Modern plastic windows: what are they? Metal-plastic windows: their types and differences Selecting a model by window size

If we consider the type of opening of Euro-windows, they are divided into the following:

1. Deaf. They are also called immovable.
2. Folding.
3. Sliding.
4. Multi-leaf.
5. Sometimes they can open in one direction or the other at once.

Which type of opening to choose depends on your wishes. However, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the room where the window will be installed. Eg, skylights There are only folding ones. Folding doors can be installed on staircases, sliding windows and those that open outwards. In addition, such windows are divided into types and according to the material they are made of:

1. Glued stabilized wood.
2. PVC profile.
3. Aluminum.

Aluminum profiles

Aluminum is most often used for glazing rooms with big sizes. These can be shop windows, various partitions, balconies, and atriums. Such structures are characterized by a fairly high level of thermal conductivity. Therefore, they are made with special inserts. They are installed inside the structure and will retain heat. Such inserts will provide high level comfort during the operation of the premises. For those structures that are used indoors, where the ability to retain heat does not have special significance, profiles without thermal inserts are used. It's called "cold aluminum". If we consider performance characteristics, then the windows with aluminum profile practically no different from windows that are made from PVC profiles. They are also called metal-plastic.

PVC window structures

As for metal-plastic windows, they come in different types. They are different sizes, shapes, designs and so on. As a rule, the size of the window should match the size of the window opening. Of course, you can install a product that has smaller sizes than the opening. But this approach rarely justifies itself. For complete room lighting window unit should occupy approximately fifteen percent of the area of ​​the entire wall.

Regarding the issue of shape, rectangular products have long become a kind of standard. Special forms are used only when the building is erected according to some unusual design, which implies the presence of rounded window openings. Modern technologies Now they make it possible to produce window models of any shape.

However, let's try to figure out what the main designs of metal-plastic windows exist.

1. The simplest design is considered to be a blind design. It is very easy to distinguish it. Such windows do not open at all. Therefore, this option is used very rarely. Such structures can be installed in a room that is equipped with air conditioning. Often blind models are used in high-rise buildings. On the upper floors of such buildings, opening windows is strictly prohibited by safety standards. In addition, such structures are installed in low-rise buildings that are used for shopping and entertainment purposes. But such windows are not at all suitable for residential premises.
2. Traditional Euro-windows. Such designs imply the presence of doors that open into the room. Such windows can be washed without fear of falling out. Note that such a system has some disadvantages. The fact is that if the sash opens inward, then it needs free space. Therefore, you can no longer place flower pots, vases, etc. on the windowsill of such a window.
3. Innovative windows. This concept refers to structures that open both inward and outward. This option is, of course, the most attractive. Do you want to clean a window? Open it inward. Need to ventilate the room? Open it outwards. Then you won’t have to remove flower pots and vases from the windowsill. Innovative designs are usually equipped with special mechanisms that allow you to fix the window sash in any position. This makes it possible to protect it from strong winds.
4. Folding instructions. For models of this kind, the doors can only open vertically. The opening angle is quite small. Having installed similar model windows, you can ventilate the room at any time. But washing it will be problematic. Folding models are resistant to strong wind and take up very little space. They are perfect if you need to equip a building that has an average height.

Euro-windows made of natural wood

As an alternative to PVC products, Euro-windows have recently begun to be made from natural wood. Such designs are superior standard options absolutely in all respects. Wood has excellent properties and certain advantages. This is especially noticeable when you compare it with other materials that are used in the manufacture of window structures. Manufacturers are attracted to wood by its strength. This material is very hard and relatively light. It has good sound insulation and has a very aesthetic appearance. It is also worth adding that wood is a material that is environmentally friendly and harmless.

The following types of pine and oak wood are used to create Euro-windows. Larch is also suitable for such purposes. Note that pine is not affected by rot and fungus. Of course, resinous wood is quite difficult to process. But on the other hand, resin can protect it from negative influence environment. The texture of pine wood also looks very beautiful - light and slightly yellowish.

If we talk about larch, then this material is characterized by such parameters as high density and resistance to different climatic conditions. And this is not to mention the fact that this wood is also very hard. Larch is not gnawed by various pests. She is not affected by rot.

As for oak, everything is more than obvious. This wood material is famous for its hardness. It has a beautiful color. The service life of oak wood is incredibly long. However, this material may develop cracks over time and this must be kept in mind.

If we talk about the ability of wood to retain heat, it is much higher than that of materials such as plastic and metal. Wood has a low level of thermal conductivity, which reduces heat loss in the room several times. This characteristic prevents the formation of condensation. In addition, wood has a high level of sound insulation. For this purpose, high-quality seals and special double-glazed windows are used. By the way, the latter are two-chamber and three-chamber. The latter type of double-glazed windows has higher sound and thermal insulation parameters. Note that the durability of the material is also ensured by the use of special impregnations and protective coatings. Euro-windows made of wood can withstand very coldy and the heat. Special view varnishes and paints provide protection of the frame structure from rain, snow, cold, wind and heat.

Wood is able to provide high-quality air exchange between the room and the external environment. In other words wooden frames they know how to “breathe”. This allows the room to maintain a natural level of humidity.

If speak about fire safety, then wooden Euro-windows are considered very reliable in this regard. Since the wood is impregnated with special compounds, it does not ignite. Moreover, during combustion, wood does not emit harmful substances, like plastic, for example.

It is clear that wood is very environmentally friendly material, which does absolutely no harm to nature and human health. In a word, wooden Euro-windows have a lot of advantages. They almost completely lack any disadvantages. Because of this, they are very popular.

About types of Eurowindows

Euro window frames come in a wide variety of types.

1. Rotary. Such structures swing open and close. They are often installed in interior openings. Sometimes they are installed as a cheaper option for standard Euro windows.
2. Swivel and tilt. These types of structures are very popular. They can swing open, recline for ventilation, and close.
3. Parallel sliding. They can both recline and open. This is done by removing the sash from the frame and sliding it parallel to the window opening. This saves space due to the fact that there is no need to allocate space for the opening angle.

When talking about the types of Euro windows, you need to take into account the room in which they will be installed. So for kitchen area A window with a tilt-and-turn mechanism is more suitable. This product is equipped additional functions step-by-step micro-ventilation and fixation window sash in the right position. Many people believe that step-by-step micro-ventilation is the same as tilting. However, these two concepts should not be confused. IN in this case it becomes possible to tilt the window not completely, but to several positions in steps. This makes it possible to provide a small influx fresh air, that is, ventilate the room, and not cool it.

If we're talking about about the sleeping area, then in such a room it is also better to install a tilt-and-turn window with a micro-ventilation function. This type of design is also suitable for a children's room. However, it must be equipped with a child lock. What it is? The child lock gives the child the opportunity to open the window sash independently. But he will no longer be able to open it. To do this, you need to use a special key, which naturally should be kept by the parents. Note that this technology very effective in cases where a child and his parents live in an apartment on a high-rise floor of a high-rise building. A parallel sliding window is ideal for the living room. It will provide maximum access of light to the room, and will also provide an opportunity to save space in the room.

About the constituent elements

As for the components of a Euro window, these include the profile, double-glazed window, and fittings.

• The profile is usually made of metal-plastic or wood. However, the main importance is given to the number of air chambers in it. There should be at least three and no more than five. It is clear that the more such cameras there are, the warmer the window will be. Try to choose a profile from a well-known and trusted brand.
• If we talk about double-glazed windows, then it is of great importance. The double-glazed window can be either two-chamber or single-chamber. As with the profile, the bigger the better. The greater the number of cameras, the better the level of sound and thermal insulation. If you decide to install gas-filled double-glazed windows, you should be aware that over time the gas will have to be changed, and this will additionally cost money. The thickness of the glass, its type, and so on also matter.
• Fittings are also an important detail of a Euro window. It is thanks to her that the product is put into action. In addition, the tightness of the window, the smoothness and softness of its operation depend on the fittings. That is why it is better not to skimp on accessories. It is advisable to give preference to German manufacturers.

Video. Which PVC profile is better? Secrets of choosing and installing plastic windows. Glazing of balconies and loggias.

There are several types of plastic windows and a large number of models. Often, it is because of the diversity that the buyer has problems making a choice.

Main types of PVC products

You can find varieties on sale that differ not only in frame material, shape, color, but also in the properties of the glass unit. The frame can be made of PVC, this material is the most common; aluminum or wood can be found less often.

There may be radical differences in design. For example, windows differ in the way they open; they can be hinged or sliding; there are also blind structures that cannot be opened. There are twin, single and separate types on sale. Double-glazed windows can have one or more air chambers, filled with air or argon. Another noticeable difference is the shape of the windows.

Selection of sash, frame

The sash is a movable element. It is driven by the use of fittings. Whatever types of plastic windows are installed in the house, at least several of them must be able to open. This is necessary for regular ventilation of the room.

Thanks to the chosen one, you can ensure that the window sash tilts, slides or swings open. Some structures can rotate around a horizontal, less often a vertical axis. The sash can open in any direction, which is convenient if you have limited space or indoor furniture is located close to the window.

Doesn't have that ability. It is devoid of sash and fittings in general. Such a window can be used in conjunction with others that can be ventilated. It is not recommended to install several blind windows in one room without equipping it with opening structures. Plastic models do not allow air to pass through, and the room will be stuffy, and condensation may begin to accumulate. For health, it is important that fresh air is regularly supplied to the room.

Different types of PVC windows may have different characteristics: for example, designs often have different widths glass unit When choosing a window, you should pay special attention to this criterion. You should not overpay for too thick a double-glazed window if you live in a relatively mild climate and a quiet place; If there is a serious minus on the street or the windows face a noisy highway, you should think about installing the thickest possible double-glazed window. It should be noted that the glass itself can be ordinary, tempered or armored. These parameters affect its strength and resistance to mechanical damage.

PVC windows, the types of which are the most diverse, can become universal solution for any room.

The decision was made to install a plastic window. Types of windows - what are they? The best ones are those that suit your home.

First stage

First you need to choose the shape of how the window will be located, view the types of windows, and only then make a decision. They should be chosen in proportion to the room: there should be enough light in the room, but if the opening is too large, the feeling of comfort is lost. is a necessary element that tightly connects to a brick or other wall. The doors in a product are a movable part that, depending on what fittings are used, can tilt or open different ways. There are doors that, when opened, rotate around their axis vertically or horizontally. The double-glazed windows are secured using glazing beads in them.

Plastic window: types of windows by frames and sashes

They can be single-, double- or triple-leaf, and they also differ in the number of chambers in the double-glazed window. In terms of functionality, such models are close to conventional ones. wooden windows. These options are ideal for those people who prefer to install inexpensive but quite practical products in their home. A traditional window will do here. These types of windows are ordinary rectangular designs that open inward. A small minus that is inherent in standard plastic double glazed windows with rotating doors, - ventilation in winter time quite problematic, since the cold air when open window comes in a fairly strong stream.

Fixed types of plastic windows are good for everyone: durable, reliable, and inexpensive. These are windows with fixed, locked sashes. In addition to these elements in the product, the frame itself can also hold the glass. The disadvantage of such window boxes is that they cannot be opened. It is recommended to install this model for decorative purposes: it will add space and light to the room. A solid design is quite acceptable in a space that is equipped with sufficient ventilation: in cafes, restaurants, gyms and other similar establishments.

And finally, tilt-and-turn windows - types of windows of this design are the most popular and in demand. IN summer heat The sash can easily be opened completely, and in cold weather it is enough to open it for ventilation in a horizontal position top part window. It is very convenient to use this function in inclement weather, especially if the layout of the apartment contributes to the formation of drafts. The folding position eliminates the possibility of their occurrence and helps to avoid the risk of damage to the structure if the window suddenly slams shut.

Pivoting plastic windows can only be opened in one direction, which is not always convenient. Tilt-up products can only be opened from the top, so they are perfect for landings, basements and other areas where casement windows can pose a hazard as well as a nuisance. They rightfully received a leading position due to the fact that they can turn and recline.

Profiles

Today, manufacturers of plastic products offer a fairly wide range of window profiles PVC, from which the plastic window will then be assembled. When choosing a profile to be used in manufacturing, you should focus on their functional purpose. When producing plastic windows, different types of profiles are also used.

Three-chamber PVC profiles, belonging to the economy class, and aluminum structures Perfect for glazing balconies and loggias. Four- and are used for glazing in regions with harsh cold climates and in houses located close to railway or a noisy highway.

Bottom line

Double-glazed windows perform their functions perfectly, being responsible for:

• heat and sound insulation;
• illumination

They are reliable and safe. Their characteristics directly depend on the quality, so the choice of plastic windows should be given special attention, then you can hope for their long-term operation.

Metal-plastic windows Today they have gained unprecedented popularity, and there are a great many companies involved in their production. How to choose metal-plastic windows, what to look for when purchasing?

The advantages of plastic windows are beyond doubt. They are superior to traditional wood blocks in many ways. These structures do not allow dust, cold, or moisture to pass through, and do not require any complex maintenance. High noise insulation is their main difference from wooden structures. But all these advantages are preserved provided that a quality product has been purchased. The plastic window market is simply oversaturated with various manufacturers. To attract as many new customers as possible, they offer various discounts and bonuses. And consumers, in pursuit of profit, do not always pay attention to quality. More precisely, they simply do not know what needs to be taken into account when buying a metal-plastic window in order to avoid big problems in the future.

Window design

When choosing a metal-plastic window, you need to pay attention to the following structural elements:

• PVC profile;
• glass;
• plastic;
• accessories;
• type of ventilation.

It is also important to know how reliable the window manufacturer is and why it is better than others.

The service life of a window structure depends on how well the installation rules are followed.

Manufacturer

As for the brand, experts recommend choosing windows famous manufacturers(for example, models of the German REHAU, installed more than 10 years ago, have not yet changed their quality and appearance): they care about their name and do not skimp on the components of window models.

Today in Russia there are many factories producing domestic profiles. But often, in pursuit of savings, the quality of their products leaves much to be desired.

Profile

A plastic window profile is one of the main structural elements. Him a complex system. For products from a reliable manufacturer, the thickness of the outer wall of the profile is 3 mm. Manufacturers who want to save money use thinner plastic, which will undoubtedly lead to a rapid loss of the appearance of the window and affect its service life. The window will bend, change its parameters and ultimately may move away from the walls, and this will lead to the appearance of cracks and all the resulting consequences. But it’s difficult to visually determine what profile is in front of you.

The metal-plastic profile is reinforced with a reinforcing belt, which will hold the window during temperature changes. Today the climate changes so often that it is impossible to predict what this or that season will be like. Therefore, it is better to purchase windows in which a galvanized steel insert with a thickness of at least 1.5 mm is present in all window elements. Thanks to it, the window will last much longer.

Unscrupulous manufacturers install black, unprotected metal, which is exposed to corrosion at the very beginning of the window’s operation, or they use thinner reinforcement.

The reliability and strength of the entire structure depends on the quality of the profile, so it is best to purchase windows from certified material that meets the necessary standards and GOST.

Plastic

Most often, a low quality profile is made matte. Unfortunately, it strongly absorbs dirt, and even by specialized means(which are also expensive) is not always possible.

The glossy surface of the profile is less susceptible to dirt. You can easily remove any stain from even the most inexpensive element. Plus it looks glossy plastic much better.

After the PVC profile, the double-glazed window is one of the important parts of a metal-plastic window. Its function is noise reduction and energy saving. Installation of the double-glazed window is carried out after installing the fittings. It is a block of 2-3 glasses, between which there are sealed chambers. The thickness of the glass must be at least 4 mm. Unfortunately, you can “run into” glass 3 mm thick. But at this point you will again have to rely on the integrity of the manufacturer.

There are two types of double-glazed windows: single- and double-chamber. Distinctive feature the latter – a high level of sound insulation. But they cost more. If you want to ensure a comfortable stay, especially if you live in big city, don’t save money, choose exactly two-chamber models. By the way, they have three glasses, not two, as many buyers think.

High-quality double-glazed windows from a reliable manufacturer have chambers of different thicknesses (this can be determined by the metal spacer inside the package); the outer glass should be thicker than the inner glass.

Check the amount of glass in the bag with a burning match, bring it to the window; There is no way to check the thickness of the glass; you have to trust the manufacturer, so again you need to choose products from trusted brands.

Some manufacturers fill double-glazed windows with inert gas, which increases the thermophysical properties of the entire structure.

But here it is necessary to take into account one feature of two-chamber bags: they are quite heavy, and not every fitting is able to withstand the weight of the opening sash and not move. Therefore, when choosing a window, special attention should be paid to it.

Heat reflective glass

Glass with a special coating that allows you to reflect infrared waves, that is, heat, is called energy-saving. Such structures will prevent heat from escaping in winter, and will not let heat into the room in summer. They cost more than regular glass, but provide additional comfort to your home.

Accessories

Thanks to the fittings (hinges, brackets, rods, connecting elements), the sashes fit hermetically to the frame, are in the desired position, and there are no gaps in the window structure. The entire mechanism is controlled using just one handle. The service life of the window depends on the choice of fittings. Again, you need to choose accessories from reliable manufacturers.

Cheap parts on a double-glazed structure will significantly reduce the lifespan of the window. Problems will begin within six months: the sash will tilt to one side, the fit will not be tight and uniform, and cracks will appear.

Details

To prevent the air in the apartment from being stale and stuffy, it is better to choose windows with the ability to tilt the sash and adjust the level of ventilation. You can purchase designs with a micro-ventilation system and special supply valves, embedded directly into the window frame (for them you will have to make a hole in the frame). But not all manufacturers offer such parts, so you need to find out information about them from the seller.

If constant ventilation in your apartment or house is important to you, then choose a system with heat recovery; it will ensure heating of the incoming cold flows due to the outgoing warm air masses.

You shouldn’t skimp on installing ebb tides, mosquito net. This will lead to more expenses in the future.

Drains are necessary to prevent water from getting into the gap between the wall and the window. Polyurethane foam, which was used when installing the window, will begin to deteriorate if moisture gets in.

A mosquito net is a reliable protection for the residents of the house from insects, from which there is simply nowhere to escape in the summer.

It's best to "dress" everything window design in high-quality plastic slopes. This will make it possible to avoid the appearance of mold.

Do not choose drywall for finishing slopes; it will become covered with mold spots in the first winter.

Reliable manufacturers install a white or transparent elastomer seal on their products. This material costs more than a standard black seal, but it is resistant to temperature changes and is more durable.

Before the beginning winter season Lubricate the seal with a special compound or silicone oil.

The installation of a metal-plastic window must be carried out in accordance with GOST 30971-2002 “Seams of assembly units connecting window blocks to wall openings.” A properly installed structure will serve you for decades.

Find a company in your city that will install your windows in accordance with the specified GOST; it will not cost much more, but will be done reliably and with high quality.

When choosing a metal-plastic window, you must understand that you are purchasing something that will be used by you for many years. Therefore, saving on little things will significantly shorten its service life and add trouble to you in the future.

It is best not to focus on the brand, but to choose a manufacturer that has proven itself well in the market for similar products. And be sure to pay attention to the quality of components. This will allow you to avoid a lot of trouble later.

The word “Euro-window” itself appeared in our everyday life simultaneously with the word “European-quality renovation” in the early 90s. This is an exclusively Russian term. It goes without saying that no one uses such a term in Europe. Let's figure out what it means.

What is Eurowindow

If we separate reality from speculation and myths, we call a Eurowindow a very high-quality plastic window that differs from ordinary ones in two significant features:

● Eurowindow is complex design, all components of which are selected to ensure durability, minimal maintenance and excellent consumer qualities(heat and sound insulation, etc.)

● The consumer can choose the window configuration according to his taste and needs: the number of sashes, the color and shape of the frame and the design of the handles, reinforced locks, additional sun protection and much more.

Components of a good window

● PVC profile,

● double glazing,

● accessories.

Standard “Euro” window with one leaf and “blind” double glazing

Frame and doors

This is the basis of the Eurowindow, its skeleton. The frame plays the same role in the window design as the foundation of the house. It must retain its shape throughout the entire life of the window, not sag under the weight of the sashes, withstand wind loads, not be destroyed by atmospheric influences, and have good heat-saving and sound-insulating properties. And, of course, look aesthetically pleasing. All these requirements are met by frames made of PVC profiles reinforced with a steel core.

The standards provide for three quality classes for PVC profiles. The main difference between them is the thickness of the outer walls and internal partitions. In the class A profile they are the largest, due to which only this profile does not deform during operation and the window always opens and closes easily. The VEKA company produces a profile of just this quality class.

Strength is necessary not only to maintain the geometry of the window. Nice window is obliged to protect the house and its inhabitants from intruders, that is, to resist burglary.

The profile must also have good heat and sound insulation characteristics.

Initially raw materials for PVC profiles white. And in most cases, windows are traditionally made white. However, this is not at all necessary. Lamination technology allows you to give the profile surface almost any color and imitate the texture of wood or metal. Add here the ability to make a window of any shape, and it becomes clear to you that plastic windows are suitable for any architectural style and interior design.

Double-leaf "Euro" window with an impost ("bar" in the middle)

Double-glazed window

This is the second main component of the Eurowindow. And here the buyer has big choice options with different consumer properties.

Double-glazed windows can be made with different numbers of chambers and from glass of different thicknesses. In addition, additional possibilities are provided by filling the internal volume of the glass unit with inert gases. By combining these parameters, you can obtain double-glazed windows with a given level of heat and sound insulation.

The use of tempered glass or triplex glass radically increases the impact resistance of the window. This is important if you want to protect your home as much as possible from thieves or are afraid that the glass may be accidentally broken by a child.

Painting glass in bulk, gluing it with tinting films or spraying metal oxides onto the surface makes it possible to regulate the light transmission of the window. This helps improve the indoor climate in regions with excess solar radiation.

Double-leaf "Euro" window with a "shtulp" - the sashes open together with the "impost"

Fittings and additional equipment

The range of these parts is large. Some of them perform a purely decorative function and help give the euro-window a unique look. For example, sprats imitate barred glass, and decorative overlays resemble wood carvings.

Additional equipment expands the functionality of the window:

● built-in blinds make it possible to regulate the amount of light transmitted by the window;

● different kinds hinges are designed to open the doors in different planes;

● locks control access;

● child locks do not interfere with ventilation, but prevent the child from falling out of the window;

● micro-ventilation system in the cold season provides ventilation, but retains heat.

Competent installation

Windows do not exist in space by themselves. Making a window in the chosen configuration is only half the battle. It must be installed correctly. Importance correct installation for long-lasting and trouble-free operation cannot be overemphasized.

The trick is that the same window is installed differently depending on the characteristics of the window opening. What fasteners to choose, how to seal the space between the frame and the wall, what sealants to use to seal the inevitable cracks, how wide the flashings should be, how to finish the slopes inside and outside - all these nuances matter. Installation errors never lead to anything good:

● corners window openings freeze,

● it’s blowing from under the windowsill,

● the frame warps, the window sashes stop opening normally,

● in some cases, unacceptable loads may cause a glass unit to burst.

Believe me, it is better to choose a simpler window package, but in no case should you skimp on installation.

How Euro-windows are made

The main component of a window, its most important detail- This is a frame made of PVC profile.

The raw material - powdered or granulated polyvinyl chloride - is melted and then a profile is made from this mass by extrusion. It is cut into pieces and delivered to the site where a steel reinforcing insert is installed into it. It is this that gives the product the necessary rigidity and stability of geometric dimensions.

The finished PVC profile, depending on the size of the future window, is cut into pieces from which the frame is welded. All four corners of the frame are welded simultaneously, ensuring perfect geometry window. Welding areas are cleaned.

In the meantime, the glass unit is being manufactured. Glass of the required type and thickness is cut and washed. After which the spacers (internal glass separators) and the prepared glasses are glued together. The cavity between the glasses is filled with dried air or argon, which has better heat and sound insulation properties.

The spacer performs another function: silica gel is placed inside it, which absorbs water vapor. Even dried air contains a small amount of water, so silica gel ensures that the glass unit will never fog up from the inside.

At the final stage, fittings are mounted on the frame: seals and hinges are installed required configuration, constipation, etc.

The finished window is labeled, packaged and shipped to the consumer.

Window care

It is perhaps difficult to find anything else in the house that requires as little attention as a high-quality and correctly installed plastic window. All care comes down to a few simple operations:

● wash the glass;

● clean the frame surface from dirt;

● lubricate the locking mechanism and hinges with a few drops of any lubricating oil every six months;

● check whether the fittings need to be adjusted.

If necessary, the window can be easily and technologically repaired: replacing worn locks, aged seals or other failed parts is a matter of a few minutes.

Conclusion

It doesn't really matter what terms you use. The main thing is that the window is durable, functional and meets your needs.