Aluminum and uPVC windows have become popular due to their high energy efficiency, durability, and excellent sound insulation properties. They are made from PVC profiles or aluminum profiles. However, since there is a wide selection of windows on the market, it can be difficult to determine which particular window will be the best option for your house or apartment. In this article, we will consider several key aspects to pay attention to when choosing uPVC windows.

Which window profile should I choose?

One of the most important elements of a uPVC window is the profile. It is responsible for the strength and stability of the construction, as well as energy efficiency and sound insulation. When choosing a profile, pay attention to the following parameters:

• Material. Window profiles can be made from different materials. The most popular options are uPVC and aluminum. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, which affect durability, aesthetics, thermal characteristics, and cost.
• Profile thickness (installation depth). Windows with a greater profile thickness have better thermal and sound insulation properties.
• Energy efficiency. Check the thermal resistance indicator (R-value). The higher this value, the more energy-efficient the window is.
• Sound insulation. If you live in a noisy area, choose window profiles with three sealing contours and the possibility to install the thickest possible glazing to reduce the level of external noise.
• Style and design. Choose window profiles that suit the architectural style of your house and match your aesthetic preferences. Consider the shape, color, and size of the windows.
• Warranty and service. Select a manufacturer or supplier with a good reputation. Give preference to well-known and proven brands that meet international quality standards. For example, Rehau.

Which glazing unit to choose?

The choice of glazing unit depends on your needs and desires in terms of thermal insulation, sound insulation, safety, and design. Here are some of the most common types of glazing units:

1. Single-chamber glazing unit. Consists of two layers of glass with an air or gas space between them. It offers a basic level of thermal insulation and sound insulation. This is a more economical option, suitable for unheated rooms and internal structures.
2. Double-chamber glazing unit. Consists of three layers of glass with two air or gas spaces between them. It offers improved thermal insulation and sound insulation compared to a single-chamber glazing unit. This is a good choice for regions with a cold climate or elevated noise levels.
3. Energy-saving coated glazing units. These glazing units have a thin metal coating on one or more glass surfaces, which helps retain heat indoors in winter and reflect solar heat in summer.
4. Multifunctional glazing units. They can include various combinations of features such as safety, sun protection, and decorative elements. These glazing units offer more options to match your needs and desires.

When choosing the best glazing unit, it is essential to consider factors such as climatic conditions, external noise levels, and energy efficiency. Assess your needs or consult with professionals to get advice on the optimal option for your dwelling.

Proper hardware selection

Choosing reliable and high-quality window hardware is an important aspect to ensure the longevity and convenience of windows. Each hardware has its set of options that will determine the functionality of the windows themselves. Below are some tips for choosing the best hardware for your window:

1. Safety. Choose hardware with anti-burglary fittings and locking systems that provide a high level of security.
2. Functionality. Select hardware that meets your functional needs, including various opening modes, comfortable handles, and adjustable hinges.
3. Design. Choose hardware that matches the design of your window and the overall style of the room. Consider materials and color.
4. Budget. Determine your budget and choose hardware that offers the best price-to-quality ratio. Pay attention to the warranty and availability of service maintenance.
5. Manufacturer. Opt for well-known and reliable brands that have an excellent reputation and consumer reviews, such as Winkhaus, GU, and others.

It is worth remembering that paid service maintenance for low-quality hardware can end up being more expensive than purchasing windows with high-quality mechanisms right away.

With Winkhaus hardware, you can get additional options such as:

Step-by-step tilt MSL-OS - this mechanism is used as an additional hardware element (it can even be installed after window installation), which provides a step-by-step micro-ventilation mode. This opening mode ensures comfortable micro-ventilation adjustment.

Multi-functional element DFE - this mechanism performs two functions - it locks the handle to prevent incorrect window opening and serves as an additional anti-burglary feature.

Multi-functional element TFE - this mechanism performs three functions: it locks the handle to prevent incorrect window opening; serves as a balcony latch; and provides an additional anti-burglary feature.

Which windows should I choose for a house and an apartment?

Let's examine which windows to choose for a house and an apartment using the example of the Rehau profile system. We will consider different window profiles in combination with various glazing units. In all cases, the hardware will be Winkhaus.

Euro-Design 60 is a high-quality, basic system, most often used in combination with a single-chamber glazing unit for glazing unheated spaces (balconies, terraces, verandas, garages, attics, utility rooms, etc.), internal partitions, and exits to a glazed balcony. Customers with a limited budget often choose Euro-Design 60 windows with a double-chamber glazing unit for apartments, shops, offices, and other premises with centralized heating.

Euro-Design 70 is an optimal option in terms of price and energy efficiency. That's why customers most often choose Euro-Design 70 among all systems. Combined with an energy-saving glazing unit, this system can be used for apartments, modern offices, or private houses with a limited budget.

Brillant-Design is another five-chamber profile system, the visible difference from the previous profile systems is the semi-circular shape of the sash from the outside of the window. It is most often chosen for glazing private houses.

Synego MD is a system for demanding clients. Windows with Synego MD are not just for premises with individual heating but also for those objects where there are specific requirements for thermal and sound insulation.

Geneo is a system for maximalists, for those clients for whom the issue of comfort, coziness, and quality comes first. As a rule, Geneo is chosen for glazing modern cottages and offices, necessarily in combination with energy-saving glazing units. The version with thermal inserts, Geneo PHZ, will meet the requirements even when building a passive house.

The type of window installation matters

There are several types of window installation used depending on the building structure, window type, and specific needs of the owners. Here are some of the most common ones:

Basic installation

Basic installation involves attaching the window structure to the opening and filling the installation gap with foam. However, it does not include sealing the installation gap with vapor and waterproofing materials. This type of installation does not meet the requirements of the national standards, and the installation gap remains unprotected from atmospheric influences. It is not recommended to perform this installation, but it is the cheapest option. That's why some customers still choose it.

Warm installation

Warm window installation, unlike the previous one, includes protecting the installation gap with vapor and waterproofing materials. These materials effectively protect the installation gap from moisture penetration, preventing its deterioration and freezing.

On the inside, the installation gap is covered with a vapor barrier membrane that prevents moisture from the air from entering the foam.

On the outside, the installation gap is covered with a special waterproofing tape. This tape prevents water from entering the foam from the street side and allows moisture in the form of vapor to escape outside.

After installation, the installation gap must be sealed within three weeks from the installation date. If left exposed for a long period, the foam and insulation tapes will deteriorate under the influence of ultraviolet light and fail to perform their function.

Best plastic windows from a reliable company

Taking into account all aspects above, it can be concluded that when choosing uPVC windows, it is essential to pay attention to the quality of the window profile, hardware, glass units, and installation. However, remember that windows are not just about quality components, but also about adhering to production technology at all stages, the quality of equipment at the factory, and checking the structures at key production stages. That is why Dostawaokien offers high-quality windows with Rehau profiles, which are characterized by durability, thermal insulation, and sound insulation. Winkhaus hardware ensures security, energy efficiency, and ease of use of the windows. All technological processes in the company are strictly controlled.

Thanks to high-quality materials and the expertise of installers with years of experience, Dostawaokien provides a 10-year warranty on their windows. By choosing us, you get a product from a well-known brand that offers an excellent price-quality ratio, as well as reliable support and service.