Today's world leader in the production of plastic windows, the German company Rehau, was founded in 1948. However, she did not start producing window profiles immediately, but only a decade later. Initially, its activities were based on the production of polymer materials for various industries.
The year 1958 marked the beginning of a new type of activity for Rehau - the production of window profiles, which, by the way, forms the basis of a modern plastic window. The first profile was produced using the then innovative extrusion technology (polymer manufacturing). At that time, the number of companies producing such products was very limited. Only a few of them used extrusion technology in their production - in monetary terms it was too expensive.
Like most enterprises, Rehau began to master the production of profiles with only a small number of employees. Only a few people began to “forge” the name of a brand that would be recognizable in the future. Six months later, Rehau already had at its disposal two modern factories with significant production capacity, allowing them to significantly increase the output of finished products.
Promising specialists were hired in the necessary areas, sparing no effort and time to modernize existing samples of manufactured products, as well as to produce new ones. Such significant efforts were not in vain: today the Rehau company is one of the leading brands in the window industry, whose innovative developments are picked up with a bang by other, lesser-known companies.
In addition to plastic windows, Rehau also produces fittings. A feature of the window designs of this company is their adaptability to operation at low temperatures, characteristic of many regions of our country. Each model of the Rehau profile produced has characteristics that are optimally balanced for operation under certain conditions.
This article will introduce the reader to the most popular solutions from Rehau today. So.
Rehau Geneo
Recent technical advances have allowed the company's engineers to widely use the Geneo profile to produce windows of non-standard shapes: round, oval, triangular and even trapezoidal - now plastic windows from Rehau can be anything. This profile specificity is fully used by architects when designing buildings under construction (mainly private sector houses), as well as by designers who bring to life the owners’ ideas for creating an unusual style of room.
However, the advantages of the Rehau Geneo profile are not only the large number of possible shapes. The Geneo double-glazed window, equipped with two chambers, has excellent thermal insulation and is also able to reliably protect the adjacent room from the penetration of extraneous sounds from the street.
Branded fittings installed in the Rehau Geneo window model are responsible for the operation of the sashes in three positions: turning, tilting and turning and tilting. The weight of the Rehau Geneo profile is 2/3 less than the weight of a standard PVC profile. This feature has a beneficial effect both on the installation work and on the load produced by the profile on the fitting mechanisms - their trouble-free service life becomes longer.
How to choose a model?
As for the choice, it is often difficult to make it among the variety of Rehau windows. Therefore, a list of points has been compiled that you first need to pay attention to:
- Profile type. This refers to its width and depth of the system. If you want to let more light into the room, then it makes no sense to choose wide profiles. It is best to focus on truncated versions, especially since they are not at all inferior in strength and characteristics to their wide counterparts.
- Double-glazed window. Immediately figure out how you want the window glass to look. Perhaps the thickness of the glass unit is not so important to you. Thermal insulation characteristics are much more important. Then the ideal solution for you is a multi-chamber double-glazed window. If you are not ready for such a turn of events, choose packages with a small number of cameras.
- Accessories. This point will be discussed in detail a little later.
- Price . The cost of the product depends on what class the window belongs to, as well as on the number of cameras, components, and the size of the entire window. Remember that in the case of Rehau, price has no effect on quality, so you can safely choose a simpler model.
The characteristics of REHAU profiles that we discussed in the article are collected in a table for your convenience. It will be easy for you to compare profiles and make an informed choice.
Rehau Brillant-Design
A series of Rehau Brilliant-Design plastic windows have a smooth surface, and therefore light-transmitting products are not able to accumulate dirt and moisture. This fact has a positive effect on the appearance: throughout the entire period of operation, their original condition remains unchanged. Rehau Brillant-Design windows, equipped with double-glazed windows, successfully cope with the task of retaining heat in the house, and their elegant design helps them fit harmoniously into any style of room.
Uniquely arranged rubber seals reliably protect the structure from moisture penetration. In addition to this, the possibility of ordering energy-saving glass instead of conventional glass makes the Rehau Brillant-Design window model the optimal choice for installation in an apartment.
Adjusting the Rehau plastic system
When a client is faced with a choice between Newton and Rehau plastic windows, reviews usually recommend the latter. And this is explained, among other things, by the ease of adjustment.
Basic methods for adjusting Rehau plastic systems:
- The hexagon is used to tighten the doors depending on the season: in the summer - a loose fit, in the winter - vice versa.
- Incorrect installation or bevel of the frame is adjusted by a couple of millimeters with a hexagon in the holes on the hinges of the windows by rotating clockwise. Similarly vertically - with a hexagon in the lower hinged loop.
- If the seal does not fit tightly, tighten the bolts with the sash open.
- If the window creaks, the seal is lubricated with silicone oil. Likewise, if the handle creaks or is tight.
- If the window handle jams, it means that the moving elements of the system have dried out or the sash has sagged. First, lubricate the mechanism, and if that doesn’t help, adjust the window hinges with a hexagon by tightening the adjusting screw with the sash open, perpendicular to the window frame.
In order for plastic windows from any manufacturer to serve for a long time and not fail, you should regularly inspect them, replace worn parts, and also systematically clean them, especially for the seal. After all, small particles of dirt and dust undoubtedly affect the performance and condition of plastic systems.
Rehau Delight-Design
Rehau Dilight Design windows are equipped with a profile with five chambers. A distinctive feature of this series is that the windows have additional light transmittance (10-15%).
This fact means that Rehau Delight Design plastic windows, compared to conventional ones, transmit more light, and therefore heat. Therefore, the choice of this model for installation in regions with cold climates will be most justified.
Types of windows
REHAU offers several main collections of plastic windows in different price categories.
Rehau Blitz: Eurodesign and New
These are two types of models - a universal model with a regular frame and its improved version with a narrower frame. Such windows are suitable for owners of city apartments, for whom it is important not to impress others, but to create comfortable conditions by resorting to rational tools. The characteristics of the window - a three-chamber double-glazed window, an installation depth of 60 mm, a double-glazed window with a width of 32 mm - are more than enough for the climatic conditions of central Russia.
Rehau Sib
A model with the maximum level of protection from cold, developed with an eye to installation in houses and apartments in the northern regions of different countries. An excellent glazing option for Russian Siberia, it can be used in individual and high-rise construction. A four-chamber double-glazed window with a thickness of 40 mm and a system depth of 70 cm can withstand temperatures down to -50 degrees without fogging and protecting the interior from noticeable temperature changes.
Rehau Grazio
A high-tech model that is designed for use in difficult climatic conditions - its characteristics remain unchanged even if the temperature outside the window exceeds -40°C. And all this despite the fact that the window frame has become narrower, which makes it possible to increase the degree of light transmission.
Rehau Brilliant
Luxury plastic windows, which have absolutely everything - technical characteristics, design, cost. They are distinguished by an expressive design with several sash options, making the frame seem lighter. Structurally, the window is perfectly insulated and protects from precipitation, wind, dust, and dampness. It consists of a profile with a width of 70 mm and a five-chamber double-glazed window with a thickness of 40 mm.
Rehau Delight
A special feature of the model is a thinner frame, due to which the area of light-transmitting panels is increased by 228 cm², respectively, the window lets in more light. The profile width is 70 cm, a 40 mm wide double-glazed window accommodates as many as 5 cameras. Such windows are a solution to the problem of poor lighting in city apartments and country houses.
Rehau Geneo
One of the most expensive models, which uses all existing methods to achieve maximum comfort and window performance. The installation width of the window is 86 mm, a six-chamber double-glazed window is installed, and the frame is made of a unique fiber material RAU FIPRO. It is used in aircraft glazing; its strength is not inferior to many alloys, but it is much lighter than metal. Its use makes it possible to reduce the weight of the window structure by 40% and achieve a unique heat transfer resistance coefficient of 1.05 m2C/W.
Rehau Intelio
This model has long remained the most expensive in the REHAU range of plastic windows. Why - it becomes obvious after a more detailed consideration of the window properties. It has a maximum heat transfer resistance coefficient of 0.95 m²C/W: this is an order of magnitude greater than required by industry SNiP. In terms of thermal characteristics, it is equated to a 110 cm thick brick wall. The model’s image is complemented by special glass that blocks sound more effectively than any other, and anti-burglary fittings, thanks to which the model corresponds to class 3 in burglary resistance.
Rehau Blitz
The Rehau Blitz three-chamber profile differs from previous models by its affordable price. The PVC window profile combines an acceptable level of performance in both heat and sound insulation. The low price of the Rehau Blitz window is dictated by the low resistance of its profile to burglary.
Because of this feature, this window model is not entirely suitable for installation in private houses, as well as in apartments located on the first floors of the building. For the rest, purchasing a Rehau Blitz window would be quite appropriate.
Rehau Sib-Design
The crown of all Rehau models. The creation of the Rehau Sib-Design profile was dictated by the steady demand for window products that meet the requirements of our country with its harsh weather climate. The profile is designed to ensure maximum heat retention in the room in which it is installed. The presence of two-level protection in the form of two sealing contours that do not allow moisture or drafts to pass through makes the Rehau Sib-Design window design an ideal choice for the home.
The technological solution implemented in the profile in the form of several chambers has a positive effect on the ability to retain heat in the protected room. Its multi-chamber design allows you to maintain a comfortable microclimate, and the presence of a smooth surface leaves no chance for dirt to accumulate on it. Thanks to this, caring for Rehau Sib-Design plastic windows is standard and does not require any significant effort. Maintaining the fittings in working condition, as well as their periodic maintenance, makes the period of operation of the Rehau Sib-Design window quite long.
Types of windows
REHAU offers several main collections of plastic windows in different price categories.
Rehau Blitz: Eurodesign and New
These are two types of models - a universal model with a regular frame and its improved version with a narrower frame. Such windows are suitable for owners of city apartments, for whom it is important not to impress others, but to create comfortable conditions by resorting to rational tools. The characteristics of the window - a three-chamber double-glazed window, an installation depth of 60 mm, a double-glazed window with a width of 32 mm - are more than enough for the climatic conditions of central Russia.
Rehau Sib
A model with the maximum level of protection from cold, developed with an eye to installation in houses and apartments in the northern regions of different countries. An excellent glazing option for Russian Siberia, it can be used in individual and high-rise construction. A four-chamber double-glazed window with a thickness of 40 mm and a system depth of 70 cm can withstand temperatures down to -50 degrees without fogging and protecting the interior from noticeable temperature changes.
Rehau Grazio
A high-tech model that is designed for use in difficult climatic conditions - its characteristics remain unchanged even if the temperature outside the window exceeds -40°C. And all this despite the fact that the window frame has become narrower, which makes it possible to increase the degree of light transmission.
Rehau Brilliant
Luxury plastic windows, which have absolutely everything - technical characteristics, design, cost. They are distinguished by an expressive design with several sash options, making the frame seem lighter. Structurally, the window is perfectly insulated and protects from precipitation, wind, dust, and dampness. It consists of a profile with a width of 70 mm and a five-chamber double-glazed window with a thickness of 40 mm.
Rehau Delight
A special feature of the model is a thinner frame, due to which the area of light-transmitting panels is increased by 228 cm², respectively, the window lets in more light. The profile width is 70 cm, a 40 mm wide double-glazed window accommodates as many as 5 cameras. Such windows are a solution to the problem of poor lighting in city apartments and country houses.
Rehau Geneo
One of the most expensive models, which uses all existing methods to achieve maximum comfort and window performance. The installation width of the window is 86 mm, a six-chamber double-glazed window is installed, and the frame is made of a unique fiber material RAU FIPRO. It is used in aircraft glazing; its strength is not inferior to many alloys, but it is much lighter than metal. Its use makes it possible to reduce the weight of the window structure by 40% and achieve a unique heat transfer resistance coefficient of 1.05 m2C/W.
Rehau Intelio
This model has long remained the most expensive in the REHAU range of plastic windows. Why - it becomes obvious after a more detailed consideration of the window properties. It has a maximum heat transfer resistance coefficient of 0.95 m²C/W: this is an order of magnitude greater than required by industry SNiP. In terms of thermal characteristics, it is equated to a 110 cm thick brick wall. The model’s image is complemented by special glass that blocks sound more effectively than any other, and anti-burglary fittings, thanks to which the model corresponds to class 3 in burglary resistance.
Bottom line
Rehau PVC windows have been in steady demand for many years. Many people who have preferred the products of this company are not disappointed in their choice. Therefore, no matter what model of Rehau plastic window you choose, be sure that any purchased copy will fit perfectly into the existing interior of an apartment, private house, office and will serve you faithfully for a long time.
Tags: surfaces, floors, room
Accessories and components
The components in each case when it comes to plastic windows will always be the same. So, you definitely need a window sill. You can choose it in any color and size.
- Recently, transforming window sills have been gaining popularity, when it is also used as a desk.
- The ebb tides are installed from the front part of the window. They protect the surface of the wall under the window from splashes, and also serve to collect and drain water flowing from the glass.
- Slopes are a decorative element designed to beautifully frame a window opening. It is supplied with the window and is installed as the final step when the entire window system is installed.
- Mosquito nets are another additional element that prevents midges and other living creatures, debris and dust from entering the room through the windows. True, mosquito nets do not protect against dust very well; the window sill will still have to be wiped regularly.
- You can also purchase stained glass to decorate the window. They are made in the form of a sticker and are glued directly to the glass unit.
As for the fittings, they deserve special attention.
Pens
The Rehau company produces two types of handles. The first includes keyless models designed for installation under grilles. The position is adjusted by adjusting the handle: when it is directed upward, the window can only be opened from the top. When the position is on the side, the sash can be opened. The handle facing down closes the window.
The second type is handles with a key. In this case, sometimes you have to not only use the key, but when opening it further, you also have to press the lock. Position control follows the same principle as in the previous case.
Closing windows are good for second floors, where installing bars would be a waste of money.
Safety fences
Security barriers from Rehau act as an alternative to conventional window bars. If you install such a barrier, the window will look more aesthetically attractive. However, a fence can protect not only from outside invasion. If there are small children at home, such a fence will protect them from accidentally falling out of an open window.
The fence is easy to assemble with your own hands. The installation itself is also quite simple: it is enough to have basic construction skills. Wiping the barrier itself is quite simple, since it consists only of vertical stripes. Dust will settle only on the frame. Such a device does not make it difficult to wash windows, allowing you to freely put your hand through the bars.
