Surely many of us have encountered a situation where we need to change the windows in a house or apartment. People are less and less interested in wooden frames; they are being replaced by new materials - aluminum and polyvinyl chloride.
At first glance, there is no significant difference between them. And outwardly they have a lot in common. But that's not true. The PVC profile is reinforced from the inside with metal. Several air chambers prevent heat from leaving the room. The aluminum system is more durable and rigid due to the properties of the metal. Therefore, it does not need to be reinforced. Because of this, the profile is lighter. But since its thermal conductivity is higher, it needs additional heat-saving inserts.
Whatever profile you choose, the comfort in the room directly depends on the installed double-glazed window. Several factors must be taken into account - a noisy road in the neighborhood or yard, whether it is sunny or not, whether there are sudden temperature changes in different seasons of the year. Determine which properties are important to you in order to select the appropriate profile.
Apartment glazing
What is better for an apartment - aluminum or plastic windows?
The PVC profile is varied in the number of chambers, this is its versatility. It can be installed in both Yakutia and Moscow. High energy efficiency is combined with a relatively low wall. In addition, there are many manufacturers in the market. You can choose accessories of different prices and quality. Window units can be colored or even with a wood texture.
Aluminum is more often installed on balconies, since the weight of such structures is small. Therefore, the old balcony will not collapse on the neighbors’ heads. A so-called “warm” profile is installed in the living room. It has an additional insert - a thermal bridge, which reduces heat loss. However, the cost of such a system will be higher.
Duration of operation
Aluminum system
What is the difference between plastic windows and aluminum windows? Aluminum profiles, subject to operating rules, can last up to 80 years.
Plastic system
PVC systems have many positive characteristics. However, when choosing window designs, you must remember that the service life of the product is 55 years.
Design Features
If you study the main differences, you can determine which windows are better for you, plastic or aluminum.
How the parts are connected
The PVC profile parts are heated and welded. The resulting structure is highly durable and reliable. But, if the frame breaks, then the window will have to be completely replaced. This profile type cannot be reused.
The corners of the aluminum frames are secured with screws. Therefore, the design is light but durable, it is easy to assemble and disassemble. This is a big plus, since in the event of a breakdown, repairs will be quick and not too difficult.
How the fittings are installed
The fastening of elements in aluminum profiles is fundamentally different from PVC windows. In the first case, the fittings are secured in the grooves with screws. In the second - with self-tapping screws directly on the frame.
How many cameras in each profile
Depending on the thermal protection class, a PVC profile can have up to 8 chambers. The more there are, the warmer the house will be. Aluminum can be 1-, 2-, 3-chamber. But the polyamide insert is of greater importance. If the chambers are filled with it, then it is “warm” aluminum.
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Dimensions and weight
Aluminum systems are less bulky. They differ from PVC in their smaller installation depth and weight. This means that they are suitable, for example, for panoramic glazing. Plastic profiles are additionally reinforced, which is why they weigh more.
Dimensions
GOST 23166-99 regulates the sizes of opening window sashes made of different materials:
- aluminum - 2.6 m2
- white PVC – 2.5 m2
- PVC with painting - 2.2 m2
Warm aluminum or plastic sliding doors
An important part of panoramic glazing is sliding panoramic doors; they can be made of any material - aluminum or plastic.
These are warm, reliable and, most importantly, panoramic doors give incredible emotions without leaving your home. For these sensations, they are so loved by owners of country houses all over the world. The maximum dimensions of lift and slide doors in both materials are 10,000x3,000 mm (width x height).
These doors should not be confused with cold sliding doors made of aluminum and plastic.
Photo: instead of plastic wheels in cold aluminum, panoramic HS doors are equipped with lift-and-slide fittings that can withstand a door weight of 200-400 kg*
Panoramic sliding windows made of warm plastic and aluminum are the most expensive designs among all plastic windows and doors. But it's worth it to experience a new quality of life!
Photo: Roto Patio Life sliding fittings are the most comfortable in the class of large panoramic doors. To move the sash you don’t even need to lift it. When you turn the handle, only the horizontal seal rises and the sash moves smoothly to the side * Roto Patio Life panoramic sliding doors for plastic doors and Roto Patio Lift for aluminum doors provide easy, comfortable opening of sliding panoramic doors weighing up to 400 kg.
Types of structures
The design of the sashes is selected so that, firstly, the window is easy to clean, and secondly, there is enough free space when opening.
Rotary
The system holds the hinges on the left or right. It opens more often inwards. One of the disadvantages is that it takes up a lot of space when the sash is open. If the opening is large enough and the fittings are of poor quality, they may sag or become deformed.
Tilt&Turn
Similar to the previous one, but there is a position for ventilation. The sash tilts back and the distance can be adjusted. Convenient to wash and wipe.
Sliding
In terms of space saving, this is the best option. The doors move along guides, moving one after another. On the terrace, small loggia, wherever every centimeter of usable space counts. Due to the design features, aluminum sashes freeze in winter, since the brush seal allows water to pass through. A sharp jerk can damage the guides. Plastic does not have such problems.
Transom
Usually this is a small door that folds inside the room. Installed in garages, basements or attics. If the window is large, for example in Stalin-era houses, the upper part is sometimes made with a transom for convenient ventilation. And to wash it, you will have to remove the “scissors” in the sidewall and then put it back in place.
Deaf
This window does not open. It is usually mounted in a balcony block. Then it can be easily washed on both sides, and ventilation will take place through the folding door flap.
Opening method
Aluminum system
Sliding, hinged, lifting, tilt and turn, folding, accordion.
Plastic system
Sliding, hinged, lifting, tilt and turn, folding, accordion.
Plastic windows: pros and cons
Plastic windows quickly became popular because they are convenient, but at the same time relatively inexpensive. What are their advantages:
- High heat and noise insulation . By combining the number of profile chambers, double-glazed windows can solve various problems - noise from the street, bright sunlight, very cold winters.
- Tightness . When using new types of sealant, the likelihood that it will be blown out and then freeze is minimal.
- Long service life . Manufacturers claim that PVC profiles last up to forty years.
- Durability and safety . The reinforced circuit and anti-burglary fittings will make it difficult for intruders to enter a house or apartment. In addition, plastic does not burn, but melts.
- Large selection of colors and systems . Nowadays, colored windows will no longer surprise anyone. And if the design of the room allows, then you can choose a “wood-like” profile. Types of metal-plastic profiles differ in price. Therefore, it is easy to choose a model that suits your budget.
Flaws:
- Since the system is sealed, condensation may form on the glass. To avoid it, you need to ventilate the room daily or install a valve. Constant air flow will prevent fogging.
- PVC sashes are heavy, so they have a standard weight. They are not suitable for large-scale structures, such as facades or shop windows.
- When exposed to high and low temperatures, plastic contracts or expands and becomes brittle. Scratches and minor damage are clearly visible on the frames. And due to the way the profile is produced, it is difficult to repair.
Environmental friendliness
Aluminum system
One of the advantages of aluminum windows is that they are absolutely environmentally friendly and can be recycled in the future.
Plastic system
There is still a myth that plastic windows release toxic substances into the atmosphere, and therefore into the premises where people live. This is, of course, not true. However, if a plastic window catches fire, toxic substances will begin to be released into the atmosphere: carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.
These same toxic substances prevent windows from being disposed of safely for people and the environment.
Advantages and disadvantages of aluminum profile
Not so popular, but it has a number of advantages.
Pros:
- Durability and light weight . Aluminum does not deform and is not subject to corrosion.
- Simple replacement a. The profiles are designed so that in the event of a breakdown, the parts are twisted and replaced. It can be moved and used elsewhere.
- Service life - more than fifty years.
- Melting point - 660˚C.
- The frame dimensions are smaller, so more natural light will enter the room.
- Can be used in panoramic glazing, on roofs and facades of houses.
Minuses:
- High thermal conductivity . The profiles are additionally insulated for use in residential premises.
- The price is higher than similar PVC models.
- They take a little longer to manufacture , and repair shops are not available everywhere. The requirements for installers are higher due to the specifics of the installation technology.
Fourth - accessories
The differences between plastic windows include what fittings they are equipped with. The group of window fittings includes a solid list of mechanisms and components that facilitate the use of the structure or its configuration. Both Russian and foreign companies produce window fittings, but today the most reliable and high-quality products are considered to be products from German brands.
Fittings from Germany are convenient, beautiful, safe and can withstand more than 50 thousand openings/closings, while most standard products are designed for only 20 thousand.
Comparative characteristics of profiles
Each system has a different set of useful properties. To figure out which frames are better, plastic or aluminum, let’s compare them in the table.
| Characteristic | Aluminum | PVC |
| S active leaf, m2 | Until 6 | Up to 2.6 |
| Resistance to temperature changes | Does not change properties | Shrinks or expands at extreme temperatures, becoming brittle |
| Thermal conductivity | High | Low |
| Life time | Up to 100 years | Up to 60 years old |
| Melting temperature | 660˚C | 220˚C |
| Maximum glass thickness, mm | 56 | 61 |
| Repair and reuse | Simple repair, can be disassembled and reassembled | Repair is difficult, it is difficult to reuse the window for its intended purpose |
| Burglary resistance | High | Average |
| Glazing of large surfaces (panoramic windows) | Yes | No |
| Lamination, profile coloring | Large selection of films, colors, textures | The lamination quality is lower, the choice of colors is limited |
Aluminum profiles are used less frequently due to stereotypes that this glazing is only for non-residential premises. In part, this is true. High thermal conductivity and low noise insulation compared to plastic ones makes them ideal for dachas, verandas, and balconies. That is, places where protection from wind and bad weather is more important, and heat preservation is not in first place. The assortment is somewhat lower, as manufacturers focus on PVC structures, which are ordered and installed more often.
Burglary resistance
Aluminum system
The difference between the two systems lies in their burglary resistance. If an attacker uses aggressive tactics and tries to break the window with a pry bar, drill and wedges, the frame can hold out for as long as 10 minutes.
Also, burglary resistance can be increased thanks to steel strikers, additional locking pins, and mechanisms that block the fittings. Additionally, the profiles inside are equipped with special liners. When combined with safety glass, the system acquires the highest burglar-resistant class - RC4 (out of six burglary resistance classes RC1-RC6). It is assigned to structures made exclusively from aluminum profiles, even if plastic and wooden ones are equipped with anti-burglar components, they cannot achieve the same status.
Plastic system
An attacker can break into a plastic window without additional security measures in one or two minutes.
You can increase burglary resistance by equipping the window with locking trunnions, additional anti-burglary elements, and additional locking elements. Now the window is difficult to break quickly even with a mount, but its burglary resistance class will still not be higher than RC3 (out of six burglary resistance classes from RC1-RC6).
How to determine which profile is best suited
Once you have an idea of the strengths and weaknesses of both systems, you can make your choice. It depends on the nature of the premises and the conditions in it, as well as the tasks that need to be solved by installing windows.
Apartment or balcony
Cold aluminum profile is suitable for a summer cottage, terrace, balcony. It is strong, durable. The design is such that the glass area is larger, the room will be bright. An apartment needs warm aluminum, but the cost of such a system is higher than a similar one made of PVC. And the level of noise and heat insulation is approximately the same. The choice of PVC models with different characteristics is greater, so they are installed more often.
When weight matters
Even though aluminum is heavier than plastic, the overall weight of the structure is lower. Therefore, if the parapet on the balcony is dilapidated, or the house is old, then it is recommended to choose aluminum frames. They will not put a strong load on the building itself. Plastic profiles are heavier, the dimensions of the sashes are limited by weight. To avoid overloads, they are installed in small and medium-sized openings of multi-story buildings.
When reliability matters
Both aluminum and PVC are highly durable materials. But the first one can withstand temperature differences without deformation. This is important for areas with harsh climates. However, in such cases it is necessary to choose “warm” aluminum so that all the advantages in strength are not negated by high heat losses. Regardless of the choice of profile, if the fittings are of poor quality and the installation was carried out incorrectly, the service life of the window will be short.
Thus, if you need structures of a non-standard shape or with a large surface area, for example, for glazing a gazebo, then choose an aluminum profile. Sliding doors save space and make cleaning easy.
For a private house or apartment, PVC is preferable. Manufacturers produce models with different numbers of chambers, energy-saving, and with increased noise insulation characteristics. For interiors in different styles, you can choose a colored or textured profile.
Non-standard forms
Aluminum system
The flexibility of the aluminum profile is a nice addition; thanks to this parameter, it is possible to produce systems of various shapes: round, oval, triangular, trapezoidal, etc.
Plastic system
The profile is not so flexible, but windows can also be made from plastic in round, oval, triangular, arched, trapezoidal shapes. However, there are strong restrictions on the weight and size of structures.
Price
Which windows are cheaper, plastic or aluminum? Usually they answer that they are aluminum. This is only true for cold systems. They do not require insulation, so the price is lower. When a profile is insulated with a thermal bridge, this increases its cost. The characteristics are approximately comparable to plastic ones, but at the same time more expensive. Therefore, such systems are not in great demand. In the production of high-quality plastic structures, proven materials and fittings are used. But overall, the price remains reasonable. For a dacha, you can choose an inexpensive model, and for an apartment near a busy highway, a window with increased protection from noise and dust will be suitable.
Fire safety
Aluminum system
Completely fire-resistant, since the melting point of aluminum is 660 degrees.
Plastic system
Without contact with fire, the product, of course, will not catch fire, but will begin to melt. The melting point of plastic is 170 degrees.
Memo
Both systems have both advantages and disadvantages. To make your choice easier, we offer you a reminder table.
| An object | Aluminum | PVC |
| Balcony, terrace, gazebo without heating | Cold sliding type | Sliding cold plastic |
| Veranda or terrace with heating | Warm | Three-chamber profile |
| Glazing of an apartment or private house | Not favorable in terms of price-heat-protective properties | Any model of PVC profile depending on external factors |
| Panoramic glazing | S more than 6 m2 | S less than 6 m2 |
| Facade glazing | Maybe | Impossible |
Product color
Aluminum system
When choosing windows, you should pay attention to profile coating options. In addition, aluminum has long ceased to “wear” only a gray metallic color.
Powder coating. Microscopic pieces of organic resin and color pigment are electrostatically charged and sprayed onto the product. We are pleased with the wide range of colors on the RAL scale, which in this case includes about 200 different shades. Also, in addition to the shade using the RAL scale, the gloss level of the surface is also set - shiny, semi-matte, matte.
Sublimation. By exposing the surface to high temperatures and pressure, the corresponding image is transferred from the decorative film. The product is wrapped in film and air is pumped out between the surfaces. This ensures good grip. The coating not only completely imitates wood or stone, but it is also resistant to moisture, fungus, temperature changes, ultraviolet radiation, chemical reagents, and insects.
Anodizing. This is a method that allows you to create an oxide film on the surface of a product. Pores are formed on the surface using anodic polarization. As a result, a film is formed on the surface, which can perform both a protective and aesthetic function. The colors used in annotation are usually metallic in tone. It can be the color of copper, gold, silver, etc.
Plastic system
The Russian market offers not only white products, which we are all accustomed to, but also colored profiles. There are several options for processing the structure.
Lamination with acrylic films. The system is treated with a special compound (primer) for good adhesion to the film, then the structure is heated, the film is applied and pressed with a roller. Then, an intermolecular bond occurs between the two surfaces and they become one. The film has many colors, can imitate various types of wood and even stone, not only the color, but also the relief. This film will not fade and is quite difficult to damage mechanically. It is possible to apply the film on one side of the window or on both.
Spraying paint. With this method you can get many shades that you won't get with lamination. The system is cleaned and painted using airless spray. There are more than 2000 options, including glossy, matte and metallic surfaces.
Mass coloring. This method is used when a system is made by adding a colored pigment. The result is a more resistant product to external factors. There are not many shades here. Typically, brown profiles, which are so popular in private buildings, are made using this method.
Which windows to choose: PVC or metal-plastic - basic tips
This question arises one of the first when choosing new windows for your apartment or house. Many manufacturers have both plastic and metal-plastic windows in their product range. So what is the fundamental difference?
Which windows to choose
Metal-plastic windows differ from plastic ones only in that their profile contains a metal frame, which is necessary to ensure higher rigidity than for windows made from a single PVC profile. Thanks to this, metal-plastic windows acquire new useful qualities, while maintaining all the advantages that windows without metal reinforcement have. The production technology of both types of windows is practically no different. The main material for the profile is polyvinyl chloride. It obtains a given shape by pressing heated PVC through a special mold.
PVC is an ideal material for the production of structures exposed to weather conditions. At the production stage, various components are added to its composition to ensure its rigidity, wear resistance, and ability to resist ultraviolet radiation. The PVC profile does not age, does not absorb water and does not require painting during operation.
To produce metal-plastic windows, special cavities are left in the profile, into which galvanized metal rods are installed during the assembly process. That is, the outer side of the window remains plastic, without metal inclusions. Many buyers are alarmed by the presence of metal in metal-plastic windows, as they assume that due to its presence the windows may freeze or condensation may accumulate on them. But, as we already know, the metal is located only inside the profile, and this does not in any way affect the thermal conductivity of the structure. The double-glazed windows and fittings for both types of windows are identical.
So which windows should you choose?
- This is interesting - Why plastic windows in an apartment fog up - reasons and advice.
Metal-plastic windows are used for more critical structures that are subject to heavy loads. Let's say that for the upper floors of buildings exposed to a lot of wind, the best choice is metal-plastic. For large windows it is also better to use a reinforced profile. Recently, metal-plastic windows have become the norm for manufacturers; ordinary plastic ones are practically not produced. Often in advertising, plastic windows are understood as metal-plastic windows, without indicating the name exactly. So when purchasing, you need to clarify what type of window you are offered.
Which PVC profile is better - video
Room ventilation
1) Different ways to open the window
When thinking about which metal-plastic window to choose for the kitchen, one cannot help 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 opening methods.
2) Comb
This type of limiter is very effective for windows with only one opening method. 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 the warm air under the ceiling.
Special filters can be installed inside the supply valve to 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 the right 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, ask them about all the options. Word of mouth benefits not only manufacturers, but also buyers, because this way you are less likely to purchase low-quality products.
Another guarantee of quality is the experience of the organization. If a company was able to stay in this market for more than 10-15 years, this indicates the quality of its products and confident competitiveness.
You should not choose a company whose employees are not competent in their field. A competent employee will be happy to answer all your questions.
• Availability of our own installation team
Good companies not only produce and sell windows, but also install them. Find out in advance whether such a service is included in the company’s price list.
Conscientious manufacturers must enter into an agreement with their clients. It must clearly state the responsibilities of both parties, the deadlines for completion and payment for services.
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, you should not contact this company.
