What plastic windows are better to put: tips for choosing window structures + TOP-5 best manufacturers

Are you thinking of replacing old broken windows with new double-glazed windows, are you thinking about which plastic windows are best to install and are you looking for a suitable option? Agree that when choosing plastic windows, buyers often pay attention to criteria such as how to open frames, maintenance requirements, warranty obligations and cost. And important performance properties fade into the background.

Isn't it true that this approach cannot be called literate? With the correct selection of a plastic window block for your house or apartment, you must take into account a number of significant technical characteristics and installation conditions.

We will help you deal with this issue, consider the parameters that must be taken into account when choosing which it is better to choose windows to ensure safety and comfort in the house, and we will also present the TOP-5 of the best manufacturers. Here's a video guide with advice on choosing the right plastic window block to help you.

Important window selection criteria

Unlike wooden products, a plastic window does not require regular painting, has improved soundproofing characteristics, lasts longer and prevents conditions that reduce heat loss. Nevertheless, you should carefully choose PVC windows in the store.

On the one hand, the design contains a lot of technical aspects, and on the other, you can come across a dishonest seller who wants to make money on a buyer who is poorly oriented in the matter.

So, when choosing a suitable plastic window block for an apartment, you need to consider:

• the quality of the glass unit and the number of air chambers in the profile;
• thickness and overall width of PVC profile walls;
• presence / absence of reinforcement;
• the level of quality of the sealant and fittings;
• opening mechanism.

Any of the listed criteria has an impact on the final cost of the product. In addition, the purchase of an expensive block with a massive 3-chamber double-glazed window is not always advisable. When choosing, it is worth proceeding from the climatic and weather conditions of the location of the building.

In addition, it is worth thinking about how you will clear windows from dust and dirt.

Quality properties of windows

The basis of any design of plastic window blocks is a PVC profile. According to the standards, primary or recycled (secondary) polymer is used in the production of the material.

The first variety is considered high quality, in the second version, various additives and plasticizers so that the product meets all the requirements of impact and strength characteristics.

It is not possible to distinguish a profile made from primary or secondary PVC on our own. Their appearance is completely identical.

In this case, you need to study the certificates provided by the manufacturer and rely on their honesty.

Number of air chambers

Inside, the profile structure is made hollow with vertical partitions dividing into several parts filled with air. The more such segments, the higher the insulating qualities of the glass unit and the minimum heat loss.

The smallest number of such cameras is two. In accordance with Russian climatic conditions, windows with 3, 4 and 5 chamber profiles are most often produced.

The increased number of air chambers contributes to an increase in the price of a window unit. Nevertheless, the more vertical sections inside, the more massive and thicker the profile.

If, due to the large area of ​​the window opening, the sash turns out to be high and wide, then initially it is better to choose a window with a 5-chamber frame.

Profile width and thickness

The width of the window profile is determined by the number of vertical chambers. The more their number, the more plastic partitions inside, and the wider the PVC profile. Also, its width is influenced by the dimensions of the chambers and the presence / absence of reinforcement inside.

Typical profile widths range from 58 to 90 mm. If it is thinner, then it will not be able to withstand a double-glazed unit of 2 glasses. And the options are more widely used mainly in industrial facilities or in the construction of winter gardens.

In accordance with GOST, a plastic window frame serves for at least 20 years. The thicker the walls, the more reliable and durable the frame design.

According to European regulations and standards, the plastic profile is divided into 3 classes in thickness with the following markings:

• "A" - at least 2.8 mm thick;
• "B" - not less than 2.5 mm thick;
• "C" is a parameter set by the manufacturer.

It is most preferable to choose a profile of class "A", the thickness of which is more than 3 mm. The sash of the window from it is least of all exposed to sagging and distortion.

When choosing option "C", one must be careful: it is recommended to install window blocks made of a thin-walled profile (less than 2.5 mm) only in non-residential premises.

The presence of a reinforced insert

In order to make the profile more durable, a reinforcing insert is fitted in the middle intermediate chamber. It is made of galvanized steel that can withstand corrosion and mechanical stress. The thickness of the reinforcing insert in the profile should be within 1.2-2 mm.

In cross-sectional shape, the reinforcing profile can be any. At the same time, the closed version has more enhanced rigidity than the U-shaped open version. However, the more metal, the heavier the window block is.

When choosing a window with a reinforced insert, it is worth considering the rise to the apartment and the installation of the structure. Excessive severity will affect not only the strength of the product, but also its final cost.

Finding the right seal

The next important parameter when choosing a PVC window is the seal used on the sash profile. The window unit will not last much if the sealing insert is installed poorly from the very beginning.

After a few years, drafts will appear in the house, and you will have to call the masters or change it yourself.

The properties of the seal are as follows:

• soundproofing and tightness of the shutter cover;
• thermal insulation, no drafts;
• protection of rotary and locking fittings from moisture and dust

If in a store you are at a loss as to which color is better to buy a seal: black or colored, we recommend that you stop at the first option.

This advice is based on the fact that a black tint is natural for natural rubber, while colorants are mixed in with dyes that can impair the life of the material.

For windows, as a rule, 4 main types of gaskets are used, made from:

• TPE (thermoplastic elastomer);
• silicone rubber;
• rubber;
• EPDM (Artificial Ethylene Propylene Rubber).

The seals used in the production of window blocks can differ in material, cross-sectional shape and color. The quality characteristics of some are more resistant to abrasion, others to frost, and still others to delamination and deformation with prolonged use.

Choice of window fittings

When choosing the best plastic window for your apartment or house, you should pay special attention to the fittings.

It affects not only the convenience of opening and closing the window sashes, but also the durability and reliability of the structure.

Plastic window blocks are distinguished by a large sash weight, especially when using 2-chamber double-glazed windows. The fittings must withstand significant loads.

Traditional fittings are designed for a maximum weight of 50 to 130 kg, which is quite enough for windows in apartments and houses.

The main details of the window fittings are as follows:

• lower and upper swing-out configuration;
• frame opening and rotation limiters;
• handles with a locking mechanism;
• locks with a key if necessary;
• reinforcing loops;
• slotted direction ventilators;
• strike plates for the lock and pins.

All of these important fittings must be produced by reputable companies. It is highly discouraged to save on this.

The fittings are under a certain load all the time, and if you save money and put in a cheap option, then the window block will not be able to serve the due date.

Window opening mechanism

The types of opening of window structures are quite diverse, which makes it possible to use the window in any interior, making it as functional and practical as possible. Most window sashes usually open inward.

Manufacturers offer several standard types of opening plastic windows, which can be:

• rotary;
• swing-out;
• sliding;
• parallel sliding.

All of these varieties depend on the fittings and design installed. PVC windows acquire these configurations in the ventilation mode when equipped with the necessary high-quality fittings.

Usually, it is the fittings that determine the type of opening, which, in accordance with the thermophysical properties of glass units and profiles, forms a combination of their performance and the final price.

TOP 5 best manufacturers of plastic windows

Our review presents the five best manufacturing companies operating on the Russian market. The rating includes brands with a worldwide reputation, as well as a domestic company that uses profiles of popular brands in production.

The ratings given are based on reviews of real buyers who have chosen products of a certain company for glazing an apartment or house.

#1. Salamander - impeccable quality

The German brand Salamander produces some of the best window profiles in the world. The company offers plastic windows related to the premium category, and their cost is extremely high.

Nevertheless, the products are in demand on the international market and comply with all norms and quality standards. The company offers 3 types of universal profiles, as well as balcony pairs and doors.

Specifications:

• country of origin - Germany;
• features - the highest level of assembly of profiles;
• manufacturer's warranty - 5 years.

To create a complete window structure, the manufacturing company uses a high-quality German profile.

Advantages:

• impeccable German quality;
• compliance with world standards;
• original design;
• the ability to withstand any external influences;
• production of balcony pairs and doors;
• durability and reliability;
• 5 years warranty.

The main disadvantage of the company is that a large number of low-quality copies made by handicraft have appeared on the market. This negatively affects the attraction of a mass customer.

Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the high cost, a large number of fakes, as well as the fact that the profile is on sale only in white.

Although Salamander's expensive PVC windows are not suitable for everyone, the company relies on high build quality and durability.

And to make the windows last even longer, we recommend reading our other article, where we talked in detail about how to care for them.

#2. Rehau is an advanced brand

Rehau specialists are always looking for new high-tech solutions for the production of reliable and durable window profiles.

Operations of a technical nature in production are so precise and verified that the company issues the lowest percentage of defects in comparison with other brands.

Compliance with international standards, high quality production, customer focus make the company a leader in the production of PVC windows. Buyers are offered 6 types of profile systems, differing in assembly features, size, quality and price.

Specifications:

• country of origin - Germany / Russia;
• features - production using technological solutions, the most "advanced" brand;
• manufacturer's warranty - 10 years.

The selection of window units includes both simple multi-chamber models and high-tech fiberglass products.

Advantages:

• high quality products;
• use of the latest technologies in production;
• a wide range of products;
• improved performance of heat and sound insulation;
• a special line for the Russian winter;
• safety and environmental friendliness;
• 10-year warranty.

The manufacturer provides a guarantee of operation for at least 60 years.

Among the disadvantages are the rather high cost of structures and the small height of the windows.

All profiles presented by the German brand Rehau are suitable for assembling structures that will be installed in children's or medical institutions. And if you need to install the air conditioner in a plastic window, we recommend reading next material.

#3. KBE - democracy and customer focus

The German firm is committed to meeting the needs and wishes of customers. The wide range of window profiles is suitable for glazing in both northern and southern latitudes.

Affordable cost coupled with high quality make KBE profile systems popular all over the world.

The accompanying technological fittings are well suited to ready-made windows. The assembly is carried out with particular precision and speed. Customers can choose from 5 types of profiles.

Specifications:

• country of origin - Germany / Russia;
• features - high quality products, customer focus, affordable price;
• manufacturer's warranty - 10 years.

KBE windows are distinguished by high quality standards, safety and health of the environment, versatility and durability.

Advantages:

• high quality build;
• technological fittings;
• sound and heat insulation;
• environmentally friendly materials;
• not subject to temperature extremes;
• thoughtful ventilation;
• no condensation;
• 10-year warranty.

Installation of window systems of this brand will make the house warmer and more comfortable. Technical properties will help to save a little on electricity, eliminating the need for annual pasting and painting of frames.

Disadvantages - profiles produced at a plant in Russia may turn yellow in the sun.

A wide range of coating options and colors allows you to choose a profile system that perfectly matches your style.

#4. VEKA - wide selection

The VEKA company came to the Russian market a long time ago. The branch of the brand was one of the first to receive a certificate of compliance with European standards.

A wide range of products (buyers can choose from 9 window models, among which there are 5 chamber) and low cost in combination with decent quality made this brand the most popular among Russian buyers.

Specifications:

• country of origin - Germany / Russia;
• features - a wide range of products, an optimal combination of price and quality;
• manufacturer's warranty - 8 years.

Various shapes of windows can be made to order - from the traditional rectangle to elegant arched models, depending on the wishes and needs of the client.

Advantages:

• custom production of any size and shape;
• the presence of 5-chamber models;
• high quality of products;
• availability for purchase;
• development of rulers suitable for the Russian climate;
• noise reduction and tightness;
• 8 years warranty.

Due to the use of technological capacities of production lines, the company refused to produce low-grade products, leaving in the assortment the production of profiles of category "A".

This means that VEKA profile systems can be used in any climatic zone, excluding any deformations and distortions.

No flaws were found by users.

When choosing a plastic window, one should not forget that the quality of the entire system depends not only on the profile and glazing, but on the fittings used. German fittings have proven themselves best of all, so they should be given preference.

#5. Kaleva is a Russian manufacturer

This is the first Russian company to organize a full cycle production using an automated workflow.

This approach makes it possible to carry out products from design to installation.

Among domestic manufacturers, the company focuses on the wishes and needs of customers, offering a wide range of profiles.

Specifications:

• country of origin - Russia;
• features - organization of a full cycle of work;
• manufacturer's warranty - 5 years.

Plastic double-glazed windows Kaleva easily adapt to any design of an apartment or house.

The company offers a wide range of styles, shades and profile sizes.

Advantages:

• full cycle of work;
• production to order;
• affordable prices;
• high quality of products;
• adaptation to the Russian climate;
• sound insulation and tightness;
• 5 years warranty.

Unfortunately, the manufacturer is let down by dealerships, of which there are about 80 throughout the country. The installation process of window units is not always professionally and efficiently organized.

The only drawback is that dealerships sometimes fail.

Kaleva profile systems are not inferior in quality and technical parameters to the windows of more famous manufacturers. Another reason to give preference to this particular brand is its low cost.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Guide to choosing the best plastic windows on the Russian market:

Analysis of common mistakes encountered in the selection:

Glazing with plastic windows of an apartment, residential building or office presupposes their use for a long period of time. With the right selection, it is important to take into account the PVC profile suitable for certain climatic conditions, high-quality sealant and reliable fittings from proven well-known brands.

PVC windows should be chosen individually for each specific building and room. It makes sense to take time to study the design features, as well as carefully read products from various manufacturers in order to select the ideal for specific conditions on this basis window.

And special attention should be paid to the issue of installing the structure. Even a properly selected window unit with poor-quality installation can become a real disaster with cold, drafts, and not protection from bad weather.

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