Combined windows are rightfully considered the standard of quality, because they combine the advantages of several materials at once. The most common windows are made of metal and plastic: they are durable, resistant to large temperature fluctuations, have an excellent appearance and excellent thermal insulation and noise reduction. If you decide not to save on quality and install windows in your house that will last for decades, you will undoubtedly need complete and detailed information on how to choose the right metal plastic windows.
What is the difference between plastic windows and metal-plastic ones?
Their main difference is in the profile. The plastic profile consists entirely of polyvinyl chloride, PVC for short (excluding sealant and intermediate profile). On the this moment the manufacture of such windows was abandoned, since the plastic itself, without a rigid frame, cannot withstand the weight of the sash, the profile quickly bends and becomes unusable. In the case of metal-plastic windows, PVC plays only one of the roles, it protects the structure from external factors. The basis of the window is a special metal (reinforcing) insert made of galvanized tape 1.2-2.0 mm thick, which gives the window additional rigidity and strength.
In addition, the metal-plastic profile is distinguished by the following:
It is much more durable, serving about 50 years.
It has a higher level of heat and sound insulation.
More rigid and stable, can withstand the weight of multi-chamber double-glazed windows.
How to start choosing metal-plastic windows?
Before choosing metal-plastic windows, you need to decide what exactly you expect from them: thermal insulation, sound insulation, safety, or maybe good ventilation of the room?
Of course, all these characteristics can be combined, but in this case, the price of one window will go beyond the reasonable. Therefore, you need to prioritize. For example, if you live in a country house, the degree of sound insulation of windows is not important to you, and for rooms with a low level of humidity, a natural ventilation system is not needed at all.
Only having understood your needs, you can start choosing metal-plastic windows, decide which profile to choose and which double-glazed window suits you best.
Thermal insulation of the room
1) The number of cameras in the profile.
If you are familiar with how to choose the right plastic windows, you should know that inside which there is ordinary air. The heat transfer resistance coefficient depends on the number of chambers - an important parameter showing the ratio of temperature on the outer and inner sides of the profile and density heat flow. The higher the coefficient, the warmer the room. In a three-chamber profile, this indicator is on average 0.64, in a four-chamber profile, 0.67, and in a five-chamber profile, 0.72.
Each profile must have at least three cameras:
The main one is the one that is in the middle of the profile; a reinforcing insert is mounted in it.
The camera for attaching accessories is the one that is located from the side of the room. It is divided by additional horizontal partitions for extra rigidity.
The drainage chamber is designed to drain water that can get inside the profile when the external sealant and spar are destroyed (the part of the window that secures the double-glazed window in the profile). It has a sloping shape and slightly moves away from the frame or wall from below.
2) The number of chambers in a double-glazed window
The next thing you should pay attention to before choosing the right metal-plastic windows with excellent thermal insulation is a double-glazed window. In it, as in the profile, the number of cameras is very important. Three to five chambers will provide excellent thermal insulation, but in this case the window sash will be too heavy and its fittings can quickly become unusable.
To simplify the design, you can use additional measures, such as filling chambers with inert gas and energy-saving glass.
3) Inert gas
Special gases significantly reduce the amount of heat lost. This is due to the fact that they have a very low thermal conductivity.
Argon or krypton is used to fill the double-glazed unit chambers. Both of them are absolutely non-toxic and even if a window is broken, they will not bring a person any harm.
Argon in a small amount (1%) is contained in the air, so it is easier to obtain and the price for it is correspondingly lower. Krypton is a more expensive gas, but its heat-insulating properties are twice that of argon.
The coefficient of resistance to heat transfer in a single-chamber double-glazed window with an inert gas is from 0.30 to 0.34, in a similar double-glazed window without inert gas - only 0.28.
4) Special glasses
Speaking about which metal-plastic windows are better to choose and how to ensure maximum thermal insulation, it is worth talking separately about glasses. There are tempered, tinted, laminated and other glasses. All of them are much thicker than usual, thanks to which they additionally protect the room from the cold. But their thermal protection indicators are not included in any comparisons with similar ones.
This glass is designed specifically to keep indoors maximum amount heat. The principle of its operation is similar to the principle of operation ordinary mirror- it simply reflects thermal radiation back to the room.
Room soundproofing
1) Profile thickness
For residents of large cities, the silence in the house is of particular importance. In this case, which metal-plastic windows to choose depends on the thickness of the profile, it must be at least 70 mm. As a rule, in a profile of this thickness there are 3-4 air chambers, their number also has a positive effect on the sound insulation of the room (for example, which, in terms of its heat-shielding properties, is not inferior to a brick wall).
2) Soundproof double-glazed window
Such double-glazed windows differ from the usual ones in that in one of the chambers the distance frame is slightly increased (an aluminum plate located inside the double-glazed window), and the glass itself has a different thickness.
The noise level in the room where soundproof double-glazed windows are installed is 20-30 dB. For comparison: complete silence - 0 dB, grass rustling - 10 dB, quiet music - 30-40 dB, loud speech - 60 dB, street noise - 70-80 dB.
3) Inert gases
About beautiful thermal insulation properties argon and krypton we described above, but in addition to this, inert gases perfectly muffle the noise. Using a special double-glazed window and inert gas, you can achieve impeccable silence in the room.
Premises security
In the question of how to choose metal-plastic windows for a house or apartment, the level of security is of particular importance. By itself, a window without metal bars will not be able to fully protect your home from burglary, but it will greatly complicate the task of intruders.
1) Anti-burglary fittings
Anti-burglary handles, latches and hinges differ from conventional fittings in a more durable frame and a special mechanism that completely eliminates the possibility of opening the window from the street.
In addition, you can install special sensors on the fittings that will supply alarm signal when trying to hack.
2) Laminated glass (triplex)
Laminated glass consists of several layers, as a rule - these are two glasses connected with a special composition or one, covered with a special film. Upon impact, it does not break into small pieces, but is covered with cracks. This technology is used in the manufacture of standard windshields and is great for additional protection for your home.
3) Tempered glass
Such glass undergoes a more thorough processing process and is tempered at high temperatures. The result is glass 5-6 times stronger than usual.
In one double-glazed window, you can use laminated and strained glass at the same time, it will further increase the protection against hacks.
Room ventilation
Thinking about which metal-plastic window to choose for the kitchen, one cannot but take into account one feature of this room - it requires frequent ventilation. The same can be said about any other room with high humidity. To solve this problem, experts advise buying windows with different ways opening.
2) Comb
Such a limiter is very effective for windows with only one way of opening. This mechanism is attached directly to the profile itself.
3) Ventilation supply valve
It is a small hole at the top of the window, thanks to which Fresh air continuously enters the room. The supply valve does not affect the temperature inside the room in any way, since the air from the street immediately mixes with warm air under the ceiling.
Inside supply valve special filters can be installed that will clean the air from dust and harmful contaminants.
How to choose a window supplier?
Now that you know which metal-plastic window to choose, you need to find a suitable company whose services and products you will use. To do this, you need to carefully study all available information. Particular attention should be paid to the following nuances:
If your relatives, friends or acquaintances have recently installed new windows for themselves, ask them for all the selections. Word of mouth is not only beneficial for manufacturers, but also for customers, because in this way you are less likely to purchase low-quality products.
Company experience
Another guarantee of quality is the experience of the organization. If a company has been able to hold out in this market for more than 10-15 years, this indicates the quality of its products and confident competitiveness.
Professionalism of employees
Do not opt for a company whose employees are not competent in their field. A competent employee will be happy to answer all your questions.
Own installation team
Good companies not only manufacture and sell windows, but also install them. Ask in advance whether there is such a service in the price list of the company.
Treaty
Conscientious manufacturers without fail conclude an agreement with their customers. It should clearly spell out the responsibilities of both parties, the timing of the implementation and payment of services.
Guarantee
High-quality metal-plastic windows can last 40-50 years, and if the company is confident in its products, it will provide you with a guarantee of at least 10 years. Otherwise, this company should not be contacted.
Found an error? Select it and press Ctrl + Enter
Every day the construction services market is filled with various innovative developments. Starting with professional tools and ending with structures and fittings. For example, a couple of decades ago, each of us had standard wooden windows, then the era of plastic windows came, and now it is all considered to be relics of the past. Currently, frameless glazing technology is used great success, displacing the classic technology of mounting frames and vertical racks. Plastic windows have been replaced by metal-plastic ones, which are characterized by increased wear resistance and reliability.
Differences of metal-plastic windows from plastic
At first glance, not everyone will be able to distinguish metal-plastic windows from plastic ones, they are outwardly identical, since plastic is used on the outside. But their design features have been significantly modified. In the process of production of metal-plastic windows, reinforcement of the metal frame for the PVC profile is used. As a result, even under the scorching sun, the frame and fittings are not deformed.
If we analyze and compare metal-plastic windows with plastic ones, we can identify common functional properties - this is excellent sound and noise insulation, as well as burglar resistance. But, there is an undeniable advantage of metal plastic profile if you wish to glaze a balcony with windows in the form of an arch or some other shape, then plastic windows will not suit you, since they are produced only in a simple rectangular shape.
The choice of metal-plastic windows
It is important to consider that a metal-plastic profile is much more expensive than a plastic one, but quality is never cheap. Among the leaders in the field of window production, we can single out the European companies Rehau and Veka, they have been operating in the construction market and have positive feedback among potential consumers.
The first thing to start with is to give Special attention to the choice of thickness and material reinforced frame. After all, it depends on the level of exposure to corrosion. The most acceptable thickness is from 1.5 mm, the material is galvanized steel. Also in the construction services market there are more cheap option frame, which is made of black metal. It has an undeniable minus - it can quickly begin to rust, caused marks in the area of the drainage holes.
The choice of a metal-plastic window is no different from an ordinary plastic one, here everyone chooses what he wants, the number of cameras, double-glazed windows, fittings, profile thickness, etc. But it is important to consider that the classic plastic profile is mainly chosen for installation in apartments, cottages, country houses. Metal-plastic windows are installed mainly in rooms where high dynamic loads, sudden changes in climate, heavy winds, etc. are common.
How manufacturers reduce the cost of the profile of metal-plastic windows
Of course, not all manufacturing companies seek to reduce the cost of the profile due to low-quality fittings and a decrease in the thickness of the profile, but there are some. In this connection, take into account the market value when ordering the installation of metal-plastic windows, because a decrease in wall thickness leads to a decrease in strength and durability. Also choose a profile with a closed metal reinforcement, it perfectly withstands sudden changes in dynamic loads.
Window selection video
Do not forget that even the best and most expensive windows can be damaged by unprofessional installation. Choose only proven window installation companies, because their durability directly depends on the craftsmen.
Modern window manufacturers offer customers a wide range of translucent structures with different characteristics, operating parameters and features of external design. Buyers are often lost in a variety of options, not knowing by what criteria to compare models, evaluate their advantages and disadvantages. Windows from are the most popular today, but not all customers know that there are two categories of these structures, each of which has its own characteristics, advantages and disadvantages.
What is the difference between plastic and metal-plastic windows
Ordinary plastic windows are structures, the frame and sashes of which are made of PVC profile without the addition of additional reinforcing elements. This type of windows has average strength and durability, but is beneficial for the budget due to the ease of manufacture and the relatively low cost of the finished product.Metal-plastic windows do not differ externally from simple PVC products, however, if you look at such a profile in a section, the presence of an important additional detail will open to your eyes - an internal metal liner -. Interior metal carcass increases the strength and reliability of the structure. It is made of steel with an anti-corrosion coating, placed inside the frame and sash chambers around the entire perimeter. The reinforcing frame can be closed - with a sectional shape in the form of a quadrangle or open - with a section resembling the shape of the letters G or P. The thickness of the steel plate, as a rule, is 1.2 -1.5 mm and depends on what load the structure must withstand . The main requirements for the quality of the material and the method of installing the frame are set out in GOST 30674-99, which is valid throughout the Russian Federation.
Advantages and disadvantages of plastic and metal-plastic windows
plastic windows
The advantages of plastic windows include their low cost (compared to reinforced counterparts) and low weight. These window systems are available to most consumers and perform their functions well for a certain period of time. The light weight of non-reinforced profile windows allows them to be installed on balconies, producing minimal reinforcement of the parapet.However, as mentioned above, plastic windows without a reinforcing metal frame are less durable. Most manufacturing plants guarantee a 20-30 year performance of such structures when used in normal conditions. A heavy load is constantly placed on the profile: in addition to its own weight, it holds a heavy double-glazed window that can weigh up to 80 kg.
It is worth noting that even the highest quality plastic can be deformed by sharp temperature fluctuations and prolonged exposure to it. sun rays. For this reason, the service life of plastic windows in regions with an unstable or hot climate will be shorter.
Metal-plastic windows
Reinforcement gives PVC windows additional strength, prolonging their life and increasing their ability to withstand diverse loads. Metal-plastic windows are not afraid of strong winds, temperature extremes, their sashes rarely sag under the weight of a double-glazed window and work even in an ultra-intensive mode. Average term services of metal-plastic windows - 40-50 years. The metal reinforcement of the profile allows manufacturers to create structures of various shapes and not worry about their possible deformation.Metal-plastic windows also have certain disadvantages that should be considered when buying:
- The appearance of "cold bridges". metal elements compared to plastic, they have greater thermal conductivity and reduce the thermal insulation characteristics of the entire structure. To minimize the influence of this factor, manufacturers have come up with the following: they reduce the contact area of the frame with plastic by installing vertical ribs inside that hold the metal in the desired position.
- High price. Any windows from a reinforced profile (of course, we are talking about quality products) are more expensive than similar models made of conventional plastic. Galvanized steel is a rather expensive material, and therefore the price of structures increases in proportion to the amount of metal used.
Applications
Having studied the main characteristics, as well as weak and strengths plastic and metal-plastic windows, you can start choosing the most suitable option for your premises. Each case is different, but there are a number of general recommendations experts to listen to:- For rooms on the upper floors of high-rise buildings, as well as for installation in houses located in open space (with the maximum likelihood of regular exposure strong winds), it is worth choosing metal-plastic windows.
- Apartments in standard high-rise buildings big cities located in middle lane Russia (and other regions with a temperate climate) can be equipped with simple plastic windows.
- Ordinary plastic windows are a worthy option for buyers with a limited budget.
- For installation in buildings with large window openings or it is recommended to use only metal-plastic windows.
- Windows designed according to individual projects, custom-shaped designs, original models for designer interiors are made mainly of PVC profile with reinforcement.
- Glazing of structures that cannot withstand a significant load, for example, balconies with a fragile fence, should be performed with plastic profile products without a steel liner - they have less weight and minimize the likelihood of damage or destruction.
Winter is not far off. It is getting colder outside, frosts follow one after another, snow will soon fall and it will be possible to say that winter period came into his own. And this, as you know, requires the owners of apartments and houses, a deliberate approach to the insulation of homes. One such solution is the installation of double-glazed windows. They are stronger, more reliable, more convenient to use than ordinary wooden windows. But there is one nuance here: there are plastic windows and metal-plastic ones - what's the difference? Not every person can immediately answer this question.
Definition
Plastic windows- made of PVC or polyvinyl chloride. In their design, they look similar to ordinary wooden windows, but differ in a more complex design. They consist of several layers, separated from each other and hermetically installed in a special frame. Because of this, compared to regular windows double-glazed windows have the best sound and heat insulation. You can install them not only in city apartments, but almost everywhere where there is a need for this.
Metal-plastic windows- also have all the above advantages, which are described in the usual plastic structures. And even in appearance they are very similar. However, from the point of view design features there are certain differences. These products use an additional metal frame built into the profile, which is also the basis of the entire structure. FROM outside it's still the same plastic, so there are no differences in appearance. But in terms of strength and stability, metal-plastic windows are ahead of simple plastic. In professional language, they say that such structures are "reinforced with a galvanized profile."
Comparison
Ordinary plastic windows are mainly installed in houses, cottages, apartments. At the same time, metal-plastic structures are strength and reliability required in more extreme conditions - on the top floors of skyscrapers, as well as in harsh climatic conditions where strong winds prevail.
The durability of ordinary plastic is somewhat lower due to the fact that it does not have additional reinforcement, while metal-plastic is able to “survive” much longer.
Ordinary plastic windows are distinguished by their simple geometry, while at the same time, metal-plastic can be given various forms: lancet, arched, round and so on.
The price of plastic windows is lower than metal-plastic ones. Although such savings may not always be justified.
Findings site
- Plastic windows can be installed in ordinary houses or apartments, and metal-plastic products justify themselves more on the top floors of skyscrapers, where strong gusts of wind prevail.
- Plastic windows are less durable, and metal-plastic, due to additional reinforcement, provides the necessary reliability.
- The service life of plastic windows is 2-3 decades, and metal-plastic windows can live for more than 50 years.
- Plastic windows most often come in the usual rectangular shape, and others can be given to metal-plastic ones.
- The price of plastic windows is much lower than metal-plastic ones.