Rollplast is a leader in the production of PVC, aluminum, and wooden windows, using high-tech automated lines, quality materials, and manufacturing according to European quality standards.
Specific architectural design or high energy efficiency, such as "passive house" standards, non-traditional colors, durability, or condensation avoidance - these factors are decisive in choosing a new window when we are considering whether it should be aluminum or vinyl. In all cases, it should not be forgotten that both the type of profile and the glazing unit play an equally important role.
Energy efficiency is a leading factor for many when choosing windows. PVC profiles have a much lower heat transfer coefficient than aluminum profiles. When combined with a properly selected glazing unit, PVC windows retain heat in the home during winter and keep it cool during summer, outperforming aluminum windows in both cases. In cold weather, there is a much lower chance of condensation forming, even in the presence of moisture indoors.
Aluminum windows with integrated modules for so-called thermal break and suitable glazing units can also achieve good energy efficiency. However, for those aiming for parameters close to the "passive house" standard, PVC windows are more suitable. It should not be underestimated that they provide the necessary insulation at a significantly more favorable price-to-quality ratio.
Rollplast offers several profile systems that achieve different values of the heat transfer coefficient:
70 BASIC / 70mm system, 5 chambers
Uf Heat transfer coefficient of the profile: 1.3 W/m2
76 AD / 76mm, 5-chamber system with 2 seals
Uf Heat transfer coefficient of the profile: 1.1 W/m2
88+ / 88mm, 7-chamber system, 3 seals - The best on the market.
Uf Heat transfer coefficient of the profile: 0.93 W/m2
Architectural design
Specific architectural features and the overall design of a building often require specific nuances in and around the openings of the structure. Aluminum windows are preferred in such cases. Their color variety is practically limitless.
Standard colors for PVC windows are around ten. White profiles, dark gray with an "anthracite" color, and some wood imitations such as dark oak, golden oak, and walnut are always in stock. Other possible colors are "basic" - traditional red, blue, yellow. Their production time is around 15 days.
The rich color palette of aluminum windows allows for striking design solutions: a perfect look can be achieved even with the most specific facade.
Maintenance
Both aluminum and vinyl windows are easy to maintain. Simply wipe them with a soft cloth and cool water, and possibly mild soap. In both cases, it is important to avoid using abrasive cleaning agents (with fine solid particles).
Durability
Windows and doors made of aluminum are not prone to warping and distortion. The risk of deformations, which can lead to various other defects such as difficulty in opening and closing, is minimal.
PVC windows, being made of plastic, are much more prone to deformation. They are greatly affected by temperature extremes - the linear expansion of the material makes the windows susceptible to warping, which can result in difficult opening and closing, drafts, and even glass breakage. Manufacturers reduce these risks by incorporating reinforcing components, known as reinforcement.
Rollplast PVC windows are always made with a 1.5 mm reinforcement, and for colored/film-coated profiles, it is 2 mm. However, aluminum windows initially do not have such a problem.
Large Glazings
Due to their inherent strength, aluminum windows allow for large-size glazings. These profiles are preferred for floor-to-ceiling windows, entire glass walls, skylights, and winter gardens.
Risk of Condensation
Moisture inside the interior can be a problem during cold months: water vapor tends to condense on cold surfaces. Vinyl windows with low-energy glass are unquestionably the leaders in dealing with this risk. Vinyl is initially a good insulator, and the special glazing helps reduce the risk of condensation.
However, in high humidity inside the interior - above 60% - it is advisable to seek solutions for ventilation and dehumidification. Otherwise, moisture can condense on walls and corners, creating an environment for mold growth.
Easy Installation
PVC windows are significantly easier to install than aluminum windows. This is due to the material, which is softer and more flexible than aluminum.
Aging PVC material ages much faster than aluminum. Vinyl windows can yellow, begin to accumulate dust, and over time, they are prone to deformation. That's why manufacturers usually provide a warranty of around 10 years. Their overall lifespan is typically 20-30 years. The more extreme the climatic conditions, the shorter the lifespan of vinyl.
Aluminum, on the other hand, does not change over the years and is practically everlasting. Combined with easy maintenance, this is a significant argument in its favor.
Sound Insulation When it comes to sound insulation in windows, the crucial factor is the double-glazed unit. It should be triple-pane, with different thicknesses for each glass panel. One of the most popular configurations is 4-6-4, where the outer two glass panels are 4 mm thick, and the inner one is 6 mm thick. To achieve the maximum effect from such a double-glazed unit, it is beneficial to have a wide profile, multi-chambered, and with additional sealing.
Undoubtedly, vinyl windows have the best achievements in this regard. PVC, by its nature, is an insulator, and in addition, the possibility to manufacture the corresponding wide, multi-chambered profile comes at a better price compared to aluminum.
Price The production of vinyl profiles requires less investment compared to aluminum. Hence, the final price of PVC windows is lower.
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