Plastic Windows - Nuances, Features of Choice

Plastic windows, PVC windows, vinyl windows, plastic windows, PVC windows - all these word combinations are different names for the same product in different countries or regions. In Russia, the most common are plastic or PVC windows.

For the first time windows from PVC profiles appeared in Germany (almost the middle of the XX century) and conquered almost all countries of the world (hence the many names). The first plastic windows, of course, could not be compared with the usual wooden ones, either according to technical or ecological parameters. But science does not stand still, and, today, PVC windows occupy a leading position in the window market, while answering all GOSTs and standards.

By the way, with regard to environmental friendliness. There is a myth about the toxicity and insecurity of plastic windows. Modern window systems can be toxic only in one case - if they burn. When burning, many toxic and completely "non-useful" substances are released. Still PVC windows do not lend themselves to natural decomposition, but why should they decompose if they can be recycled, what will benefit?

So, back to the technical specifications. Modern window systems from PVC profiles are very popular due to: reasonable price, unpretentious care, aesthetic appearance, and also reliability and convenience in operation.

Let's pay attention to the last point. Reliability and convenience in operation. What does it mean?

With amenities everything is clear, but we'll talk more about reliability.

Firstly, plastic windows, as described above, "do not feed to natural decomposition". Let's call it another, more vile word - "plastic windows do not rot." Still add here a solid appearance, which, by the way, does not fade and does not turn yellow with time. We get practically eternal (externally) windows that do not require special care (painting, etc.).

Secondly, unlike the old wooden windows, modern window systems use the fittings, which allows you to press the swivel to the frame along the entire perimeter. With proper adjustment, you can achieve complete tightness.

Thirdly, in the plastic windows there are no separate glasses, there is a solid and airtight construction - a double-glazed unit. There are two advantages: 1) windows do not need to be washed from the inside; 2) increased thermal and sound insulation.

And one negative: if the double-glazed windows "beaten" or "beaten", you need to replace the entire unit.

Fourth, the use of seals. In the profile of the window there are special grooves in which there is a rubber or silicone sealant, which also contributes to the increase of thermal and sound insulation.

But there is always a downside to the coin. The use of hardware complicates the design, the window turns into a mechanism that requires correct settings, and sometimes adjustments. Over time, the sash may slack, the flap begins to cling to the countertops of the fittings (on the frame), a blow appears, the glass unit must be replaced in its entirety (replacement of the double-glazed windows will be more expensive than replacing the glasses in the old windows)

There are 2 solutions to the problem:

1) After-sales service - the master periodically comes and checks the functionality of the windows, the degree of wear of the hardware and so on.

2) Contacting special service organizations that repair PVC windows directly in case of breakage.

The first option seems deliberately unprofitable, but it's not. Windows constantly require adjustment and adjustment. The first case is such a self insurance windows. Repair work will be carried out (no matter how many of them are) during the entire insurance period and you will not care about their cost, because the amount is stipulated in advance - when concluding a service agreement. And in the second version, as lucky - the windows can stand and 10 years without adjustment, and can break and every 2 months.

Also, modern window systems are well positioned for modernization. In the already installed window, you can add a sash (including with remote opening), you can make a swing-and-tilt from the swinging door. Also, the service of replacement of double-glazed windows is popular. In most cases, this is due to its breaking, but sometimes the replacement of insulating glass is used to improve thermal or sound insulation.