Modern plastic windows occupy a leading position in sales rankings. Today they are not uncommon, although until recently, it was the arrangement of a window opening with a plastic structure that indicated the well-being of housing construction residents.
Many people in their reviews of PVC windows note the advanced technical capabilities of such products, a change in the usual design, functionality, easy maintenance, durability and other advantages. In many ways, this is why they do not lose, but continue to gain popularity among consumers.
What is PVC
Polyvinyl chloride is a synthetic substance that is part of the group of polymers. It has different physical and chemical properties, differing in the technology of its formation. Appearance: white powder, tasteless and odorless. Polyvinyl chloride is the most popular material used in the construction industry, as it has the lowestcost.
Window profiles are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which are the basis of metal-plastic windows. According to experts, it is this part of the design that is the key to reliability and quality. Therefore, when choosing a plastic window, special attention must be paid to its profile.
Why PVC windows are called metal-plastic windows
When manufacturing a PVC profile, stabilizing components and modifiers, color pigment, additives are added. They use lead or zinc in combination with calcium in granular form. It is they who provide the profile with the property of resistance to temperature extremes, to zero water absorption and to certain loads. Based on the fact that lead and zinc belong to the group of metals, and polyvinyl chloride to the group of thermoplastics, PVC windows got their second name - metal-plastic.
Elements that are the basis of the design of a window product
Metal-plastic window - a structure consisting of their frame and sash (PVC), reinforcement, sealant, double-glazed window.
1. Profile structure.
Several internal through air chambers are formed in the plane of the profile, providing the structure with thermophysical properties. Inside the plane, a galvanized reinforcing product of the liner is installed, which performs a protective function against wind loads and ensures the safety of the profile shapes when exposed to temperature changes.
2. Double glazing.
Structural system with multiple panes (two orthree), separated evenly in the plane of the frame, which is connected by a hermetic substance to the panes. In the double-glazed window chamber there is an air dried mass or inert gases (krypton, argon). Different types of glass are used: shockproof, solar control, energy-saving, triplex.
Each connection of the profiles to the insulating glass structural system is provided with a continuous seal made on the basis of the rubber group of materials. They provide a barrier to the penetration of moisture into the living space and eliminate the through blowing of the PVC window.
3. Fittings.
The third important part. Connecting hinges, locking pins built into movable devices, handles and levers that provide opening / closing of the sash planes, fixing stops, a mechanism that performs a tilt-and-turn function - all these are accessories for PVC windows. During operation, these parts are subject to wear and may require replacement.
Characteristic features of PVC windows design
Metal-plastic window is manufactured in various variations, having distinctive characteristics of the main elements of the structural system.
1. Product sash types:
- Single leaf. Opening or blind window.
- Bivalve. On the plane of the product there are two doors: blind and opening.
- Tri-leaved. The window consists of three shutters: two deaf and one opening.
- Sliding doors. Scope: planes of loggias and balconies. This type is easyrigidity and strength.
- Window with a door. Used to equip a doorway that provides entry / exit to the balcony space.
2. Opening systems:
- Rotary system. The windows of this option have similarities with typical wooden window products. Disadvantage: a powerful air flow when ventilating the premises in the winter, and are also unsafe for residents with small children who live in multi-storey buildings.
- Tilt-and-turn opening. A system that provides the product with the ability to fully open vertically and tilt horizontally. There are models with a "micro-ventilation" system that provides a minimum opening only for the flow of air masses. Judging by the reviews of PVC windows, such designs are the most popular in modern apartments.
- Sliding opening option. Guide profiles ensure the sliding process of the sliding doors. This is the most relevant option for rooms with a small area.
3. Double-glazed windows and their varieties.
Double-glazed windows can be divided into several types, determined by the number of chambers:
- One camera. It is formed from two glass planes of certain sizes, with the distribution of an air chamber between them. The best option for arranging the spaces of loggias, balconies, as well as for kitchen openings.
- Two cameras. It is based on glass - three, and cameras - two withuniform distribution of air mass. They have a high level of sound insulation and heat saving. The most demanded product for arranging openings in housing construction.
- Three cameras. Formed from four glasses and three chambers. This type has the maximum indicators of heat preservation and sound absorption. Very often they are used in places with the advantage of low temperatures.
Providing PVC windows with additional options
When ordering a window structure, you need to check with the consultants of the point of sale all the detailed information about the product. Design functions are of particular importance. The properties of PVC windows largely depend on them. They may have standard and additional options. If the product will be manufactured under the customer's order, then you can immediately specify the necessary options. The main group of those includes:
- Ventilation. This function provides a minimum gap opening of the sash, providing air intake, which is especially important in cold weather.
- Installation of the ventilation valve. The option facilitates the passage of air through the plane of the window, without performing the opening function. Such a device is mounted in a profile frame. Air flow adjustment is carried out in two ways: manual and automatic. As numerous reviews show, PVC windows. installed in poorly insulated rooms, for example, on balconies and loggias, should have such a device.
- Remote control. To perform the function, the window is equippedelectric drive. Controlled by remote control.
- Energy saving feature. The implementation of the option is carried out by spraying on the glass plane, which does not modify its transparency. It is also relevant for windows made of PVC film. These products are used for arranging terraces and summerhouses.
- Arrangement of anti-vandal fittings for PVC windows. Installation of electronic signaling devices and mechanical locking elements formed in different planes of the sash. These devices allow you to protect the building and its owners from "guests" illegally entering through the windows.
- Block option. The use of this option eliminates the risk of opening the valves by young children. To ensure it, special fittings are installed: a handle with a built-in lock, socket outlets, buttons that block the opening of the valves.
Color tone
The standard color of the PVC window profile is white, but it can also have a different color palette. The profile can be laminated on the inside and outside or only on one of them. Profiles are laminated by pressing using a colored film. The most popular is a film that imitates the structure of a tree: golden, rustic, dark, natural oak, walnut. It is UV resistant.
The cost of PVC windows with a laminated coating on the outside will be 15–20% higher, and on both sides by 35–45%, than for products with a conventionalwhite profile.
Pricing Features
There are a large number of companies producing PVC windows, and the understanding of pricing policy is determined individually by each participant in the construction market. Fluctuations in the difference in the pricing of metal-plastic windows depend on the quality characteristics that determine whether the product belongs to a certain class. There are three classes:
- Budget. A profile with three air chambers and a single or double glazing system. Its width is from 58 mm to 60 mm. Two seal lines. Laconic and simple design of a metal-plastic window. Window size 1500x1500 mm with two sashes - price from 5000 to 8500 rubles
- Business class. Profile characteristics: width from 64 mm to 80 mm, five air chambers, two-chamber glass unit system, three sealing circuits. The design has a more refined decor. The cost of PVC windows in this case will start from 9,500 rubles.
- Premium. Windows have a respectable appearance and have the maximum level of thermal insulation and sound absorption. Profile criteria: a minimum of five cameras. Thickness from 70 mm to 80 mm. Four lines of sealing, its color is determined by the consumer. The window has additional options: ventilation system, micro-ventilation.
Main selection criteria for structures
When choosing windows, it is necessary to take into account their quality characteristics and functional properties, since the product must have not only a respectable appearance, but alsocreate a favorable climate in the living space. Window selection criteria:
- Profile: outer wall thickness more than 2.8 mm, inner wall - at least 2.5 mm, product width - at least 58 mm, no smell and mechanical damage on its plane.
- Air chambers: from 3 to 8 chambers, depending on the design of the double-glazed window.
- Double-glazed unit: a two-chamber system, if the building is located near roads, enterprises, stations, a three-chamber design will be the best solution.
Why PVC windows are so popular
Without exaggeration, we can say that these designs are in great demand. Such success is largely due to the numerous advantages of PVC windows. These include:
- possibility of manufacturing windows taking into account the individual design of the consumer;
- light weight, allowing you to equip the product on large areas of window openings;
- high level of tightness and strength;
- easy maintenance for PVC windows;
- do not emit toxic fumes, since the stabilizing components are not used in pure form;
- possibility of replacing fittings without dismantling the window from the window opening;
- high level of heat saving;
- simple control of fittings with many functions;
- resistance to temperature extremes;
- maximum resistance to adverse environmental factors;
- windows are not exposed to ultraviolet rays; throughout the operationalperiod, the shape and color do not change; this property also applies to flexible PVC windows;
- operational period - up to 50 years;
- price affordability; a variety of types of structural systems allows you to choose a product based on financial capabilities.
Disadvantages of PVC windows
Metal-plastic products are a reliable and durable design that can create comfort and coziness in a room, but they, like other products, have their drawbacks:
- inaccessibility of natural air exchange; possibility of formation of condensate formations;
- minimum product decoration possibilities;
- if structural elements are damaged, it is necessary to completely dismantle the window.
Soft PVC windows and their quality characteristics
Appeared relatively recently on the market, but have already managed to win the trust and recognition of consumers. An affordable and convenient solution for arranging summer playgrounds, which are an object of a wooden house or a separate building, will be soft windows using PVC film. They are an alternative to the glazing of open apertures of the planes of verandas and terraces of suburban buildings.
Components for forming a soft window (curtains): PVC film, edging and fasteners.
- Film. Unreinforced transparent PVC product, having a thickness of 0.5 mm to 0.75 mm. The product is produced in rolls with a width of 1.4 m, as a result, for openings exceeding this value, before the installation process itsoldered using transparent seam technology.
- Edging. A colored strip made on the basis of synthetic materials, a width of 5 cm. It performs the function of adjusting the gain of the product and its fastening along the edges of the window.
- Mount. Staples, locks and reverses.
The production of transparent PVC flexible soft windows is aimed at expanding the building materials market. Due to their unique features, films will not only give an attractive appearance, but will also be a great alternative to traditional designs.
Benefits of soft windows
Such products are increasingly chosen for the arrangement of country buildings for recreation. Undoubtedly, soft PVC windows for the terrace have their own advantages and disadvantages, like other types of structures. Their main advantages are:
- Safety. Does not pose a threat to children, as the product does not break.
- Soft window construction protects open objects from negative environmental influences.
- Service life up to 10 years.
- Affordable price. Soft PVC gazebo windows will cost significantly less than traditional glazing of the object.
Consumer contact with the company's specialists specializing in the installation of PVC windows will avoid risks that may lead to a short service life of the product. The company's service includes: taking measurements, delivery and installation of windows, as well as warranty service. When choosingIt would be useful to read the reviews of the manufacturer about PVC windows, as well as the opinions of customers about the company chosen as the installer.
