House, design, renovation, decor.  Courtyard and garden.  With your own hands

House, design, renovation, decor. Courtyard and garden. With your own hands

» Comparison of plastic and metal-plastic windows: what to give preference to? Advantages and advantages of metal-plastic windows Advantages of metal-plastic windows.

Comparison of plastic and metal-plastic windows: what to give preference to? Advantages and advantages of metal-plastic windows Advantages of metal-plastic windows.

Glasses included in the glass unit of PVC windows provide this design with a high level of energy saving in winter time... If a system of two or more double-glazed windows is used during installation, heating savings are up to 60 percent.

PVC windows are not only energy efficient, they are also resistant to external influences. climatic factors, do not deform under the influence of temperature extremes. They are durable and create a comfortable indoor climate.

Today people, without hesitation, change old wooden ones for new ones http://olta.ua/, the reliability and practicality of which has been proven by many years of operation in European countries.

Many businesses also prefer to install PVC windows to save on heating costs in winter. These window systems are easy to maintain, do not need seasonal sealing, are well protected from dust and moisture inside the glass unit, and are easy to clean.

Mirror coated glass gives the office a respectable look and acts as a heat filter.

There are seasonal discounts for the installation of PVC windows, especially in autumn period... You can install a window system at a lower cost.

Blinds are simple and easy to install on plastic windows. Especially in demand today is the "Venus" design, created specifically for installation on a plastic profile of any window system.

Before replacing old windows and balcony windows http://olta.ua/products/dveri/ with plastic ones, you need to consult with experts on the question of which structures are suitable for your type of premises.

Roughly we can say that for middle latitudes, where in winter the temperature drops to 15 - 25 degrees, three - chamber double-glazed windows, at least, are suitable.

In northern latitudes, the number of double-glazed windows should be at least four to five.

In the southern regions, one package plastic windows can be installed.

When choosing a window system option, you should focus on the location of your room. If your apartment or office faces a noisy street, you need to use thicker glass windows for soundproofing.

Fabric roller blinds and blinds also increase the level of sound absorption and are used in residential and office premises as a design decoration.

Manufacturers of plastic windows claim that these systems are completely safe for health, because they are produced from environmentally friendly materials.

PVC windows do not need to be painted or otherwise maintained. They can be made in almost any shape, with different options opening and closing mechanisms. You can choose the color of the plastic, even with the use of a special wood-like decor.

These window systems are durable, their service life is calculated in decades. They go well with any window decor options.

When choosing a company that installs plastic windows, it is necessary to focus on the lifetime of this organization. Companies that have been on the market recently may offer lower prices, but it is better in this case to turn to experienced craftsmen.

When glazing an apartment or a private house, the question arises of which type of windows should be chosen. Products from aluminum, plastic, metal-plastic and other materials are on sale, and each of the systems has its positive and negative sides.

REHAU Blitz profile with metal reinforcement

In this article we will try to give you as much information as possible about the choice between plastic and metal-plastic windows and present helpful advice on buying a specific option for your home.

Plastic windows and their features

PVC is used for the manufacture of plastic windows. The material is able to provide a high level of protection against heat loss and noise penetration from the street. They are versatile because they can be installed in private houses, apartments and office buildings.

Buyers choose plastic windows, focusing on strength, durability and the advantages mentioned above. This is a good option in the mid-range.

Reinforced plastic windows and their features

Reinforcing frame - home distinctive feature metal-plastic windows. It is made of metal and built into the profile - from the side, the structure is practically indistinguishable from PVC glazing.

The metal profile is characterized by the maximum level of safety, as it is made of galvanized steel, protected from corrosion. Windows are stronger and last longer, but at the same time their weight increases, and, consequently, the load on the facade of the building.

Comparative analysis

The table below describes in detail how metal-plastic windows differ from plastic ones.

Evaluation criterion Plastic windows Metal-plastic windows
Application area Plastic windows are universal - they can be used for glazing office buildings, residential premises, apartments, private houses Reinforced-plastic windows are suitable for use in the glazing of residential premises, office buildings and industrial buildings. The main difference is the ability to use in buildings with extreme conditions, for example, on the upper floors of high-rise buildings
Term of use Plastic windows will last from 20 to 30 years, depending on the type of profile and manufacturer Reinforced-plastic windows are designed for more than 50 years
Form The traditional option is a rectangle. Non-standard shape is also possible, provided that the angle between the frames is at least 30 ° The reinforcing profile allows for the implementation of various alternative window shapes - from lancet to round
Price Windows of the middle price segment The price is higher than that of plastic windows

For ease of decision-making, a number of recommendations for the choice of windows can be formulated:

  • If you are faced with the task of installing plastic windows in an opening experiencing a strong wind load, it is better to opt for metal-plastic windows.
  • For those buyers who are on a budget, the best option purchase of plastic windows, as they cost less.
  • If you want to implement a non-standard glazing in your home, pay attention to metal-plastic windows - there are many more varieties of curly windows of this type.
  • If you want to rely on the durability of the structure, which is especially important in the field of private construction, windows on a metal frame are a solution that will confidently serve its half a century.
  • For glazing rooms in old multi-storey buildings a high load on the facade is undesirable, and in some cases it is completely unacceptable - the choice is unambiguously behind PVC systems.

Free departure of the measurer will finally dispel your doubts: a specialist will assess the condition of the building, give a competent recommendation on the choice of the optimal solution and profile, and calculate the cost of the window.

Metal-plastic windows - modern designs for glazing openings in houses, apartments, offices, shops and various other residential and non-residential premises. The wide field of application of windows is associated with the high characteristics of the plastic itself, the functionality of glass units and fittings, the ability to manufacture products of different sizes and configurations, ease of maintenance and installation.

Reinforced plastic windows differ from simple plastic windows in that when they are produced, the PVC profile is reinforced metal frame... As a result, the frame acquires additional technical characteristics. Even when heated in the sun, the metal-plastic window does not deform, the fittings work properly throughout the entire life of the glass unit. Another additional advantage is the ability to produce windows of any configuration (circle, oval, arch), not just rectangular.

Advantages of metal-plastic windows

Reinforced configurations guarantee complete tightness of the room, are of high quality and have a number of advantages:

    Excellent insulating performance. Due to high tightness, multi-chamber profile and modern glass unit, the windows effectively protect the room from noise, dust, cold, heat.

    Durability. With proper operation, windows will be able to fully function for 40-50 years.

    Variety of designs. Reinforced-plastic windows come in various configurations, can have different configurations and be supplemented with the necessary options.

    Resistance to loads and negative environmental factors. PVC profiles are characterized by good structural properties and resistance to sunlight, rain, snow.

    Ease of use. Window systems do not need periodic touch-up and insulation. The products are easy to clean.

    Aesthetics. Thanks to modern technologies windows can be made in various configurations, painted in any color.

How to choose the right metal-plastic windows?

When choosing a window system, special attention should be paid to the thickness and material of the reinforced frame. It is desirable that it be made of galvanized steel with a thickness of at least 1.5 mm. Such a product will reduce the negative corrosive effects. Ferrous metal is often used, which during operation begins to rust and leave traces on the profile.

Usually, simple plastic windows are installed in apartments and houses. If increased strength and reliability of structures is required, then it makes sense to give preference to metal-plastic products. Such designs are durable. Their use is relevant in difficult climatic conditions, which are characterized by severe frosts and high dynamic loads.

Reinforced-plastic or, as they say more often, plastic windows are one of the most popular types of window structures among the modern consumer. This increased demand is due to the optimal price-performance ratio, excellent performance characteristics plastic windows.

The constructive structure of plastic windows is as follows: they consist of frames made of PVC profiles, double-glazed windows and are additionally equipped with special mechanisms for opening and closing the sashes. Structures are always made according to individual measurements.

We will talk in more detail about the structure of plastic windows, their properties and characteristics below and also find out all the pros and cons of designs that are important to know when planning to purchase PVC windows for your house or apartment.

Materials for the manufacture of plastic windows

The main material for the production of plastic windows is polyvinyl chloride (PVC) - a special type of thermoplastic. In its pure form, a thermoplastic is a powder, into which various stabilizing, modifying substances, coloring pigments and other necessary additives are added during the manufacture of windows. Additional components are needed to purchase a ready-made window profile of a row technical characteristics... In particular, the following qualities of the finished PVC profile will depend on which additives will be used in the production process:

  • Resistance to ultraviolet light and aggressive environmental factors;
  • Colour;
  • Surface quality;
  • Indicators of weldability, resistance to mechanical damage, wear resistance.

Lead is traditionally used as a stabilizing agent, but constructions in which stabilizing properties are provided by a combination of zinc and calcium are considered the safest and most environmentally friendly.

Modifiers and other additives are used in the production of PVC profiles in a minimum amount (no more than 1 mg per 1 kg of profile) and therefore they are not released into the surrounding space during any type of processing of the profile material. In finished form, polyvinyl chloride is a flame-resistant material, resistant to external factors and aggressive environments, and at the same time harmless to human health.

To make sure of the safety and environmental friendliness of the PVC profile offered by a particular manufacturer, always check with the company's representatives about the availability of a hygienic certificate for the product.

There are no restrictions on the installation of plastic windows: they can be used in residential and commercial premises.

Ventilation as an important aspect

Reinforced-plastic structures are absolutely sealed and, on the one hand, this is a significant advantage, since such a window will not allow cold, dampness or draft into the house. On the other hand, the tightness of the structure negatively affects the process of full air exchange in the room. Lack of fresh air flow creates stuffiness, can cause condensation to form on the glass unit and walls, which is fraught with the appearance of fungus or mold in the room. Therefore, the issue of ensuring normal ventilation when installing plastic windows must be given maximum attention.

Of course - the most simple solution will constantly open the doors of the structure for micro-ventilation, but it cannot be called convenient. Therefore, you can initially choose the option of a window with an already arranged ventilation system. The main options would be:

  1. Window design. The option is simple, effective, but not budgetary. A PVC window with a vent will cost more due to the complexity of the design. In addition, the presence of additional elements in the frame negatively affects the flow of light into the room.
  2. Self-ventilated windows. This view structures involves the use of profiles, with holes made for air intake. Holes are made at the top and bottom of the outer frame.
  3. PVC windows with combs. A regulator is initially built into these types of structures, which allows you to open the window in different modes.

Another modern version plastic windows with ventilation - these are designs with a ventilation valve. If the valve is of high quality, the ventilation of the room will take place constantly, which will allow to ensure full air exchange in it.

Heat and sound insulation properties

Heat and sound insulation are the most important characteristics for quality plastic windows. If these indicators are at the proper level, the house will always be warm and calm. Sound and thermal insulation properties of metal-plastic window structures depend on a number of factors, which should be discussed in more detail.

On the thermal insulation characteristics the window structure will be influenced by the following indicators:

  • Glass unit type. For outdoor applications, it is recommended to choose windows with double glazing, consisting of three panes and an air cushion. Argon filling can sometimes be used to increase the thermal insulation properties.

Do you want to reduce your heat bills? Order a double-glazed unit with energy-saving glass. They are more expensive than conventional ones, but the costs will quickly pay off due to the overall reduction in energy costs.

  • The number of chambers in the PVC profile. This element of the window structure can consist of a different number of chambers - from one to six. It is advisable to install profiles with one or two chambers indoors, for outdoor installation it is better to use products with three or more chambers.

The performance of sound insulation in plastic windows depends on the same factors as the thermal insulation of window structures, but there is an additional parameter that improves the quality of sound insulation - the thickness of the glass. The thicker the glass in double-glazed windows, the less noise will penetrate through them.

Environmental friendliness and safety

Environmental friendliness and safety are key qualities for structures that are supposed to be used in residential premises. Despite the fact that the windows are made of plastic - a material of synthetic origin, they meet all the requirements of environmental friendliness and safety for human health.

Polyvinyl chloride used in the production of high-quality window profiles is also used by many food industry enterprises and must pass the state certification procedure.

Plastic, although combustible, belongs to the category of hardly flammable materials, it does not emit toxic and allergenic substances into the air, and therefore structures made of it can well be installed in rooms intended for living and permanent stay of people.

Pros and cons: summing it up

Having learned what metal-plastic windows are, what they are made of and what indicators for structures are of fundamental importance, one can summarize and draw certain conclusions about the pros and cons of plastic windows.

The advantages of PVC window structures include the following qualities:

  • Durability, reliability and strength. However, a small remark should be made here: the specified characteristics will depend almost 100% on the quality of the profile, and therefore it is important to choose a bona fide manufacturer for the manufacture of structures;
  • The tightness of plastic windows will not allow cold, draft or dust to enter your home. The design will reliably protect the home from the penetration of street noise;
  • By design, you can order windows of almost any configuration - vertical, horizontal, with a vent, one-piece, from two or more sashes;
  • The structures are significantly lighter than their counterparts made of wood and metal. Low weight is an indicator that is of fundamental importance with a large glazing area;
  • Plastic does not require specific care - any contamination from it is easily washed off with ordinary soapy water or special household chemicals for the care of plastic windows.

Plastic windows have a much higher fire safety in comparison with wooden structures. During the production of the profile, special antipyretic substances are added to polyvinyl chloride, as well as plastic frames are not afraid of the action of moisture, are resistant to deformation processes and mechanical damage.

With a significant number of advantages, PVC windows still have disadvantages. Among them, you can specify:

  • The increased coefficient of expansion of plastic during temperature fluctuations, which leads to a fairly rapid wear of the sealing elements;
  • Absolute tightness, which prevents full air exchange in the room, but this disadvantage can be eliminated by initially ordering a structure with ventilation.

Also, the disadvantages of plastic windows include the impossibility of their restoration and repair. If cracks, chips or scratches appear on the frame, it will be impossible to eliminate them, you will have to order a new profile.

Comparing the number of minuses with the number of pluses, it can be noted that window structures have much more advantages. Among the advantages of choosing windows made of metal-plastic, one can also write down their aesthetic modern look and the ability to choose a product for any stylistic and color solution interior.

When choosing a quality manufacturer and, accordingly, a quality profile, the finished plastic window will be reliable and solid construction, capable of serving you flawlessly for many years. Aesthetics, durability, ease of use, affordable cost - these are the arguments in favor of choosing plastic windows for your home.

For many years, plastic windows have been the most demanded structures on the market. They are lightweight and not demanding of care; they do not need to be painted regularly (as wooden structures) are also characterized by excellent tightness. A plastic window is a structure made of PVC material, consisting of several elements (double-glazed windows, metal profiles, slopes, fittings, ebbs).

Their durability will depend on the quality of the individual parts.

Advantages of PVC-Windows

  • Excellent sound insulation properties - in the manufacture of plastic windows, many manufacturers use a two-chamber or even three-chamber double-glazed unit, so that the noise from the street does not penetrate into the home;
  • Excellent thermal insulation characteristics - the same glass unit, consisting of two or three chambers, endows the window structure with the properties of a good thermal insulation material;
  • Burglary protection;
  • Resistance to temperature extremes;
  • Attractive appearance.

Special finishing of plastic window frames protects the structure from rusting and the harmful effects of atmospheric precipitation. This saves you time and money from periodically renewing your coverage. Another plus in these windows is the acceptable cost. When plastic windows first appeared, their price was much higher. This was due to the difficulties of delivery from abroad.

Gradually, domestic manufacturers adopted the experience of creating plastic window structures from export raw materials. Thanks to this, the cost of finished products has decreased and at the moment there is a tendency for its further decrease.

Installation of plastic windows modern production will help reduce the fire hazard of the room. A multi-layer glass unit does not support combustion and does not allow air to enter the room where the fire has occurred. This prevents the rapid spread of fire inside. Plastic windows open quite easily - and at any time of the year, you just need to turn the handle. In addition, the manufacturers of these structures have provided for the presence of ventilation - you can open it in whole or in part.

Design solutions for plastic windows are now presented in several versions. Buyers are offered sliding window structures and tilt-and-turn windows. This diversity allows designers to come up with more design options. Most often, manufacturers perform these designs in a universal white color, but sometimes you can find a window with a silver profile on sale. Now manufacturers of window metal structures also offer buyers windows with a frame decorated with natural wood.

Plastic windows will be a decoration for any interior.

Disadvantages of plastic windows

Plastic windows are now being installed everywhere, not only in office companies, but also in private houses and apartments. These structures are durable, have an aesthetic appearance, have excellent tightness and many other advantages. However, plastic windows have some disadvantages. Let's talk about them further.

Humidity mode. Manufacturers make plastic windows sealed, so these structures do not let cold air into the room. On the one hand, this is good, since all the heat is stored inside and there is no need to overpay for heating. But on the other hand, the window is not ventilated from the inside, due to the temperature difference, condensation accumulates on the inner surface of the glass unit. If the window is placed on airing irregularly and they forget to remove moisture accumulated on the windowsill with a dry cloth, then very soon you have to face the appearance bad smell and mold on the windows.

There are two ways to avoid such a problem: the window must be regularly put on the ventilation mode, or a special device must be installed on it that controls the temperature and humidity conditions.

Materials. For the manufacture of plastic windows, polyvinyl chloride material is used, which cannot be called environmentally friendly. It is a product of the chemical industry and, therefore, does not comply with environmental standards.

Special requirements for the installation of the structure. Plastic windows are much smaller in width than wooden ones (only 6-9 cm), therefore, if during installation the master deeply deepens them, a cold slope is obtained. Because of this drawback, the glass unit will fog up with a strong temperature difference, and in winter period- even freeze. To prevent this, it is necessary to carry out the installation of plastic window structures in full compliance with the technological requirements.

Plastic windows attract dust. Double-glazed windows have high level electrostatic, therefore dust is constantly and in large quantities attracted to them.

Fragility. Metal-plastic window structures must be handled with extreme caution, since they are too fragile, and a broken mechanism cannot always be restored.

Repair of metal-plastic windows

If plastic windows are installed in your home, then sooner or later you will have to face the need to repair them. Choosing plastic window structures for their home, the consumer must understand that they are equipped with a rather complex mechanism that can fail if mishandled. And if you already had to deal with a breakdown problem, then it is better to seek help from professional craftsmen so that the repair is carried out efficiently.

It is best to contact the manufacturer for repairs or official representative company!

Repair of windows made of metal-plastic can be divided into two types - this is a preventive check of mechanisms and a full-fledged repair of structures.

Complete repair of plastic windows involves the following work:

  1. Replacement of fittings;
  2. Replacement of a double-glazed window;
  3. Replacement of broken handles.

When performing a preventive repair of a plastic window, a specialist carries out the following work:

  1. Fittings lubrication;
  2. Adjustment of the working mechanism;
  3. Installation of handles with a protective locking mechanism;
  4. Replacing the rubber sealing pad.

How to understand that a plastic window needs preventive or full-fledged repairs?

First of all, this will be evidenced by poor opening and closing of the structure. Repair is also necessary if icing of the window sill is observed during the winter period, and when the window is closed, cold air still enters the room. Contact the master even if window construction falls off the hinges or the window mechanism does not close.

The presence of the above signs is a signal that it is necessary to diagnose and repair a plastic window.

However, this should not scare you, because when contacting an experienced specialist, all work will be done efficiently and quickly. The cost of repairing windows made of metal-plastic is low and will not be an invoice even for a person with an average income. If you have never encountered one like this before renovation works, it is better to enlist the support of a specialist.

DIY plastic window repair

If you are confident in your abilities and you have straight arms that grow from your shoulders, then you can solve the main problems and malfunctions of PVC windows. on their own... No special tool is required for this. We recommend that you watch the appropriate video for a particular problem.

Adjusting the plastic window

Replacing the handle with plastic window

Replacing the seal on the plastic window

In order for the seal to serve as long as possible, with the onset of spring, treat it with a silicone spray lubricant!