Economy standard and premium windows. Classes of PVC window profiles: features, strengths and weaknesses. The main parameters of shockproof glass

If you want to understand the criteria for choosing a PVC window, then one of the first indicators that experts recommend paying attention to is a profile made of polyvinyl chloride. Products are presented in different classes, each of which has its own characteristics. Having become acquainted with them, you can choose the optimal type of window structure.

What should be a modern PVC window profile

Today the main European quality standard for PVC window profiles is RAL-GZ 716/1. It defines the following parameters of polyvinyl chloride products:

class A: the outer walls should be 2.8 mm thick, the inner ones - 2.5 mm;
class B: the thickness of the outer walls should not be less than 2.5 mm, internal - 2 mm;
class C: external and internal walls can be of almost any wall thickness.

Naturally, it is better to give preference to the profiles of the first two classes, which are distinguished by excellent parameters. But if class C products are used, then only for installation in technical rooms or for temporary service.

What is the difference between class A profiles and class B?

Although the wall thickness of the profiles of these two classes differs slightly, their consumer characteristics are very different. When tested, products of class A in many parameters are ahead of products of class B. If we talk about compliance with the DIN EN 12 608 standard, then the decrease in strength for a profile with a reduced wall thickness is 25%, and the resistance to pulling out self-tapping screws is also reduced by 20%, by 15 % decreases the ability to maintain its shape. Therefore, PVC windows, in the construction of which a class B profile is used, do not last as long as products of the first category.

And yet, the class B profile has an important advantage - a more affordable cost. It is for this reason that such products are very popular.

Benefits of each class

Almost all manufacturers of profiles for PVC windows, whose products are presented in the markets of post-Soviet countries, offer products of classes A and B. Only the manufacturer VEKA offers consumers products of only the highest category.

Thanks to different types their manufacturers try to satisfy the various wishes of their customers. Therefore, each consumer can choose the most suitable product.

A class A profile will be the best option in the following cases:

when the client is used to getting only the best and is not ready to compromise on quality;
high cash costs are not a problem.

The Class B profile may be preferred in the following cases:

there is no need for a large margin of safety and indicators of thermal insulation, which are inherent in products of the highest category. This choice is fully justified for installing plastic windows in non-residential premises, buildings with seasonal residence or industrial facilities;
the quality of the window structure is determined not only by the profile class. For example, you can achieve an increase in strength using reinforcement. And the installation of a double-glazed unit with several cameras will help to increase the heat-saving parameters.

Russian legislation permits glazing of residential real estate using profiles of classes A and B. Thanks to this, the consumer can make his choice, taking into account the purposes and purpose for which the plastic window is purchased. The financial side of the issue is also of no small importance. Having weighed in detail all the reasons, you can opt for the most suitable form profile.

When choosing plastic windows, the consumer has to deal with various parameters of window structures. One of these parameters is the class of PVC profile - a value that will say little to an ordinary buyer. Meanwhile, its profile largely depends on its class. performance characteristics... Therefore, it is worth examining the concept of a class in relation to PVC profiles in a little more detail so that the buyer has the opportunity to make a more balanced choice.

How the classification of PVC profiles appeared

The division of window profiles into classes is regulated in the European RAL standard. It is an industry standard that dates back to 1925 and continues to evolve. Talking about pVC window frames profiles, then the RAL standard describes not only specific requirements for them, but also clear mechanisms for testing the properties of a given type of product for its classification.

The classification of plastic window profiles began in the 1960s. This measure appeared as a reaction to the fact that some manufacturers of window constructions chose the path of manufacturing economy-class products. The result of such experiments, which sharply reduce the quality of PVC profiles, have resulted in massive consumer complaints. Therefore, it was decided to develop a classification plastic profilesthat would reflect their real quality.

Classes of PVC profiles

Today, the basic European standard that regulates the characteristics of PVC profiles is RAL-GZ 716/1.

The classification includes three types of window profiles:

class A. According to RAL requirements, the inner walls of the profile must have a thickness of 2.5 mm or more, the outer walls - 2.8 mm or more;
class B. Internal walls - from 2 mm, external - from 2.5 mm;
class C. There are no clear requirements for the wall thickness of PVC profiles.

Thus, profiles of class A and B possess sufficient consumer characteristics for permanent operation in residential premises. Window structures of class C are suitable for installation in technical or temporary structures.

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What to choose?

When choosing between window profiles of class A and B, one should understand the practical difference. In particular, the use of thin-walled profiles (class B) gives a significant loss in the form stability of the window, angular strength and resistance to pulling out self-tapping screws. The result may be a shorter service life of the translucent structure, in comparison with windows made of thick-walled PVC profiles (class A). Therefore, for installation in residential premises, windows based on class A profiles are a much preferable option, although Russian legislation allows the installation of windows with a class B profile.

On the other hand, B-class PVC profiles have a significantly lower cost, significantly reducing the cost of the window structure. And they can be successfully used where the increased requirements for strength and heat-shielding characteristics are not imposed on windows. For example, when glazing premises for seasonal use, non-residential and industrial premises.

Let's sum up

When choosing plastic windows for an apartment or a house, you must carefully consider the parameters of PVC profiles. The best option for installation in residential premises are windows based on class A profiles. The Teplyi Windows company installs high-quality windows based on Rehau profiles in Ufa. You can also buy plastic windows in Zheleznodorozhny, place an order for plastic windows in Dolgoprudny and other cities of the Moscow region.

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Classifications of plastic windows: which profile class to choose?

Before replacing plastic windows or doors, buying new ones, you should study the characteristics of the products. They will help you understand what price is fair for different designs, what are the advantages of popular products from different manufacturers (KBE, VEKA, REHAU). A less discussed criterion is also worth paying attention to. The quality of PVC windows and doors determines the class of their profile.

Russian and European PVC quality classification

In the European Union, plastic profiles are classified according to the EN 12608 SR standard. It contains the requirements for the quality of PVC-U. From it are made plastic doors and windows. In our country, PVC profiles for door and window systems are classified according to GOST 30673-99.

Note that the requirements of foreign and domestic standards are different. IN different countries specialists traditionally use different measuring systems and carry out construction in different ways. However common features the mentioned normative documents have. Both determine durability, heat-insulating parameters and some technical ones that allow attributing components to a specific class.

Classification by the thickness of the profile walls

The key criterion for the classification of a profile in European countries is wall thickness, which determines the dimensional stability and strength of the plastic. The durability of a window, a door, the preservation of their shape during operation, under the influence of loads, depends on it. The walls of the PVC profile are divided into:

external - shaping, on the front side, located outside the product, visible in the installed structure from inside and outside the room;
internal - profile walls, invisible in the installed structure. Their surfaces support the glass and face the base wall on which they are mounted.

Profile systems belong to:

A-class - outer walls from 2.8 mm, inner - from 2.5 mm;
B-class - external walls from 2.5 mm, internal - from 2.0 mm;
C-class - wall thickness does not correspond to the above indicated ranges. There are no strict requirements for C-profiles.

Tests for compliance of various profile systems with the DIN EN 12 608 standard have shown: for B-class profiles compared to A-class analogs, angular strength is 25% lower, dimensional stability - by 15%, self-tapping resistance - by 20%. B-profiles are less durable, but much cheaper and more popular, including in Russia.

Most manufacturers of plastic windows in the post-Soviet space produce profile systems of classes A and B. Different profiles satisfy different consumer needs. Anyone's choice is always justified. It is advisable to use B-class profile structures in the glazing of non-residential, seasonal and industrial facilities. The strength of the products increases the reinforcement, an increase in the number of chambers.

Remember: the profile system belongs to a specific class only if both values \u200b\u200b- the thickness of the inner and outer walls - meet the standard. Finding out the profile class is easy. Ask the seller to provide a certificate of conformity of the product to the specified requirement.

Products from A-class profile systems insulate heat better, last longer. However quality window, the door must meet other requirements. When choosing designs, it is worth considering the thickness of the window, door sash, frame, and the number of hollow chambers. You should choose durable double-glazed windows, reliable fittings.

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Classification of plastic windows, types of glass units and profiles for PVC windows

Perhaps, when choosing the best option, many are wondering what kind of windows there are. The question is very capacious, but it could be answered unmistakably with just one word - different. No matter how trite it may sound, these products can be very diverse.

The types of windows are determined by various criteria and characteristics. These are the types of profiles that are used for plastic windows, and types of glass, and the purpose of the structure, and the properties of glass units, and much more.

Classification depending on the opening mechanism:

Blind window. Such a structure can be an independent unit or part of a large plastic window, in which only some of the doors open. It is inexpensive, does not require additional accessories. Among the disadvantages is the difficulty of leaving. Window cleaning is often problematic and not very convenient.
Swivel mechanism opening. This is a traditional swing type design. It is easy to open but requires free space inside the building.
Folding system. This mechanism makes it easy to open the window into the room. The design is compact, it makes it possible to use the ventilation mode.
Swing-out opening. This is a symbiosis of the two mechanisms described above. Convenient and functional option for residential premises.
Shtulp opening mechanism. Such a system is relevant for two-leaf systems and provides for a leaf-to-leaf closing. This is the best option for large structures (1200 mm wide and more).

Plastic windows are divided into types according to the number of sashes: one-, two- and three-sash. By functional purpose They may be:

soundproof;
energy saving;
tinted;
shockproof.

Types of profiles for PVC windows

On the territory of Russia, the classification of profiles by type is determined according to GOST 30673-99. So, according to their functional purpose, they are divided into main and additional ones. Depending on the degree of adaptation to climatic conditions, all profiles can be combined into two groups: normal (average monthly temperature in January is not lower than –20 ° C) and frost-resistant design. Profile classification is also carried out based on the thickness of the outer walls (see table below).

There are other classifications, for example, by type of finish, heat transfer, etc.

Types of double-glazed windows

Double-glazed windows are the basis of the design. His choice is very important. It is quite logical that all buyers are interested in what kind of double-glazed windows there are. In the most general view they can be subdivided into one- and two-chamber. This is a popular classification. Single-chamber ones are often placed on loggias. They consist of two glass panes and an air chamber. Two-chambers are the most adapted to the conditions of our climate. As a rule, it is precisely such double-glazed windows that are in residential buildings our compatriots.

Glass unit cut

If you want to know in more detail what kind of double-glazed windows are, it is worth considering them in the aspect of glass. They can have different thicknesses (for example, outer 4 mm, and inner 6 mm), additional improved characteristics.

Protection class

If you decide to purchase glass with a protective film, you should pay attention to the types of glass units, depending on the protection class. There are three levels of protection:

Class "A". Minimum resistance compared to other classes. At the same time, the glass calmly withstands a thrown stone (even a brick), preventing intruders from entering the room.
Class "B". Glass withstands moderately destructive impacts. Only prolonged exposure can break it.
Protection class "B". In such a product there will be no through hole even in the event of a high destructive force impact (for example, a shot).

The types of glass units are determined by the characteristics of the glass itself. For example, energy-efficient double-glazed windows. The special coating makes them energy efficient. High level heat saving allows you to significantly save on heating in cold weather. Continuing to talk about what double-glazed windows are, it is worth mentioning vandal-proof products with triplex. Multi-layer film does not impair visibility. This makes the glass very durable. If your apartment offers a panoramic view of a noisy and busy street, you should opt for soundproof double-glazed windows. On the sunny side of the house, tinted ones can be used. In cooperation with professionals, you will not have to deal with the types of systems, profiles, fittings for a long time. The company's employees will provide all the necessary information (double-glazed windows, views, photos) and help make right choice.

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Window classification

Classification.

At all times, when designing buildings, architects have given great importance windows and paid special attention to their development. The placement of windows on the surface of the walls, the dimensions of openings, the shape of the lintels have always remained important tasks for architects during the design process. For a holistic, large-scale perception of buildings, special attention was paid to the manufacture of window frames. This is how the facades were created, which, thanks to the general harmonious impression, reflected the style of a particular time. In addition to a strong influence on the external appearance of buildings, windows, to a large extent, affect the quality of the interior and the comfort of housing.

In the recent past, the implementation of architects' ideas in terms of the shape, color and size of windows was a significant challenge. For new houses, the architects designed beautiful facades with elegantly painted windows, but in reality, their production, with rare exceptions, boiled down to a dull and faceless row of typical joinery. Most people treat windows as ordinary openings in the wall, created for lighting, ventilation and, as a maximum, to obtain aesthetic pleasure from the surrounding nature. However, architects consider modern glazing as a very important element of the design, construction and operation of a future home.

Today, windows function as integral components of complex building outlines. Nowadays, windows have become an element of complex technological systems that control light, ventilation, humidity, dust, sound, and even infrared and ultraviolet radiation. And no building component has such a serious impact on the project as the window: the perception of space, the relationship with the environment, the operational parameters of the building, exterior and interior details.Currently, manufacturers are offering architects more and more options for a variety of window structures and designs. : countless variations in transparency levels, dozens of frame types and ways of closing them, variety insulating materials and security systems equipment. From the point of view of energy saving, windows successfully compete with insulated, insulated facades of buildings. For the design and installation of windows in a house, the climate, the location and orientation of the building on the terrain, as well as the terrain itself, are extremely important.In the materials of this issue we will try to give our readers the opportunity to navigate the endless ocean modern windowstechnologies, so that when choosing windows for their home and negotiating with various supplier firms, they can confidently operate with terms, concepts and definitions, understand what a "glass unit", "profile", "low-emission glass", etc. The wide range of modern windows makes it possible to classify them according to a variety of features, some of which can be understood only by narrow specialists. Therefore, we will describe only a few of them (the most common features and classes of modern windows).

Classification of windows by material of manufacture.

Today, most of ordinary citizens know: there are "metal-plastic" and "wooden" windows, and the smaller part has heard about "aluminum". We want to clarify and talk about the materials from which modern window structures are made. Today, when the term " metal-plastic windows ", strictly speaking, mix two definitions into one: in modern window technologies, they distinguish between metal-plastic and plastic, more precisely PVC-constructions. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is one of the earliest artificial materials. It was first created by the chemist Regnald in 1835.Beginning in 1912, the search began for the possibilities of industrial production of PVC, and already in 1931 the BASF concern produced the first tons of this material (although at that time the goals of its application were very far from the production window framesIn the early 50s, first in the United States and then in Europe, PVC began to be actively used as a material for window frames. The very first patent for the production of PVC windows and frames was registered in 1952 in Germany. The first PVC frames were a metal base, faced with soft or semi-soft PVC. Somewhat later, the production of profiles from solid polyvinyl chloride began, which was partially reinforced with wooden or metal inserts.

So, modern windows can be divided according to the material of manufacture into the following main classes: plastic (PVC) windows; metal-plastic; wooden; aluminum.

Plastic (PVC) windows.

The most common window structures today are, of course, plastic, or made of PVC. PVC windows have fairly high performance characteristics, they are reliable and practical, have high thermal insulation, fire safety. If necessary, you can choose plastic windows covered with fine wood veneer, which combine the texture and aesthetics of wood and the quality of plastic. However, it must be borne in mind that they must be made specifically for our climatic conditions, since not all products on our market , especially of little-known companies, can withstand the strong temperature drops typical for our country.

Nevertheless, almost all window manufacturers take into account the peculiarities of our country, focus on them, releasing models with multi-chamber profiles and double-glazed windows, additional seals, etc. The convenience of plastic windows is that they represent a single structure that is easy and quickly installed, as well as sufficiently tight and protects the room from dust, cold, noise. In turn, modern PVC windows have their own weak spots, which manufacturers are trying to solve by constructive methods. The first and most important thing is the violation of natural air exchange and humidity in the room due to the extreme tightness of the structure. This problem is solved with the help of systems supply ventilation or window structures with installed ventilators.

Metal-plastic windows.

Such windows are, in fact, a prefabricated structure - they use a PVC profile and a reinforcement made of galvanized steel. Therefore, metal-plastic windows can be considered more durable than plastic ones, while maintaining all their positive properties. However, the main disadvantage of PVC windows is a violation of air exchange, which is also inherent in metal-plastic windows, and in fact, all modern window structures, regardless of material, from which they are made, whether wood or aluminum. Wooden windows. The oldest and most traditional material for making windows is certainly wood. We do not mean those wooden windows that are still installed in old houses (shriveled, cracked, repeatedly painted), but completely different - modern, environmentally friendly, made in compliance with all the rules, often from valuable species: mahogany (meranti ), oak, larch, eucalyptus, ash.It should be noted that usually the price for wooden window structures is higher than for PVC or metal-plastic windows.

Aluminum windows.

Such windows in residential buildings are used less often, they are more in demand for public buildings and industrial structures. There are several reasons for this, in particular, purely psychological: aluminum, as a material for the manufacture of windows, is quite unusual, moreover, it is perceived as a cold metal.

This is indeed the case, it has a high thermal conductivity, however, profiles made of aluminum can be both cold and warm. In the latter case, in the manufacture of an aluminum window, heaters and seals are used, as well as technologies that allow to achieve a higher resistance to heat transfer and normal thermal insulation.Aluminum profiles, due to their high strength and manufacturability, are most often used for glazing large surfaces - showcases, winter gardens, stained glass , storage facilities, roofs, various complex curved surfaces, etc. One can also note such combined structures as aluminum-wood or wood-aluminum. These are specific aluminum structures, on the inside of which there are wooden lining. Thus, undoubtedly, the good qualities of wood (for example, heat protection) are simultaneously reinforced with an aluminum profile, which protects the wood from environmental influences.

In general, all considered types of materials used to make windows are completely different. Of course, the priority in terms of price-quality ratio when used in city apartments remains behind plastic windows (PVC), but both wooden and aluminum structures, due to their qualities, can be in demand in certain cases.

Classification of windows by type of opening.

All old standard windows were arranged and opened in exactly the same way - almost all of them were hinged, rotated around a vertical axis, in rare cases, the vents above them were hinged and rotated around a horizontal axis. The emergence of modern fittings made it possible to design windows that radically expanded the possibilities and ways of opening them. Nevertheless, all methods of opening windows can be brought to several main classes, within which there may be various variations, mainly due to the requirements of customers for each specific design. ...

Deaf (non-openable) windows (Fig. 1). Their design is clear from the very definition - they do not open. Such windows are mainly installed in high-rise buildings and where they are required for safety reasons. The big disadvantage of such windows is that they require a mandatory forced ventilationand are difficult to clean, usually by specialist companies.

Swing (swing) windows (Fig. 2). A traditional and well-known type of window from the old days. From an economic point of view, this is perhaps the most profitable option: it requires a minimum of components. The window opening can be completely opened, and there is nothing difficult in cleaning such windows.

Hinged windows (fig. 3). From the very name of these windows, it follows that they open at the top (that is, they swing back). It is not easy to get to the outer glass of such a window, for example, if you need to wash it.

Tilt-and-turn windows (fig. 4). Such windows are opened both by the traditional (swing) and tilt-up method. The desired opening option is selected by the position of the handle. A pivot position in which the handle is turned horizontally allows air to reach the glass with back side sash, and also provides an unobstructed flow of air. If it is necessary to achieve the folding position of the sash, the handle rotates vertically upwards. This position is very convenient for ventilation, especially in winter period time. At the same time, drafts are excluded due to the fact that fresh and cold air enters from the window from above. Currently, swing-out windows are the most common in the construction of new houses, as well as when replacing the old "pre-perestroika joinery". Other options are lifting, sliding , lift-and-swing, lift-and-swing and many others, we will not consider, because they are rarely used for use in any particular setting.

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Plastic windows are quite popular today. They are installed in new houses, because they are more durable, stronger and more convenient than wooden or glass-composite windows. In part, such advantages are associated with the material from which the windows are made. PVC is short for polyvinyl chloride.

This is one of the first materials artificially created by man, since then the composition has continued to be improved in laboratories, giving it new beneficial features... PVC is "not afraid" of moisture, basic acids, alkalis, and industrial gases. One of the main advantages of this material is that it does not support combustion. It counteracts the spread of fire. Therefore, plastic is so often used in construction.

Many people wonder what is the best profile? And none, if you evaluate it in terms of the manufacturer's name. About fifteen years ago - there was a difference in quality depending on the manufacturer, today the profile itself affects the quality no more than the colors of the windows. If you lay out all kinds of species on the table and remove the labels from them, then even professional workers will not see the difference. All manufactured profiles comply with approved standards.

Suppose that you decide to install plastic windows and will choose PVC plastic windows in Belgorod on this site, then you will most likely be interested in why the price for them varies? The easiest way is to read the window characteristics and the tooltip just below the characteristics. All plastic windows are divided by types: economy; standard; premium.

There are no differences in quality within the categories of PVC products. Prices vary depending on the complexity and thickness of the profile (a three-chamber profile will be cheaper than a six-chamber one), the number of chambers and the size of the glass unit, the type and thickness of the glass, the capabilities of the fittings used, and additional accessories.

In the production of economy, standard and premium windows, the same requirements are observed, therefore the build quality is always the same. All types are made conscientiously, but the accessories for the window may be different. Premium class products differ from economy and standard ones in a large number of additional options, a number of finishes, glass functionality, so it is a mistake to believe that their main advantage is status. They cannot be called unreasonably expensive due to the good reputation of the companies involved in production.

The first is the seals. These are special elastic bands that form sealing contours due to their firmness and elasticity. Rubber bands should retain their properties for decades.

Secondly, the fittings. These are the mechanisms through which you can close and open windows. They must withstand enormous loads and the weight of glass units, that is, they must be wear-resistant.

The third is assembly. It must be performed by professionals using special equipment, in compliance with all standards. This applies not only to frames, but also to double-glazed windows.

The main thing that helps the windows stay strong is proper installation. When correct installation plastic windows will serve for many years without causing problems during operation.

When choosing plastic windows, the consumer has to deal with various parameters of window structures. One of these parameters is the class of PVC profile - a value that will say little to an ordinary buyer. Meanwhile, its performance characteristics largely depend on the profile class. Therefore, it is worth examining the concept of a class in relation to PVC profiles in a little more detail, so that the buyer has the opportunity to make a more balanced choice.

How the classification of PVC profiles appeared

The division of window profiles into classes is regulated in the European RAL standard. It is an industry standard that dates back to 1925 and continues to evolve. If we talk about PVC window profiles, then the RAL standard describes not only specific requirements for them, but also clear mechanisms for testing the properties of a given type of product for its classification.

The classification of plastic window profiles began in the 1960s. This measure appeared as a reaction to the fact that some manufacturers of window constructions chose the path of manufacturing economy-class products. The result of such experiments, which sharply reduce the quality of PVC profiles, have resulted in massive consumer complaints. Therefore, it was decided to develop a classification of plastic profiles that would reflect their real quality.

Classes of PVC profiles

Today, the basic European standard that regulates the characteristics of PVC profiles is RAL-GZ 716/1.

The classification includes three types of window profiles:

class A. According to RAL requirements, the inner walls of the profile must have a thickness of 2.5 mm or more, the outer walls - 2.8 mm or more;
class B. Internal walls - from 2 mm, external - from 2.5 mm;
class C. There are no clear requirements for the wall thickness of PVC profiles.

We will answer all your questions!

Reading 7 min.

The profile is the basis for the manufacture of window frames and sashes. Depends on its quality appearance, durability and reliability of the entire window structure.

Material classification

For the production of modern window blocks, wood, aluminum, PVC are used. Each type of material has its own advantages and disadvantages, features and limitations in use.

Wood

The best and most expensive types of wood for the production of window profiles are oak and larch, alder and pine are also used. The high cost of wooden structures is associated not only with the use of natural wood, but also with the features technological process... The material for window profiles needs careful processing (drying, impregnation with antiseptics, painting, varnishing), and high precision and craftsmanship play a key role in the manufacture of the product.

Advantages of wooden windows:

environmental friendliness;
good heat-shielding properties;
preservation of natural air exchange between the room and the street;
aesthetic natural appearance.

Disadvantages:

the possibility of warping and swelling in case of violation of production technology and installation;
low resistance to fire;
high price.

Aluminum

Since the metal is not able to retain heat, the aluminum profile is mainly used for or utility rooms, when there is no possibility or need to equip warm glazing.

Exist . A special thermal insert is placed in the profile, which ensures high thermal insulation properties of such window structures.

The advantages of aluminum profiles include:

strength and durability;
ease;
resistance to external influences;
fire resistance.

Minuses:

low heat-shielding properties of the "cold" profile;
high price of the "warm" option.

Polyvinyl chloride

Reinforcing U-shaped profile for structural rigidity

PVC-profile has received the most widespread use for the production of modern windows, due to its low cost compared to wood and aluminum and excellent heat-shielding and operational properties. The main competitive advantages of PVC:

high level of thermal insulation;
prostate manufacturing and installation of finished products;
high resistance to the influence of atmospheric precipitation, chemical reagents;
the ability to make products of various designs and shapes;
affordable cost.

The main disadvantage - flammability, like all plastics. All other user complaints in most cases are related to the choice of poor quality products or installation errors.

PVC profile characteristics

The lion's share of all installed window units falls on plastic products... There are windows from the profile of dozens of manufacturers on the market, 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 does not 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 of 2.5 mm. Such indicators are considered optimal to ensure the best thermal insulation of a living space.
Class B. Products with outer wall thickness from 2.5 mm, inner wall from 2.0 mm. Such products less reliably protect against heat loss and are more susceptible to deformation during operation. The main purpose is installation in shops, public institutions.
Class C. Products with thinner walls than in previous classes. Windows from it are intended for glazing non-residential, warehouse, industrial premises.

Read also: What you need to know before choosing windows for an apartment!

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 along the perimeter. The spaces formed between the glasses are filled with ordinary air or inert gases (in premium products) to improve thermal insulation performance.

A single-chamber package consists of two glasses and one air chamber between them. Two-chamber consists of 3 glasses, between which there are respectively 2 chambers, etc. The more glasses there are, the warmer the finished product.

Also, the width of the profile determines the installation dimensions for installing the window. As the width increases, the total weight of the structure increases - this must be taken into account, for example, when glazing a balcony with weak base plates.

Typically the default value is 58-80 mm, some brands offer products up to 120 mm wide for the production of products designed for operation in harsh climatic conditions and featuring improved sound and thermal insulation characteristics.

Number of profile cameras

Not to be confused with insulating glass air chambers!

The plastic profile is hollow inside and divided by partitions. The thermal insulation properties of PVC profiles are due to the presence of hollow chambers between the lintels - the more there are, the lower the thermal conductivity of the frame and window sash.

Each cavity performs a specific function (moisture removal, fixing fittings, ensuring strength), and their number (usually 3-8) and location is determined by technological calculation. 3-5-chamber types of plastic profiles are most in demand.

Metal reinforcement

The plastic profile is additionally reinforced metal frame for stiffening the structure. This significantly reduces the likelihood of deformation and sagging of the window sash due to the 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; enough for small windows;
U-shaped - strengthening of 3 profile walls; suitable for windows size up to 1.9 m in height;
closed - the reinforcement is located along 4 planes and provides 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 a buyer to determine the quality of a profile on exhibition samples. In most cases, one has to rely on the decency of the seller and manufacturer of window structures. There are some features that can help you avoid buying a poor quality product: