Comparison of profiles for Kaleva and Rehau windows

Kalev windows, popular on the Russian market, are assembled from profile systems that are manufactured at a plant in Moscow. Currently, Kaleva products are represented in almost 100 cities of the Russian Federation, and the network of branded showrooms is constantly expanding. The factory lines of the enterprise are equipped with equipment made in Germany and Austria. The production also has a laboratory for bench testing. In special chambers, tests are carried out for heat resistance and the ability to withstand high loads. Their results showed that the durability of Kalev PVC systems is up to 70 years.

It took 12 years from the sale of the first window in February 1995 to the launch of our own profile system. Today, Kaleva is engaged in both the extrusion of profiles and the production of finished structures. Windows of standard sizes are assembled on the German automatic line Urban. In addition, at the plant in Moscow and in regional branches, structures are manufactured according to individual orders. Kaleva plastic windows are equipped with energy-efficient double-glazed windows of our own production, which, at the request of clients, are equipped with lighting and stained glass. You can also order models with enhanced protection against noise and shock from Kaleva branches.

Kalev windows in Moscow and other Russian regions are popular because their manufacturers are actively introducing innovations. Today, models with variable light transmission, a weather station on the glass unit, and even a virtual reality function are available to buyers. All this became possible thanks to the windows being equipped with modernized double-glazed windows with expanded functionality.

Kaleva profiles

Taking into account the peculiarities of Russian climatic conditions, Kaleva windows are not assembled from 3-chamber systems.
There are no such profiles in the Kalev company's assortment. The minimum number of cameras is 4 units. The company also refused to produce economy-class profiles with an installation depth of 58-60 mm and any number of chambers. Currently, the manufacturer offers customers 9 different systems that are suitable for the manufacture of windows with differing energy efficiency and sound insulation. At the same time, all Kaleva profile systems have common advantages:

• do not lose hardness at temperatures up to + 75°C;
• in cold weather they can withstand the fall of a weight weighing 1 kg from a height of 1.5 m;
• equipped with durable elastic seals made of white silicone;
• withstands temperatures of + 150°C for half an hour without deformation;
• have a perfectly smooth, glossy, snow-white surface.

Thanks to 2 rows of cameras placed outside, all Kalev systems have an increased level of energy saving. To ensure the tightness of the windows assembled from them, the profiles are equipped with 2 or 3 sealing circuits. The installation depth of the structures assembled from them is 70-79 mm. The range of profiles allows you to easily select a system for operation in any of the climatic zones of the Russian Federation. In structures assembled from Kalev profiles, you can install double-glazed windows with a thickness of 40 to 62 mm. This also helps to increase the level of heat conservation and sound insulation of windows. Maximum restrictions in this case depend on the type of profiles.

Kaleva profile decors

The base color of Kalev systems is white. However, the Moscow plant operates lines for laminating and painting profiles. Kaleva's signature service is the application of a decorative coating to the surface of plastic that imitates aged wood. For lamination, the manufacturer offers over 50 elastic, light-resistant films that do not fade over time. The profiles can be painted in almost 250 colors. All this provides endless possibilities for creating individual window designs that look much more expensive than they cost.

Window shape

Kalev profile systems are suitable for the manufacture of linear and radius windows. In addition to standard rectangular models, triangular, arched and trapezoidal structures are assembled from them.

Methods for opening active sashes

Kaleva profiles are compatible with swing, tilt-and-turn, lift-up, tilt-up, sliding and hinged opening mechanisms. Structures assembled from these PVC systems can be equipped with hidden hinges and automatic door opening systems.

Scope of application of Kalev systems

All structures made from profile systems are suitable for installation in heated rooms. Also, Kalev door and window blocks can be used for glazing loggias, balconies, terraces, verandas and entrance lobbies.

The Kalev profiles presented in the company’s catalog not only have different performance characteristics, but also differ in appearance. Domestic manufacturers have managed to create products that are unique in all respects for assembling windows for all occasions.

Comparison of Rehau and Kaleva profiles

When choosing which windows are better - Kaleva or Rehau, in addition to personal preferences, it is necessary to take into account climatic conditions. You should pay attention to:

• wall thickness;
• number of cameras;
• reinforcement;
• sealing contours;
• installation width;
• permissible glass thickness;
• lifetime.

Profile wall thickness

The thickness of the outer walls of PVC window frames affects the resistance to mechanical loads and deformation. Based on this feature, all profiles are divided into two classes: A and B. If the thickness of the outer walls is below 3 millimeters, then the product belongs to class B. They are suitable for small-sized standard glazing. Both companies have such profiles in the budget segment.

To glaze large window openings, balconies, loggias and panoramic doors, or to install windows of non-standard shapes, it is better to choose a class A profile. The thickness of its walls should be or exceed 3 millimeters. Both companies offer such profiles.

Number of chambers inside the PVC structure

Inside the profiles there are air chambers - voids necessary for protection against heat loss and noise. The minimum number of cameras for central Russia is three, the recommended number is five. The more voids, the quieter the windows and the higher their thermal insulation properties.

Rehau's products include both three-chamber and six-chamber profiles. Budget Blitz designs with three chambers are suitable for warm regions, unheated balconies and loggias, and summer cottages. Five- and six-chamber profiles Brillant, Intelio and Geneo are good for cold climates and warm glazing.

Kalev's company does not have budget three-chamber designs. The minimum number of cameras is four (Standard, Vita, Design series), the maximum is five (Deco and Titan profiles).

Steel frame profile

The plastic is not strong enough to withstand all the loads placed on the window. To prevent the profiles from being damaged or distorted, they are reinforced with G-shaped inserts made of galvanized steel 1.5 mm thick or aluminum.

Since plastic windows from the Kalev plant were initially produced on the basis of Rehau profiles, the frames of both manufacturers have the same reinforcement shape. However, among Rehau's products there is a product that departs from old traditions - the Geneo profile. Instead of metal, it uses composite polymer reinforcement—fiber fiber—which makes the window 40% lighter with the same strength.

Seal contours

Sealing contours are needed for window tightness and thermal insulation. They are rubber liners installed around the perimeter of the profile or sash.

Most Rehau and Kaleva windows are equipped with two sealing circuits. There are also three-circuit products - in the Rehau Intelio and Kaleva Titan series. They provide better protection from street sounds and heat loss at the junction of the frame and sash. Rehau rubber sealant is considered to be of higher quality: it is characterized by higher waterproofing properties, and due to the close arrangement of the sealing petals in relation to each other, ice and condensation do not form.

Mounting profile width

This characteristic also affects the degree of sound insulation and protection against heat loss. The thinner the depth of the window block, the colder the window and the less its strength. The smallest sufficient width is 60 mm. This parameter is characteristic of the Rehau Blitz profile.

For most regions of Russia, a mounting width of 70 mm is suitable. This is the minimum thickness of Kalev profiles. In order for the window to withstand high wind loads, temperature changes and its own weight (if the window opening is very large), it is recommended to choose a width of 70-80 mm. The widest profiles include Kaleva Titan - 80 mm and Rehau Geneo - 86 mm.

Permissible glass thickness

The glass unit occupies more than 80% of the window. This is the coldest part of the window structure - it is through it that most heat losses occur, so the harsher the climate, the thicker the double-glazed window should be. Only in southern regions and non-residential premises without heating can windows with single-chamber double-glazed windows up to 33 mm be installed. In the north and in the middle zone, two-chamber and three-chamber products with a thickness of 40 mm or more are preferable.

The largest thickness of a double-glazed window from the Kalev company is 40 mm. Rehau products allow you to install double-glazed windows up to 44-53 mm.

Profile Kaleva Standard

The characteristics of this versatile 4-chamber system fully correspond to its name.
Standart windows with an installation depth of 70 mm can be used both in the southern, central and western regions of the Russian Federation. The characteristics of this system are reduced to a single standard, which guarantees a level of energy saving and sound insulation sufficient for the listed regions. In northern latitudes, such windows can only be used for glazing balconies and loggias. They are not suitable for installation in residential premises. Standard windows have 2 sealing contours, which, depending on the customer’s choice, can be white or black. For operation in the central and western regions of Russia, it is recommended to equip such models with double-glazed windows with selective coating. Reinforcement is required for all Kaleva Standard windows. Without steel liners, deformation of the sashes and frames during frosts is possible, which leads to depressurization and increased heat loss. Designs assembled from systems in this series go well with any design style. They can be installed in rooms with both classic and modern interior design.

Profile KALEVA VITA

VITA windows have the same parameters as models assembled from Standard profiles. However, due to the increased thickness of the outer and inner walls, they are designed for a greater number of cycles - up to 80 thousand openings and closings. KALEVA VITA profiles have 4 chambers with an installation depth of 70 mm. This is quite enough to keep warm in temperatures down to -20°C. Kalev Vita models are not suitable for use in more severe conditions. Their installation in northern regions will lead to an increase in space heating costs. An important advantage of the profiles of this series is the ability to make large-format windows from them with increased light transmittance. 2-circuit models assembled from KALEVA VITA systems can last 2 times longer than specified in GOST requirements without major repairs.

The main differences between Rehau and Kaleva

REHAU has been manufacturing PVC window profiles for over fifty years.
Products have been supplied to Russia since 2002. Demand for products led to the emergence of German factories in the Moscow region and the opening of representative offices in five cities. The Kaleva company has been producing windows since 1995 - at first they used the Rehau profile, then they began to use their own developments. The structures are manufactured using foreign equipment.

Kaleva's unique advantages and disadvantages

The company's plant produces up to one and a half thousand products daily. Each production stage is controlled, which eliminates defects. The windows are suitable for apartments, houses, as well as loggias, balconies and greenhouses. It is possible to manufacture structures of non-standard shapes - with arched, round, trapezoidal and polygonal frames.

Main advantages:

• profiles have a large light opening;
• white frames, seals, spacers are used;
• the ability to order a profile painted in one of 200 shades;
• Availability of models with built-in lighting and thermometer.

The white color of the profiles and internal elements gives the window neatness and visually reduces the structure. It is possible to install double-glazed windows with stained glass windows.

The doors are designed for 320-400 thousand openings. The manufacturer provides a warranty of five years, and with regular maintenance - for ten years. The operational period reaches 70 years.

The main disadvantage of Kalev windows is the varying build quality among the company's dealers. The second disadvantage is the considerable cost.

Rehau's unique advantages and disadvantages

Like Kaleva, Rehau produces window designs suitable for all buildings - from commercial and industrial to residential high-rise and private houses.
The main feature of the manufacturer is that only profiles are manufactured in factories - finished windows are assembled by dealers. Main advantages:

• a large selection of profiles for any purpose (from three to six cameras);
• high-quality reinforcement;
• use of the best seals;
• lower price.

Profiles of the German brand can also be painted in any shade of the RAL color palette or laminated to resemble wood. They are made of environmentally friendly plastic and support the installation of burglar-resistant fittings.

The main disadvantage is that the company produces only profile structures. The final quality of the window is highly dependent on the skill of the assemblers and installers, as well as the cost.

Profile KALEVA DESIGN

The DESIGN series of 4-chamber profiles is excellent for the production of windows of complex shapes and models with reverse bending. In terms of thermal characteristics, these systems do not differ from other systems designed for operation in moderate climatic conditions. DESIGN windows have an installation depth of 70 mm and, due to the reduced profile height, transmit 8.9% more light. They look great if the surface of the plastic is covered with wood-like films. Thanks to the shape of the ends of the active sashes and the cross-section of the glazing beads, Kaleva Design windows are able to imitate models made of natural wood.

Profile KALEVA DECO

Energy-efficient DECO windows are recommended for use in some central areas with cold, long winters.
However, in northern latitudes they will not cope with the functions assigned to them, since 5 chambers and 70 mm of installation depth are not enough to retain heat during extreme frosts. Kaleva Deco models are the best option for glazing country cottages in the central and western regions. Thanks to the possibility of using the technology of gluing double-glazed windows, the rigidity of Deco windows increases. This also allows them to be used in areas with high wind loads. A distinctive feature of DECO systems is high energy efficiency with reduced profile dimensions. Thanks to this development, manufacturers managed to add one more advantage. Thanks to the small height of the profiles, the windows assembled from them transmit almost 25% more light than conventional economy class models. The third advantage of these systems is the increased number of work cycles. The active sashes of these windows can open and close approximately 320 thousand times - this is a huge resource.

Kaleva Deco - reliability and quality

Exquisite Kaleva-Deco windows are also incredibly reliable: tests have shown that the service life of the sash of such a window is 320 thousand opening and closing cycles, which is 1600% more than conventional plastic windows. Gluing a double-glazed window allows the window to withstand wind loads well, even if the windows are large in size. At the same time, the Kaleva-Deco profile system makes windows 1.5 times warmer than conventional windows, allowing Kaleva-Deco windows to be classified as elite products.

Experts say that windows with similar aesthetic and technical characteristics have not yet appeared on the Russian market.

Properties of Kalev Deco

The Kaleva-Deco profile has an installation width of 70 millimeters and allows the installation of double-glazed windows up to 40 mm in size. The five-chamber profile provides a heat transfer resistance of 0.84 m2°C/W using a steel liner. White seals ensure class A tightness of the circuit. The estimated service life of the windows is sixty years.

The technology of glued double-glazed windows significantly increases the window's resistance to wind loads and makes it possible to create large-sized window structures.

Deco windows are distinguished by their stylish design and harmonious elegance of lines.

Profile KALEVA TITAN

Titan systems have 3 air chambers on the outside of the profile. Thanks to this, windows assembled from them retain heat better. In total, KALEVA TITAN profiles have 5 internal chambers. The installation depth of the systems has been increased to 79 mm, so TITAN windows do not freeze around the perimeter of the opening in the frame area and have excellent wind resistance. Such models are installed in central and western regions when the goal is to save on heating.

On the outside, KALEVA TITAN PVC profiles are equipped with aluminum linings, which increase the rigidity and safety class of the windows. Metal profiles can be custom painted in any color from the Kalev company catalog. This allows you to adapt the window design to different house facades. Thanks to the reduced height of the profiles, Titan models transmit approximately 12% more light, therefore they are recommended for installation in rooms with openings facing the west and north.

Profile KALEVA TITAN PLUS

Kalev Titan Plus windows are an improved version of models assembled from TITAN systems. They are excellent for use in northern latitudes. These energy-efficient structures are assembled from 5-chamber profile systems with an installation depth of 79 mm. In addition, TITAN PLUS windows are supplemented with a third seal, which divides the gap between the active sash and the frame into 2 isolated chambers. By increasing the number of sealing circuits, the level of energy efficiency of structures increases by approximately 3%.

To improve the performance of models intended for operation in conditions of severe frost and wind, Titan systems are supplemented with two auxiliary elements:

• the second sash with 5 mm glass - provides additional protection from the wind, creates another air chamber, increases the level of sound insulation, and also makes it possible to install built-in blinds;
• external aluminum linings – increase the rigidity of windows, making them wind-resistant, protect the plastic surface of the profiles and improve burglary resistance.

A mechanical drive is used to control the built-in blinds in TITAN windows. These premium models are recommended not only for use in harsh climatic conditions, but also for completing energy-efficient houses of the new generation. Titan Plus windows are also suitable for use in noisy urban areas, as they have excellent sound insulation.

Profile KALEVA SPACE

SPACE systems are specially designed for rooms whose interior is decorated in Hi-Tech style. Despite the 70 mm installation depth and only 4 internal chambers, the profiles of this series are highly energy efficient. The level of heat conservation of structures was increased by increasing the mounting groove for installing 62 mm double-glazed windows. Thanks to this technological solution, it became possible to integrate reinforced double-glazed windows with triplex.

KALEVA SPACE windows can be installed both in apartments or offices, and in private homes. They will retain heat equally well and absorb sounds from the street. An increased level of security is ensured by triplex installed on the side of the premises. These models are recommended for installation in houses located near highways, railways and airports. Kaleva Space windows are not only practical, but also beautiful. Their “space” design is formed due to the strict shape of the profiles, as well as the original doors and metal handles.

Warmer in winter

Kaleva Deco windows are an innovation in the field of glazing, which is distinguished by high heat-saving characteristics: it gives consumers 60% more heat than standard windows. Thanks to this, your apartment will always be warm and cozy.

Kaleva Deco are models that can create comfortable conditions in an apartment in the summer. Double-glazed windows are filled with argon, which significantly reduces heat exchange between the house and the street. Kaleva Deco have i-glass, which has energy-saving properties and reflects heat waves. Thus, Kalev Deko windows prevent the penetration of compressed hot air from the street into the room, keeping it pleasantly cool.

Profile KALEVA VARIO

The VARIO series is designed for the assembly of warm 4-chamber windows, which are recommended for use in temperate climates. To reduce the risk of freezing around the perimeter of the openings, another chamber was added to the frame profile. Kalev Vario windows have 2 sealing circuits and are designed for 40 thousand operating cycles. KALEVA VARIO systems are represented by three types of profiles, differing from each other only in design:

• PARIS – elegant profile shapes are better visible on surfaces laminated with wood-like films;
• MILAN – refined contours in the Italian classic style go well with monochromatic decors;
• STOCKHOLM – refined, strict style of Scandinavian windows.

Models made from VARIO profiles are equipped with hidden hinges, which visually lighten the structure and reduce the likelihood of blowing. This series can be safely universal, since window blocks for any interior are assembled from Vario systems. They reliably imitate models made of natural wood and are suitable for installation in houses made of timber.

To increase the energy efficiency of all KALEVA window models, it is recommended to use selective double-glazed windows when completing them. This will reduce both heat loss and the load on the fittings. After all, lightweight models with a metallized coating can replace heavy 2 or 3-chamber double-glazed windows.

Kaleva Deco windows: more light and warmth!!!

More light means more warmth, and it’s not for nothing that the company produces its windows under the motto “With Deco, summer is always with you.” And where there is a lot of light and warmth, there is life, a source of inspiration and good mood. More warmth and light - more vital energy.

The innovative Kaleva-Deco window profile model uses three patents in its design. The climate characteristics are literally amazing: tests have shown that these windows save 60% more heat.

About Kaleva Deco window sashes

The window sashes have unprecedented reliability, which is confirmed by tests, and the excellent design of the sashes, which do not have straight front surfaces, is truly unique. Light transmittance increased by 23.4% will bring a lot of light into your home!

The designers developing the Kaleva-Deco window system took into account the peculiarities of the Russian climate, when there are few sunny days, and in winter the light period is very short. Kaleva-Deco windows received increased light transmission thanks to low-profile window sashes. The windows are so stylish that you will definitely want to have them in your home.

Comparative table of KALEVA profile parameters

The presence of several series of Kalev PVC systems makes it easier to find the optimal profile brand for assembling plastic windows. In order not to make a mistake with your choice, you need to evaluate 5 main criteria. The parameters presented in the table will help you understand whether the series of profiles you like is suitable for use in specific conditions.

The prices for Kalev windows also depend on the main characteristics, which are influenced by the profile brand, type of double-glazed window, fittings and the presence of decorative coating. The minimum cost of 1 m² is approximately 4,000 rubles.

For operation in regions with strong wind loads, it is advisable to choose models with 3 sealing circuits. If the profiles have approximately the same characteristics, this criterion should become decisive.