the thickness of the reinforcement in the profile. It is made of a steel liner, galvanized, it is closed and U-shaped. It is a cold profile element.

window installation

It is not enough to choose a quality PVC profile. It is necessary to professionally install the structure from it in order to avoid freezing, condensation of window panes and drafts. This work is carried out by specialists in measurement and installation, who know many of the features and subtleties of installation in various types of houses. Here it is necessary to take into account the choice of material, the thickness and structure of the walls, accurately calculate the size of the frames, install them strictly horizontally and securely fix them in the wall. Cavities and cracks are filled with mounting foam to prevent air ingress, plastered mounting seam from the side of the street, and from the inside, the mounting seam is sealed with slopes.

Certification

The PVC profile certificate gives complete technical information about him. Not all subsidiaries of firms with advanced brands have the right to issue such a document for their products. This means RAL certification.

Manufacturers VEKA, REHAU issue such a quality certificate at all enterprises, including Russian factories in the Moscow region and Novosibirsk. Consumers try to choose products with such a certificate. The certificate guarantees the observance of technologies in the production of frames, the high quality of the source material. It's a good choice.

How profile width affects structures

The degree of stability and thermal insulation of the frames depends on the choice of width plastic construction. What size does it come in:

• A profile with a thickness of 58-60 mm is used for glazing residential, small office space, balconies.
• 70 - mm profile is installed in country houses, at warming of loggias.
• 80 mm frames are used for windows in high-rise buildings.
• The maximum profile width of 90 mm is used in frames in northern latitudes for improved thermal insulation.

A profile with a thickness of 58-60 mm is the most popular among others. We advise you to choose it for installation in an apartment, as it is easier to install and it meets the requirements that apply to home windows.

Installing a window from a profile of maximum width will cost more, but remember that the coldest place in the window is a double-glazed window, so we focus on the maximum width of a two-chamber double-glazed window, adding energy-saving glass and an outer one of 6 mm, which in short term will pay off due to savings in heat energy and sound insulation.

Number of cameras in a profile

Thermal conductivity, the ability to soundproofing depends on the thickness of the frame profile. It is determined by the number of air chambers in the structure. There must be at least three of them. The first serves to remove condensate, reinforcement is inserted into the second, and the third chamber additionally insulates. The most popular and widely used model with a thickness of 58-60 mm has three air chambers. Thicker frames may have four to six.

It is important to note! Thermal insulation characteristics profiles do not depend on the number of partitions, but on the size of the air chambers, that is, on the thickness of the frame. The thicker the frame and the double-glazed window on it, the heavier the structure. It requires a quality professional installation.

Classification of profiles by camera type

Plastic structures are only similar in appearance. For different purposes, special types of frames are used. After all, not only windows are made plastic, but also entrance and interior doors, indoor partitions, balcony groups and so on. The functions and requirements for the thickness of such frames are different. Which of the two types to choose?

"A" class - a profile with thickened outer walls. This type is used both for glazing windows and for mounting doors and frame partitions.

"B" class - lightweight profile with a thin outer wall. This one is over cheap option"object". The budget cost attracts buyers, but we must remember that thin plastic walls cannot always cope with the tasks assigned to them.

The quality, stiffness of the profile depends not only on the material - PVC, not only on the size, but also on the number of air chambers. The joints of profile parts in the corners must be strong, withstand temperature loads and resistance to mechanical stress. The quality of the connections gives an additional resource for the use of profile frames. In pursuit of favorable price it is important not to lose the quality of the product.

Each company, in addition to the certificate, accompanies its product with warranty obligations. If the corner fasteners are weak, then the finished window base may lose shape over time or the corners may come apart. The service life of the product will decrease and its depressurization will occur. Such windows will not keep heat, the glass will fog up, condensate will accumulate on the windowsill.

Leaders in production

Plastic windows have gained popularity, they are installed in offices, residential premises, and industrial facilities. A certain list of leaders of companies producing profiles has been compiled.

• The best lines of profile systems are produced by Rehau, Veka, as well as Trocal and Salamander. This is plastic of the highest quality, the production of structures is carried out in compliance with all technological standards. And as a result of this, the quality of windows and other structures made of this material never raises any complaints from installers and consumers. The price for the types of profiles of the listed companies is quite high. But this choice pays off. long term construction services.
• Sufficiently high-quality profiles for windows are made by Aluplast, Funke, Artek, Proplex and KBE.

Summing up the analysis of the quality of window profiles, we can say that the best choice is the frames of well-known brands in Russia. They are reliable and of good quality. By width best options are 58 mm and 70 mm profiles. By the number of air chambers, it is better to buy three-chamber structures. Such windows are not very heavy in weight and are affordable. We pay attention to the surface - glossy is more convenient to wash. Seals must be replaceable.

It is better to entrust the choice of design components and installation to a specialist who is responsible for the quality of choice, work and bears a guarantee.

Plastic windows firmly occupy a leading position. They are distinguished by a high level of heat and sound insulation, in addition, they provide the opportunity to choose fittings, the method of opening the window and the color of the profile. You can also choose a double-glazed window with necessary quantity cameras. But few people think that it is the window profile that ensures the strength and durability of the entire structure. In the article, we compare plastic window profiles of different characteristics and manufacturers.

General information about the profile of plastic windows

On average, the profile thickness of plastic windows varies from 58 mm to 86 mm, but some companies produce products up to 127 mm wide.

Its interior is hollow, but separated by bridges that create several air chambers. A special technical calculation determines their size and location. The wider the profile, the greater the number of chambers in it that increase the heat-preserving properties. Another characteristic profile system- filling width, which determines what type of double-glazed windows can be installed in the profile. They come in one or two chamber types, the width of the glass in a standard double-glazed window is 4 mm (M1 brand).

Each cavity has its own purpose:

• for the outflow of water;
• fastening accessories;
• responsible for strength, etc.

The color of the profile can be varied, the color is applied in several ways:

• co-extrusion method - multilayer films create a kind of barrier that allows the product to withstand dynamic loads without damage;

• lamination - with texture imitation, for example, marble or wood;
• monochromatic coloring.

Characteristics of PVC profile for plastic windows

Material

• This product is made of a kind of plastic - white polyvinyl chloride.
• The material is highly resistant to chemical attack by alkalis, solvents, acids and mineral oils.
• It is harmless to humans and the environment.

• Polyvinyl chloride, due to its distinctive properties, makes it possible to manufacture frames for double-glazed windows not only in a rectangular or square shape, but also in the form of arches, triangles, circles, and so on. Thus, giving absolutely any simple or complex configuration to the window, allowing you to translate into reality even the most non-standard idea of ​​designers and architects.

Design

The inner part of the plastic body of the profile is divided by longitudinal partitions, which in turn form cavities (air chambers). The minimum number of chambers in the profile is 3, the maximum is 8. The number of chambers determines the degree of thermal insulation and sound absorption of the window, the more air cavities, the higher these figures. It should be noted right away that 3- and 5-chamber profiles are popular.

Reinforcement

To give rigidity, the profile is additionally reinforced. Metal carcass provides the necessary structural strength and reliability during operation of the window. Galvanized steel is used to reinforce the profile, so it does not deform under temperature changes or other environmental influences.

• L-shaped type of reinforcement - a metal insert is installed along two walls;
• U-shaped type of reinforcement, where the metal reinforces three walls;
• Closed type of reinforcement - a metal insert is located along four walls.

For window structures that have double-glazed windows up to 1900 mm in height, a U-shaped reinforced profile is suitable. However, for plastic windows of large dimensions, for example, for a loggia or a balcony, a profile with closed reinforcement is required.

Profile class

The wall thickness of the profile determines its belonging to a certain class:

• Class A - profile wall thickness must be at least 3 mm;
• Class B - profile, where the wall thickness is from 2.5 mm;
• Class C - non-standardized wall thickness.

As a result, the width of the profile of plastic windows directly depends on its class. The higher it is, the correspondingly wider the profile.

Comparison of plastic window profile manufacturers

On the Russian market, many products, both domestic and foreign manufacturers. The leading positions in the rating of profiles for plastic windows are occupied by companies:

• Germany - REHAU, VEKA, KBE, SALAMANDER, SCHUCO, KOMMERLING;
• Slovakia - INTERNOVA;
• Korea - LG CHEM;
• Belgium - DECEUNINCK;
• Russia - MONTBLANC and PROPLEX.

VEKA

• The profile is produced according to German technology in Russia, they always correspond to class A, are suitable for all regions, with any climate.

• Profile systems from VEKA are presented in 8 types, the installation depth of which is from 58 to 90 mm, and the number of cameras varies from 3 to 6. As a result of all the improvements, this profile is reliable, environmentally friendly and aesthetic.

REHAU

• World famous profile from a German company.
• It represents these products from economy to elite class, taking into account any weather conditions.
• Mounting width from 60 to 86 mm, number of chambers - from 3 to 6.

• Windows with REHAU profile they are distinguished by a high level of sound insulation (class 5), good thermal insulation, and, if desired, they can also be with gray seals.
• Excellent value for money and quality.

SCHUKO

This company is equipped with modern equipment, uses quality materials and the staff consists of qualified personnel. Thanks to this, it produces the entire line of profiles, fittings and seals.

• Window profile designs are presented with a width of 60 to 82 mm, the number of chambers is from 3 to 8.
• SCHUKO windows are easy to use and have good anti-burglary properties.

MONTBLANC

On the territory of Russia there are 4 manufacturer's plants for the production of profiles.

• The Russian-Austrian company is equipped with a production base where developments are being carried out and the latest technologies are being introduced.

• The Mont Blanc line contains 6 types of profiles, where the mounting width is from 58 mm to 120 mm, cameras - from 3 to 6.
• The durability of the profile system (60 years) is achieved with the help of specially designed performance characteristics for harsh climates.

PROPLEX

• The plant, located in Podolsk, produces a profile on German equipment using Austrian technologies.
• These products are produced in widths ranging from 58 mm to 127 mm, chambers - from 3 to 6.
• The original recipe makes it possible to produce high-quality profiles with impact strength and special whiteness.

You can also compare the characteristics of plastic window profiles according to the tables below.

Profiles of the German company KBE

It is believed that the German profiles of plastic windows are superior to the products of other manufacturers in terms of quality, whiteness of color, and technical specifications. They do not lose their properties even during a long service life, perfectly withstand almost any dynamic load and significant temperature changes (from -50°С to +50°С).

The KBE company manufactures and supplies 2 types of the most popular profiles: KBE Etalon and KBE Expert.

KBE Etalon - three-chamber profile

• The mounting width is 58 mm;
• the width of the front walls - 3 mm;
• the thickness of the double-glazed window can be up to 34 mm;
• 3 cameras in the frame, sashes, impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• can be used in harsh conditions (-60°C);
• service life - 40 years;

Advantages:

• with a profile width of 58 mm, it has 3 air chambers, their size and optimal position ensure resistance to heat transfer. Such windows are a high degree tightness, which exceeds the existing requirements of GOST by 5 (!) times, which guarantees the complete absence of dust and drafts in the room;
• two sealed gaskets provide excellent sound insulation (up to 46 dB). The profile is additionally equipped with horizontal lintels, thereby increasing the strength of the lock when the window is closed;
• stiffening ribs are installed in the KBE profile, which provide additional strength to the window structure. Also, special stops allow to increase the rigidity, with the help of which the exact location of the reinforcing metal insert is achieved.

KBE Expert - five-chamber profile

• Mounting width is 70 mm;
• the width of the front walls - 3 mm;
• the thickness of the double-glazed window is up to 42 mm;
• 5 cameras in the frame and sashes, 3 or 4 in the impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• Suitable for use in harsh environments (-60°C);
• sealing contours correspond to class A;
• service life - 40 years;
• in the manufacture of environmentally friendly materials are used, does not contain lead.

Advantages:

• a five-chamber structure allows you to achieve a better thermal insulation value, such a profile is able to retain heat 20% more than typical three-chamber systems. You can achieve excellent sound insulation by installing wide double-glazed windows in a 70 mm profile;
• 13 mm profile groove allows you to install anti-burglary fittings, thereby ensuring the safety of the room;
• the KBE Expert profile has additional horizontal bridges, thanks to which the handles and hinges will be securely fastened;
• when installed, the mounting seam is wider by about 20%, in turn allowing for additional insulation.

Estimated cost of windows from KBE profile

An important factor when choosing one or another double-glazed window is its price. Often it is decisive, but German window profiles High Quality cannot be cheap. Below is the approximate market value in Russia.

• On average, a single-chamber double-leaf window with dimensions of 140x130 cm, in which one sash is of a blind type, and the other is a tilt-and-turn one, will cost:
  • from a profile of 58 mm from 7500 rubles,
  • from 70 mm - from 10,000 rubles.

• The price of a two-chamber three-leaf window with a size of 140x203 cm, in which the first sash is rotary, the central one is of a blind type, and the third one is tilt-and-turn will be from:
  • from 58 mm profile 13,000 rubles;
  • from 70 mm 14500 rub. and higher.

• When buying a balcony block with an opening door measuring 210x67 cm and a blind window - 140x136 cm, you will have to pay at least:
  • from a profile of 58 mm 11,000 rubles;
  • from 70 mm from 13000 rub.

What to look for when choosing a plastic profile with a double-glazed window

In order to determine what profile thickness is needed, one should have basic knowledge about a double-glazed window, because up to 70% of heat losses occur through it.

This transparent element consists of 2 or more glasses that are hermetically connected to the frame. Between them, a chamber (air gap) is formed, filled with rarefied air or an inert gas, such as argon or krypton. This kind of filling is used in the production of energy-saving double-glazed windows.

A single-chamber double-glazed window is a design of 2 glasses of 4 mm each and an air gap of 16 mm, abbreviated as 4-16-4. Thus, its mounting width is 24 mm. A construction equal to 36 mm is obtained from a two-chamber double-glazed window, which consists of 3 glasses of 4 mm each and 2 layers of 10 mm each - 4-10-4-10-4.

Therefore, an appropriate profile is selected for the required double-glazed window. For example, the optimal solution for ordinary apartment or at home, a 5-chamber profile with a 70 mm installation width and a 30 mm double-glazed window will serve, where a heat-reflecting coating should be applied to one glass.

If the windows face the north side and a road loaded with cars lies nearby, then the following option is suitable in this case: a 5-chamber profile with a depth of 86 mm, supplemented by a 32 mm double-glazed window with a protective noise-insulating film.

When a balcony (loggia) is combined with an adjacent room or it is planned to make a small office (rest room) out of it, then the profile should be 5-chamber with an installation depth of 86 mm, and the double-glazed window should be energy-saving, two-chamber with a width of at least 40 mm.

For simple insulation of a balcony, a 60 mm 3-chamber profile and a 30 mm single-chamber double-glazed window are suitable.

But it is not enough just to choose the optimal PVC profile and double-glazed window. It is equally important to entrust the installation of the finished window to professionals. Otherwise, no matter how expensive the design is, poor-quality installation will cancel all its high characteristics.

The profile is the main design element of any modern window. It is on its quality component that the reliability and durability of a plastic product depends. At first glance, it may seem that plastic profiles for windows from different manufacturers they are not much different, but structural features begin to appear after six months or even several years of operation. In cheap products, gaps and distortions form, while more expensive ones stand as if nothing had happened.

So, let's try to figure out which profile is better for plastic windows (we will consider the rating and product review below), how the products of one brand differ from those of another, and whether it makes sense to save money by buying cheap equipment of this kind. We will consider all this in the article, taking into account the opinion of experts and reviews of ordinary owners. plastic products.

Before answering the question which profile is better for plastic windows, let's brief digression for the sake of completeness. Then we will go directly to the list of the best manufacturing companies.

PVC profile: characteristics

The profile is the main structural component of a plastic window. It is from it that frames and sashes are made. It also depends on the strength of the product and the appearance. For most manufacturers, the most attractive material for making windows is polyvinyl chloride, that is, PVC. It is hollow inside, that is, it has air chambers separated from each other by metal inserts. This solution allows to significantly increase the thermal insulation of plastic window profiles. Reviews for these products are the most diverse: from critically negative to the most flattering. The manufacturing company plays a very important role here, as well as the cost of the profile.

As alternative materials, wood (usually larch or cedar), as well as aluminum, can be used in the production. The first option is considered more noble and expensive, and the second one is distinguished by its reliability, but is more suitable for office and industrial premises than for city apartments.

We will consider the most common, popular option - these are PVC products, and at the same time we will determine which profile and plastic windows are better in this or that case.

Classification

There is a list of European standards that all manufacturers adhere to, or at least try to do so. The main quality requirements are reflected in the list EN 12608 SR, which describes in detail the characteristics of unplasticized PVC for the production of doors and windows.

Russia also has its own standards, the usual GOSTs, where a list of characteristics and specifications under the number 30673-99. Thus, it is quite easy to classify these products into three classes.

Profile classes:

• Class A. Here we have products with an inner wall thickness of 2.5 mm and an outer wall thickness of 2.8 mm. This is the most reliable option, having the best heat and sound insulation. Models in this segment belong to the premium class and are distinguished by an appropriate pricing policy.
• Class B. The inner walls have a thickness of at least 2.0 mm, and the outer - 2.5 mm. Products of this class are noticeably "colder", and also more susceptible to transformation, especially in a difficult climatic environment (frequent and abrupt changes in weather conditions).
• Class C. This includes everything that does not fit the first two conditions and other frankly cheap consumer goods. There are no specific requirements for these products.

Which profile is best for plastic windows? The unequivocal answer is class A, but you can find very good products in class B, so you should not completely discount it. But first things first.

Also, it would not be superfluous to mention one more profile - object, or industrial. It is intended for installation in non-residential and industrial premises. It is not installed in private houses or city apartments, because it is least resistant to deformation and practically does not hold heat.

Such plastic profiles for windows in their appearance are not much different from ordinary ones, with the exception of a special marking on the protective film - Object (objective). It is not uncommon for unscrupulous dealers to offer suspicious low prices for their products, selling under the guise of ordinary PVC windows, such are the object fakes. Therefore, here the proverbs are more true than ever: "The miser pays twice" and "Free cheese is only in a mousetrap."

The best profile for plastic windows

It is very difficult for an inexperienced consumer to visually determine the quality of a profile. But there are some distinctive features of products that can, to one degree or another, shape its assessment, as well as the practicality of the purchase.

Profile uniformity

First of all, plastic simply has to be smooth and uniform. A grainy coating indicates that the product was handicraft and is a fake. Any gradients or stains are inappropriate here, so do not buy into the seller's assurances about some kind of originality or a new profile design.

In most cases, they will try to offer you a “garage” window, during the manufacture of which they have not even heard of standards and GOSTs. Moreover, such "manufacturers" sometimes overestimate the prices of their products so much that people buy into the so-called premium segment in the original design style. Therefore, you need to be very careful here. Be sure to pay attention to the factory stamp, which is located on inside window frame: there should be several inventory numbers (shift number, type of equipment, date, etc.) and the name of the manufacturer.

Profile width

Most often, the profile for plastic windows is produced in the classic 58 mm version. This is the optimal width for most city apartments. Where the climate is more severe or there are multi-storey skyscrapers, you can find a 70 mm profile.

There are also premium products that differ best performance heat and sound insulation. The price tag for such profiles for plastic windows is appropriate, and the width varies within 90 mm. Not all companies want to deal with such noble products, because the existing characteristics of medium-sized profiles are enough to satisfy the needs of a good half of users. Yes, and the thickness of 90 mm pays for itself only if you have a railway interchange or an airport two steps away under your window.

Number of air chambers

The number of chambers in a profile directly depends on its thickness. So, classic version 58mm can only be equipped with three airboxes. This amount is enough to keep the heat in the apartment.

Accordingly, 70 mm products have four or five chambers, and 90 mm products have six. A simple principle applies here - the more cameras, the quieter and warmer it will be in the room. But in fairness, it should be clarified that the difference between four and three compartments is insignificant, so it is impractical to overpay for a model with a 70 mm profile. Unless, of course, you live in northern Yakutsk.

Number of double-glazed windows

A double-glazed window is a box with several sheets of glass, which are interconnected by a sealant and a special frame. Between each individual glass, a sealed chamber is formed, where there can be either simple air or some kind of gas.

In a single-chamber double-glazed window there are two glasses and, accordingly, an air gap between them. This is the most affordable option and the lightest in weight. This solution showed itself perfectly on balconies and loggias or terraces. It is not worth installing single-package plastic window profiles directly into the apartment, because they isolate your house from noise and let heat through to a lesser extent.

For a residential building, it is better to choose the most optimal one - a double-glazed window, that is, three glasses and two interlayer chambers. Three-chamber models are suitable for harsh climatic zones where the temperature outside the window drops below 40 degrees. With more high temperatures the practical difference between three and two packages is imperceptible.

The list of manufacturers of the best profiles for plastic windows (rating) is as follows:

1. Rehau.
2. VEKA.
3. Trocal.
4. salamander.

Let's analyze each participant in more detail.

Rehau (Aikon)

This venerable company has been manufacturing and selling plastic products for more than half a century. "Rehau" is considered the main innovator in this area and rightfully takes the honorable first place in the rating of profiles for plastic windows.

The company's engineers are constantly improving the design of profiles, as well as the appearance. Special attention the manufacturer pays environmental performance products and energy-saving technologies. Rehau mainly produces profiles with a width of 60-70 mm, and its products can be attributed to the middle price segment.

VEKA

Another venerable German manufacturer whose products are highly valued all over the world, including in our country. One of distinctive features brand products are a multi-colored profile that does not fade in direct sunlight.

Also, it will not be superfluous to note the presence of an extremely high-quality sealant made of natural rubber in the company's products. It does not freeze even at the lowest possible temperatures, which is especially important in some Russian regions. "VEKA" works mainly with profiles with a width of 58 to 90 mm. As for the cost, here we also have an average price segment.

Trocal

This brand has a long and unsullied history of activity. The first window was released back in 1954 and after extensive recognition, the company successfully continues its activities. The brand is especially distinguished by the visual component of its products.

For decorative finishes windows, you can choose any of hundreds of options - from lamination to decorative acrylic coating. The profile fully complies with all environmental European standards, among which the most stringent is Greenline, and also provides excellent heat and noise insulation. Profile lines start with 70mm models. The price of products is high compared to previous brands, but for impeccable quality it is worth paying that kind of money.

Salamander

This company is not as widely known as the same "VEKA" or "Rehau", but is in no way inferior to the latter in terms of the quality of its products.

Profiles are assembled and completed exclusively in Germany, so here you can count on European quality, but at the appropriate price. The main direction of the company is 60-70 mm profiles.

KBE

Also one of the most popular German brands, whose advertising is sometimes distinguished by its aggressiveness. Surely everyone, at least half an ear, but heard about this brand and its products.

Despite the dubious, rather intrusive marketing, the company's products have shown themselves exclusively on the positive side. One of the main distinguishing features KBE profiles mean durability and compliance with all environmental standards. That is why KBE windows flaunt in kindergartens, preschool institutions and schools in our country.