When choosing and buying PVC windows, the modern consumer first of all pays attention to the functional features and operational qualities - this is the level of heat and sound insulation, appearance. But the quality of the hardware for plastic windows is of least interest to the buyer, and, as practice calls for, - in vain.
Professionals involved in plastic window systems are sure that 50% of how the window will work depends entirely on the hardware. It depends on the hardware whether the window structure will be airtight, reliable and protected from breaking. It is known that components account for about 15% of the price of the whole window, which means that you need to know what is the best hardware for plastic windows, how to choose a reliable manufacturer and how not to buy what the manager is trying so hard to sell.
What is understood by accessories for PVC window systems?
Window fittings are a set of accessories that support the frame, make it possible to open or close the window. Also, with the help of fittings, a more snug fit of the frame to the profile is provided.
In general, fittings are various handles, sealing elements, locks, locks and much more. People far from everything that is connected with window solutions also include ventilation parts, mosquito nets, and sometimes window sills as accessories. Naturally, these parts are not fittings. However, when purchasing windows, you also need to pay attention to them.
Types of fittings for plastic windows
Depending on how the sash opens, there are several types of hardware. So, it is possible to distinguish rotary systems, as well as tilt-and-turn ones - such solutions are most often used together with windows and balcony doors, which can be opened by the usual hinged method or by folding. There are also parallel-sliding fittings - it is used only on sliding window-door structures.
Some are sure that there is a separate window hardware for windows made of wood, plastic or aluminum. In fact, this is not the case and it is not entirely correct to share components in this way.
PVC window handles
Distinguish a lot of options for these details. They vary in color and material. However, the first thing these components are divided among themselves according to functionality.
A standard window handle is the most common and affordable part. These components do not have any additional features. Such a handle can open the window frame only by the swing or tilt-and-turn method.
These simplest components for plastic windows consist of a wrapper, which is mounted on a plastic frame through a decorative overlay, under which fasteners are hidden - self-tapping screws, as well as from a handle.
These parts can be made of various materials and colors. The most affordable are handles made of plastic. Then come the aluminum ones. The most expensive products that are offered with luxury windows are made of brass, copper or wood.
There are special anti-burglary handles. In appearance, they are no different from ordinary ones, but they are structurally designed in such a way that they do not allow attackers to open the windows from the side of the street. Using a special mechanism, any hacking attempts are blocked.
Removable handles are purchased in cases where the family has small children. There are many cases where children fall out of windows. These accessories for plastic windows will help to avoid these tragic situations. Also, these solutions are relevant if the window will not open very often. This part has a simple design. First, a special outlet is fixed, and a handle is already inserted into it. The socket is on the frame all the time, but the handle should only be used when you need to open the window.
Window handles with a lock are also an actual solution for families with children. In order to open the frame completely, you first need to remove the handle lock - for this there is a keyhole on the case . To fold the sash, the key is not needed - here the handle simply rotates and then you need to pull it a little, as in any window.
Handles with intrinsically safe buttons are also anti-burglar accessories for plastic windows. To open a window equipped with such a system, you must first click on the button. These solutions seem convenient, because there is no key that can be lost. But on the other hand, it is unsafe - a child can easily click on an interesting button for him.
The curved handle is perfect for those windows that will only open outward. From ordinary it differs only in a higher level of comfort. In the process of opening the window, the edge of the handle will not touch the window frame.
The double-sided handle is recommended to be installed on balcony doors. This increases the ease of use - the part can be used both internally and externally. These models can also be with a lock or with a button.
Another highlight is the balcony hook - this part is installed on the door block from the side of the balcony, and an ordinary handle is installed inside.
Window Seals
These parts are also hardware components and they perform very important functions in the construction. It depends on them whether the window will be closed hermetically and whether there will be heat in the room. These products vary in materials.
Foam seals are used only with wooden windows. Foam itself is very fragile, and also absorbs moisture well. That is why in our climate, such a seal will last less than a year. These materials are produced in various thicknesses - from 2-3 mm to several centimeters.
Polyethylene seals, like foam, are used mainly with wooden windows. They are made in the form of self-adhesive products or without an adhesive layer. These seals are slightly better than foam - they do not absorb moisture, and also retain their shape much better. Such products will last much longer.
Brush sealing products are a special base, which is planted on the profile, as well as from the brush. Most often, most manufacturers use fabric materials as the basis. To make the fabric stiff and durable, it is covered with a polypropylene layer. A brush is a villi. In order to increase their moisture resistance, they are coated with silicone. Such details vary in color - black, white, gray and other colors are widely represented.
PVC seals are made of plastic. The quality of such a product is very low. In the summer, the material becomes soft. In winter, on the contrary, it becomes very fragile. These products do not differ in service life.
The most popular rubber seals. This is confirmed by managers, it is enough to visit any hardware store for plastic windows and doors. Among the advantages of rubber-based products are high strength and heat resistance. In addition, rubber seals are very elastic and flexible - due to this, any deformation is completely eliminated.
There are several types of rubber seals. Products made from silicone are the best in their class. They are made of environmentally friendly material, are not afraid of moisture, nor the impact of aggressive environments. Silicone sealant is available in white or gray. Thermoplastic products are significantly inferior to silicone. Products made of ethylene propylene have a long service life.
Window hinges
This hardware differs in the type of installation. All types of hinges are applicable for any type of window construction.
So, a waybill or a standard hinge is suitable for both wooden and metal and PVC windows. The product is two metal cards. Distinguish between detachable and one-piece hinges, swivel or swivel with the possibility of folding the structure for a plastic window. Often after installation, the loop closes with a decorative overlay.
The screw loop is screwed directly to the frame with special threaded pins. At the same time on one loop can be up to 6 pins. The more of them, the more reliable the design will be. Previously, such screw hinges were used exclusively with wooden window structures. Today they are also made for PVC window products.
The hidden loop is used for constructions of any type. But the hinges for wooden and plastic windows are fundamentally different. Among the advantages of these products is not only their hidden installation. These solutions have a long service life and allow you to open the frame at a larger angle. In addition, with these loops, an attacker has difficulty accessing the room through a window. And one more advantage - the draft does not get into these loops.
The anti-burglar loop is 100% safe. Included are special burglar-proof plates that prevent entry if the window is closed.
Locks
Locks are most often supplied complete with a handle. There are single and multi-locks. According to the method of closing, a multi-locking lock can be crossbar or without a crossbar.
Axle
This is a small constipation, in appearance resembling a fungus. This is one part of the locking mechanism. Under the action of the locking mechanism, the trunnions can rotate and cling to other parts. They contribute to a denser closure of the sash.
Strap
Those who have never professionally dealt with plastic windows do not know what kind of hardware for plastic windows is other than standard well-known elements. But in the kit there are many more various details.
The plank allows the sash to fit more tightly to the profile. Often, the bar can also provide additional protection against hacking. Most manufacturers often use only two slats per window, however, the more such parts, the better.
For those who do not know which hardware is best for plastic windows, there are reciprocal handkerchiefs that are responsible for breaking protection, as well as swing-out ones. In addition to the main tasks, the bar is also the fulcrum for the swing-leaf.
Corner switches
These elements drive the locking mechanism of the window system through an angle. Structurally, it is a set of plates of elastic steel grades that work all together. These parts can also be anti-burglary.
Scissors
These elements are used for swing-out structures. They are designed to lock the sash in the open position. In addition, scissors facilitate the operation of the locking mechanism.
Constipation
These components of window fittings are intended for opening, closing, and also folding the window sash. The mechanism is driven by the rotation of the handle, which drives a special lever. The entire locking system is already activated from this lever. Distinguish the main constipation, as well as additional and secondary.
Middle constipation can be found in the lower part of the window profile and in the side on the hinge side. Its main function is to press the frame to the profile. The part can be connected with tilt-and-turn locks, scissors and other mechanisms.
Locks are called additional constipation, and the main constipation is of various designs. So, they distinguish rotary-folding constipation, rotary or shtulpovye.
The best window fittings manufacturers
Inexperienced in choosing plastic windows, people often ask the same question on various forums and on social networks - what is the best hardware for plastic windows? Consulting managers praise what they sell, but very often buyers are faced with frankly low-quality components. Let's try to figure out which products are considered the best and which manufacturers can be trusted.
If you need high-quality hardware for plastic windows, reviews can report quality. For example, judging by the analysis of opinions, it is not recommended to buy a window with domestic or Turkish, or Chinese fittings.
Roto - products with true German quality
Products of this manufacturer meet all the necessary standards, and also have a high level of reliability and durability. In addition, Roto is the only company on the market who guarantees the quality of window components for 10 years. Products differ from existing analogues by the flat tongue of the locking mechanism.
This hardware has some advantages - during the closing process there is practically no need to exert any effort, and the force itself on the details of the locking mechanism is distributed over the entire surface.
All parts are made of high quality materials and differ simply by a huge service life without the need for adjustments.
Maco
Fittings "Mako" for plastic windows are made in Austria. The products of this brand also have the highest level of quality and are considered the best on the market. The company is known for producing hidden mechanisms for swing-out and swing-window constructions. In addition, the company's products significantly improve the appearance of the window structure. The catalogs of the company have elements that can be used for external opening.
In the assortment - burglar fittings "Mako" for plastic windows. It reliably protects against break-ins and penetration with additional trunnions that improve locking. Options with six protection elements are available.
GU
It is also a German manufacturer, which supplies the market with high-quality window fittings manufactured on high-precision equipment using the latest technologies.
GU hardware for plastic windows is a multifunctional solution for tilt-and-slide sliding, folding, tilt-and-slide and any other types of windows. The manufacturer for the entire product line provides a factory warranty of up to 10 years. It is a reliable choice for any windows with true German quality. All fittings are easy to operate and install.
Summary
The rating of accessories for plastic windows shows that German brands are in the first place. When managers try to sell a window with domestic fittings and promise high quality, you should not believe them - literally in six months such a window will need to be regulated. Do not trust consultants. Now it’s clear what the best fittings for plastic windows and ordinary customers no one will deceive.