Number of chambers in the profile and double-glazed windows of plastic windows

It is very important to insulate your home in order to protect yourself from drafts and heat loss; this helps improve the internal climate and save on heating in the cold season and on the air conditioning system in the warm season. The main point of heat loss in a home is the windows, exterior door and ventilation ducts. To understand how critical the situation with window structures is, it is enough to know that half of all the heat lost by the house comes out through them.

Until recently, the main factor when choosing a double-glazed window was its profile. This approach cannot be called correct, since a significant area of the structure is made up of glass, that is, it is the main component, the ability of the window to retain heat or coolness depends on it. If you install single-chamber double-glazed windows in your home, you should not expect that it will be an ideal barrier providing a pleasant atmosphere in the room.

The modern window industry offers a wide range of double-glazed windows, among which it is quite difficult to choose the one that is right for you.

If we divide double-glazed windows into types according to their purpose, then these are energy-saving, sound-insulating, sun-protective, multifunctional and tinted, armored and self-cleaning.

The configuration with 1 or 2 cameras is calculated according to a formula that takes into account the climatic characteristics of the region. How well it protects from noise and cold will depend on what qualities the product has. Popular types should be studied well.

One camera

Equipped with two glasses, a spacer frame is installed between them. This design can be called a sandwich, with 4 mm thick glass on the sides and an air-filled chamber in the middle, the width of which is 12-16 cm. By standards, the formula looks like this: 4-16-4. But you can change these indicators at your discretion by installing glass with a thickness of 3 or 6 mm.

The glass is hermetically connected to the spacer frame; it contains a desiccant that absorbs moisture from the chamber air. In order for the double-glazed window to have the maximum heat index, dry air or argon gas is pumped into it.

If the cavity is filled with inert gas, this increases its ability to conserve heat by 6%. To make the effect even stronger, it is necessary to equip the double-glazed window with energy-saving glass.

Using a double-glazed window with one chamber in a living room is considered an impractical solution, although it has less weight and price and is not capable of ensuring the optimal temperature in the room.

Most often, such modifications can be seen on loggias or balconies. At temperatures below -9 degrees Celsius, the single-chamber profile may fog up or freeze. It is convenient to use them in living rooms only if the room has a low level of humidity and is very well heated.

Specifications

If you look at the technical documentation for a plastic profile, you will find there many parameters that may be needed when accurately calculating and selecting a design for a particular home. The indicators will include the following:

heat transfer resistance, Ro - the ability of the profile to retain heat in the apartment. The higher the score, the better. Also, according to this parameter, profiles are divided into classes, A1 will be the best;
sound insulation - the ability of a profile to contain noise, a particularly important indicator for residents of apartments near transport routes. Class A profile reduces noise by 37 dB, class D - only by 25 dB;
water and air tightness - allow us to judge the profile’s resistance to precipitation and strong winds. The best indicator is class A, the worst is D.

Two cameras

The next modification has three glasses and two cameras between them. The formula here is: 4-10-4-10-4.

A double-chamber double-glazed window has a heat retention rate 1.5 times greater, fogging is observed only below -20 degrees. This happens because the outer glass cools down from the surrounding air, behind it the temperature in the chambers drops, and then the inner glass cools and drops settle on it. A larger number of layers in a sandwich increases the temperature at which moisture appears on the surface.

There is also a difference between double glazed windows. The distances between the glasses and their thickness may change; adding to this indicator allows you to reduce the number of decibels penetrating from the outside. If you install different types of glass in a set, you can make the window shockproof, sun-protective, and energy-saving.

To determine how much glass costs, you need to bring it to the fire and look at the reflection. It will not be possible to check the thickness and distance indicator; this fact remains on the conscience of the manufacturer. In order not to receive a design with parameters different from those ordered, you should choose branded dealers with a good reputation, and be wary of too low prices or promotional offers.

Tips for choosing the distance between glasses

Distances between glasses.

It was previously noted that in modern double-glazed windows the glass is installed at a distance of less than 2 cm from each other. Usually it is 6-16 mm. The more cameras, the shorter the distance, as a rule. Here everything depends on the standard, according to which the thickness of the entire glass unit should be no more than 60 mm. However, there is one important nuance here. When forming a window from more than 1 camera, manufacturers often advise making the considered distances different for each camera. This approach is explained by the fact that the symmetry of the system is destroyed, this leads to resonance and the soundproofing qualities of the glass are improved. There are no standards according to which a double-glazed window will be assembled exactly this way.

Regarding the issue of sound insulation, other points must be taken into account. For example, by increasing the distance between the glasses by only 3 mm, the noise insulation rate increases by an average of 10%. Therefore, if silence is important, it is better to opt for glass with a 16 mm ball. However, an even more preferable option is a double-chamber double-glazed window: its sound insulation rate is on average 40-45% higher than its single-chamber counterpart.

Three cameras

If the window is installed in a region with a harsh climate, where temperatures in winter can reach -50 and there is high air humidity, it is best to opt for a double-glazed window with three chambers. It is suitable for requirements of high protection against cold and noise. These designs will also be appreciated by those who live near noisy places - in the city center, next to a railway or highway. This is the warmest and most reliable double-glazed window in terms of sound insulation; its width can reach up to 80 mm and has 4 glasses.

But the difference is not only in the number of glasses; three-chamber modifications have a greater safety margin; they are not afraid of extreme cold, hail, heavy rain; it is impossible to break such a window.

These double-glazed windows are much heavier than others, but their ability to retain heat is 30-50% higher in comparison with a double chamber. Due to the greater mass, the load on the frame and fittings also increases, so these windows are divided into several sections. First, you need to find out what technical characteristics a double-glazed window has, whether it is possible to install it in your home, whether the opening will be damaged or pressed through by such a mass, and then decide on the advisability of installation.

The disadvantage of a three-chamber window is its lower ability to transmit light and its relatively high cost.

Window profile options available on the market:

Three-chamber profile

The minimum number of chambers used in the manufacture of profiles for PVC windows is 3 pieces. There is no less. This is due to the fact that the first chamber performs the function of condensate drainage, the second (widest) is used to place the reinforcing profile, and the third is used to secure fittings and increase the tightness of the product.

Example of a three-chamber window profile
A three-chamber profile has an installation depth of 58 or 60 mm, which allows you to install a single or double-glazed window.

Products made from the material in question should be installed on unheated balconies or apartments (if energy costs are relatively low and you do not require a high level of heat retention, and also if your windows do not face a noisy highway).

Four-chamber profile

There are not many differences from the 3-chamber profile in terms of heat saving and sound insulation. Nevertheless, such a profile provides a guarantee not to collide with object products (that is, PVC windows that are intended for non-residential premises).

Therefore, if you are offered plastic windows of this type, give them preference over 3-chamber ones, especially since the difference in price is minimal.

However, it is worth noting that the width of the profile itself is of greater importance, since if without changing the width of the profile, you simply increase the number of chambers by adding partitions, then the energy efficiency of such a product will practically not change.

To confirm the above, we will consider two options for window profiles from the Russian company BRUSBOX:

Profile BRUSBOX 60-3.
Three-chamber window profile with a structural width of 60 mm, has a heat transfer resistance of 0.76 m²°C / W
Profile BRUSBOX 60-4.
Four-chamber window profile with a structural width of 60 mm, has a heat transfer resistance of 0.82 m²°C / W

Heat transfer resistance (R)

— characterizes the heat-protective properties of enclosing structures; simply put, the higher this indicator, the less heat loss in the room will be.

From the above example, we see that with the same profile width, the number of chambers has a very slight effect on thermal performance. Heat transfer resistance - 0,76

for a three-chamber and
0.82
for a four-chamber profile.

But the market also offers a four-chamber profile with a width of 70 mm, which has higher thermal performance and also allows the installation of thicker double-glazed windows.

Therefore, when choosing the number of cameras in a profile, be sure to pay attention to the structural width or, as it is also called, the installation depth.

The four-chamber profile can be installed in private houses (especially in small window openings and on the slightly ventilated side). If your house is located on the windy side or near water (river, sea), consider only 5-chamber window profiles.

Five-chamber profile

In general, a 5-chamber window profile allows you to retain 30% more heat than a 3-chamber one. This allows it to be used for any objects in Russia. The structural width of such a profile is usually 70 mm.

This frame can be used with thicker double-glazed windows (up to 42 mm wide). The result is a durable, wear-resistant window that will last 50-60 years, retain heat and protect the home from noise from the street, and also provide an acceptable level of burglary resistance.

If you purchase a product in this category, you will be able to ensure its operation in temperatures down to -60 degrees Celsius (without freezing of the hinges and the profile itself), in windy regions.

Six- and seven-chamber profile

The most durable profile for PVC windows. Allows you to install a 3-chamber double-glazed window for maximum protection of your home from the negative effects of weather conditions.

The thickness of this profile varies from 76 to 90 mm. The price category is high.

This is not to say that the 5-chamber profile will not suit you. But if your goal is maximum savings on heating costs, weather conditions are quite harsh and changeable, then you should pay attention to 6-7-chamber profiles.

In some cases, a high-quality 5-chamber version will give a similar effect. Therefore, you need to compare the parameters you need to choose the best option.

Below is a table showing the heat transfer resistance for various window profiles based on the characteristics of products from leading manufacturers (VEKA, REHAU, KBE, BRUSBOX):

Cost of various modifications

If we carry out a standard calculation, the price for a single-chamber modification is 20% lower than a two- or three-chamber double-glazed window.

But price should not be the main factor in the choice, since the cost of installing a double-glazed window will pay off in just a couple of years. The properties of a window to retain noise and heat help reduce energy costs for heating a home, since there is no need to install additional heating devices.

The cost of a three-chamber modification will be even higher; it also depends on the dimensions of the window. If the structure is large, then most of its cost will be occupied by the profile, and not the glass itself, since the profile used is very powerful, capable of holding a significant mass of four glasses.

Seal contours

Sealing contours are necessary to protect the apartment from noise and drafts, and to keep out small particles of dust and dirt.
The more sealing contours, the better - in theory. In practice, it has been proven that 2-3 seals will be enough to ensure sufficient tightness. The seal can be made of the following materials:

silicone is a durable material that withstands moisture, sunlight, temperature changes, and can withstand critically high and low temperatures. This is an ideal seal, but it is very expensive, so it is rarely used;
rubber - on the contrary, is a very cheap material, therefore it is used often. The sealant is able to perfectly close all the cracks, but in the cold it hardens, losing its properties, and frequent temperature changes can lead to its cracking;
ethylene propylene rubber ( EPDM) – balance in price and quality. Durable, resistant to sunlight and temperature changes, mechanical stress.

Taking into account the temperature zone

When choosing a plastic profile, it is worth considering the climatic features of the region. Firstly, so as not to overpay for unnecessary temperature stability. Secondly, so as not to inadvertently take a profile that may be of high quality, but completely unadapted to a certain climate.

Manufacturers divide species profiles depending on the temperature in January:

lightweight - for regions with a warm climate, where the average winter temperature is above 00C. The profile must withstand short-term drops to -50C;
standard – for temperate climates with an average January temperature of up to -200C. Can withstand up to -450C for a short period;
frost-resistant - for regions where in winter the temperature drops to -550C.

Resistance to mechanical loads

Plastic is not the strongest material, and the stability of a plastic profile is determined by how correct the internal structure it has and how well the plastic itself can withstand negative temperatures.
Based on resistance to mechanical loads, profiles are divided into two classes:

Class I – the profile can withstand a fall from a height of 1 m by a striker weighing 1 kg at a temperature of -100C;
Class II – the profile can withstand the same impact, but from a height of 1.5 m.

Intimacy in the window structure

The largest part of any window is the glass unit. It itself consists of five elements

The largest part of any window is the glass unit. It itself consists of five elements. In addition to glass, sealant, a special moisture-absorbing layer and a metal strip, a chamber can be noted in the structure. This is a kind of glass unit section filled with air or gas.

The product may have a different number of air layers. In addition, it happens without cameras at all. In this case, we are talking about a double-glazed window, which consists of only one glass. It is not recommended to use such structures for installation in an external wall. But they can be installed in offices and offices as part of internal partitions.

Advantages of warm façade glazing

Of course, the cost of warm glazing of building facades is several times more expensive than cold glazing, but along with the high cost there are also additional advantages:

Creating the most comfortable temperature for you
No heat loss
High noise insulation
Warm glazing has many modern design options
No difficulties in operation

Low heat loss is due to the fact that during installation, double-glazed windows and multi-chamber high-quality profiles are used, the design of which uses not only aluminum, which has high thermal conductivity, which is a disadvantage, but also very durable plastic, which establishes a barrier due to which heat will be retained.

Intimacy in the window structure

Determining the quantity

How do 5-chamber structures differ from three-chamber ones from a functional point of view? We seem to have figured out how to understand how many chambers are in a double-glazed window. It remains to answer the question posed in the title of the article.

Alas, you won’t be able to count the partitions inside the profile in a finished structure with your own hands: the corners of the frame and sash are welded on a special machine, ensuring a tight connection. Therefore, you can only find out the number of air chambers indirectly.

The easiest way is to study the profile system that you have chosen for installation. The three-chamber differs from the five-chamber not only in its internal structure, but also externally. So you just need to look at the manufacturer’s catalog to understand what the frame/sash is made of.

The products differ primarily in width

The second method is based on measurements. Of course, this will only help us answer our question indirectly, but still the accuracy of the technique is high:

Number of cameras	Profile width, mm
3	54 — 60
4	62 — 67
5	65 — 72
6	75 or more

The values may differ for different profile systems, but the principle remains the same: more cells - wider panel.

Finally, if you place a large order (tens or hundreds of similar structures for glazing an object), you can use a rather expensive trick. To do this, we order one more window - and simply saw it.

This way you can check not only the structure of the profile, but also the thickness of the steel reinforcement, finding out whether the manufacturer actually used the components specified in the contract.

Famous manufacturers

VEKA is an enterprise in Naro-Fominsk that has been awarded the German mark of special quality. It has its branches in many cities of Russia.
REHAU - this German company is currently the leader in selling products in this market.
KBE is a German company with branches in Russian cities: Voskresensk and Khabarovsk. Their products have a relatively low market price.
SALAMANDER is also a German company, which has an average sales level in our country. It also has its branches in European countries, a relatively large range of products, which always have consistently good quality, as can be seen after reading customer reviews.
Kaleva - their products have an excellent appearance, which customers especially like, however, the quality of the products remains at an average level. There is also a large assortment.
Proplex is a Russian company that does not have international certification. This company produces high-quality, but obsolete models.
Deceuninck is a Belgian company that is just gaining momentum in our country.

Glazing system: technology