How to choose windows

How to choose windows? What materials should they be made of? What functions should they perform? What technological parameters of windows are the most important? 

 Knowing what features certain elements of window structures should have (for example, profiles, gaskets, hardware), you can choose the best windows for your home.

Attention to profiles 

In the Canadian market, several types of PVC profiles are popular. They differ in their shape, thickness and width. Narrow profiles have a width, as a rule, from 58 mm to 63 mm, wide - from 70 mm to 76 mm. The width of the profile affects the basic parameters of the entire window, first of all, the stiffness, as well as the indicators of thermal and acoustic insulation. In addition, a wide profile allows the installation of wider, and therefore more modern and functional windows. Also, they are use tilt turn windows.

Important - gaskets 

Sealers deserve special attention when choosing PVC windows. The main function of the seals is to protect the premises from moisture. Usually they are made of specially treated rubber (EPDM) or a mixture of rubber and PVC (TPE). The size of the seals, their thickness and shape, affect the important functional parameters of window structures - hydro, heat and acoustic insulation.

Two types of seals are traditionally used in window construction - a seal installed between the frame and the sash, as well as a seal between the PVC profile and the glazing. The third, additional sealant will significantly improve the technological parameters of the window construction with a double-glazed window. Such a sealant will reduce external noise and improve thermal insulation performance.

In addition, today heaters can be presented in various colors (black or white seals).

Functionally - glazing 

Different types of glass units can perform different functions. For example, sound-absorbing double-glazed windows, as the name implies, have good sound-proofing performance. This feature is achieved through the use of glasses of various thicknesses. At the same time, in order to obtain the desired effect, a double-glazed window should be a system of two or three glasses. Often colorless gas is pumped into the glass instead of air.

To eliminate the possible risk of injury from broken glass, so-called safety glasses can be used. When a window is broken, instead of sharp fragments, small pieces of glass with blunt edges are showered on the floor. There are also glasses that are resistant to mechanical damage, such as can prevent intruders from entering the house. Burglar-resistant windows, as a rule, are made of laminated glass or glass with the addition of various resins.

There are glasses that can reduce the overheating of rooms in the warm season. This function is achieved by coating the outer glass with a special “sunscreen” coating. Sometimes such  glasses are tinted  and may have shades of blue, gray, green or brown.

And, of course, we must not forget about the insulating qualities of the windows. Double-chamber double-glazed windows made of low-emission glass will significantly save on heating in winter.

When choosing various window components, remember their functions, pay increased attention to product quality. During negotiations with window company consultants, ask as many questions as possible to help expand your knowledge of  window structures  and their elements.