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Myths about profiles – or what the sellers of plastic windows “sing about”

This WordPress post discusses the common myths associated with profiles used in the production of plastic windows. It reveals that these myths are largely peddled by sellers of plastic windows, and are usually exaggerated and untrue. Nevertheless, they tend to mislead consumers and can result in them paying too much for poor quality products. The post gives the reader a number of key points to look for when assessing profiles, such as the presence of quality certifications, high profile recyclability, and high level of sealing. Finally, it recommends consumers to do further research and speak with people who have used the profile in the past.

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When the first plastic windows appeared, there was no such thing as a camera. In today’s language, they were single-chamber – without any partitions in the PVC profile. After the lapse of time, they began to produce multi-chamber plastic windows, where the number of chambers improved the performance of the window in terms of heat saving. The fact is that additional partitions create air cavities, which are a barrier between room and outside temperatures..

How many cameras do you need in a plastic window profile

The most popular in recent years have become three-chamber profiles with two partitions in the frame profile. In theory, more cameras are better. For example, a four-chamber profile in terms of heat losses should outperform a three-chamber profile by at least 20%. However, in practice, everything is not as rosy as we would like. The effectiveness of additional chambers is not determined only by their number, but depends on many other factors: the width and configuration of the profile, the volume of the air chambers, the thickness of the plastic partitions, and the quality of PVC. Note that the percentage above is the efficiency of four chambers in relation to three. The overall contribution to heat conservation is negligible.

Which do you think is warmer: three shirts one unit thick or one three units thick? Of course, the first option is warmer. But…

It should be borne in mind that the plastic frame occupies up to 20% of the area of ​​the entire window, the rest is a glass unit, through which the main heat losses occur. No matter how much we insulate the profile, it still won’t turn into a heater, but it won’t become a refrigerator either. Of course, first of all, attention should be paid to the thermal efficiency of the glass unit, unless, of course, the entire wall opening is plugged with a multi-chamber profile. But that’s another story.

Any further increase in the number of chambers does not give a noticeable effect in heat saving without increasing the profile size. Let’s prioritize! Does it make sense to spend time and money looking for the most perfect profile in terms of thermal protection? Or start the fight against heat leakage in the house from double-glazed windows? If you are a fan of everything ideal and funds allow you, this is very good! Order the best double-glazed windows, a profile with the maximum number of cameras … But then you can be understood if only because you know what you are spending your money on!

Do you think it makes sense to increase the number of air chambers if it is easier and more efficient to fill the air cavity of the profile with insulation? Guess – which is warmer and cheaper: one or two chambers with mineral wool insulation or six air chambers? I also cannot give exact numbers. But one thing I can say without a doubt: the constant improvement of plastic windows regarding the number of cameras in the profile is a marketing move of competing companies. As long as people are “led” by numbers in advertisements, parting with money without regret, such tricks will be applied to other consumer goods for a long time..

Is there any benefit from additional cameras in the profile

The cost of the window will definitely increase as more PVC is used. But if advertising gimmicks take their toll on the buyer and the demand for multi-chamber profiles increases, then be prepared to pay a price incommensurate with the improvement in heat saving, which will increase by only a few percent. It’s another matter if we are talking about the number of partitions in terms of improving the strength of the profile system itself. In this case, the arguments in favor of the number of cameras are well founded..

Which profile would I prefer, you ask? If I were a fan of plastic windows, I would order myself a one-, two-chamber profile and ask the craftsmen to fill it with stone wool. That’s all! I am sure that such a sandwich panel would forever free me from the question: how many cameras are needed in the profile of a plastic window to reduce heat losses in the house. Let’s consider this a joke.

The magic of the TV show “Windows”

Obviously, manufacturers of profile structures spend more money on advertising than manufacturers of insulating glass. There is a massive attack on the consumer in order to distract him from the most important thing: on which the heat-saving effect of plastic windows largely depends. But most do not know about the existence of heat-reflecting glasses, the effectiveness of which in keeping heat in the house is many times higher than the most innovative profile..

Sellers present the consumer mainly with a brand, and in which basements the windows are made, they will not tell you. Don’t forget that high-quality PVC and cheap plastic are not the same thing! The cost of any fake is much lower than the original. This is precisely the main scourge of high-tech modernity. When evaluating the quality of a profile, turn away from products with a chemical smell and a matte surface.

I can say with confidence that the profile is the last category in assessing the quality of heat saving of plastic windows. But the reality, unfortunately, is such that a common man in the street more often turns his gaze towards advertising. Until we free ourselves from the magical influence of the press, the TV screen and the computer monitor, until we start thinking with our own head, our wallets will be mercilessly depleted disproportionately to the effect we expect..

As a furniture maker by profession, I decided to design windows for my country house myself (from wood, of course). What was my surprise when, having stumbled on the website of the building materials base on the Internet, I found out that one square meter of a single-chamber double-glazed window on order is five to six times cheaper than the entire profile structure made of plastic. So what do we pay for?!

Output

In my opinion, the best option for a plastic window in terms of price and thermal efficiency is a three-chamber profile with a single-chamber double-glazed window and selective glass. Have a good choice!

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Comments: 3
  1. Rhiannon

    What are some common myths or misconceptions that sellers of plastic windows often promote? Can you debunk these myths and provide accurate information about the benefits and drawbacks of plastic windows?

    Reply
    1. Wyatt O'Connor

      One common myth that sellers of plastic windows often promote is that they are not as durable as other materials like wood or aluminum. However, this is not true as modern plastic windows are made from high-quality PVC materials which are extremely durable and long-lasting.

      Another misconception is that plastic windows are not energy-efficient. In reality, plastic windows are actually very energy-efficient as they provide excellent insulation which can help reduce heating and cooling costs.

      Some sellers may also claim that plastic windows are not aesthetically pleasing, but with advancements in technology, plastic windows can now be designed to mimic the look of traditional materials like wood.

      In terms of drawbacks, one potential issue with plastic windows is that they can warp or fade over time if not properly maintained. Additionally, some people may have concerns about the environmental impact of PVC materials used in plastic windows.

      Overall, plastic windows offer numerous benefits such as durability, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. It is important for buyers to do thorough research and speak with reputable suppliers to ensure they are getting accurate information about the advantages and drawbacks of plastic windows.

      Reply
  2. Scarlett Foster

    Are the myths surrounding plastic window profiles true or just marketing tactics employed by sellers? I’d love to hear from anyone who has experience with plastic windows – are they as durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance as claimed? Do they really enhance insulation and provide noise reduction? Share your thoughts and debunk the myths or confirm the benefits of plastic windows!

    Reply
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