They gave advice and talked about the criteria by which it is worth choosing plastic windows.


1. How to choose windows for an apartment: design 

Plastic windows are popular due to their durability, energy efficiency, low maintenance requirements. The design includes several key components that together create a functional window system. 


Frame

The base provides structural support. Usually made of uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride), a durable, weather-resistant material. The design includes several chambers that provide insulation and prevent heat loss. The frame is also designed to accommodate hardware components: hinges, locks, handles.


Glazing

Modern double-glazed windows often have double or triple glazing, which consists of two or three layers of glass separated by an insulating layer of air or gas. Helps improve energy efficiency by reducing heat and noise transmission. Glazing can also be coated with low emissivity (Low-E) coatings to increase energy efficiency by reflecting heat back into the room.


Seals

The design does not allow the penetration of air, water and noise. Usually two types: seals and gaskets. The sealant is applied to the sash (moving part), frame for tightness when the window is closed. Gaskets are needed for sealing, preventing water penetration, improving insulation.


accessories

Hardware components include hinges, locks, handles, and other mechanisms that allow the window to open, close, and securely lock. The design of these components matters for the functionality, security, ease of use of the window. 


Ventilation

Ventilation circulates fresh air and helps regulate the quality of the climate in your home. Can be designed with various ventilation options: tilt-and-turn or pop-up windows .


Aesthetics

There are different styles, colors, finishes to complement different architectural styles. The design may include decorative elements (lattices or windows) that add visual interest.


Safety

Can be designed with safety features such as tempered or laminated glass that is more resistant to breakage, or escape options that provide an emergency exit in the event of a fire.


2. Which window is better to choose: width and thickness

Which window is better to choose: width and thickness

Profile thickness: stability, strength

This is a decisive factor that determines the stability, strength of the window. A thicker profile usually indicates a stronger, more durable window frame that is less likely to warp, bend, or warp over time.

Provides the best insulating, soundproofing properties, since it uses several insulating chambers. These chambers create a barrier that helps prevent heat transfer and reduces noise intrusion.

Profile width: aesthetics, design

Refers to the horizontal dimension of the window frame. Can greatly affect the appearance of the window, as it is visible from both inside and outside the building.

A wider profile can provide a traditional or classic look, while a narrower profile can give a modern look. The choice depends on the architectural style and design preferences of the building.. Aside from aesthetics, profile width can also affect the amount of natural light that enters a room. 

Choosing the right profile thickness and width

The choice of the appropriate profile thickness and width depends on various factors: climate, location, building design, energy efficiency requirements. In regions with extreme weather conditions (strong wind loads, heavy rains or sudden temperature changes), a thicker profile may be recommended.to ensure stability, durability, energy efficiency.

For modern design buildings, narrower profiles are preferred for a sleek, minimalist appearance, wider profiles may be appropriate for traditional or classic style homes.


3. Which plastic windows are better: air chambers

Airboxes are hollow spaces or compartments in a frame to enhance its heat and sound insulation properties. These chambers are usually created by incorporating multiple walls or layers of uPVC material with spaces in between, effectively creating separate air-trapping compartments. The air acts as a barrier to help reduce heat transfer, blocking outside noise from entering the interior.

The Importance of Air Chambers 

The number of air chambers can significantly affect its performance. Here are some key aspects to consider:

  • Thermal Insulation – Air chambers are vital to improving thermal insulation. The trapped air acts as an effective thermal barrier, reducing heat transfer. This will help maintain a comfortable temperature in the home, reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling, resulting in energy savings.
  • Soundproofing – Trapped air helps block outside noise from entering the interior, creating a quieter, more peaceful living environment, especially in noisy urban areas or near busy roads.
  • Structural stability - The number of air chambers can affect its structural stability. Several chambers provide additional reinforcement of the window frame, making it more durable, resistant to external influences: wind loads or impacts. 
  • Condensation Reduction - Helps to reduce the formation of condensation. Acts as a barrier, minimizing temperature differences between window surfaces , reducing the formation of condensation that, over time, leads to mold growth and damage.

4. Plastic windows: fittings

window fittings

These can be handles, hinges, locks, latches and seals. Window handles, locks are made of plastic or metal, they come in a variety of styles, finishes to match the window frame, complement the overall design. The hinges are used to fasten the sash to the frame, allowing you to smoothly open and close. Insulation is used to seal gaps between the window sash and frame, helping to increase energy efficiency and reduce drafts.

window grids

Window screens help keep insects, debris,  dust out while allowing fresh air to enter. Window screens are usually made of aluminum or fiberglass mesh. Some screens slide out to hide them when not in use, while others lock into place.

window film

Self-adhesive material that can be applied to glass for various purposes. It can provide privacy, block UV rays, reduce glare, improve energy efficiency. Window film comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and opacity, allowing you to customize the look of your windows, achieve privacy, and comfort.


5. How to choose plastic windows

Here are some tips on how to choose double-glazed windows for your home.

  • Material Quality - Look for high quality polyvinyl chloride (PVC) which is known for its resistance to moisture, rot, and pests. Make sure the insulating glass units are made by reputable companies that use high quality PVC and comply with industry standards and regulations.
  • Energy efficiency - affects the cost of heating, cooling the house. Energy efficient features to consider include double or triple glazing, low emissivity (Low-E) glass covers, insulated frames to minimize heat transfer, reduce energy consumption.
  • Style, design - consider the overall aesthetics of the house, choose windows that complement its design. Common styles include single-leaf, double-leaf, casement, sliding, hinged.
  • Glass options - affect their energy efficiency, sound insulation, safety. Look for double or triple glazing, which provide better insulation and noise reduction compared to single glazing.  
  • Characteristics  - consider performance characteristics. Look for with comfortable handles, locks, reliable and functional fittings. 
  • Guarantee, installation - provides peace of mind, investment protection. A reliable guarantee should cover window frames, glass, fittings for a reasonable period of time. Make sure it is installed by certified, experienced installers to avoid potential problems in the future.
  • Budget - compare offers from different suppliers and take long-term energy cost savings into account when evaluating the total cost.