KBE is a manufacturer and supplier of plastic profiles for companies producing window and door systems. Maintains a leading position among competitors in this area both abroad and in Russia. The company's products are among the best and are also widely known among the modern construction market. They can rightfully be proud of the history of their successful development in Berlin since 1980. In fact, at that time, they were pioneers in the field of high-performance industry, and, thanks to the quality of the product produced, they maintain their high position in the European markets.
In 1996, production was established both in Ukraine and in Russia (see photo on the official website). KVE, already quite successful at that time, citing extensive experience in cooperation with foreign countries, first of all, organized and established excellent service conditions for Russia. The company provides not only service assistance, but also provides its services in the field of advertising and technical support for partners; the company’s specialists conduct a large number of consultations and set up equipment. The company supplies removable tools at its own expense. Today there are two successfully operating KBE plants: in Berlin (Germany) and in Zaporozhye (Ukraine).
Which is better KBE or Rehau, which profile to choose?
For plastic windows Rehau, Kbe, Veka, comparisons can only be made if the profiles belong to the same class. The products of these companies belong to class A. Parameters on which the quality and durability of the operation of window structures depend:
- thickness of the outer PVC wall;
- number of cameras in the product;
- versatility (installation of different types of double-glazed windows);
- type of fitting groove;
- reinforcement;
- fittings profile.
For walls oriented to the north or facing a noisy intersection, thermal packages of 5 chambers are offered. Profile systems are available in several design solutions. They are used for glazing residential premises, offices, and government institutions.
Which windows are better: Kbe or Rehau, can be understood by comparing the physical characteristics and properties.
The better the design, the higher the thermal protection and waterproofing. You should pay attention to the ease of care of the products, terms and operating conditions.
The choice of window manufacturer is influenced by the installation location of the structure. This takes into account the noise level on the street, where the windows face, what kind of heating is in the house, and the orientation of the house to the cardinal points. Taking into account information about the installation location, the installation width of the profile system and the number of chambers are selected.
Rehau or Kbe, what to choose - the answer to this question should also take into account the climatic zone of the installation site.
What are PVC structures?
KBE plastic windows are veto- transparent structures that are used for glazing :
- apartments of private residential buildings;
- public rear;
- industrial facilities;
- balconies;
- loggias;
- technical and other premises.
Windows are supplied for sale as standard, with standard dimensions, in accordance with the current GOST 23166-99, as well as on individual orders from property owners.
Manufacturer
The manufacturer of KBE windows is a company founded in 1980 in Berlin, where its headquarters are still located today.
The brand came to our country in 1995 as a franchise, and two years later, the brand’s own factory opened in the Russian Federation. The parent corporation constantly monitors product quality, which affects the reliability and durability of the products.
Technical characteristics of windows
Buyers are often interested in the difference between Rehau and Veka profiles, since metal-plastic windows from these companies are very popular. Construction market experts, in turn, note the high quality of the KBE profile.
Products manufactured using German technology must have a RAL or ISO9001:2000 quality certificate.
If the seller cannot provide certificates, then this means that he is selling a fake. The RAL certificate contains information about the type of design and the manufacturing company. The document ISO9001:2000 informs about compliance with technical standards in the production of window structures.
In terms of performance properties and quality characteristics, Kve, Rehau, Veka windows have similarities and differences. All 3 manufacturers offer a wide range of window profiles, allowing them to be installed throughout Russia.
The width of the Kbe profile structure is 58-88 mm, Rehau - 60-86 mm, Veka - 58-90 mm. The number of cameras for all manufacturers is 3-6 pieces, depending on the purpose of the model and the depth of the profile system. An important indicator that affects the quality of products is the presence of reinforcement.
According to the interstate standard GOST 30673-2013, the design of the main profiles must include the installation of a reinforcing liner. The reinforcing liner is made of galvanized steel with a width of 1.5-2 mm.
The shape of the insert can be: U-shaped or closed square.
Temperature conditions for using metal-plastic windows:
- -65…+80°C (KBE);
- -50…+80°C (REHAU).
Depending on the price segment, Veka windows can have a price of 9,500-15,500 rubles; the cost of Rehau windows ranges from 3690-8900 rubles per 1 m²; KBE windows - 7,000-20,000 rubles.
REHAU plastic windows
The advantages of REHAU windows are best considered using the example of the most popular series - Rehau Basic-Design. This model has the following parameters:
- The width of the three-chamber profile is 60 mm;
- Standard indicators for noise and heat insulation;
- Windows do not require special care, they are very technologically advanced and reliable
- The main advantage is the relatively low prices for windows from this profile.
They are used for glazing of cottages, balconies and apartments, just like VEKA. However, modern energy saving requirements require the use of 70 mm wide profile systems in construction. Therefore, in the near future, in companies responsible to consumers, the Rehau Sib-Design profile will become the basic option.
Unique features of profile manufacturers Rehau, Kbe
Profiles from the Rehau concern are manufactured according to a recipe that includes more than 50 chemicals. The products are distinguished by high strength characteristics, heat, frost and moisture resistance, and guarantee protection against burglary. Moisture resistance is ensured by specially designed oblique folds that reliably remove moisture.
Another distinctive technology used in Rehau window systems is special fiber reinforcement, which eliminates the insertion of metal strips into the profile.
Traditional profile parameters and the geometry of window systems used in Rehau models allow you to independently calculate the required amount of materials for glazing a house using any online window program.
In the production of metal-plastic structures, KBE uses Greenline technology. Using this technology, lead (Pb) in the production recipe was replaced with calcium (Ca) and zinc (Zn) compounds. This made it possible to improve the environmental friendliness of Kbe window systems and make them safe for the environment. Greenline technology is now used by all leading European window manufacturers.
Number of chambers and mounting width in Rehau and Kbe profiles
The chamber in a metal-plastic window is part of the air space separated by profile partitions. At a minimum it can have 3 cameras. An increase in the number of chambers in the design leads to an improvement in the thermal insulation characteristics of the product. The largest chamber is used to install the reinforcing liner; other chambers are used to collect and remove moisture, to improve sound insulation and heat-insulating properties, and to install fittings. Models from both companies differ in the maximum number of cameras. Rehau has 5.5 or 5(6), Kbe company has 5.
The designation 5.5 for Rehau products (or Century - 6.6) appeared due to the fact that the reinforcement tape has a complex shape, and when it is installed, an additional division of the chamber occurs. The additional camera has the same properties and purpose as the standard one, but the manufacturing company does not consider it an independent element.
The thickness of the outer PVC wall in the profile is 3 mm; in budget models it is 2.5 mm, which reduces some of their physical properties. It makes no sense to choose a Rehau or KBE profile based on the installation width, since this parameter is not very different between them.
ATTENTION: How to determine the authenticity of a KBE profile and its country of origin. Updated and supplemented
Those who have been searching for information about plastic windows, types and features of profile systems for several days now have encountered the following situation. It turns out that the same profile (seemingly) can be produced in different countries. This is absolutely normal practice. After all, every large concern or manufacturing company strives to develop its network of factories for a number of objective reasons.
In addition, a PVC profile of the same brand produced in different countries may have a number of distinctive characteristics predetermined by territorial features and climatic conditions in a given region. It is also important that the presence of manufacturing plants for PVC profiles KBE in neighboring countries of Belarus is an opportunity to purchase PVC profiles with significant savings on transport services and customs clearance.
As a result, the cost of the finished window for the end consumer will be lower than, for example, it will be made from a profile imported from Germany.
So how can you distinguish a KBE made in Germany from a Russian or Ukrainian one, or even from a fake?!
Until recently, windows from the KBE profile of German and Russian origin were actively sold on the Belarusian market. And it was not difficult to distinguish windows made in one design or another. They all have a protective film on the surface, which differs significantly in color. In Russian - with red inscriptions, in German - with gray ones.
However, a third worthy player came to the Belarusian market - KBE of Ukrainian origin. And everything would be fine... BUT the inexperienced eye of the buyer will not immediately distinguish it from the German one! Why? Yes, because the stickers on the surface are absolutely identical.
*With regret, I would like to note that cases have become more frequent when careless sellers passed off a window from a Ukrainian profile as a design from a German KBE. But for many buyers, the country of origin of the PVC profile from which the new window will be made is still a key point.
So how can you be sure that you were sold a window made from a profile manufactured in the country that you agreed with the seller at the time of ordering? And what is important: the name of which is indicated in the Agreement and accompanying documentation (specifications, certificate for window construction).
- Firstly: look at the markings. And we will dwell on this point in particular detail. The marking is applied to the fold of the visible surface of the KBE profile. If you cannot find it yourself, contact representatives of the window seller for help before you begin installing the products in the opening. They will definitely show it. In this way, you can safely determine in which country the profile was produced - Germany, Russia or Ukraine.
In addition, the marking of the Ukrainian KBE profile of the 6-chamber KBE 70ST system has a distinctive feature - the KBE stamp is quite visible, it is difficult not to notice it (see photo).
Moreover, all factories of the German concern Profine have been assigned numbers , by which you can also determine the place of production of PVC profiles of the KBE trademark.
Where to look for markings
On the rebate of the frame/sash profile. The marking is applied by embossing.
Note: at the production of ZAO Profine RUS in Voskresensk, the profile is additionally marked using a special printer.
What to look for and what does it look like?
You should look for a combination of letters and numbers, the sequence of which represents the serial number.
The marking of the KBE profile produced at the manufacturing plant in Berlin is the following combination scheme:
- Profile article number
- Manufacturer (Profine), number 1 - indicates that the plant is located in Berlin
- Extruder number
- French certification system
- Ordinal day and year of production
- Shift number (A-first shift)
- CSTB for Ca-Zn (calcium-zinc) stabilizer
- Russian certification system (GOST 30673)
- Recipe and stabilizer used
- RAL (German certification system) and quality certificate number
- European standard EN indicating climate zone, impact resistance class
And this is an example of marking a profile manufactured at a plant in Voskresensk:
- Profile brand
- Voskresensky plant number
- Russian certification system
- Extruder number
- Profile article number
- Raw material lot number
- Shift number (A, B, C)
- Ordinal day and year of production
Glazing thickness in Kbe and Rehau profiles
The protection of premises from the negative effects of an aggressive external environment depends on the width of the double-glazed window. The standard thickness of a double-glazed window is 38 mm. It maintains average sound and heat protection. To increase the protective properties, metal-plastic structures with thicker glass and more cameras are installed. At the same time, the weight of the double-glazed window increases, and the profile system must have maximum strength, rigidity and a non-standard design. Features and differences between window models based on glass thickness:
- KBE - 88-58 mm;
- REHAU Sib-Design - 44 mm;
- VEKA ALPHALINE - 50 mm.
In terms of the heat transfer resistance coefficient, the best indicator is for VEKA models - 1.37 m²°C/W (KBE - 1.05 m²°C/W, REHAU - 0.79 m²°C/W).
Which profile is stronger?
A strong profile can provide greater tightness and strength to the window system. The stronger it is, the thicker the glass unit can withstand.
If we compare Rehau and KBE in terms of strength, then in the KBE Expert series of products, double-glazed windows with a thickness of 58 mm are installed. Rehau models can withstand structures with a thickness of 44 mm.
The strength of the profile system is given by a reinforcing liner made of galvanized steel. Its thickness is 1.5 mm. The presence of an insert protects the profile from deformation and helps it hold glass structures. KBE products are equipped with a square-shaped insert.
Rehau windows are equipped with G-shaped fiber reinforcement. It has improved properties compared to the U-shaped profile, but loses to designs with square liners. If you choose which profile is better than Rehau, then, according to market experts, KBE systems are more durable. The market leader in metal-plastic window systems, the BEKA company, is inferior in strength to the Kbe brand.
One of the best
The raw materials from which KBE produces window profiles do not contain harmful substances. It follows from this that PVC windows, from the manufacturer KVE, are suitable for installation in residential buildings, due to their safety for the health of the owners. They passed all sanitary tests. The use of windows will also not cause harm to human health.
Several Key Benefits
KBE windows involve the use of multifunctional double-glazed windows, which means heat retention in winter and protection in the summer heat.
They are environmentally friendly. The KBE profile has a well-thought-out design (see photo), thanks to which there will always be light in your home.
70 mm profile systems
1. KBE Select 2. KBE Expert 3. KBE Expert+ 4. KBE Energy
Clear geometric lines, or smooth and rounded. There is always a choice. They will fit perfectly with the interior of your home. (see photo)
Profile systems 76 mm
1. KBE 76 mm 2. KBE 76 Premium
Selected anti-burglary window fittings allow you to be confident in security. The protective film will help preserve the product during installation (protective film options can be seen in the photo)
Profile protective film options
PVC profiles from the above-mentioned company are equipped with excellent heat and sound insulation properties, they are easy and simple to care for, they are truly reliable and environmentally friendly.
Classic
Some things become a thing of the past, while others become classics. In our case, the classic windows are system 58 (see photo).
Profile systems 58 mm
1. KBE Etalon 2. KBE Engine 3. KBE Etalon+
The practicality of the KBE 58 leaves no doubt. Using system profile 58, you will experience the advantages over old glazing of windows and balconies:
- over time, yellowness does not appear on the profile, it does not deform, and the original shine of the surface is preserved;
- windows do not need to be painted, they are easy to clean, will not swell or dry out over time;
- the profile retains its original characteristics for over forty years.
Technology
The manufacturing technology of the PVC profile for 58 mm system windows and its weight make it possible to glaze balconies where heavy glazing with wide profile systems is unacceptable. The 58 mm profile significantly reduces the weight of the overall structure, this ensures that the quality of your windows will be maintained for a long time.
Several technical characteristics
- Service life is forty years or more.
- Environmental characteristics - does not contain harmful substances.
- Classic design.
- The largest possible window sash is 1.5 m x 1.5 m.
- The number of profile cameras is 3.
- Heat transfer resistance of the profile, R0 = 0.62 m2 ° C / W.
Waterproofing properties of profiles
An important parameter that is taken into account when choosing metal-plastic windows is the level of waterproofing. In Kbe or Rehau windows, the sealing gasket is responsible for this parameter. It is installed between the frame and the sash and must have an elastic structure. The quality of the seal also affects the thermal insulation properties of the window structure.
When the elastic gasket wears out, the joint between the frame and the sash may allow cold air to pass through.
In modern windows, an elastic sealing gasket made of ethylene-propylene rubber is installed. The international designation of the material is EPDM. It retains its properties in the cold and restores its original appearance when the seal is compressed, bent or stretched.
The quality of the gasket is significantly affected by its shape. The KBE company uses KBE 227 and KBE 228 seals. The first is used in profiles with a width of 58 mm, the second - for 70 mm models. The KBE company produces a third type of seals - TPE made from thermoplastic elastomers. This type of sealing material is automatically integrated into the window system during its manufacture.
The REHAU seal has an original shape and consists of 2 petals. There is no air gap between the petals. Condensation does not collect in the seal; it can withstand temperatures of -35…+50 °C. If we compare Kbe or Rehau seals, consumers prefer Rehau products.
KBE seals have a significant drawback: if the layer is damaged in one place, it becomes saturated with moisture along the entire perimeter and freezes in winter, worsening the thermal insulation characteristics of the products.
Sound and heat insulation of profiles
Plastic windows Kbe and Rehau have good sound and heat insulating properties. The level of protection is affected by:
- PVC wall thickness and number of chambers in the profile;
- the maximum permissible width of the glass structure.
The numerical value of thermal insulation is expressed by the heat transfer resistance coefficient. It is calculated as the ratio of the temperature of the outer and inner walls of the profile to the air density inside the structure. The coefficient value is higher for products from KBE.
The installation width of the products of both companies has similar indicators: 58 mm for Kbe and 60 mm for Rehau. Based on the number of cameras, you can select similar models. For example, on the south side of the house you can install structures of 3 chambers with a standard installation depth of 58-60 mm.
On the north side of the building and at high noise levels, it is recommended to install a 5-chamber Kbe or Rehau profile with an installation width of 70 mm. In terms of the thickness of the outer wall, the best indicator for Rehau products is 2.8-3 mm (for Kbe it is 2.7 mm).
In terms of maximum glass unit width, KBE systems have the best indicators. The profile design of this company can withstand a double-glazed window with a maximum permissible width of 58 mm (for Rehau designs this figure is 44 mm).
Windows from both companies reduce sounds from outside by 25-30 dB. In terms of sound insulation levels, Kbe and Rehau products have equal performance.
KBE windows – quality with a 33-year history
- Description of the main models
- KVE Standard
- KVE Engine
- KVE Etalon +
- KBE Select 70 mm
- KBE Expert
- KVE Expert +
- KVE Energy
- 88 mm systems
Profiles for KBE plastic windows have been produced in Germany since 1980. Now they are also made at two Russian factories: in Voskresensk and Khabarovsk. Rosstroy confirms: the quality of products there is as high as in Europe.
Appearance and Design
Rehau product series have a classic shape and differ little in appearance from each other. The series lines differ only in the level of light transmission and the height of the opaque part of the profile. Their height ranges from 115-120 mm:
- Sib-Design - 120 mm;
- Brillant-Design -120 mm;
- EURO - 116 mm;
- Geneo - 115 mm.
The Delight-Design series stands out for its design with a height of the opaque part of 109 mm and a high level of light transmission. This is achieved by installing a thinner frame. The Rehau profile has a completely smooth surface. This is achieved by a special arrangement of polymer particles.
Kbe windows are distinguished by their clear lines, smooth surface and matte silky shine. The use of lead-free technology makes the product environmentally friendly. But over time, the plastic may acquire a gray tint. There are several ways to make plastic windows unique:
- Decoration of profiles and double-glazed windows. You can order windows with frosted or tinted glass, decorate the glass with stained glass, layout, lamination.
- Use of non-standard beads. Glazing beads for metal-plastic windows can be beveled, shaped, or semicircular.
- Use of sealants of other colors. Standard designs use a black gasket. Products are available in gray and white.
- The use of double-glazed windows with additional options: protection from cold, protection from noise.
Kbe or Rehau profile comparison table
To help buyers make the right choice of metal-plastic structures, experts have compiled a table comparing windows from both manufacturers. It contains information on all series of metal-plastic windows from Rehau and on budget models from Kbe. The table helps you figure out what you can buy on the Russian window systems market.
KBE Company
Product series | Etalon | Engine | Expert | Energy | Select |
Installation width, mm | 58 | 58 | 70 | 70 | 70 |
Total number of cameras, pcs. | 3 | 3 | 5 | 3 | 5 |
Ro*, m²°C/W | 0,61 | 0,7 | 0,73 | 0,81 | 0,72 |
Width of glass unit, mm | 24-32 | 34 | 32-40 | 42 | 32-40 |
Sound protection level, dB | <40 | <40 | <44 | <44 | <44 |
Price, rubles** | 10100 | 9100 | 10800 | 10600 | 11990 |
REHAU company
Product series | Euro | Sib | Grazio | Delight | Brillant | Geneo | Intelio |
Installation width, mm | 60 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 70 | 86 | 86 |
Total number of cameras, pcs. | 3 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 |
Ro*, m²°C/W | 0,62 | 0,72 | 0,85 | 0,8 | 0,78 | 1,05 | 0,95 |
Width of glass unit, mm | 24-32 | 32-40 | 40 | 32-40 | 32-40 | 44-53 | 44-53 |
Sound protection level, dB | <40 | <46 | <45 | <50 | <50 | 47-50 | 47-50 |
Price, rubles** | 8000 | 9970 | 9890 | 10400 | 13000 | 24200 | 15970 |
*- heat loss resistance coefficient, m² °C/W.
**-price is calculated for a double-leaf window with dimensions 1300×1400 mm.
Prices for windows are taken from the price lists of construction stores to make it more convenient for customers in Moscow to buy window systems and accessories for them.
Description of the main models
There are 8 KBE models on the domestic market. There is something for everyone!
KVE Standard
This is a completely affordable plastic profile that does a good job of protecting against cold and noise. Its main difference from other brands is that the color of the seal can be different: black or gray. Believe me, such a choice is not always available.
The profile width is 58 mm, and the standard size of the window sash is 150 x 150 cm. The balcony door sash reaches 90 x 235 cm in size. The glass unit is double-glazed, that is, it consists of three glasses. The thickness of the glass unit is 34 mm. Like all profiles, KBE Etalon does not have a fitting groove. This means that it will not be easy to enter the apartment through the window.
The price of a standard window 1300/1400 will be 6800 rubles.
KVE Engine
KVE Engine is the most economical solution for an apartment or office. This model is practically no different from the previous one. Except that the price is more affordable and the seal is only black.
The average profile price is 6,200 rubles.
KVE Etalon +
This is an improved version of KBE Etalon, which was developed specifically for the Russian climate.
Due to the wider frame – 127 mm – the heat transfer resistance coefficient of the profile is higher: 0.8 – 0.9 m2°C/W. The KBE Standard has only 0.7 m2°C/W. This profile will also provide good protection from noise, and tightness is implied from the very beginning.
KBE Select 70 mm
This profile is suitable for discerning consumers. After all, this is a premium system, with smoother and rounded contours and a gray seal. By the way, this brand is made only in Germany, which significantly increases its value in the eyes of the buyer.
The width of the system profile is 70 mm. The thickness of the glass unit is 42 mm, which contains up to 6 glasses. Due to the presence of so many glasses, the heat transfer resistance of the profile is higher than that of the others - 0.77 m2°C/W. And sound insulation reaches up to 55 dB! For comparison, the noise of a metropolis can be estimated at approximately 60 dB.
The price will be about 8200 rubles.
KBE Expert
KBE Expert largely repeats the previous model. However, the heat transfer resistance of this model is higher - 0.83 m2°C/W, but the strength is slightly lower. And the color of the seal is not elegant gray, but black.
The average price is 7200 rubles.
If you don’t know where to order windows, read our review of window companies in the capital. You will find it at the link: https://oknanagoda.com/kompanii/rejjting-okonnykh-firm-moskvy.html
KBE systems can be ordered from. Read this article about its service and reputation among the people.
KVE Expert +
Externally, this model resembles its counterpart - KBE Expert. But in terms of properties and technical characteristics, it is the spitting image of KBE Etalon +. But only with a five-chamber double-glazed window.
KVE Energy
This is a three-chamber PVC profile, a worthy alternative to KBE Expert in all respects. Judge for yourself: the width of the profile and the glass unit are the same. And the heat transfer resistance is slightly lower - 0.81 m2°C/W. But KVE Energy weighs much less, and is suitable for both an apartment and a warm balcony.
The profile costs approximately 7,500 rubles.
88 mm systems
This model will protect you from the cold best. After all, this is the most modern plastic system, which incorporates all the best developments of the last 30 years. The glass unit is six-chamber, 52 mm wide. As a bonus, this model has the highest thermal insulation of all - 1.04 m2°C/W.
Related article: How to clean tape from a plastic window
Conclusion, which profile is better: Kbe or Rehau?
According to the analysis, the profiles of Kbe and Rehau did not show themselves to be clear favorites. The companies use equally high-quality materials, constantly work to improve product design, and introduce new technologies.
Kbe and Rehau windows have similar technical, physical and aesthetic characteristics. The products of both companies are recognizable and are in constant demand.
The KBE Expert and REHAU Brillant models offer better thermal protection - they have a larger number of chambers and a high heat transfer resistance coefficient.
The REHAU Sib-Design and KBE Expert models help protect against noise from the outside. The choice of window designs is influenced by many factors and characteristics, but the buyer chooses the model that meets his needs.
The difference between the Expet 70 profile and other KBE models
There is a wide range of KBE systems on the manufacturer market, so when choosing, it is important to familiarize yourself with the technical and operational parameters.
The KBE Gutwerk 58 model is an affordable option for manufacturing structures due to its low cost. The width of the three-layer material is 58 mm. The German profile KBE Expert 70 is covered with a dark gray film from the manufacturer.
Find out right now the exact cost of your windows with the KBE Expert profile, call
KBE Expert windows differ in their performance parameters due to their manufacturing technology. The four-chamber KBE Master design with a profile width of 70 mm is manufactured in Russia. In 2016, after improving the technical characteristics, a red protective film coating was applied to the material.
The KBE 76, Master, Expert models are equipped with the same protection, but they differ in shape and have different prices.
Therefore, when choosing, it is important to take into account all system parameters. The Russian KBE Expert profile has 5 air chambers.