home · Networks · Which profile system uses 38-glazed windows? How to choose a suitable window profile. Comparison of manufacturers of plastic window profiles

Which profile system uses 38-glazed windows? How to choose a suitable window profile. Comparison of manufacturers of plastic window profiles

We will analyze each type of profile, and also describe the properties in more detail, so that you can make the best choice and so that plastic windows will delight you for many years.

Many people have realized the advantages of modern plastic windows over former wooden structures. Plastic windows are incomparably more airtight than wooden ones, which ensures good thermal insulation and sound insulation of the window, and unpleasant odors from the street do not get inside.

Even double-chamber plastic windows are much warmer than wooden ones; their installation will lead to a significant reduction in heat loss, which means savings. How to choose the right window profile and purchase the best windows so that the price matches the quality. This article will help you understand this issue.

Helpful information:

In addition, the preservation of heat in the apartment, of course, depends on the plastic window itself, namely on its quality. However, the installation of PVC windows also plays an important role.

The profile for a PVC window now meets certain standards, and the best among them simply does not exist. It is divided into three classes: “Economy”, “Standard” and “Premium”. The main thing is that there is a difference between classes, but within a class there is absolutely no difference.

  • “Economy” is the main task of the window, to show that it is plastic. This profile has no advantages or disadvantages. Such windows are installed in most new buildings. At the same time, according to experts: windows from the economy class profile belong in the trash container.
  • “Standard” – has an optimal price-quality ratio. That is, these are windows whose quality is already high, but at the same time there is no inflated self-esteem. This type of profile complies with the Euro standard when performing renovations in apartments. The profile has elastic seals, durable fittings and excellent appearance.
  • “Premium” – primarily emphasizes the status of the owner, for those people who do not have a limit on their family budget.

All the stories about how my profile is whiter, and mine is warmer, and mine is straighter are just a marketing ploy, or an attempt to extract as much money from you as possible.

Video on choosing a profile for PVC windows

Sealing of double-glazed windows

The double-glazed window is not part of the window profile, but the assembly of the window as a whole depends on the quality of its seal. Here, when choosing, you need to take into account several circumstances:

  • Even in a budget window, the sealing collar should be without cuts and solid. The cut does not affect heat transfer, but will serve as a kind of nursery for the breeding of infection, as with a single seal. Many people recommend sealing the cut with silicone, but due to thermal deformations, microcracks will soon appear.
  • The seal of the frame and glass unit itself must be rubber. Manufacturers often install polyurethane expansion joints; when the window is deformed, they flatten, which leads to sagging of the glass unit in the frame and all the problems described above appear. Will have to do it more often.

A few words about window fittings

When choosing high-quality plastic windows, in addition to the above profiles and double-glazed windows, you need to pay attention to the window fittings, which must be manufactured according to uniform European standards. Then, in any weather, there will be no problems with opening/closing the window.

The fittings should not oxidize or rust. In the window design, all hinges must be hidden, which means the profile must not allow water to flow in. If there is a single seal, condensation will still collect on the hinges, so the seal must be double.

The window frame should have adjustable ventilation slots, thanks to which the window itself will open less, which will increase the service life of the plastic window.

Whose window profile is the best?

It is important to know the manufacturer of plastic windows that value their name. This, of course, serves as an additional guarantee of the quality of the windows.

There is a huge number of companies producing window profiles on the market. The most famous: Montblanc, Salamander, Aluplast, Velux, Exprof, Provedal, Gealan, Vitrage, Brugmann, Veka and others. They have gained their authority through the production of high-quality windows.

The first series of PVC windows was released in Germany. To this day, German profiles, in particular KBE and Rehau, are very popular among buyers. Below we will try to compare the profiles of plastic windows from some leading manufacturers and note their advantages and disadvantages.

At the KVE profile There are three main modifications from German manufacturers: the budget option “Expert”, the optimal option “Extra” and the more expensive energy-efficient option “Etalon”. All KBE profile windows are very durable, aesthetically pleasing, environmentally friendly, have high levels of sound and heat insulation, are resistant to various temperature fluctuations, are easy to maintain, and climate control systems in the “Etalon” modification can be used. The minimum price for this profile starts from 12 thousand rubles. The disadvantages of the KBE profile include its gray color, which does not always harmoniously suit the interior of the room.

Very popular nowadays REHAU profiles, also from German manufacturers. Such profiles are very aesthetic, durable, environmentally friendly, also easy to maintain, have low thermal conductivity, such structures can be equipped with a special locking system that will make it impossible to enter the room through the window. Also, these profiles have a very convenient climate control function. The price for these profiles starts from 13.5 thousand rubles. A minor drawback is that the reinforced chamber is small in size, and, as a result, the height of the window sash is reduced.

Veka profiles were very common in our country and have already proven their durability. However, recently the demand for these profiles has dropped significantly. This happened after the discovery of elevated levels of lead in the profiles, which negatively affects people's health.

Profiles of the Belgian concern Deceuninck have proven themselves to be reliable and excellent quality. Two types of profile data are offered: “Favorite” and “Bautek”. The profiles are popular in the modern construction market and are not inferior in all respects to premium systems. The price of these profiles is from 14.5 thousand rubles. The disadvantages include the fact that the Bautek system is not suitable for every home.

It is not uncommon that sellers only know the name of the manufacturer’s company, and are completely unaware of the technical characteristics of the window profile itself. This is where the lies begin: cheaper goods are passed off as higher quality and more expensive.

When choosing, remember that the best manufacturer simply does not exist; do not be fooled by the seller’s persuasion to purchase the best profile - check exactly the class. Otherwise, you will be sold an “Economy” class profile with a single seal at the price of the “Standard” class. Choosing a profile for a window is not only about the quality of the window as a whole, but also about comfortable living in an apartment where good plastic windows are installed.

Now, based on the material presented, and paying attention to the advantages and disadvantages of profiles from well-known companies, you can try to choose high-quality plastic window profiles that are suitable specifically for your home.

Tweet

Stammer

Like

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

What types of windows are there?

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

Wooden window profile

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

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

Let's summarize the advantages of wooden profiles:

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

Flaws:

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

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

Aluminum profile

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

A metal window is characterized by the following advantages:

  • strength;
  • low flammability;
  • durability.

Flaws:

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

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

PVC profile

PVC profile is called a plastic window. Its characteristics:

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

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

PVC has some disadvantages:

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

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

Characteristics of PVC window profile


Popular manufacturers of window profiles

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

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

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

And finally: accessories

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

Types of window fittings:

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

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

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

What is a quality profile?

The key to the quality and durability of a metal-plastic window is a high-quality PVC profile. Even if at first glance they are all the same, in reality this is far from the case.

The entire profile from which windows are made is certified.

The ISO 9001:2000 quality management system certificate is issued to production facilities that have a well-organized management system in compliance with all technological, economic and organizational requirements typical for production in developed countries. Both Russian VEKA plants have this certificate.

Wider, more reliable, warmer

The width of the profile is one of its main characteristics. Many window manufacturers promise a couple of extra millimeters to the profile width in their advertising campaigns, but is there really any benefit from them?

The most common offers on the market are:

  • classic profile 58 mm;
  • 70 mm profile with increased installation width;
  • profile VEKA SOFTLINE 82

The width of 58 mm is due to the “classics of the genre” - wooden frames, which were replaced by plastic windows. The EUROLINE 58 mm profile allows us to produce modern warm windows that meet the requirements of most buyers in different climatic zones. When manufactured and installed correctly, it is the best profile for windows in any room.

The 70 mm wide profile is a proposal that appeared in the 80s of the last century. Having higher heat-saving and sound-insulating characteristics, this profile is especially loved by Russian consumers. In the product group of VEKA profiles with a width of 70 mm, they have SOFTLINE, SWINGLINE and PROLINE.

Now another new product has appeared on the market - the SOFTLINE 82 profile. An innovative multi-chamber system, elegant style and the ability to choose from more than 40 modifications guarantee that the needs of the most discerning client will be met. The SOFTLINE 82 system provides the best insulating properties, is fully compatible with 70 mm profiles and can be installed in any home.

The choice of profile width for a window largely depends on the installation location (window in an office, vestibule door, entrance door to a store, windows in a country house) and climate.

Watch the video “Important parameters of plastic windows”

Chamber… ensemble

The second characteristic of a window is the number of cameras in the profile. There are three of them in the standard. The first is for removing condensate, the second is for placing a reinforcing metal liner, and the third is for securing parts of the fittings and creating an additional air gap for better sealing of the window. The number of chambers depends on the profile width. So, a 58 mm profile can have a maximum of three cameras, but a 70 mm profile can preferably have four. For a 90 mm profile, six chambers are the norm.

Increasing the number of cameras with the same profile width does not significantly change the characteristics of the window. To improve heat-saving characteristics, a wider profile is needed, and not a larger number of partitions in it.

Full package

Another important point is the double-glazed window. The number of glasses in a window affects its characteristics and cost. The most common are double glazing, but you can order windows with single glazing or triple glazing.

Three-chamber windows are warmer, but they weigh more and require high-quality installation and stable construction. Single-glazed windows are the coldest. It can be used for glazing unheated balconies, as well as summer houses. Double-glazed windows have optimal technical characteristics and allow you to maintain indoor comfort all year round.

Real class

There are two classes of metal-plastic profiles. The first, class A with a thickened outer wall is the best profile for windows, doors and frame glazing.

The second, class B, is a lightweight profile with a thinner outer wall, the so-called “object” profile. It has a slightly lower cost, but does not guarantee that the characteristics of the window will be maintained throughout its operation. Windows made from an “object” profile, as an economical option, can be offered by absolutely all manufacturers, but you must remember that such a window may have weaker corner connections, worse dimensional stability, lower energy-saving characteristics, the risk of premature wear of fittings, and a shorter service life.

Important takeaway

To summarize the discussion on the topic of choosing a profile for a metal-plastic window, we emphasize:

  • The presence of certificates confirms quality.
  • According to the installation width, all profiles are divided into two main classes: 58, 64 mm and 70-76 mm. Within the class, the thermal characteristics are the same. The 68 mm wide profile and the 72 mm wide profile do not differ from each other.

    The number of cameras affects the quality of the window only if the profile belongs to different width classes.

    The most common is double glazing.

    Class A profile is a leader in reliability and quality.

When choosing a profile for plastic windows, be able to hear the necessary information and filter out advertising. The quality of your windows depends on your choice. Take your time to make the right choice!

Anton Tsugunov

Reading time: 12 minutes

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

Types of profiles for plastic windows

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

By class (by wall thickness)

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

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

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

Width

The profile has different widths:

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

By number of cameras

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

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

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

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

A few words about double-glazed windows

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are several important points to note:

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

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

Connecting profile

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

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

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

Additional (expansion) profile

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

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

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

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

Stand (installation) profile

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

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

Dimensions of the stand element:

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

Read more about choosing and installing a stand profile.

Starting profile for slopes of plastic windows

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

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

  • I-variety. Installed in any position so that the long central shelf is perpendicular to the surface on which the slope is mounted. Plastic panels are attached to a short profile shelf.
  • The F-variety has two short shelves and one long one. It serves not only for fastening slope panels, but also covers the joint. With it there is no need for a decorative corner.
  • L-profile is the most versatile and popular. Installed perpendicular to the plane of the window, with a wide shelf against the wall. The narrow transverse part is adjacent to the window frame, and a strip parallel to the opening masks the junction of the frame and the slope.
  • The P-variety is very similar to the previous one, but has two wide shelves, which allows the element to cover a wider seam.

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

Color profile

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

Products of the desired color are obtained in several ways:

  • Lamination in bulk - color is added at the manufacturing stage, and a protective film is applied to the surface of the element to protect it from sunlight. The cost of such a window is from 14 to 21 thousand rubles.
  • Film lamination - the white profile is covered with a multi-layer durable film that imitates expensive wood species. The film can also be applied to the ends of frames, as well as to fittings, such as hinges. It costs less than the previous option: from 9 to 17 thousand rubles. out the window.
  • Painting with acrylic paints. The most budgetary method: from 7 to 18 thousand rubles.
  • Application of colored plexiglass melt using an extruder. From 15 to 20 thousand rubles.

Manufacturers of profiles for PVC windows: rating

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

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

  • Veka. A German company, profile systems are produced at factories in the Moscow region, Novosibirsk and Khabarovsk. There is an ISO 9001 certificate, the products are awarded the German RAL quality mark. The buyer can choose from 6 types of profiles with 3, 4, 5 and 6 chambers with a width of 58–90 mm.
  • Rehau. A company from Germany has been producing profiles in Russia since 2002 at a certified plant in Gzhel. The leader in the number of products produced per year, it offers 7 models with 3, 5 and 6 chambers and mounting widths of 60, 70 and 86 mm.
  • KBE. A German company with factories in Voskresensk and Khabarovsk. 7 modifications of profile systems, there are 3-, 4-, 5- and 6-chamber options, width – 58, 70, 88 and 127 mm. With the same level of quality, KBE frames will cost about a quarter less than Veka and Rehau products. The manufacturer issues an Official Partner Certificate to the best window assembly companies.
  • MONTBLANC. The manufacturer is an international company with 4 factories in the CIS. Produces 7 models from 58 to 120 mm wide with 3, 4, 5 and 6 chambers.
  • Salamander. The entire profile is produced only in Germany, so it costs more than competitors with Russian factories. It has an attractive design; there are 3 types of profile systems with a width of 60 and 76 mm.
  • Grain. Domestic manufacturer with a plant in Ufa. The line includes 6 types of profiles with a width of 58 and 70 mm with 3 and 5 chambers. The most famous models are Vector70 and Vector58.
  • Expr. A large Russian company that produces profiles adapted to the conditions of Siberia using German and Austrian equipment. Offers 9 types of profile systems: 2-chamber for balconies and 4-, 5- and 6-chamber with widths of 70, 101 and 118 mm. 4 types have a built-in ventilation system.
  • Proplex. Russian company with a full production cycle from profile manufacturing to final assembly. The structures were designed jointly with Austrian developers. The line includes 6 models with 3, 4 and 5 cameras with a width of 58–127 mm.
  • Deceuninck. A Belgian concern with a factory in the Moscow region produces 5 types of profiles, 3-, 5- and 6-chamber, 60–84 mm wide.
  • Kaleva. Moscow profile manufacturer and window assembler rolled into one. Offers 2 classic models and 3 designer ones with the same mounting width of 70 mm and 4–6 chambers.
  • Wintech. A Turkish company that makes profiles and accessories for them using German equipment has a certificate of conformity. The line includes 6 models with a width of 50–80 mm and a number of cameras from 3 to 6.

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

When purchasing windows, clients most often know almost nothing about the profile and other components used for assembly. To simplify the formulation as much as possible, window profiles are the elements from which the framework of frames and sashes is made. Their choice is influenced by many factors that are recommended to be taken into account. Profiles are responsible for the stability of window structures, energy saving, sound insulation, appearance and tightness, and the durability of windows also depends on them.

Customers usually receive information about the characteristics of PVC systems from the manager in a highly compressed form and may make a mistake in their choice. After all, they do not have basic knowledge and time to think through different options. As a result of such actions, buyers do not get what they wanted. To avoid falling into such situations, you need to fundamentally change your approach to the ordering procedure. Our article will tell you how to choose a profile for plastic windows and what else you need to pay close attention to.

What to consider when choosing a PVC profile

To make a successful purchase of windows, you need to correctly build the sequence of actions. First of all, you will need to find out which profile is better before ordering plastic windows. That is, first the brand and type of system are selected, and then the manufacturing company. To find a suitable system, you need to comprehensively consider several criteria.

Profile class

The set of industrial standards RAL-GZ 716/1, which is relevant for EU countries, provides for 3 classes of window profiles - A, B, C. This division and the requirement to mark systems protected buyers from purchasing products that do not meet their requirements. Systems of different classes differ from each other according to 2 main characteristics:
  • composition of raw materials for co-extrusion of profiles;
  • thickness of external and internal walls.


The service life, reliability and aesthetic appearance of windows depend on the quality of raw materials and the thickness of the plastic.
The durability of class A products ranges from 40 to 60 years, and class B is only 20 years. Class C profiles will last only 5 years, but they are not commercially available.

Profile width and number of air chambers

The width (installation depth) and the number of chambers affect both the stability of the windows and their heat-saving properties. The greater these parameters, the warmer and stiffer the structures assembled from such a profile. Today, the market offers systems that have from 3 to 8 cameras and installation depths from 58 to 127 mm.

Thickness of external and external walls

These parameters affect the strength, durability and level of load resistance. For profiles of different classes, these indicators differ as follows:

A-class– the outer walls must exceed 2.8 mm, and the internal jumpers must be at least 2.5 mm;
B-class– the minimum allowed by the standard for external walls is 2.5 mm, and for internal walls – 2 mm.

The thickness of the profile walls also determines the level of noise absorption of window structures and their energy efficiency.

With the same number of chambers and the same installation depth, class A windows are warmer and quieter than class B models.

Reinforcement

Plastic windows without reinforcement can become deformed due to the load from large sashes that are heavy. This process entails depressurization of the structure. To prevent this, special metal inserts are inserted into the internal chambers. They differ from each other in cross-section and wall thickness, which should not be less than 1.2 mm. Their optimal thickness is 1.5 mm.

Today, leading European manufacturers of premium systems are actively replacing metal liners with elements made of durable fiberglass. Without sacrificing strength, they reduce the weight of windows and increase their energy efficiency.

Environmental friendliness of PVC

When producing profiles, various stabilizers and modifiers are added to pure PVC to improve the strength, color and heat resistance of the products. Previously, many manufacturers used additives that contained harmful lead. Although studies conducted in Europe partially dispelled buyers' fears and proved that PVC is harmless to health, fear of this metal remains. In addition, lead is undesirable in plastic recycling. As a result, manufacturers replaced the harmful additive with a new, completely safe stabilizer, CaZn.

The biggest concern is not the certified products, but the profiles made in artisanal conditions. Such products may contain lead and other substances harmful to health. In order not to order windows from such components, you need to require a certificate of compliance with environmental safety requirements.

Maximum glass width

Different profiles have different maximum thicknesses of double-glazed windows that can be installed in windows. Typically, this parameter directly depends on the installation depth of the system. The larger it is, the thicker the double-glazed windows can be used to complete the windows.

With the advent of selective glass, there was no longer a need to use thick double-glazed windows to retain heat. Three-chamber models are recommended for use only in northern regions or in noisy areas (to increase the level of sound absorption of windows).

Number of sealing circuits

Modern profile systems have 2 or 3 sealing circuits. The tightness class of structures depends on their number. If the windows are planned to be used in conditions of high wind loads or at very low temperatures, it is advisable to give preference to profiles with 3 sealing contours.

Rebate depth for installation of double-glazed windows

This parameter is rarely paid attention to, although it is important. The depth of the rebate affects the likelihood of condensation occurring around the perimeter of the double-glazed windows. For profiles with a short landing distance, the glass around the spacer quickly cools in winter. This leads to the formation of condensation. To reduce the risk of it falling out, it is recommended to give preference to systems with a rebate depth of at least 20-21 mm.

Lamination

Most window companies additionally provide plastic lamination services. Its essence is to apply a polymer film with a plain or tree-like decor on one or two sides of the profile. If you plan to install colored windows at a facility, it is recommended to find out exactly what coatings the manufacturer offers.
During the search process, you cannot limit yourself to studying profiles. The thermal characteristics of windows depend no less on double-glazed windows and fittings.

How to choose a suitable plastic profile if you need warm windows

To figure out which profile to choose for PVC windows with high energy efficiency, you first need to understand how heat is retained indoors. Fittings, double-glazed windows and, of course, the profile system are responsible for this process. Most heat is lost through the translucent filling, so you need to take care of this part of the window structure first. However, without taking into account the characteristics of the profiles, it is impossible to complete this task, since there are 2 ways to increase the energy efficiency of windows:
  1. Install thick double-glazed windows– such integration is only possible in structures assembled from profiles with an installation depth of 70 mm or more. The number of internal cameras in such windows is usually 5-6 pieces.
  2. Install single-chamber double-glazed windows with selective coating– such installation does not require a powerful profile. However, the use of 3-chamber systems with an installation depth of 58-60 mm will lead to heat leakage in the area of ​​the sashes and frame, so a 5-chamber profile would be the best option.


To produce warm windows with any type of double-glazed windows, it is necessary to use profiles with increased installation depth for assembly. Otherwise, the energy efficiency of the structures will be insufficient to maintain a comfortable temperature in the interior.

Which profile is better if you need large windows?

Large structures experience high loads. They must withstand the weight of heavy double-glazed windows and gusts of wind. Since not all buyers know when ordering large plastic windows which profile is best to choose, they may subsequently encounter deformation of large structures. To avoid this, you need to follow several recommendations:
  • give preference to a multi-chamber A-class profile with an external wall thickness of 3 mm and an installation depth of 80-86 mm;
  • order closed reinforcement with steel liners with a wall thickness of 1.5 mm;


Based on these two points, you can choose large windows that will last for many years and will not cause any trouble.

Which profile is suitable if you need colored windows?

Laminated, painted and lined with acrylic – these are the types of colored windows. All of the listed plastic window profiles are on sale today, but most buyers do not know how to choose the most suitable one. In order for the designs to fully meet the client’s needs, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate:
  • service life of decors;
  • operating conditions of coatings;
  • cost of color profiles.


In addition to systems lined with decorative coatings, manufacturers offer body-painted profiles. They retain their aesthetic characteristics throughout the entire service life of the structures.
If windows with dark lamination are planned to be used on the sunny side of the building, you need to find out whether PVC can withstand overheating for a long time. Inexpensive profiles quickly soften under such conditions, which ultimately leads to deformation of the sashes and frames.

What to choose if you need secure windows

To make safe windows, you need a profile with a fitting groove offset that will allow installation. In addition, it is necessary to equip the structures with reliable steel reinforcement. The more cameras a profile with an increased installation width has, the more difficult it is to open such windows from the street side.
Attempts to break into windows with a high level of security can cause minor damage to profile structures. As a result, for the manufacture of such models it is recommended to choose systems made from environmentally friendly plastic.

How to choose the right profile at a good price

Systems that meet all the most stringent requirements belong to the premium class. But this does not mean that buying high-quality windows excludes savings. With the right approach, you can reduce your costs a little.

Firstly, you will need to first find out, when ordering inexpensive plastic windows, which profile to choose for your climate. Not all regions require maximum thermal insulation values.
Secondly, take into account the location of your window openings. If the windows face the courtyard, then there is no point in overpaying for increased sound insulation characteristics.


If you absolutely require structures that retain heat well, do not allow noise to pass through and make it difficult to break into, use our advice, without sacrificing quality.

Selecting a profile is the first priority from which you should begin the window purchasing procedure. This process requires prior knowledge of the basic information necessary for a successful search. You can find all the latest information about components for assembling window and door units on the OknaTrade website in the “Useful Articles” section.

Profile PVC profile Wood profile PVC windows Wooden windows