How to choose high-quality aluminum windows.

Glazing of balconies is a popular option for the improvement of remote structures. It is performed using wooden frames, plastic products or aluminum profile. The last two options are most commonly used. Their popularity is due to the significant durability and reliability of PVC and aluminum structures.

Rice. 1 Appearance of plastic balcony glazing

However, plastic and aluminum frames differ in their characteristics. Before starting work, you should find out which windows are better to put on the balcony, plastic or aluminum.

When figuring out the better to glaze a balcony, you should pay attention to the windows from plastic profile. Such designs are actively used for the improvement of the loggia. They are highly sealed. As a result, the room is fully protected from precipitation and wind, moisture, dust and heat loss.

The use of metal-plastic profile frames allows you to turn the loggia into a warm room. One glazing with PVC windows is not enough for this. Requires good insulation. To support comfortable temperature and in the cold season, heaters must be installed on the plastic balcony.

Rice. 2 Warm plastic glazing

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic frames

When deciding which balcony glazing is better, you should evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the options. Plastic profile structures have a number of pros and cons. Before choosing plastic for glazing, you should familiarize yourself with them.

The advantages of PVC windows include high tightness. It is due to the presence of high-quality seals that protect against drafts. As a result, plastic windows provide high level heat and sound insulation.

Polyvinyl chloride is a durable and reliable material. It does not collapse when exposed to moisture and temperature changes. If the frames are made of quality profile, then they will remain white all the time of service, will not turn yellow and will not turn gray. If desired, the white surface can be laminated with special films and a colored frame for the loggia can be obtained. The service life of plastic structures is more than forty years.

The installation process for PVC windows is relatively simple. There are no complicated processes, but a number of rules must be observed.

There are plastic windows for balcony glazing and disadvantages. polymer material capable of accumulating static electricity. As a result, dust is actively attracted to the surface.

Mechanical influences leave scratches on the plastic surface. Strong blows lead to dents. Such damage cannot be repaired.

Window structures made of PVC have a significant weight. Double-glazed windows increase it even more. This must be taken into account when planning a balcony glazing. The load on the balcony structure may be too high.

Aluminum profile windows for balcony glazing

Rice. 3 Sliding version of the cold glazing of the balcony with an aluminum profile

Aluminum profile is an inexpensive material with low weight. A variety of window structures are made from it for glazing balconies. Including use sliding frame options. With their help, free space on the balcony is saved.

Aluminum windows are reliable and durable. They have high strength and rigidity.

The profile is painted in different colors, which allows you to choose the best option for any balcony design.

Rice. 4 hinged aluminum windows

Pros and cons of aluminum windows

When choosing how best to glaze a balcony, it should be noted that glazing with aluminum profile windows has many advantages. First of all, they note their more affordable cost compared to plastic options.

Such windows effectively protect against wind, precipitation and dust penetration. Aluminum structures reduce the amount of noise penetrating from the outside.

The weight of aluminum windows is relatively small, so the load on the load-bearing elements of the balconies will not be excessive.

Aluminum profile structures serve for a long time without losing their attractive appearance. The weak point is only the rollers in sliding windows but they are easy to replace.

There are few disadvantages of aluminum windows for balcony glazing. The main disadvantage is the low level of thermal insulation. The thermal conductivity of aluminum is high, so heat quickly escapes. It is difficult to create warm glazing using an aluminum profile. You will need a special version of the profile with heat-insulating gaskets, but its price is much higher.

Which glazing option do you prefer?

When choosing how best to glaze a loggia, you should decide on its use. Precisely from this to a greater extent depends on plastic or aluminum windows to prefer.

Rice. 5 Glazing of loggias with plastic frames

If you plan to create an insulated space or a balcony will be combined with the premises of the apartment, then you should prefer glazing with PVC windows. They better insulate and create reliable protection against temperature extremes. Warm aluminum glazing is chosen when the balcony cannot be heavily loaded.

Aluminum structures should be chosen for non-insulated space. They will effectively protect against weather disasters and other troubles, and will cost less.

In addition, aluminum frames are chosen in cases where it is required to reduce the load on the load-bearing elements of the balcony. In this case, it is better to glaze the structures with light windows.

When choosing how best to glaze a balcony and which balconies are better, considering aluminum or plastic windows, all design features and intended use should be taken into account. Windows for the balcony should be combined with the facade of the building. Equally important is the interior decoration. However, by choosing plastic or aluminum, you can make frames in any suitable color.

Determining which is better, it is important not to miss any important detail. Any good and high-quality material will be effective. But in some cases plastic is better while others are aluminum.

When dealing with glazing, it is important to make a quality measurement so that the frames fit exactly to the installation site. If the measurement is inaccurate, then the result of the glazing will be far from ideal.

Everything less people dispute the need to purchase reliable double-glazed windows for housing. However, most prefer PVC windows or wooden counterparts, ignoring aluminum profiles. There was a stereotype about their subtlety and instability to cold. The fact is that initially such profiles were protection from dust and wind, installed in non-residential premises and did not assume thermal insulation. The main reason for choosing the profile was its light weight, and the added bonuses were its durability and ease of maintenance. Today, realizing all the advantages of these structures, manufacturers are getting rid of their shortcomings, making this type of glazing a worthy competitor in terms of price and its characteristics to both plastic and solid wood. Manufacturers offer wide choose aluminum windows, which differ in the number of chambers, the quality of the double-glazed windows, as well as the coating material - not always this profile of a characteristic metallic color, it is possible to cover the frame with the paint that the buyer chooses.

Like any type of material, aluminum has its pros, cons, strengths and weak sides, as well as features of production and operation. Today we will talk in detail about all these points.

Rice. 1. Aluminum profile window.

Advantages of aluminum profile

Rice. 2. Window with aluminum profile.

Of course, the buyer has a question, why choose something that is not very common, if there are always time-tested options. In repair, especially in its main issues, people are quite conservative, and if everyone in their life has come across plastic and wood and knows their properties firsthand, then in the case of aluminum, it is necessary to explain why it can be used on a par with the named materials, and in on what issues it can seriously compete with them or surpass them in terms of characteristics.

Noise isolation

Rice. 3. Noise isolation indicators.

On average, the noise level on a quiet street in a residential area does not exceed 45 dB. A noisy street with car traffic can give a figure of 80 dB (for comparison, the figure for a factory shop is about 100 dB). Aluminum windows, depending on the number of chambers, show different properties in terms of sound insulation. The indicator of a standard two-chamber design will be 37 dB. A "warm" profile will save you from noise with an indicator of 48 dB.

Unlike plastic windows, aluminum windows do not have a 7-8-chamber structure that allows you to drown out the noise of a working workshop, however, for a quiet city street, 40-45 dB is more than enough.

Heat saving

Rice. 4. Aluminum window properties.

Those window structures, about which the stereotype of "coldness" has developed, are now used only in non-residential buildings, where the indicator of maintaining temperature is not important.

To date, aluminum windows are made with several internal chambers - in "warm" designs their number reaches 5 (as in standard PVC models), which makes it possible to achieve significant thermal insulation performance. With tightness and high-quality double-glazed windows and fittings in a house with such windows, it will always be warm.

The advantage of windows with several chambers is that in winter cold air does not enter the room, and warm air does not leave it, and in summer hot air does not heat the living area.

Wind protection

Rice. 5. Windows with multiple cameras.

This indicator of aluminum windows was valued even at the time of the presence of only their "cold" version. Wind protection of this design has earned respect in non-residential premises, and with the advent of insulated profiles (the so-called "warm" aluminum glazing), the number of cameras of which reaches up to 5, this indicator has become much more solid. It is this property that is the most important when choosing balcony structures and glazing, and aluminum profiles are one of the leaders in this niche.

A well-made profile and a good double-glazed window will save you from cold winds and drafts.

Long life aluminum profile

Rice. 6. Reliability of a design.

In terms of service life, no other structure can be compared with aluminum - the fact is that aluminum, in its essence, is an eternal material, and nothing can happen to it. It is not affected by light or chemical attack, it does not deform from cold and heat, and cannot crack or catch fire.

Thus, the profile itself will last you a lifetime, taking into account the fact that from time to time (just like in any other designs) you will carry out maintenance or replacement of fittings. Painted aluminum double-glazed window will delight you with its original color for a long time, as the powder-polymer paint on these windows does not fade.

Environmental friendliness

Rice. 7. Use in eco-houses.

By virtue of their chemical properties aluminum is absolutely non-toxic material. If PVC windows have a certain characteristic plastic smell, which does not depend on their cost, then the aluminum structure is devoid of it.

Since the profiles of this metal do not burn and are not exposed to heat, they do not emit any decay products, which affects the complete safety of both residents of the apartment and environment. For those who care about the environment, aluminum has another trump card - this material is recyclable, and if you get tired of your window, it will be easy to assemble a new product from it.

Easy to operate

Rice. 8. Any products are suitable for care.

Aluminum is the most unpretentious material for maintenance - if in the case of a wooden and plastic structure it is advised to carefully select detergents, which do not contain any active cleaning agents, then the metal window can be washed and chemicals. The only point worth paying attention to is that these windows can be scratched, and this will adversely affect their appearance. There are even special means made of aluminum resins that will save you from accidental scratches. Thus, the only recommendation would be to avoid the use of hard brushes, sponges and abrasive materials when caring for the structure.

What is the advantage of an aluminum window over a PVC profile, you can see in the video:

Features of aluminum profile

Rice. 9. Composition window.

In order to choose in favor of any material, you need to know its characteristics. Consider what distinguishes the frame of an aluminum window:

• High mechanical strength - it is impossible to deform such a structure in everyday life, since it absolutely withstands the effects of heat, light, as well as any mechanical pressure. The profiles do not use pure metal, but its mixture with magnesium and silicon, which increases the strength index even more impressively. In addition, aluminum does not burn.
• Light weight - it is this indicator that has earned great love and respect among those who buy it. This property is especially important when working with balconies and loggias - where there is absolutely no need for an extra load on the supporting structures.
• Profile thinness - aluminum profiles are the thinnest compared to PVC and wood, which allows more light to enter the room.
• Flexibility - if ordinary person this criterion is not so important, then this is a nice bonus in design - aluminum structures can be rounded without difficulty, it is possible to make doors and window profiles of interesting shape from them.
• Free dimensions - due to the lightness and flexibility of the design, it is possible to manufacture aluminum profiles of any required size.

The structure and characteristics of aluminum profile windows

Rice. 10. Warm and cold windows.

Looking in detail at the structure and characteristics aluminum windows, we divide them into two large groups - "cold" and "warm".

1. cold windows
   This type of profile is installed in those rooms where protection from dust and wind is important, and thermal insulation is not a key factor.
   The design of the cold profile consists of one chamber, without any inserts or insulation. The advantage of this type is its low weight, subtlety (however, this point must be borne in mind during installation) and if the characteristics meet the requirements, then this is a worthy option for glazing a balcony, for example.
2. warm windows
   For residential premises, where the heat factor plays the main role, just such a profile is chosen. A warm window consists of several chambers, their number can reach up to five.
   This design, in addition to the frame itself and glass, includes special inserts made of fiberglass or polyamide and allowing you to isolate the room from frost. Such an insert is called a “thermal break” or “thermal bridge”: two metal profiles are separated by a polyamide element, so their contact is completely excluded, and if the outer frame cools down, its temperature will not be transferred to the inner one.

Aluminum window production technology

Rice. 11. Window production.

Aluminum windows have a higher price compared to PVC profiles due to, first of all, the labor intensity of their production. We will not consider the entire procedure in great detail and technologically meticulously - we will only note its most important stages:

• Aluminum casts are heated in a special oven in order to facilitate work with them;
• Sliced metallic profile, according to the required dimensions of the customer;
• The ends of the impost are milled (details responsible for holding the sashes in the frame) on a special machine;
• All break through required holes for fittings and functioning of the window;
• Special holes are drilled for specific locks and accessories;
• The prepared frame is blown with compressed air to get rid of metal chips and dust;
• A sealant, fittings, handle, fasteners and hinges are installed;
• The corners of the profile are clamped, the seal in the corners is glued;
• The frame and sashes of the window are connected;
• Glass panes are being installed.

If all the characteristics of an aluminum window suit you and you decide to buy it, in addition to carefully choosing a company, be sure to pay attention to the fact that the price of a profile will depend on:

• Thickness (with extra thickness comes extra warmth and noise reduction);
• Components (the window itself will last you a lifetime, from time to time it will be necessary to replace only the fittings, so it is preferable to immediately choose a quality one);
• The number of cameras in a double-glazed window (the more - the quieter and warmer, so choose designs with 4-5 cameras for rooms).

Glazed balcony has always been and will be a more perfect design. Thanks to glazing, we increase the level of protection of the balcony from any weather troubles, dust and noise by an order of magnitude, and also keep the heat in the house. And this is not to mention all the benefits of a separate closed room, which can be arranged at your discretion. Only the question of choosing materials for glazing remains open. Plastic or aluminum windows - which is better? Each individual owner of a balcony or loggia solves this problem individually. The most important thing is to decide on the goal and understand why you need this or that type of glazing.

Profile features

When the question arises which balconies are better, made of plastic or aluminum, the desire to learn more about the properties of each of these materials immediately arises.

Plastic windows are made up of , inside divided into chambers. This allows you to better retain heat, as well as increase the rigidity of the profiles. Double-glazed windows are inserted into the frames, which can also have several cameras. The more chambers, the better the thermal protection and sound insulation of the window, but the greater its weight. Environmental friendliness plastic systems proven by practice.

Aluminum windows are made from light aluminum profile. There is a technology for manufacturing very large structures, in contrast to plastic ones. Ordinary glasses are inserted inside the aluminum frames. There are also warm frames, the design of which is multi-layered.

What are window designs?

Which is better: aluminum loggia or plastic? The answer may be ambiguous. Much depends on the size of the balcony and the design of the window system. Let's look at what designs are according to the type of their opening.

Sliding systems

The frames have a design that allows the sashes to move to the sides, overlapping each other. Thus, saving space on the balcony is achieved, and the windows acquire custom solution. Such systems fully cope with their task of protecting the balcony from precipitation and wind. For a narrow balcony, such a system is ideal.. The disadvantage is that the lower guide along which the sashes move is not sufficiently protected from precipitation. This can cause aluminum windows to freeze in winter. When using plastic frames, this disadvantage is canceled.

Rotary systems

This is the most simple design, at which the sashes open by turning them. These windows are easy to care for. If the balcony is narrow, then there may simply not be enough space on it to fully open the sash. Depending on the rotary axis, the sash can be rotated vertically or horizontally. In some cases, the opening of the shutters can be made outside the balcony.

Tilt and turn systems

The most popular system that allows both opening windows and tilting them for ventilation when full opening is not required. What frame is best for this design? It is more convenient to work with plastic frames, since aluminum systems may not have a swing-out mechanism.

Folding systems

The sashes in such windows lean back into the room to provide ventilation. Often they are used as vents of various sizes.

Deaf systems

These are the simplest and most reliable windows that do not open. The disadvantage of deaf systems is the inability to wash them from the outside. They are usually installed in private houses, in porches, on industrial enterprises. When installed on a balcony, they fill the side walls. If you glaze the loggia with such windows, then for the subsequent one it will be necessary to remove the double-glazed window, wash it, and then insert it back, which is extremely inconvenient.

Characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of windows

To determine for yourself which windows are better - plastic or aluminum, you should study their main parameters. Let's compare and see the differences.

Advantages of aluminum frames

1. Aluminum profiles are very light, which is very important when the frames are installed directly on the parapet. In addition, the frames are glazed with ordinary sheet glass having a thickness of 3-5 mm, which also facilitates the construction of windows.
2. Aluminum is very durable, so windows have virtually no life limit.
3. The frames are not exposed to corrosion, do not rot, have a slight thermal expansion.
4. It is possible to produce windows of large sizes and different shapes.
5. Complete fire safety.
6. The widest range of colors.
7. The low cost of systems, so such glazing will be cheaper.

If you are not sure what is the best way to glaze a balcony, then take a closer look at the disadvantages of aluminum.

Disadvantages of aluminum structures

1. This is a cold profile. It heats up very quickly and cools down quickly. In winter, it practically does not keep warm. In summer, on the contrary, it quickly takes on the heat of the sun, and then redirects it into the room.
2. If the balcony is very high, sliding frames big size can be deformed under the influence of wind loads.
3. Low degree of sound insulation of the balcony from the street.

Tip: If keeping warm is a priority for you, choose plastic windows or warm aluminum frames.

Advantages of plastic systems

1. The main advantage of plastic profile windows is low thermal conductivity, thanks to which it is possible to create warm rooms on a loggia or balcony.
2. Aesthetics and presentable appearance.
3. With proper maintenance, the durability of such windows is calculated in tens of years.
4. Windows do not burn, and when exposed to open fire, they can only melt.

Disadvantages of metal-plastic

1. The large weight of glazed frames creates some restrictions on their use. Plastic windows cannot be placed on a balcony parapet without additional reinforcement. Or it is necessary to carry out the welding of the takeaway on the balcony. For installation on loggias, this restriction is absent.
2. Too high cost of structures. This point is sometimes decisive if there is a choice, the better to glaze the loggia, aluminum or plastic.
3. A relatively weak link is, which must be regularly lubricated. Poor-quality fittings can break very quickly.

Tip: Do not try to order windows with very wide sashes. Gradually, they can warp under their own weight, as a result of which they will no longer close. It is better to increase the number of valves, making them smaller in size.

Warm aluminum windows

How to make a choice between aluminum and plastic windows and what to prefer? It depends on the purpose of the loggia or balcony. If the desire to keep the heat in the room overpowered, and the choice fell on aluminum, then install warm windows. Such a window is three-layer construction, along the edges of which aluminum profiles are located, and the middle part is filled with a thermal insert. Typically, fiberglass reinforced polyamide is used for this.

Windows made of aluminum profile - this is the current trend modern design and promising product. After all, these are light structures that can harmoniously fit into the interior, decorated in almost any style, from classic options to exotic solutions. It is these window systems that are recommended to be installed both in new construction and in the restoration of old buildings. We can say that the scope of aluminum structures is quite extensive, all buildings that require a lot of light and lightness can be safely supplemented with aluminum windows. The article will discuss how to choose aluminum windows.

In the modern world, many shopping centers, office buildings, sports facilities use aluminum windows for their facades, but at the same time they look light and almost airy. They become indispensable for buildings that require large-scale glazing, since only such products are able to withstand heavy loads.

Aluminum windows photo

In addition, aluminum profile structures made it possible to abandon boring square and rectangular shapes, in favor of a special modern design, where there are practically no corners or, on the contrary, there are too many of them (arched, triangular, trapezoidal). Due to the rich color palette, it became possible to perfectly combine windows with any trendy facade.

What else attracts professional designers and ordinary inhabitants in aluminum window frames Oh? First you need to understand how they first appeared.

History of aluminum window systems

• Aluminum is environmentally friendly and safe materials. This metal is able to withstand large temperature fluctuations (-80 to +200 degrees), does not corrode and does not deform. Of course, manufacturers who make windows from this product do not use it in its pure form. As a rule, a special alloy with silicon (or copper) and magnesium, made by hot pressing, is used. Exactly these chemical elements give the released product strength and the necessary rigidity, so that finished structures can withstand heavy loads and easily maintain a given shape.

• Even 5-7 years ago, products made of metal-plastic (PVC) or wood were considered the most common window systems. Now the fashion for the manufacture of aluminum window frames is returning again. The first such products began to be installed in Germany in the middle of the 20th century. It was produced under the Schuco brand (today it is the leading supplier of window structures, the concern was founded in 1951), and then they began to be made in Italy (the NewTec Group concern).
• Of course, on Russian market hinged aluminum windows began to be supplied only in the 80-90s of the last century. True, then these were extremely primitive forms that did not have the necessary sealing, which froze in the cold and became very hot during the heat. As a rule, they were installed in public and industrial buildings, palaces of culture or sports facilities.
• The development of technologies has led to the emergence of new modern forms and configurations, gradually aluminum windows have gained popularity among consumers, having successfully competed with metal-plastic. And today the profile is extruded at many factories of the Russian Federation (Seal, Realit, Petrolum, Vidnal, Alutech, Agrisovgaz, Tatprof, etc.).
• Aluminum managed to gain its popularity due to the fact that the products obtained from it were light, but at the same time strong enough, and the metal itself is a flexible substance that lends itself well to transformation, that is, it is allowed to create almost any shape.

But these are far from all the advantages of aluminum windows, it is worth talking about them in more detail.

Advantages of aluminum profile windows

Windows made from aluminum have many positive qualities which favorably distinguish them from structures made of other materials. Of course, first of all, it should be said about external aesthetics, reliability during operation and ease of maintenance. But their valuable qualities do not end there. So, what are the advantages of aluminum windows, for which you can give preference to them.

• Strength. The design of the manufactured window is so strong that it can withstand glass units of almost any configuration, regardless of their weight and size. It is worth mentioning that the greatest strength can be achieved only by using an aluminum alloy, for example, with copper and magnesium (the so-called duralumin).
• Environmental Safety. Aluminum, being a natural element, does not emit hazardous substances into the atmosphere, and, in addition, in the manufacture of profiles, only harmless materials and technologies are used, both for the environment and for human health. Also, the fact that aluminum is used in recycling can be an advantage of such systems.

• Long service life. The manufacturer gives a guarantee for its products from 50 to 80 years, but the service life of window systems is not at all limited to this time, often aluminum structures can stand safe and sound for much longer, and at the same time they will not lose their attractiveness and functionality. Only fittings and seals are subject to replacement, but this process is quite simple and will not pose any problems, in addition, modern components are also made of strong and durable materials. As a rule, handles and locking systems are installed in grooves and when replacing, drilling or milling of profiles is not required, it is enough just to remove the old fittings from the groove and install a new one, while the integrity of the frames is not violated. Only aluminum windows today can boast such a long service life, no other materials can be compared with this metal in this indicator.
• Reliability and wear resistance. Even with intensive use, aluminum window structures will remain as functional as possible, the profiles are not afraid of impacts, are resistant to abrasion, they can be subjected to frequent washing, etc. If the frame still happens to be damaged, then it is quite easy to repair it, due to the unique properties of this metal .
• Resistance to external factors . Aluminum has good endurance, this metal is not afraid of sudden temperature fluctuations, high humidity, ultraviolet radiation or acid precipitation. Thanks to these qualities, products made from this material are particularly resistant to natural changes. Also, due to coating with paints and varnishes and decorative products, resistance to aggressive environments only increases.

Aluminum windows video

• Lightness of the material. This is an important quality for such large products. After all, heavy materials create a colossal load on the bearing supports, therefore, for example, it is not always possible to install wooden or plastic window systems to the entire height or width of the wall, it is also very difficult to choose glazing for small balconies. With the choice of aluminum profiles, such problems fade into the background, since it is enough to simply create solutions that are interesting, both in shape and in size.
• Wide selection of designer color solutions . Frames can have the most diverse design, including imitating some natural materials, for example, a tree. For the most part, painted aluminum profiles are used, the color of which can be any of the RAL shades catalog (German color standard), while the texture can be both glossy and matte. This allows you to perfectly and harmoniously fit new windows into any, even the most incredible interior. Coloring takes place in the factory by electrostatic spraying ( powder coating), which is why the color remains bright and resistant for the longest possible time. The coating has a thickness of 70 microns and up to 90 microns and can be single or double (that is, it is painted over in one or two layers). Also, aluminum can be anodized, with this method the color does not fade in the sun and remains unchanged for the entire operational period.
• plasticity of the material and big choice config uy. Due to the flexibility, aluminum blanks are given almost any shape, including oval and even round. This is a very valuable quality for modern construction on individual projects, because thanks to complex forms can be implemented bold decisions designers and architects, and when you consider that aluminum is perfectly combined with many materials, then almost limitless possibilities open up.
• Good thermal insulation and sound absorption. Of course, not aluminum itself, but a ready-made window system in which an insulating layer is laid (most often a plastic thermal bridge). It is due to such a layer that it is possible to achieve minimal heat loss and excellent sound insulation.
• fire safety. This material does not burn, does not support the spread of fire, and does not emit harmful substances exposed to high temperatures, which makes it undeniably the best option for window systems, as opposed to plastic or wooden frames.

An excellent bonus to all of the above is the external attractiveness of aluminum frames, they do not darken or rust, they look light and even airy and can really become a real decoration for the exterior of a private house or cottage.

Of course, it is impossible not to say about shortcomings such systems, even if they are not significant, nevertheless, the disadvantages are present and should be voiced.

• So the first negative is price, which may not seem affordable to everyone, but given the durability and easy maintenance of the installed window system, then the price can even become a plus, as any further costs will be reduced.
• The next drawback is due to the fact that aluminum, like many metals, has high thermal conductivity, which means it heats up very quickly on warm, sunny days and also cools down quickly in cold weather. But after manufacturers began to install a special layer of insulation, this problem succeeded in minimizing.
• And the last drawback is that the aluminum profile does not let air through, therefore, such systems should be combined with "breathing" walls and, if possible, ventilate the living quarters more often.

Summing up, we can say that window structures made of aluminum alloy are distinguished by increased strength and reliability, are universal in purpose, are not subject to rotting and rust, are maintainable and resistant to aggressive environments. It is also worth noting that aluminum frames have few design features, it is enough just to decide which specific type of profile is required for certain purposes.

Type of aluminum window profile

Aluminum windows are made in two basic versions: cold profile type, warm type profile.

• Cold Profile- these are systems equipped with only one chamber, without additional insulating layers. Such aluminum windows are installed on the balcony, in utility rooms, in parking lots, in shop windows, on verandas, unheated loggias and in other non-residential facilities. The windows have light fittings, and the entire structure has the lowest possible weight.

• Aluminum warm windows equipped with seals and special thermal inserts that help regulate the process of heat transfer. The insert is made of polyamide (a special plastic) and fiberglass (thickness can vary between 1.8-3.5 cm). The thermal conductivity coefficient of thermal insulation inserts is less than that of aluminum by about 150 times. Due to this layer, the structure does not freeze even under the most severe frosts. Often, double-glazed windows of increased thickness (from 3 to 5 air chambers) are installed in such systems, due to which manufacturers achieve maximum thermal insulation and good sound absorption. These window designs are the best option for residential premises, they fit perfectly into the interior of an apartment or office.

In addition to the profile, the design of the window itself also differs. This is how they are:

• deaf, that is, the design does not have opening elements;
• swing, which, in turn, can be:
• folding (only the upper part opens, most often used for utility rooms - pantries, bathrooms, landings, and so on);
• parallel-sliding (there is a sash sash, as well as the ability to open both by tilting the sash and by sliding to the side);
• sliding aluminum windows (the frames are moved apart with the help of special skids, such structures are most often installed on balconies or loggias, that is, in those rooms where space is limited, but it is necessary to open the windows completely);
• rotary (open in one plane);
• tilt-and-turn (combine the capabilities of folding and rotary systems, are considered the most functional option);
• combined, that is, deaf sashes are combined into a single system with opening frames. This type of window is the most common.

So, having dealt with design features and configuration, it is important to know what to look for when ordering aluminum window systems.

What are the price points for an aluminum window?

Before you buy an aluminum window, you need to understand how the price of a particular product is formed.

• The first thing that draws attention is the thickness of the profile, the thicker the profile, the better the heat saving process takes place, but the cost also increases. It also affects the mounting depth of the window, that is, its width, which ranges from 5.8 to 7.5 cm.
• The second important point is the installed fittings and seals. How better components, the more expensive they are, also if multi-circuit seals are used on the frame, then the price will be higher. Countries such as Germany (Roto) and Italy (Giesse) are considered leaders in the production of reliable fittings.

• The next moment is a double-glazed window. It is necessary to pay attention to the number of cameras, and whether there is any coating, it is optimal to purchase windows with an energy-saving (low-emission) layer. You should also check the quality of the gluing of the double-glazed window.
• When ordering windows, you need to pay attention to the reputation of the company, it is best to look at real objects where windows have already been installed by this company. Inspecting the sample, close attention is paid to the build quality corner connection and profile geometry. It is important that the warranty covers all elements of the window system.

How to choose aluminum window handles

You should be aware that window handles can have a different configuration:

• with a lock - that is, it protects the sash in the open state from accidental tilting;
• with a key - helps to avoid opening without permission;

• curved - designed for windows, with external closing;
• elongated pressure - for portal systems (that is, parallel-sliding opening).

The standard factory colors of the handles include white, black, silver, brown shades, as well as an unpainted version, such handles can be painted in any color along with the profile.

Before ordering glazing with aluminum windows, you should decide on the necessary functionality of the fittings, and if, for example, there is no point in lockable handles, then you should not overpay for them.

You can also select components yourself, for this it is enough to know only the size of the groove, which must be noted in the accompanying documentation of the window.

Major manufacturers of aluminum windows

3 large concerns can be called the leading manufacturers in this area.

• "Schuco" (Shuko) - a profile from Germany, reliable systems that have proven themselves in harsh climatic conditions, this is exactly the manufacturer who stood at the origins of the production of aluminum windows and still products manufactured under this brand remain reliable, convenient and as practical as possible.

• "Provedal" (Provedal) - aluminum systems produced in Spain. This company manufactures a profile using anodizing, that is, a process in which a film is formed on the metal surface that has protective and decorative properties. Such windows belong to the luxury class, they are characterized by maximum environmental friendliness and have a very elegant design. appearance, and at the same time, even with narrow frames, they are reliable and durable.

• "Reynaers" (Reiners) - high-quality aluminum window systems from the Belgian manufacturer. The company offers a wide range of its products, which have a variety of opening options (sliding, hinged, folding, and so on), a rich color palette (more than 400 shades) and guaranteed long term services. To the general range, this manufacturer has also added wood-aluminum windows, which are gaining more and more popularity in our country.

These manufacturers have the most positive feedback about aluminum windows and are the guarantors of quality.

Caring for aluminum windows

It is important to know how to properly care for aluminum window structures in order to maximize their service life. To do this, it is enough to follow a number of simple rules.

• Aluminum products should not come into contact with other materials such as cement, stone, brick, wood or concrete, this is necessary to prevent corrosion in conditions high humidity. In order to protect the structure, it is recommended that materials that are in the contact zone be treated with insulating compounds, for example, bitumen-based, and wooden details just saturate with varnish. Of course, modern manufacturers additionally protect their products, so you should not worry about the appearance of corrosion, but just in case, you can take care of all possible options.
• The main rule when caring for a profile is to keep it clean. To do this, it is enough to regularly remove dirt and dust with cleaning products. Optimally, when the preparations are designed specifically for this metal, this will not only clean the window, but also extend its life.

• As a rule, various silicone-based solutions are used. They are applied to the surface with soft tissues or a sponge, then washed warm water and the profile is wiped dry with a napkin. If this option seems too expensive and troublesome, then you can simply use a soap solution.
• Do not use abrasives or solvents. But to correct various scratches today there are special formulations based on aluminum resins.
• To keep the seals in working order, you should use products containing silicone oil to wipe them. They help remove dirt and restore the elasticity of synthetic rubber (of which the seal is most often made), in addition, it is an additional protection against moisture penetration.
• Also, in the absence of this agent, it is allowed to use a soapy solution, only after cleaning it is advisable to wipe all the elements with a dry cloth and additionally treat with talcum powder.
• The window mechanism is perhaps its main functional part and it also requires maintenance, but, like all other parts, it is quite simple. Twice a year, the fittings are cleaned of dirt, while it is advisable not to use products based on resins or acids, and cleaning solutions should not contain solid particles that can damage the protective coating. After all parts are cleaned, they are simply lubricated with machine oil (mineral based).

These simple rules will help extend the operational life of windows, as well as maintain their attractiveness and functionality for a long time.

Properly selected and professionally installed aluminum structures have a stylish appearance, are distinguished by reliability and durability, practicality and ease of operation. Such windows are now popular with private consumers, owners of city apartments and country cottages. They are ordered for the arrangement of their facilities by the owners of large retail and entertainment complexes, restaurants and business centers. Professional architects and designers value aluminum translucent systems for a wide range of structural and decorative solutions.

The main advantages of aluminum windows

• resistance to difficult climatic conditions, to significant differences temperature regime and humidity.
• Ease. The design of aluminum windows is lightweight and does not create an additional load on the basic elements of buildings and structures. Therefore, their installation requires minimal preparation.
• A wide range of models in terms of thickness, type of opening, dimensions, energy saving indicators, price category and colors.
• Compliance with the most stringent environmental and fire safety standards.
• High level of tightness.
• Modern appearance. In addition, there are special technologies for finishing the surfaces of frames, as a result of which it is possible to give them a different structure and use different types color combinations.

Selection of designs according to the level of energy saving

Modern types of aluminum windows are produced taking into account the purpose of the premises, the basic requirements for their performance properties. For their manufacture, different types of profiles are used, which have the necessary insulating and technical specifications. progressive technologies production and combination different materials make it possible at present to produce structures of the required dimensions and designs, taking into account the initial parameters of the object and the individual preferences of consumers.

Aluminum profile windows are:

1. "Warm".

They are equipped with special heat-resistant inserts made of high-strength materials: nylon, capron, propylene, ethylene and other types of insulators. Their composition, density and other properties are selected for a certain type of structure, taking into account the requirements of the Customer and the operating conditions of the premises. Modern translucent aluminum systems can be equipped with two- or three-chamber double-glazed windows, which reduce the level of heat loss. Such windows are in demand when equipping residential facilities, office centers, banks, restaurants, beauty salons and other operated facilities.

2. "Cold".

Such aluminum glazing is characterized by low weight, high strength, long service life and quite affordable price. For the arrangement of these models, as a rule, single-chamber double-glazed windows, a hollow, lightweight profile without thermal inserts are used. When installed on balconies and loggias, sandwich panels or plastic opaque elements are used instead of glass.

The choice of an aluminum profile is made after studying the features of the object, the personal wishes of the client, the requirements for energy saving and the aesthetic characteristics of the structure. Professional specialists help to make the necessary calculations at the preliminary design stage, to select the optimal control systems and functional components.

Additional options

When selecting the design of windows, much attention is paid to the opening / closing system, which can be performed in the following versions:

• Swivel
• Folding
• Tilt and turn
• Sliding
• Combined, in which several opening / closing options are combined and deaf elements can be used.

It is also important to immediately determine the level of load on window structures during their operation. The type of fittings used will depend on these data, stop valves and basic mechanisms. Big square glazing, panoramic and stained-glass translucent systems must be equipped with components of increased reliability and durability.

Before choosing aluminum windows, you must also decide on their colors, which can be selected from a special catalog. Modern coloring of metal elements additionally protects them from negative impact damp environment and possible mechanical damage. Depending on the stylistic and architectural features of the object, you can order the decoration of aluminum surfaces under different kinds natural stone(marble, malachite, granite) or under the structure of natural wood. Color available window profile in any color according to the RAL range - from light beige to deep brown shades, which make up the perfect combination of exterior and interior decoration of an apartment or private house.