Advantages and disadvantages of plastic windows. Advantages and disadvantages of plastic windows Advantages of plastic windows ease of maintenance

From the article you will learn:

Glazing with plastic windows is now widespread. In addition to tenants and builders of modern office buildings and shopping centers, PVC glazing is preferred by owners of private houses and apartments. Even wooden or adobe houses can boast of plastic double-glazed windows.

History of plastic windows

“Euro-windows” first appeared about half a century ago in the USA. There were no supporters of such windows among the Americans. Firstly, the color range was poor (only white version), the windows themselves looked unnatural and new. Secondly, there was no metal reinforcement inside the frame, and the entire load fell on the plastic frame, as a result of which it often failed and the windows broke.

The Germans borrowed the idea and achieved serious success in this. It’s not for nothing that the lion’s share of production in the world plastic double glazed windows belongs to Germany. Plastic windows made by Germans are considered the best in the world.

It is worth noting that windows are made not from ordinary plastic, but from PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Invented in 1835, the material did not find proper use for a long time. Since then, the PVC formula has been improved many times until scientists have achieved the lightness and strength of the material. In addition to chemists, polyvinyl chloride was of interest to physicists and engineers. Studying the properties of PVC double-glazed windows, thanks to optimal calculations load, together they achieved reliability and high strength. Thus, about 40 years ago modern ones appeared, capable of serving their owners for several decades.

Modern plastic windows occupy leading positions in sales rankings. Today they are not uncommon, although until recently, it was the arrangement of a window opening with a plastic structure that indicated the well-being of the residents of the housing construction.

Many in their reviews about PVC windows note extended technical capabilities such products, a change in the usual design, functionality, easy care, durability and other advantages. This is largely why they do not lose, but continue to gain popularity among consumers.

What is PVC

Polyvinyl chloride is a synthetic substance that is part of the group of polymers. It has various physicochemical characteristics, differing in the use of technology for its formation. Appearance: white powder without taste qualities, and there is no smell. Polyvinyl chloride is the most popular material used in the construction industry, as it has the lowest cost.

Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) window profiles, which are the basis metal-plastic windows. According to experts, it is this part of the design that is the key to reliability and quality. Therefore, when choosing a plastic window, Special attention it is necessary to pay attention to his profile.

Why are PVC windows called metal-plastic?

When producing a PVC profile, stabilizing components and modifiers, color pigments, and additives are added. They use lead or zinc in combination with calcium in granular form. They provide the profile with the property of resistance to temperature changes, zero level of water absorption and certain loads. Based on the fact that lead and zinc belong to the group of metals, and polyvinyl chloride to the group of thermoplastics, PVC windows received their second name - metal-plastic.

Elements that form the basis of the design of a window product

A metal-plastic window is a structure consisting of a frame and sash (PVC), a reinforcement, a seal, and a double-glazed window.

1. Structure of profiles.

Several internal through channels are formed in the profile plane. air chambers, providing the design with thermophysical properties. Inside the plane, a galvanized reinforcing product of the liner is installed, which performs protective function from wind loads and ensuring the preservation of profile shapes when exposed to temperature changes.

2. Double-glazed window.

A structural system having several panes of glass (two or three) separated evenly in the plane of the frame, which is connected by a hermetic substance to the panes. The chamber of the glass unit contains dried air mass or inert gases (krypton, argon). Apply different types glass: shockproof, sun-protective, energy-saving, triplex.

Each connection of profiles with the structural system of a double-glazed window is provided with a continuous seal made on the basis of the rubber group of materials. They provide a barrier to the penetration of moisture into the living space and prevent through blowing through the PVC window.

3. Accessories.

The third important component. Connecting hinges, locking pins mounted in movable devices, handles and levers that ensure opening/closing of the planes of the sashes, fixing stops, a mechanism that performs a tilt-and-turn function - all these are accessories for PVC windows. During operation, these parts are subject to wear and may require replacement.

Characteristic features of PVC window designs

Metal-plastic windows are manufactured in various variations, which have distinctive characteristics of the main elements of the structural system.

1. Types of product sashes:

• Single leaf. Opening or blind window.
• Bivalve. On the plane of the product there are two doors: a blind one and an opening one.
• Tricuspid. The window consists of three sashes: two fixed and one opening.
• Sliding doors. Scope of application: planes of loggias and balconies. This type differs in lightness, rigidity and durability.
• Window with door. Used to create a doorway that provides entry/exit to the balcony space.

2. Opening systems:

3. Double-glazed windows and their varieties.

Double-glazed windows can be divided into several types, determined by the number of cameras:

Providing PVC windows with additional options

When ordering a window design, you need to check with consultants point of sale all detailed information about the product. Design functions are of particular importance. The properties of PVC windows largely depend on them. They may have standard and additional options. If the product will be manufactured to customer order, then you can immediately specify the necessary options. The main group of these includes:

Color tone

The standard color of PVC window profiles is white tone, however, it may have a different color palette. The profile can be laminated with internal and outside or just one of them. Profiles are laminated using the press method using colored film. The most popular is a film that imitates the structure of wood: golden, rustic, dark, natural oak, nut. It is resistant to ultraviolet rays.

The cost of PVC windows with laminated coating outside will be higher by 15-20%, and on both sides by 35-45%, than products with a regular white profile.

Pricing Features

Exists a large number of companies producing PVC windows, and the understanding of pricing policy formation is determined individually by each participant construction market. Fluctuations in the difference in pricing of metal-plastic windows depend on the quality characteristics that determine whether the product belongs to a certain class. There are three classes:

Main criteria for choosing designs

When choosing windows, you need to take them into account quality characteristics and functional properties, since the product must not only have a respectable appearance, but also create a favorable climate in the living space. Criteria for choosing windows:

1. Profile: outer wall thickness more than 2.8 mm, inner wall - at least 2.5 mm, product width - at least 58 mm, no odor and mechanical damage on its plane.
2. Air chambers: from 3 to 8 chambers, depending on the design of the glass unit.
3. Double-glazed window: two-chamber system, if the building is located near roads, enterprises, train stations, optimal solution there will be a three-chamber design.

Why are PVC windows so popular?

Without exaggeration, we can say that these structures have in great demand. This success is largely due to the numerous advantages of PVC windows. These include:

Disadvantages of PVC windows

Metal-plastic products are a reliable and durable design that can create comfort and coziness in a room, but they, like other products, have their drawbacks:

• inaccessibility of natural air exchange; the possibility of condensation formations;
• minimal possibilities for decorating the product;
• If structural elements are damaged, it is necessary to completely dismantle the window.

Soft PVC windows and their quality characteristics

They appeared on the market relatively recently, but have already managed to win the trust and recognition of consumers. Affordable and convenient solution for the arrangement of summer areas, which are the object wooden house or a separate building, there will be soft windows using polyvinyl chloride film. They are an alternative to glazing the open openings of the planes of verandas and terraces of country buildings.

Components for forming a soft window (curtain): PVC film, edging and fasteners.

• Film. An unreinforced transparent PVC product having a thickness of 0.5 mm to 0.75 mm. The product is produced in rolls 1.4 m wide, therefore for openings exceeding this value, before installation process it is soldered using transparent seam technology.
• Edging. A colored strip made from synthetic materials, width from 5 cm. It performs the function of adjusting the reinforcement of the product and its fastening along the edges of the window.
• Fastening. Staples, locks and reverses.

The production of flexible soft windows made of transparent PVC is aimed at expanding the market building materials. Thanks to their unique features, films will not only give an attractive appearance, but will also be an excellent alternative to traditional designs.

Advantages of soft windows

Such products are increasingly being chosen for furnishing country houses for recreation. Undoubtedly, soft PVC windows for terraces have their advantages and disadvantages, like other types of structures. Their main advantages are:

• Safety. Does not pose a threat to children, since the product does not break.
• The soft window design protects open objects from negative factors. environment.
• Service life up to 10 years.
• Affordable price. Soft PVC windows for a gazebo will cost significantly less than with traditional glazing of a building.

Metal-plastic windows have been invariably popular for decades. And this is not at all surprising. These designs are modern, reliable and durable, which is why more and more people are installing metal-plastic windows on their balconies and in rooms of both residential and non-residential premises.

Metal-plastic windows first appeared in Russia in the 90s of the 20th century and began to actively replace wooden frames. Over 20 years, their popularity has not decreased, and many consumers today purchase this particular type of window for their houses, apartments and cottages. Let's try to figure out what the advantages of metal-plastic windows are and what makes them attractive to buyers.

Advantages and disadvantages of metal-plastic windows

• The designs of metal-plastic windows look very attractive. These windows have many stylish and beautiful shapes, different colors and sizes. It’s not easy these days to surprise anyone with pointed, round, arched windows and even more original solutions;
• long (at least 20 years) service life;
• resistance to action external factors(sun, frost, snow, rain, etc.);
• excellent sound and heat insulating qualities;
• low maintenance (it is enough to wash the windows with a solution washing powder or soap inside and out);
• Manufacturers claim that plastic windows are safe for health, being made from environmentally friendly plastic.

• thermal insulation properties depend on the quality and accuracy of installation;
• complete tightness. This advantage of windows is also their disadvantage. Wooden frames “breathe” due to micropores, metal-plastic frames do not. Therefore, the room must be regularly ventilated.

Device

Window block includes two main elements - a window frame and sashes, which can be fixed or opening and can be supplemented with transoms and vents. There are also frame windows, the sashes of which engage with each other.
Depending on the method of opening the window, the following types of sashes are distinguished:

• hinged, opening inward (the most common in our country);
• tilt and turn. Unlike hinged ones, they can, in addition to opening inward, also move down and up.

Metal-plastic windows come with single and double sashes.

Thanks to modern technologies Today it is possible to produce windows that can satisfy any, even the most demanding customers. Main advantages metal-plastic structures determined by the glass, fittings and profile used to make the sashes and frame.

The thermal insulation of these structures depends on the width of the profile section (transverse) and the thickness of the walls. In the climate of our country, you can use a two-chamber or three-chamber profile with a special liner for thermal insulation. Experts advise installing narrow frames only in houses that have external insulation. If the house is panel, such windows will not be able to provide sufficient thermal insulation. It is also necessary to take into account the fact that moisture can accumulate on the slopes of window openings, leading to the destruction of the finish and the formation of mold.

If you want to change your interior, read this. Hallways with narrow spaces can also be updated.

The classic color of metal-plastic windows is white. However, you can optionally give the profile any color you like using acrylic lacquer or decorative film. A more reliable way is to add a coloring pigment to polyvinyl chloride when making a profile.

Installation

Before installing the window, measurements are taken of the external and internal window space.
Correct and accurate measurements will help you avoid various troubles in the future. Usually consultation and measurements are included in the installation price, sometimes this stage is completely free.

It is also important not to forget about preparing the room, because when installing metal-plastic windows, a lot of dirt and dust is generated. Therefore, it is better to take out everything that is possible for a while and cover the remaining things with film.

Installation steps:

1. old windows are dismantled (and, if necessary, window sills);
2. The plastic window is being prepared for installation;
3. markings are applied in places of future fastenings;
4. fasteners are installed on the window frame;
5. V window opening make recesses in areas of future fasteners;
6. The window is installed strictly according to the level (without slopes or curvatures);
7. the window is attached to the window opening;
8. fittings are adjusted;
9. ebb fastening is made;
10. sealing is carried out polyurethane foam gaps between the opening and window frame;
11. a window sill is installed (if necessary);
12. The final adjustment of window fittings takes place.

How to choose metal-plastic windows

• Firstly, you need to order windows from well-known companies, whose craftsmen are experienced in installing such structures. Newly formed firms can exhibit more low prices for installation, but you should not trust inexperienced technicians;
• the window structure should not have any odor;
• do not forget that the heat-saving qualities of a window depend on the number of chambers;
• note the profile designed to give window design rigidity and resistance to loads. Its thickness is especially important for windows large sizes. It is desirable that the profile material be galvanized steel;
• The larger the window area, the thicker the profile should be. Winds, especially on upper floors, a thin profile can be deformed. Lightweight profiles are usually chosen for glazing balconies or solid windows small size, for example, in the toilet;
• When installing plastic structures, you should not skimp on fittings. Espagnols, handles, various rotating devices and mechanisms play an important role, because the quality of these elements depends reliable operation windows Many users ignore this point, which causes jamming and distortions. window sashes;
• for glazing, blocks are usually used, consisting of several glass sheets separated by sealed chambers (this design is called a double-glazed window). The most popular are single- and double-chamber double-glazed windows, but the maximum number can reach five;
• When installing, it is necessary to take into account the fact that when more chambers, the thermal insulation properties increase, but this reduces the penetration sunlight into the room. Therefore, when choosing the number of cameras, you should adhere to the “golden mean” rule;
• Please note the warranty periods. The Law "On Protection of Consumer Rights" says that guarantee period product and installation period cannot be less than two years. According to the existing state According to standards, the warranty period must be at least three years.

As you understand, in general, despite some shortcomings, metal-plastic windows are significantly superior in visual terms, as well as in noise and thermal insulation properties ordinary wooden ones. The main thing is to choose the design that is right for you and make sure that the windows are installed by experienced craftsmen in accordance with all the rules.

Plastic or, as they are also called, metal-plastic windows are now the most popular in our market. How to choose the most the best option windows for your home.

People are exchanging old, unusable wooden frames en masse for modern designs with double glazed windows. Metal-plastic windows are the most popular. They are the best in terms of price-quality ratio for replacement.

Manufacturers offer a variety of profiles, big choice accessories different quality. The production time for windows according to individual measurements ranges from several days to 1-2 weeks, which is also convenient for customers.

Metal-plastic windows are frames of a complex design made of PVC profiles, double-glazed windows and mechanisms for opening window sashes. There are air cavities inside the profiles and steel mesh reinforcement is inserted for strength.

Advantages of plastic windows

Plastic windows provide complete tightness. They retain heat well and provide good sound insulation.

According to manufacturers, plastic windows are harmless to health, as they are made from special environmentally friendly plastic.

PVC windows can be ordered in any design, almost any shape, with a tilting or opening mechanism.

The service life of such window structures is several decades; they are resistant to any weather conditions.
Caring for plastic windows is the easiest; they do not require painting or any special maintenance.
You can choose any frame color, including various wood textures.
Blinds and blinds go well with plastic windows, as well as almost any type of window decoration.

Disadvantages of plastic windows

The accuracy and quality of installation is of great importance; their thermal insulation properties depend on this.

Complete tightness is also considered a disadvantage. Manufacturers claim that window frames made of wood have micropores through which air circulates and this is their advantage.

But this microcirculation is completely insufficient for the home. Any room in which people are located needs regular ventilation.

Many materials and household items (chipboard furniture, detergents, paint and varnish coatings, laminate, carpeting) emit into the air harmful substances. Sometimes their concentration exceeds everything acceptable standards, especially if the furniture is new or recently renovated. Combustion products also pollute the air if the kitchen hood is not powerful enough. Without natural ventilation no frames with micropores will clean the air in the apartment or saturate it with oxygen.

How to choose the right plastic windows?

First of all, you should order windows from well-known company, whose craftsmen have experience in installing such structures. A recently opened company sets lower prices for installation, but you shouldn’t trust inexperienced craftsmen.

Profiles for plastic windows are hollow inside and consist of several air chambers. The more cameras in a profile, the better. The heat-saving properties of the window depend on this.

It is advisable to pay attention to the metal profile, which is designed to stiffen the window structure and withstand heavy loads. Its thickness is important for large windows. It must be made of galvanized steel.

The larger the window area, the thicker the profile. Strong winds, especially on the upper floors, can deform the thin profile. Lightweight profiles are chosen for installing balcony glazing, for small solid windows, for example, in a toilet.

Fittings (handles, hinges, latches) must be of the highest quality best quality, it’s better not to skimp on it. You need to choose the best one from those offered.

Modern window manufacturers offer customers a large assortment translucent structures with different characteristics, operating parameters and external design features. Buyers are often lost in the variety of options, not knowing by what criteria to compare models and evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. The most popular windows today are made from, but not all customers know that there are two categories of these structures, each of which has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.

What is the difference between plastic and metal-plastic windows

Metal-plastic windows do not differ in appearance from simple PVC products, however, if you look at such a profile in section, your eyes will see the presence of an important additional detail - an internal metal liner -. Interior metal carcass increases the strength and reliability of the structure. It is made from steel with anti-corrosion coating, is located inside the chambers of the frame and sash along the entire perimeter. The reinforcing frame can be closed - with a cross-sectional shape in the form of a quadrangle or open - with a cross-section resembling the outline of the letters G or P. The thickness of the steel plate is usually 1.2 -1.5 mm and depends on the load the structure must withstand . The basic requirements for the quality of the material and the method of installing the frame are set out in GOST 30674-99, which is valid throughout the Russian Federation.

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal-plastic windows

Plastic windows

However, as mentioned above, plastic windows without a reinforcing metal frame are less durable. Most manufacturing plants guarantee 20-30 years of serviceability of such structures when used under normal conditions. The profile is constantly under heavy load: in addition to its own weight, it holds a heavy double-glazed window, which can weigh up to 80 kg.

It is worth noting that even the highest quality plastic can be deformed from sharp temperature fluctuations and long exposure to sunlight. For this reason, the service life of plastic windows in regions with unstable or hot climates will be shorter.

Metal-plastic windows

Metal-plastic windows also have certain disadvantages that should be taken into account when purchasing:

1. The appearance of “cold bridges”. Metal elements Compared to plastic, they have greater thermal conductivity and reduce thermal insulation characteristics the entire structure. To minimize the influence of this factor, manufacturers came up with the following: they reduce the area of ​​contact between the frame and the plastic by installing vertical ribs inside that hold the metal in the desired position.


2. High price. Any windows made of reinforced profiles (naturally, we are talking about high-quality products) are more expensive than similar models made of ordinary plastic. Galvanized steel is enough expensive material, and therefore the price of structures increases in proportion to the amount of metal used.

Areas of application

• For premises on the upper floors of high-rise buildings, as well as for installation in houses located on open space(with maximum likelihood of regular exposure strong winds), you should choose metal-plastic windows.
• Apartments in standard multi-storey buildings large cities located in middle lane Russia (and other regions with temperate climates) can be equipped with simple plastic windows.
• Ordinary plastic windows are a decent option for buyers on a limited budget.
• For installation in buildings with large window openings, it is recommended to use exclusively metal-plastic windows.
• Windows designed according to individual projects, designs non-standard shape, original models For designer interiors They are made mainly from PVC profiles with reinforcement.
• Glazing of structures that cannot withstand significant loads, for example, balconies with fragile fencing, should be done with products from plastic profile without a steel liner - they have less weight and minimize the likelihood of damage or destruction.