Types of window profiles and their characteristics. Which profile is better to choose for windows? PVC profile for plastic windows

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

What types of designs are there?

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

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

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

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

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

How to choose a suitable profile?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Plastic windows firmly occupy the leading position. They differ in the highest level of heat and sound insulation, in addition, they give the choice of fittings, window opening method and profile colors. It is also possible to choose a double-glazed window with the required number of cameras. However, not many people think that a specific window profile guarantees the strength and durability of the entire system. In this article we will compare profiles of plastic windows that differ in features 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 create a product with a width of 127 mm.

Its internal shot is hollow, but is separated by bridges, creating a number of light chambers. A special industrial calculation describes their dimensions and placement. The more spacious the profile, the more it contains the number of chambers that increase heat-saving characteristics. Another feature of the profile system is the width of the filling, which describes what type of double-glazed windows can be defined in the profile. They come in one- or two-chamber types, the width of the glass in a regular double-glazed window is 4 mm (grade M1).

Any cavity has a similar purpose:

• for draining water;
• fastening accessories;
• gives an answer for strength, etc.

Profile paint can be varied; colors are applied using several methods:

• co-extrusion method - multilayer films create a certain barrier that allows the product to endure dynamic overloads without defects;

• lamination - imitating the structure, for example, marble or wood;
• monochromatic coloring.

Properties of PVC profiles for plastic windows

Material

• This piece is made from a variation of plastic - snow-white polyvinyl chloride.
• The material used is distinguished by its highest resistance to chemical action by alkalis, solvents, acids and mineral oils.
• It is harmless to humans and the surrounding environment.

• Due to its characteristic properties, polyvinyl chloride makes it possible to produce frames for double-glazed windows not only in rectangular or square shapes, but also in the form of arches, triangles, circles, and so on. Thus, giving any elementary or complex configuration to the window, allowing even the most extraordinary ideas of artists and architects to be translated into reality.

Design

The internal grain of the plastic profile body is divided by longitudinal fences; in their own order, they form cavities (weightless chambers). The smallest number of chambers in the profile is 3, the largest is 8. The number of chambers describes the level of thermal insulation and sound absorption of the window; the lighter the cavities, the greater these characteristics. It should be immediately noted that 3- and 5-chamber profiles are used for their reputation.

Reinforcement

To provide rigidity, the profile is specially reinforced. The iron base guarantees the required strength of the system and the inviolability of the window during operation. To reinforce the profile, zinc-coated steel is used, so it does not deform in any way due to temperature changes or other actions of the surrounding environment.

• L-shaped reinforcement category - an iron insert is installed along two walls;
• U-shaped reinforcement discharge, where the alloy increases 3 walls;
• Hidden reinforcement discharge - an iron insert is placed along 4 walls.

For window systems that have double-glazed windows with a volume of 1900 mm in height, a U-shaped reinforced profile is suitable. But for plastic windows of huge dimensions, for example, for a terrace or balcony, you need a profile with closed reinforcement.

Profile class

The thickness of the profile walls describes its accessory to a specific class:

• Class A - the thickness of the profile walls must be at least 3 mm;
• Class B - profile in which 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 larger it is, the correspondingly more spacious the profile.

Comparison of manufacturers of plastic window profiles

On the Russian market, almost all both Russian and foreign manufacturers offer their own products. The leading positions in the ranking of profiles for plastic windows are occupied by the following companies:

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

VEKA

• The profile is made in accordance with German technology in Russia, they are always suitable for class A, suitable for all areas, with any climate.

• Profile systems from BEKA are presented in 8 forms, the mounting range of which ranges from 58 to 90 mm, and the number of chambers varies from 3 to 6. As a result of all modernizations, this profile is correct, environmentally friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

REHAU

• A globally recognizable profile from a German company.
• It gives this product from economy to top class, taking into account all atmospheric criteria.
• Mounting width is from 60 to 86 mm, the number of cameras is from 3 to 6.

• Windows with the REHAU profile have the highest level of noise insulation (class 5), good thermal insulation, and can also be equipped with grayish seals if desired.
• Good match between prices and properties.

SCHUKO

This company is equipped the latest equipment, uses high-quality materials and is staffed by qualified personnel. Thanks to this, it produces the entire line of profiles, fittings and seals.

• Window profile systems are available in widths from 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

There are 4 manufacturing plants for the production of profiles located in the Russian Federation.

• The Russian-Austrian company is armed with a production base, where research is carried out and new technologies are introduced.

• The Mont Blanc line covers 6 types of profiles, in which the installation width ranges from 58 mm to 120 mm, chambers - from 3 to 6.
• The durability of the profile system (60 years) is achieved with the support of deliberately created operational features for severe climates.

PROPLEX

• The plant located in Podolsk produces the profile on German equipment in accordance with Austrian technologies.
• This product is manufactured in widths that range from 58 mm to 127 mm, chambers from 3 to 6.
• The unique recipe allows us to produce quality profile, characterized by impact strength and special whiteness.

You can also compare the properties of plastic window profiles using the tables presented below.

Profiles of the German company KBE

They say that German profiles of plastic windows are superior to the products of other manufacturers in terms of quality, whiteness of color, and technical features. They do not lose their characteristics in any way, even during a long service life, and can withstand virtually all kinds of dynamic overloads and significant temperature changes (from -50°C to +50°C).

The KBE company manufactures and supplies 2 types of more required profiles: KBE Ideal and KBE Specialist.

KBE Ideal - three-chamber profile

• Mounting width is 58 mm;
• width of external walls - 3 mm;
• the thickness of the glass unit can be 34 mm;
• 3 chambers in the rim, sashes, impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• can be used in severe conditions (-60°C);
• service life - 40 years;
• During production, environmentally friendly materials are used and do not contain lead.

Pros:

• with a profile width of 58 mm, it has 3 weightless chambers, their size and excellent condition guarantee resistance to heat transfer. These windows have the highest level of density, which exceeds the existing GOST requirements by 5 (!) times, as if guaranteeing a complete absence of dust and drafts in the room;
• 2 hermetic sealing gaskets guarantee good sound insulation (46 dB each). The profile is especially equipped with horizontal jumpers, thereby increasing the strength of the lock when closing the window;
• The KBE profile is equipped with stiffening ribs, which guarantee additional strength of the window system. The hardness can also be increased by special stops, with the support of which a clear placement of the reinforcing iron insert is achieved.

KVE Specialist - five-chamber profile

• The installation width is the same 70 mm;
• width of external walls - 3 mm;
• the thickness of the glass unit is 42 mm;
• 5 chambers in the rim and sashes, 3 or 4 in the impost (horizontal and vertical window bars);
• Benign for use in severe conditions (-60°C);
• seal silhouettes are suitable for class A;
• service life - 40 years;
• During production, environmentally friendly materials are used, and do not contain lead in any way.

• A five-chamber building allows for the best possible thermal insulation; this profile can retain heat 20% more than conventional three-chamber systems. It is possible to achieve excellent sound insulation by installing large double-glazed windows in a 70 mm profile;
• The 13 mm groove of the profile allows you to install anti-burglary fittings, thereby ensuring the safety of the building;
• KBE profile The specialist has additional horizontal jumpers, thanks to which the handles and hinges will become firmly fixed;
• with the device, the prefabricated seam is approximately 20% more spacious, allowing for additional insulation in its own right.

Approximate price of windows from KBE profile

An important reason when choosing this or another double-glazed window is its cost. It is often considered decisive, but German window profiles of the highest quality cannot be inexpensive. Below is the approximate market price in Russia.

• On average, a single-chamber double-hung window with a volume of 140x130 cm, in which 1 sash has a dull appearance and the other is tilt-and-turn, will deserve:

1. from a 58 mm profile from RUB 7,500,
2. from 70 mm - from 10,000 rub.

• The cost of a two-chamber three-leaf window with a volume of 140x203 cm, in which the 1st sash is rotary, the central one has a dull appearance, the 3rd one is tilt-and-turn, will be from:

1. from 58 mm profile 13,000 rubles;
2. from 70 mm 14500 rub. and more.

• When purchasing a balcony block with a drop-down door with a volume of 210x67 cm and a blind window - 140x136 cm, you need to pay no less than:

1. from profile 58 mm 10500 rub.
2. from 70 mm from 12,000 rub.

What to focus your interest on when choosing a plastic profile with double-glazed windows

To find the required profile thickness, you must have basic knowledge about double-glazed windows, since up to 70% of heat losses occur specifically through it.

This colorless substance consists of 2 or more glasses, which are hermetically combined with the frame. Between them a room appears (a light strip), filled with rarefied air or an inert gas, such as argon or krypton. This type of filling is used in the production of energy-saving double-glazed windows.

A single-chamber double-glazed window is a system of 2 glasses of 4 mm each and a weightless layer of 16 mm; in its incomplete form it is classified - 4-16-4. Thus, its installation width is the same 24 mm. The system, the same 36 mm, comes out of 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.

Consequently, 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 unit will serve, where a heat-reflecting coating should be applied to one glass.

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

When a balcony (gallery) is connected to an adjacent space or it is planned to make a small office (rest room) out of it, then the profile must be 5-chamber with an installation depth of 86 mm, and the double-glazed window must be energy-saving, two-chamber with a width not less than 40 mm.

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

However, it’s not enough to simply choose the best PVC profile and double-glazed window. It is no less important to entrust the installation of finished windows to experts. Otherwise, no matter how precious the system may be, a bad installation will nullify all its highest properties.

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. Expensive 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 production and installation technology is violated;
• low fire resistance;
• high cost.

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.

There are . 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.

Cons:

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

Polyvinyl chloride

Reinforcing U-shaped profile for structural rigidity

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, it increases total weight structures - 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 120mm wide to produce products designed to withstand harsh climates and offer improved sound and thermal 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 popular 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:

When choosing a profile for a double-glazed window, every little detail is important. It would seem that all plastic windows are the same. However, in reality it turns out that the service life of approximately identical products is different, and the quality characteristics of some often leave much to be desired. Therefore, you need to approach the choice of profile with all responsibility.

Structure

The PVC profile is a plastic frame for a double-glazed window. Despite its apparent simplicity, this design is not simple. In the cross section of the profile, many air chambers are visible. Due to them, heat preservation is ensured. The more there are, the better the level of thermal protection.

For rigidity and reliability, a metal frame is inserted into the base of the profile. This process in production is called reinforcement. Due to reinforcement, the profile becomes stronger, eliminating the possibility of its deformation and resistance to changes in structure under the influence of negative factors environment(for example, rain, gusty winds and frost). The profile material is polyvinyl chloride.

Regardless of the type of profile, the metal strips inside it are an important factor that you need to pay attention to when ordering. It is because of them that the profile is called metal-plastic

Longitudinal chambers in frame structures are responsible not only for heat conservation. They are frame reinforcers. External sections remove condensation that may occur inside cavities due to the difference in temperature indoors and outdoors.

At the bottom of the structure they are connected to the atmosphere. Due to this, droplets flow onto the street when they appear. The presence of such holes does not in any way affect the heat level in the room: the heat in the room does not decrease. Externally, such elements do not spoil the aesthetic appearance of the windows, since in most cases they are covered with plugs or are simply not visible against the background of the entire structure. The presence of these holes indicates a high-quality window. It will be more durable compared to a modification without them.

Peculiarities

Plastic profile (PVC) is the basis of windows. The reliability and durability of the entire structure depends on it. The doors and fittings are made from this material, and a double-glazed window is installed in it. The main characteristics of the window structure depend on it, including the level of sound insulation, as well as tightness. It also affects the preservation of heat in the room.

The metal-plastic profile consists of doors and frames with a different number of chambers (up to 8). The most popular products among buyers are options for 2-3 compartments. The fundamental factor in the technical characteristics is the size of the windows. Thus, varieties of panoramic type are characterized by lower noise and heat insulation properties in comparison with analogues of smaller sizes.

Due to the increased heat retention in such structures, during installation it is necessary to resort to polyurethane foam when filling the chambers. In addition, structures can have a fiberglass coating with stiffeners. One of the significant characteristics during installation is the thickness of the ceiling and the installation width. They are responsible for the rigidity of the profile structure and the reliability of the sashes themselves.

The modern plastic profile for windows differs from its analogues in the period of its appearance. Today its quality characteristics are quite high, as are its decorative capabilities. Technological and functional frames have long replaced their wood counterparts, making glazing reliable and ergonomic. Unlike wood, polyvinyl chloride does not shrink. Such windows will not deform during operation.

PVC windows can be installed in buildings different types. They can replace wooden frames in houses whose active shrinkage phase has already completed. At the same time, residents will be protected not only from cold and noise, but also from dust. Typically, such designs enhance any, even boring, room design and look harmonious in the architectural context of buildings of various types. The ability of plastic to imitate any texture allows such frames to be used in any design style.

The profile surface can be matte, glossy or even three-dimensional. The color schemes of such products today are varied and can satisfy every taste. For example, you can select a profile under expensive varieties wood (wenge), show imitation of aged wood.

When more luxurious solutions are needed, stone-like plastic and even reptile skin are chosen. The design depends on the client’s preferences: brands today are often ready to fulfill the buyer’s individual order.

Characteristics

Among the main characteristics of this profile are:

• resistance to oxidation, high temperature;
• resistance to moisture and water;
• health safety for household members;
• aesthetic appeal;
• low thermal conductivity coefficient;
• variability of design forms;
• fit into any historical architectural design;
• varying degrees of complexity of window designs and mechanisms;
• rich color palette.

This profile is easier to maintain than its wood counterpart. It does not need to be covered with stain or other paint over time. To clean the surface, in most cases it is enough to use a damp cloth or semi-dry sponge. However, in case of significant mechanical damage, scratches may form on it, which cannot be hidden in any way. This is the main disadvantage of such designs.

Options with different numbers of cameras differ in performance characteristics. For this reason, their choice is often based on the climatic conditions of the region. If the winters there are cold and windy, they try to choose cameras with a large number of compartments. In this case, preference is given to a larger thickness of the glass unit.

The profile itself is environmentally friendly. It is far from the harmful plastic that was produced in production before. Such a frame with sashes will not emit toxic substances during window operation. When choosing, it is important to pay attention to the number of cameras. If the glazing is cold, there must be at least 3 of them. Such profiles can be used for balconies, loggias and rooms technical type. When it is planned to glaze heated buildings (school, house, apartment, restaurant), the number of required cameras increases to 5.

Species

In addition to polyvinyl chloride, aluminum or steel is used in the construction of PVC profiles for windows. Metal is used in horizontal and vertical elements . The production of profiles is subject to the requirements of GOST 30673-99 in our country and EN 12608 SR in European countries.

The first group profile is the best option and is intended for residential buildings. It is characterized by the thickness of the external walls of about 2.8 mm or more, the internal ones - from 2.5 mm. This variety is more resistant to accidental mechanical damage. The analogue of category “B” has smaller wall thickness.

The inner walls have a thickness of 2 mm, while the outer walls are 1/3 mm thinner. It seems like a little, but that is why such options are less resistant to mechanical loads. They can be used for heated and unheated rooms. The profile marked “C” is characterized by smaller thicknesses of both walls. In the language of specialists, it is called object-based.

Unlike the two previous options, it does not have a standardized thickness (it is clearly less than categories “A” and “B”). The disadvantage is the design of this type itself: it does not have opening doors. The solidity of such windows makes them less popular among buyers. These varieties are used in unheated rooms.

Essentially everything existing varieties plastic profiles for windows can be divided into 3 types:

• economy;
• standard;
• lux.

Plastic window profiles come in main and additional profiles. On store shelves today you can buy the following profile:

• connective;
• stand;
• reinforcing;
• expansion;
• U- and F-shaped.

These are tubular structures with blocks inside that make up the window frame. Chambers come in different shapes and volumes. Some of them are not connected either with each other or with the external environment. They are sealed, while others serve for ventilation. Depending on the size, air content and number of chambers, such profiles have different purposes. Some of them are used for technical premises, others can be used for residential buildings.

The L-shaped appearance is characterized by the reinforcement of the two walls of the profile. The U-shaped type is the reinforcement of three walls. When closed, all parts are reinforced. In this case, the choice of profile depends, among other things, on the number of glasses in the structure. The cameras in the frames directly depend on this.

Varieties differ in the degree of frost resistance. Thus, frost-resistant versions marked “M” are designed for temperatures down to -50 degrees C (control load). Analogs of normal design are suitable for regions with sub-zero temperatures down to -20-40 degrees C. The difference depends on the type of base material used.

Dimensions

The profile parameters are determined by its width and thickness. In this regard, manufacturers try to adhere to standard values. A common frame version may have dimensions of 58x63x43 mm. The dimensions of the sash are 58x77x57 mm, the dimensions of the impost are 58x87x47 mm.

When the profile accommodates 6 chambers, its thickness can be 85-90 mm. At 70mm it usually has up to 5 cameras. In the first case, the profile is thick and is not suitable for every window opening. 70mm is considered the best option if up to 5 cameras are needed.

The thickness of the front wall of class “A” is on average 3 mm. For category “B” analogues, this figure is reduced by half a millimeter. The front side of classes “A” and “B” is thinner by 0.5 mm each from the values ​​of the front wall. In category “C”, manufacturers do not indicate data. The installation width of the profile in some varieties can be 104, 110 and 130 mm.

How to choose?

On the modern market of such materials, PVC profiles are presented in a wide range. It's easy for a buyer to get confused. However, it is quite possible to make the right choice without being a specialist in the field of construction and installation. To begin with, you should pay attention to the material itself. Appearance plastic can tell a lot about its quality.

When there is no decorative laminated film on the profile (imitation of the desired texture), one careful look is enough. High quality material characterized by a monolithic structure. There should be no roughness or inhomogeneity in it. Any stains or uneven coloring are excluded. Noticeable graininess will indicate a counterfeit product.

You cannot buy such a PVC profile. Typically, such samples can be found in fly-by-night companies. Such companies offer installation of windows from their material. It is produced from cheap and harmful raw materials. Therefore, one cannot expect any quality characteristics from such a profile.

Yes, and you need to know about the manufacturer before purchasing components. To do this, you can find out more about the company’s reputation based on reviews.

It is important to understand that profiles have some differences between each other. They are cut on special machines to specific dimensions of structures. This applies not only to the sashes, but also to the posts and crossbars. Therefore, when purchasing, you need to purchase the entire set from one brand. Otherwise, you can’t count on flawless joining of elements, be it a connection by special welding or mechanical hardware.

Cameras

Before purchasing, it is important to inquire about the number of cameras. Usually, quality products from famous brands have more than 5 cavities. This is enough, while 7 cavities will be excess. In this case, we must not forget that it is not the number of chambers, but the thickness of the walls that is more important. After all, they will be responsible for the heat level to a greater extent.

In addition to options with air chambers, today on the market you can find PVC profiles in which the voids are filled not with air, but with a heat insulator. This is predominantly a foam-based material (expanded polystyrene) or fiberglass. This profile appeared on the market relatively recently.

However, experts believe that it is more effective in terms of heat retention. The disadvantage is the cost of modification, which is noticeably higher than traditional options.

Width

Since the choice of profile requires a comprehensive analysis, it is worth paying attention to the width of the PVC profile. It is often called installation depth in the language of specialists. In a standard profile, its indicator usually varies in the range of 50-80 mm. The number of cameras inside the element depends on it. Typically, with a smaller width, the structure has no more than 3 cavities. When the width exceeds 70 mm, their number increases from 4 to 5.

However, one cannot assume that the wider the profile, the more cameras it contains. This is not always true, because depending on the design features, the profile can be wide (for example, up to 9 cm), but with a minimum number of cavities. Such options may have excellent thermal insulation characteristics, since the air supply and the dimensions of the cavities themselves are important in this case.

In some cases, the installation depth can be 10 cm. Such options cover the window opening, so they often do not need to install external slopes. Their distinctive feature is the cross-sectional shape in the form of a trapezoid. These windows are called “Dutch”, “Danish”. They are certainly better than their usual counterparts, although not everyone can afford their installation.

Seat

It is impossible to buy a plastic profile without knowing the seating depth of the glass unit. It is this factor that is responsible for the type of glass unit, its quality, as well as heat-insulating properties. A good profile frame is a structure where the glass sheet is at least 1.5 cm away from the front cut, overlapping the profile fold.

If you plan to mount the frame to a depth of 5-7 cm, seat to install glass it should be 1.8 cm. Few people pay attention to this aspect when purchasing a profile. However, if you ignore it and rely solely on the width of the profile and the number of cavities in it, you may not be surprised in the future that the double-glazed window fogs up or freezes.

In addition, it is worth paying attention to 4 factors:

• Linear expansion. It should be minimal so that no voids are formed during installation. The higher it is, the smaller the size of the window frame.
• Elasticity coefficient. The presence of steel is mandatory criterion profile selection. In this case, the thickness of the internal walls (stiffeners) is important.
• Resistance to temperature changes and UV rays. The composition of polyvinyl chloride must contain stabilizers to maintain inertness to loss of color and structure.
• Seal. Among thermoplastic, thermopolymer, silicone and rubber, it is worth giving preference to products made from silicone. It is resistant to abrasion and inert to temperature changes.

Each profile is supplied with a certificate. It indicates the type of product and the place of its production.

Decor

White frames are considered old-fashioned today. It is being replaced by profiles with laminated film that can imitate any texture. These can be neutral options (gray, black), as well as wood tones. Of course, such a solution for a window structure will cost more, but by paying 15-20% more, the buyer can equip his home taking into account the choice of a specific design.

If the choice is made in favor of a colored frame, the shade is selected taking into account the interior and exterior. The frame should look beautiful outside and inside. You can build on the color of existing furniture and doors. The color profile can have a related shade, but different color temperatures are undesirable. However, the choice of color profile has its own nuances.

Light tones won't heat up in the sun as much as, say, dark rocky or woody browns. This means that when choosing a colored profile, the presence of metal in the frame is mandatory, regardless of the size and shape of the frame. In addition to lamination, manufacturers paint the PVC profile with acrylic coating and complement it with metal or wood overlays. The shape of the elements itself is a decorative device, which today is more streamlined and can have a complex relief.

Today you can order plastic window profiles for oak, alder, fir, mahogany, malachite, and marble. For a more creative design, the shade palette includes yellow, turquoise, blue and wine shades. By laminating, you can decorate frames with a film with an aging effect. If desired, you can also choose coatings with a three-dimensional effect, creating a feeling of volume and relief.

Manufacturers and reviews

Today, many companies are ready to offer the buyer PVC profiles for windows. Several companies were included in the rating of highly rated professional craftsmen:

• Rehau;
• Veka;
• Proplex.

Their products are of high quality and comply with established European standards. Such frames do not cause any complaints from professional craftsmen; they are easy to install and do not deform during operation. According to customer reviews, these products are characterized by high cost. However, the product is worth it, since the profiles of these brands are durable, resistant to mechanical stress and do not collapse over time.

Rehau

German profile manufacturer with a wide range of products. The brand targets all segments of society, producing economy-class, standard and luxury products. Options are designed for different climatic conditions. The number of chambers in a profile varies from 3 to 6. At the same time, the installation depth ranges from 6 to 8.5 cm. The products are characterized by a high level of noise and heat insulation. They come with gray seals.

Veka

Profile made in Russia, produced using German technology. Corresponds to class “A”, intended for use in any regions of Russia with different climatic backgrounds. 8 presented today different types with different range of installation depth (58-90 mm). The number of air chambers inside the profile ranges from 3 to 6. Equipped with a durable metal frame, it looks stylish, beautiful and modern.

KBE

This profile has the best quality indicators and technical characteristics in comparison with analogues of other brands. The products are durable white, which does not fade in the sun and over a long time. The profile is presented in three options: “Standard”, “Expert”, “Expert+”.

These are “A” class products with a service life of about 40 years. There can be 3 or 5 chambers in the frame and sashes, 3-4 in the impost. Such products can be installed in rooms with a critical region temperature (up to -60).

Depending on the model, the profile may have additional horizontal jumpers, which ensures reliable fastening of the rivers and loops.

Proplex

The domestic manufacturer offers customers a profile created using Austrian technology. The Podolsk plant produces varieties with three and five air chambers with a system width of 5.8 and 7 cm. The width of the double-glazed window, depending on the profile model, can be 4-34 and 12-42 mm. The estimated service life of the product is about 60 years. The profile resistance during heat transfer is 0.78 and 0.81 m2C/W. The structures are distinguished by their whiteness and impact strength.

The ranking lists best manufacturers, whose products have been tested by installers. In addition to the main companies, we can highlight products from the Mont Blanc, Trocal and Salamander brands. Good products can be purchased from Aluplast, Funke, Artek. If there is no brand profile from the rating in the assortment, you can pay attention to these options.

If choosing seems difficult, you can consult with the seller, noting the necessary questions in advance. For example, if the buyer lives in the southern region, there is no need to order a six- and seven-chamber profile. In this case, an analogue for 3 cameras will be enough.

To effectively protect against the cold, a resident of a high-rise building should not install a product with more than 4 chambers. A five-chamber design is enough for your house. However, it is worth starting from the reliability of the foundation, since the weight of the double-glazed window will be noticeable.

To prevent the window from deforming over time, before purchasing it is worth checking the availability of a profile to strengthen the frame. If it is missing, the window will not close well over time. In addition, its tightness will also suffer. In addition, you need to understand that a cheap profile cannot be of high quality. In an attempt to save money, you can lose on quality. And this will affect the reduction in the service life of the window.

When purchasing a profile, you need to pay attention to exactly how the frame is sealed. To avoid the accumulation of condensation, there should be 2 seals at the bottom of the frame. If at least 1 of them is missing, mold will appear on the profile over time. At the same time, the material of the seal itself also matters, which affects its quality characteristics.

For installation, varieties with a width of 58 mm are often purchased. This option is relevant for apartments in high-rise buildings and is present in every line of brands. Options with larger widths are considered premium products. They are more durable, reliable and differ in noise and thermal insulation capabilities compared to the first analogues. However, it is not always possible to install such structures in high-rise buildings in terms of their load on load-bearing floors.

Finally, it is worth noting no less important nuance: The manufacturer and installer may be different companies. To prevent them from shifting responsibility for a poor-quality window onto each other in the future, it is important to choose the right material from the beginning. You need to go through each paragraph of the article and note what is appropriate in a particular case. In addition, you will have to study the installer’s rating so that the profile is installed as expected.

To avoid running into a counterfeit of a well-known brand, you should go to the manufacturer’s website and ask for the address of a specific store. Information about official suppliers will allow you to understand whether the store in your city really sells a brand profile. If the site administration gives an affirmative answer, you can buy the products. When purchasing a color version of a profile, it is important to look at each element for different shades: the window should look monolithic.

German quality PVC window profile BauLine is distinguished by high functionality and unique aesthetic properties. Thanks to the use of innovative polymer compounds and steel reinforcement, such windows will successfully serve for at least 30-40 years, even in the most difficult climatic and operating conditions. We offer you to buy profiles for PVC windows with delivery in Moscow, the Moscow region and other regions of the Russian Federation.

Application

PVC profiles from the BauLine brand are used to create modern windows with excellent energy-saving, noise and heat insulation characteristics. Our products are in demand for the arrangement of residential multi-storey buildings, including new buildings and old houses, dachas, cottages, bathhouses, hotels, offices, municipal facilities, shopping and entertainment establishments, etc. The system can be used for the production of standard and French windows, balcony windows and doors, office partitions, stained glass windows.

• Resistance to deformation due to steel reinforcement with a thickness of 1.5-2 mm;
• The use of wear-resistant fittings and hermetic EPDM or TPE seals ensures ease of use throughout the service life of the polyvinyl chloride profile;
• Security due to the high level of burglary resistance of the system;
• Availability of fire safety certificates and hygienic conclusions, which confirms the quality of the products produced;
• Ecologic recipe based on natural heat stabilizers;
• Silky-glossy texture and snow-white color thanks to the use of HochGlanz and Extraweiss technologies;
• Service life - from 60 years. Moreover, the guarantee for the profile is 2-5 years, depending on the technical parameters.

When determining the price of a PVC window profile, the size and shape of the structure, complexity and urgency of the work are taken into account.

BauLine profile types

Our range includes the following popular PVC profile options for windows:

• BauLine 60. The profile is equipped with 3 chambers and has an optimal level of noise and heat insulation; The BauLine 60 delivery program includes a system with a 13 mm fitting groove and pre-strung gray seals.
• BauLine 70. The classic system of 70 installation depth has 5 thermal insulation chambers and is suitable for installing 32/40 double-glazed windows.
• BauLine 70 4x4. This 4-chamber system with the ability to install the maximum 44-mm double-glazed window in its class is the most suitable solution for the Russian climate, and comes with pre-stretched gray seals.
• BauLine 80. The PVC profile for windows consists of 6 chambers, used for installing double-glazed windows 46-50. Recommended for use in innovative construction projects - for furnishing houses with minimal energy consumption.