Let's try to compare two types of completely different windows and come to a certain conclusion. For the convenience of the analysis, we have selected qualitative characteristics by which we compared the windows with each other.
After analyzing each characteristic, we evaluated the compared window type with the ideal, in our understanding, window. We made an assessment on a 10-point scale.
What criteria did we use to compare
- The need for ventilation
- Thermal insulation indicators
- Diversity
- Aesthetics
The need for ventilation
No matter what material the windows are made of, in any case they must be ventilated. The ability to ventilate windows is an important characteristic by which it makes sense to compare windows. Let's try to determine which is better in this regard, plastic windows or wooden ones.
Ventilation of plastic windows
PVC, from which plastic windows are made, does not allow air to pass through, therefore, the room must be ventilated using micro-ventilation or special air inlets. Otherwise, in hot weather, a greenhouse effect is formed or the air in the room will stagnate. An important feature of plastic windows is the ability to install a ventilation valve, which provides the necessary air flow for a person, even when the window is closed.
Airing wooden windows
There is an assumption that wooden windows "breathe". Yes, wood is a natural material, and it breathes, but modern wooden windows (euro windows) have an important feature - they are impregnated with all sorts of substances that will not allow bugs to start in the wood, lose color, prevent wood from rotting under the influence of external factors. These substances prevent air from penetrating the wood. Modern wooden windows only let through 3 liters of oxygen per hour. For a normal existence, one person needs 85 liters of oxygen per hour.
For ventilation in wooden windows, micro-ventilation can be used and the sash can be folded back. Installation of passive ventilation valves on wooden windows is not possible.
Result
Both plastic and wooden windows must be ventilated equally. Wooden windows breathe, but that's not enough. Let us give an estimate in 8 points and 6 points... Plastic windows receive 8 points for the ability to install valves.
Operating cost and service life
An important indicator of the quality of windows is their service life. The service life of plastic and wooden windows directly reflects the savings from the purchase. For the calculation, we used the following conditions: the windows are installed correctly, the fittings and double-glazed windows are of ideal quality, about once every 5-10 years the windows are lubricated and adjusted. Only under this condition will they stand the time they are entitled to.
Operation of plastic windows
The average service life of plastic windows is approximately 45-50 years. Comparing the cost of plastic and wooden windows, you can deduce certain coefficients of the difference between these costs. Let's calculate the cost of operating plastic windows in one day, for which we take the coefficient of the cost of a plastic window equal to 1, and the conventional cost - 10,000 rubles per window. Find out the number of days: 47.5 years * 365 days = 17 350 days of operation. The operating cost per day will be 10,000 / 17,355 = 0.58 rubles per day (58 kopecks).
Operation of wooden windows
The situation is different with wooden windows, as the lifespan of wooden windows depends on the type of wood. Pine windows will last 55-60 years, larch windows 50 years, oak windows about 90. The cost of windows is also different, for example, the margin for pine windows is 1.4, larch windows 1.7, oak windows 2.1. The corresponding cost of daily operation will be: for a pine window - 14,000 / (57.5 * 365) = 0.67 rubles; for a larch window - 17,000 * (50 * 365) = 0.94 rubles; oak windows - 21,000 / (90 * 365) = 0.64 rubles. We obtain the average value of the cost of operating wooden windows: 0.75 rubles.
Comparison result
Comparison of plastic and wooden windows in terms of cost and service life showed that the cost of use and service life of wooden windows are 30% higher. If plastic windows are laminated, then wooden windows will become more expensive by about 20%. We will take this opportunity into account when calculating points.
Result
Comparing the cost of the windows, we will give an assessment of the plastic ones - 9 points, and wooden - 7 points... If we compare in terms of service life, then plastic get an estimate - 7 points and wooden 10 points.
Thermal insulation indicators
An equally important indicator of the quality of windows is their ability to keep warm. Unfortunately, there is no correct data on the thermal insulation of windows, since thermal insulation, first of all, depends on the glass unit and the quality of the fittings, and we compare only the material of which the frames are composed. But, we think, and so everyone understands that under equal conditions, wooden windows are warmer than plastic ones. Plastic windows receive 8 points, wooden - 10 points.
Impact susceptibility and reliability
Exposure to impact - the ability of windows to break. Fragility means restrictions on use, as well as the likelihood of breakage under the influence of various factors. Let's not forget that a window consists of a frame, a glass unit, and fittings. In this section, we are only comparing what can happen to a window frame.
Reliability of plastic windows
Over time, some manufacturers' window frames may turn yellow. The frame can shrink and expand due to temperature. If the window is not properly reinforced, then under the pressure of the walls, the window profile can bend into an arc. If scratches appear on the frame, they can be easily removed.
Reliability of wooden windows
Wooden windows can bring you more surprises. If the painting is light, the wooden window may darken from the sun. Also, if you accidentally scratch the frame, then you will not be able to repair the scratch, therefore, you must be very careful with wooden windows. Wooden windows can catch fire when exposed to fire.
Result
Plastic windows are less whimsical to use and get paid for it 8 points, wooden ones - 4 points.
Diversity
As you know, windows can be of any shape, any color, in a variety of configurations and variations. Let us compare the windows for this indicator and determine which ones are better.
Plastic windows
Plastic windows can be laminated, you can easily make them arched, can be painted in different colors from different sides. You can make a window of any shape and color from plastic, in any variation. The only unpleasant moment is the difficulty of making doors that are too small and too large.
Wooden windows
Wooden windows can also be arched, but there are significant restrictions on the shape of the arch. There are also restrictions on window priming. Unfortunately, you cannot prime one side with one color and the other with another. You can paint as you like, but primer - no. Also, in wooden windows there are such concepts as a false sash and an additional beam on the sash, which, in some cases, cannot be done without.
Size restrictions are about the same as in plastic windows. There is one important feature in wooden windows - they can be connected to an aluminum plate and get a window of a completely different quality. It is impossible to install a single-chamber double-glazed window into wooden windows.
Result
Plastic windows provide great opportunities for designers, as well as are more versatile, for which we rate them in 8 points, wooden windows receive 7 points, but only thanks to the possibility of making them wood-aluminum.
Aesthetics
The windows should be beautiful. This is a very important parameter of windows. Let's compare windows in terms of their aesthetic characteristics.
Plastic windows
Windows can be painted in any color, as well as laminated to any type of wood. But still, the plastic will be visible to the naked eye. The artificiality of the material does not always add beauty to the windows. In any case, such windows will be artificial.
Wooden windows
Aesthetically, wooden windows are second to none. I think you will agree, the most beautiful are wooden windows. Undoubtedly, and undoubtedly.
Result
Plastic windows are common and everyone has long been accustomed to them. They no longer surprise anyone, which cannot be said about wooden ones. If you have a wooden dacha or cottage, then plastic windows, even laminated ones, will look completely different from wooden ones. We evaluate the aesthetic indicators of plastic windows in 6 points, and wooden in 10 points.
The final result
We compared plastic windows with wooden ones and got different ratings for each of the parameters. For clarity of the obtained result, we have compiled a comparison table.
conclusions
The overall result of comparing plastic and wooden windows was absolutely the same. Of course, it is clear that for each person the compared characteristics of the windows have different degrees of importance. For someone, sound insulation is important, for someone the most important thing is that the windows are warm. We made the comparison based on our own preferences. For us, the result turned out to be the same, so we can come to the conclusion that the need to install plastic or wooden windows differs depending on each specific case. We could not come to an unambiguous conclusion which windows are better, plastic or wooden.
For residential buildings in the city, we would recommend plastic windows. For buildings of the old fund and buildings that are architectural monuments - plastic laminated or wooden windows. We recommend installing wooden windows for summer cottages and country cottages.
Which windows are better - wooden or plastic? This question is asked by every consumer who faces the choice of windows for an apartment or a private house. Since the windows are not installed for one year, such an investment must be carefully analyzed. The portal WINDOWS MEDIA will tell you about the advantages and disadvantages of window structures made of wood and PVC.
It is quite difficult to answer definitely the question of which windows are better - made of wood or PVC - and at this time it is mostly a matter of taste. Modern wooden and plastic windows, if equipped with the same double-glazed windows, fittings, and so on, can have very similar acoustic properties, energy efficiency and tightness. Therefore, experts do not give an unambiguous answer, but only help to dispel some doubts generated by ignorance of modern technologies. For example, the opinion that PVC windows are better is most often based on a complex of old wooden windows from the times of the USSR.
Everyone has different priorities when buying windows
When buying new windows, it is important to consider all the pros and cons of the products offered on the market, as well as to clearly define your own expectations. Each client has individual needs. One needs to buy cheap plastic windows for the country, which will not need additional care. Another expects aesthetics and a warm climate in the house from the windows, so he chooses wooden windows. Periodic maintenance is not the most important issue for him.
Looking for an answer - wooden or plastic windows, which is better? - each person has different priorities, and they should be the main clue in making the final purchase decision. In any case, the choice of windows should always be deliberate, so that after several years of operation, you will not regret the previously made decision.
Wooden and plastic windows: comparison
Domestic manufacturers offer a wide variety of wooden and plastic windows, a comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of which will help determine what exactly will be best for your house or apartment.
Advantages of PVC windows
First of all, plastic windows are attracted by a more favorable price scale. A variety of products from economy to premium segment allows you to choose the best option for each type of building and premises.
Currently, most of the plastic windows sold on the market are fairly durable and weather resistant. A wide range of colored windows, including tree-like ones, imitating the structure of a tree not only visually, but also by touch, opens up unlimited possibilities for decorating a home.
PVC windows do not require additional maintenance, painting and impregnation. After installation, they need almost only basic cleaning and lubrication of the fittings, which housewives do on average twice a year.
Disadvantages of PVC windows
PVC windows are made of plastic material, which creates several problems that are systematically voiced by most users after several years of operation. First of all, this is the fallout of condensation. "Plastic windows are crying" is one of the most common complaints during the heating season. Various window ventilation systems, which are becoming more and more perfect every year, can successfully combat this.
Another problem is the temperature difference, which Russia has to deal with at a certain period of the year. Indoor temperatures in winter differ significantly from those prevailing outside the building. In theory, PVC windows should withstand such stresses, but this is not always the case. The frame deforms due to temperature differences, and prolonged frosts can lead to increased fragility.
The white color of PVC profile after several years of operation does not always retain its original appearance, and the colors of laminated windows fade due to sunlight. Such windows cannot be repainted, so there is only one way out - to replace them with new ones.
The above phenomena are observed mainly in the case of inexpensive plastic windows, so think carefully before buying the cheapest option.
Benefits of wooden windows
Wooden windows have the main advantage: they are made of natural material, which allows them to merge with the atmosphere of the house and make the interior warmer. These windows have slightly stronger frames. Wooden windows are warmer than plastic ones, which are made of PVC profiles with steel reinforcement.
In the case of wooden structures, it is always possible to change their color, both from the interior and exterior side, which is a big plus during cosmetic or major repairs. Proper maintenance will allow you to enjoy their beauty even longer. By processing with a special agent on the outside, a wooden window profile can serve for a longer time. Thanks to such prevention twice a year, you can significantly extend the service life of windows, and increase the frequency of their painting.
Disadvantages of wooden windows
The disadvantage of wooden windows is the need to periodically (on average once every 5-7 years) renew their surface. Varnishes and paints that cover modern wooden windows are vapor-permeable, they do not flake or crack, so the frames do not need to be scraped before renovation. It is enough to clean the rough layer with sandpaper or cover it with a special painting agent and you can already apply a new layer of paint.
As for the myth that wood breathes, after all the processing steps, wooden windows are actually not particularly breathable. Their frames are impregnated with various chemicals to make the timber profile more durable and weather-resistant. For the sake of fairness, it should be said that the old wooden windows, painted with oil paint, could not really "breathe". Manufacturers say that wood windows breathe, rather in the context of paintwork, which allows water vapor to pass through, which is absorbed to some extent by the wood frame, and gives off moisture, so that the paintwork does not peel off.
Not all types of wood are ideal for the Russian climate. Mahogany, larch and oak windows work best. When betting on pine windows, you should expect the risk of resin leakage or damage to the frame due to moisture, and they require especially careful maintenance.
When buying wooden windows, it is very important to remember about the available variety of materials from which they are made in order to make the right choice. It is also worth considering that higher quality wood is more expensive.
When starting a conversation about which windows to install, it is important to understand what we expect in the end result, depending on the functional purpose of the systems, our budgetary constraints and aesthetic preferences.
In the last 20 years, we have seen a trend when people began to massively abandon wooden windows, replacing them with plastic ones. Less than 10 years later, the tree regains its lost positions, but with a slightly different interpretation.
The main dilemma facing buyers is wooden or plastic windows, which is better. It is unlikely that a self-respecting specialist will undertake to answer unequivocally to the question posed, but it is perhaps worthwhile to outline the main advantages and disadvantages of each of the options.
So, today there are 3 types of windows:
- made of solid wood;
- from laminated veneer lumber;
- metal-plastic.
Having understood the advantages and disadvantages of each of the options, we will be able to make our choice based on individual capabilities and needs.
What you need to know about wooden windows
Solid wood
The main material for such systems are: pine, ash, beech, oak, maple, hornbeam. These are most often hard tree species that are less susceptible to mechanical damage. If we order such a window for ourselves, and do not buy a ready-made one, we will have to wait for some time, since each frame element will be cut on sawing machines and processed separately.
Solid wood window
In order for the window to come out of high quality and serve the due date, it must be treated several times with special impregnations that prevent rotting, fungal infection, and insect damage. After that, staining, priming and varnishing just begin. Naturally, such windows will cost a pretty penny and take a lot of time.
Glued laminated timber
Windows made of laminated veneer lumber are essentially no different from their counterparts from the array. Beams are thinly cut, glued strips (lamellas) obtained by cutting raw materials. The material differs in the number of lamellas per unit: three and five, which determines its thickness.
Glued laminated timber window
The time required for the manufacture of such frames is slightly less and the cost will be more affordable.
If we talk about the quality characteristics of wooden windows, then you should pay attention to their advantages and disadvantages.
Benefits of wood:
- the tree is an environmentally friendly product, safe for allergy sufferers and asthmatics;
- durable and durable;
- has a high rate of noise and thermal insulation;
- provides natural air circulation;
- maintains a constant temperature regime;
- provides a normal level of humidity in the room;
- it's just beautiful.
Disadvantages of wood:
- change in size at different times of the year;
- high price;
- labor intensity of manufacturing;
- duration of production;
- flammability of the material;
- difficulty in leaving (compared to plastic windows, but more on that later).
So, wooden windows, whichever option we choose, solid wood or glued laminated timber, is beautiful, practical, and environmentally friendly. The main thing is to decide on the type of wood and order the production of a good carpenter who will do his job with high quality.
Plastic windows
Plastic windows are also known to us as PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This is a relatively new material used for the production of plastic structures and stretch ceilings. Today, PVC technology has strict quality standards and sanitary and hygienic standards that control and prohibit the presence of heavy metals in the alloy, thus protecting consumers from toxic and chemical fumes that are harmful to health.
Plastic window
Since the 80s of the last century, a ban was introduced on the use of lead and zinc in the manufacture of polymer profiles; they were replaced by less toxic chlorine, the vapors of which begin to evolve at temperatures of + 270 ° C and above.
Advantages:
- durability;
- complete sealing of the room;
- ease of construction;
- no form restrictions;
- ease of care;
- complete noise and sound insulation;
- the ability to install the upper swivel mechanism;
- protection against the penetration of insects into the room.
Disadvantages:
- the possibility of the appearance and reproduction of mold;
- lack of natural air circulation;
- the formation of condensation due to violation of convection;
- inability to correct mechanical damage.
What's the bottom line? Plastic windows are a modern version of their wooden counterpart. They are easy to operate, quick to manufacture and fit all sizes and design features. They can be protected from children, anti-burglar system, do not burn and do not change their size depending on weather conditions.
Safe windows
When choosing which windows are better, wooden or plastic, the manufacturer's feedback on the safety of the system is of no less importance to consumers.
Safe windows
We have already figured out the material from which windows come, now it remains to understand what safe windows are. When choosing safe options, it is important to carefully choose not only the material for the manufacture of the window block, but also pay attention to the glass unit and fittings.
A double-glazed unit is not a set of glasses in a frame, it is a sealed space filled with gas, which performs the function of heat and sound insulation, prevents heat from escaping to the street, which is especially important during the heating season.
Choosing what will be the main material of the window, wood or plastic, you can choose a combined option, when a double-glazed window is inserted into a wooden frame, in this case both the disadvantages and advantages of the systems merge together. We get an environmentally friendly product, maintain natural ventilation in the room, protect ourselves from the sounds of the street and reduce heat loss during the heating season.
Tsugunov Anton Valerievich
Reading time: 5 minutes
The demand for the installation of plastic windows, which were recently at the peak of popularity, began to subside. Wood structures became their competitors. Moreover, both types of products have their own strengths and weaknesses. We propose to conduct a detailed comparative analysis and find out which windows are better to install: plastic or all the same wooden.
Ability to keep warm
The first step in choosing new windows is how well they are able to maintain the temperature in the room.
The lower the thermal conductivity of a material, the less heat it gives off to the environment.
The thermal conductivity coefficient of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is used for the manufacture of plastic windows, ranges from 0.15–0.2 W / m · K. The thermal conductivity of a wooden structure depends on the type of wood: for pine and oak it is 0.15 W / mK, for larch it is 0.13 W / mK. Making frames of wooden euro-windows from glued beams, in which this coefficient is equal to 0.1 W / m · K, has become a daily practice.
Conclusion: wooden window structures retain heat in the room more efficiently than plastic ones.
Which windows breathe better
The cracks in the previous generations of windows brought a lot of inconvenience, but on the other hand, there were no problems with the flow of fresh air. The tightness of modern structures with double-glazed windows seriously impedes air exchange, and, as a result, the humidity in the premises increases, the oxygen content decreases.
Where plastic windows are installed, regular ventilation is necessary, since polyvinyl chloride does not allow air to pass through. But there is no reason to hope that the current wooden structures will save the situation. The amount of oxygen that overcomes the thickness of the wood is negligible compared to human needs. In addition, the wooden frames of the euro windows are impregnated with a variety of protective compounds, varnished, which becomes another obstacle for the air.
Conclusion: from the point of view of air permeability, the properties of plastic and modern wooden euro-windows are the same, their use requires frequent ventilation.
Note: the way out will be the installation of ventilation valves that provide fresh air when the doors are closed. There are several options for such devices. The air-conducting valve can even be installed in the place of the window handle, where it will cope with both functions.
Environmental Safety
Polyvinyl chloride, which serves as a material for window profiles, is chemically inert under normal conditions. What can not always be said about stabilizers, modifiers, pigments, and other additives to the PVC profile. But work in this direction is ongoing. For example, lead salts previously used as a stabilizer have given way to harmless zinc and calcium compounds.
Speaking about the environmental friendliness of wooden windows, do not forget that wood is treated with numerous impregnations: from insects and mold, unwanted effects of moisture and ultraviolet rays. All such compounds are of chemical origin.
Conclusion: to date, both types of windows, produced in strict compliance with the technology, the content of harmful substances does not exceed the permissible standards.
Aesthetic requirements
Windows should be attractive, harmoniously fit into the interior and facade of the building. Structures of any configuration are made of PVC, including arched ones. The only limitation is the size: too small, as well as very large sashes, are difficult to manufacture. The plastic is given any color, laminated to the selected texture, the desired type of wood. Of course, imitation will be visible to the naked eye, therefore, for thin aesthetes, plastic is an unacceptable option.
There are no complaints about the appearance of wooden structures. Natural material looks good in any case: wood windows are installed in country cottages, they are organic in the architecture of old city buildings, they have found a place in the interior of modern apartments.
On a note. The color is usually determined by the type of wood. But in some cases, a special primer is used to create the desired shade. With its help, an inexpensive pine product is visually transformed into oak, ash and even rosewood. Another option is to cover the frame with decorative veneer made of fine wood.
Wooden windows are also given the shape of an arch, but here the variety is limited by the size of the bending radius.
Conclusion: in terms of aesthetics, plastic window structures are not competitors of wood, although they provide designers with an endless field for creativity. But in any performance they cannot achieve the natural sophistication of natural material.
Reliability
The PVC frame expands at least slightly under the influence of high temperatures. As a result, a poorly reinforced window profile can deform. Chances are good that a low-grade frame will turn yellow over time.
Today's wooden windows, unlike previous generations, do not unstick, do not dry out, but they are not without drawbacks. For example, light wood frames gradually darken under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. Rain, hail, sun, frost eventually leave merciless marks on them. Even with all kinds of impregnations, they cannot withstand fire.
On a note: window structures made of wood and aluminum have shown themselves well, at the same time possessing the advantages of wood and the ability of metal to resist the adverse effects of the environment.
Conclusion: in terms of strength and durability, wooden frames are somewhat inferior to plastic ones. PVC windows are shock-resistant, do not need painting or varnishing, and are impervious to moisture. But all this applies to profiles from high quality raw materials, made in compliance with technology.
Care features
Today's timber windows do not require the labor-intensive maintenance they used to do, but the frame coverings need to be updated from time to time. With plastic, things are simpler: it does not require special procedures, everything is limited to removing dust with a damp cloth.
Conclusion: plastic windows are easier to care for and maintain than wooden ones.
Terms of operation
According to various reviews, the time of use of plastic windows ranges from 20-30 to 45-50 years and depends on the properties of the thermoplastic polymer (compound) used in the production of profiles and operating conditions. Some German companies have specially developed technologies for the production of PVC profiles in relation to the Russian climate, which is characterized by frequent and extreme temperature changes.
The lifespan of wooden windows exceeds that of plastic windows. But this is possible only in the case of high-quality performance, with special compounds that increase resistance to external influences. Also, durability depends on the type of wood. Larch frames will last 50 years, pine frames - 55-60 years, oak frames - at least 90 years.
Conclusion: wooden windows are more durable than plastic ones, while the service life of both types of structures is calculated in decades.
Issue price
The money for the installation of new windows will have to be spent tangible. Saving on the quality of fittings, the thickness of the double-glazed window, or ultimately result in coldness in the apartment, icing or condensation on the glass. But you can save on the material of the frame: plastic windows are cheaper than wooden ones.
Conclusion: in the long term, due to the longer service life of timber structures, the price partially pays off, but still the cost of their use is 30% higher.
When people plan to replace old windows with new ones, they often face the question of which windows are better: plastic or wooden. Today the market offers the following most common types of windows:
- Made of solid wood and laminated veneer lumber.
- Made of metal-plastic or aluminum profiles.
- Combined options.
Plastic and wooden windows are the main competitors, between which there is always a choice during the renovation.
However, the most common options that are constantly in competition with each other are plastic and wooden windows. This material can help with the choice.
A plastic window has recently become a fairly popular option for glazing offices and residential buildings. Due to the fact that the construction is comfortable and durable, it has confidently replaced the old woodwork. Thanks to the use of double-glazed windows, you can provide good thermal insulation and a sufficiently high noise reduction in your house or apartment.
Plastic frames are hygienic, aesthetic, easy to clean and do not need to be glued in the winter. In addition, modern fittings make it possible to open windows in different directions. Despite the fact that there are no vents in the models, such a design can easily provide a ventilation mode.
The quality of plastic windows will largely depend on the manufacturer, the quality of the fittings, the profile and the insulating glass units themselves. Half of the success can be guaranteed by the correct installation of window units in the openings. In the process of installing plastic structures, it is especially important to use heat and waterproofing tapes in order to be able to prevent glass fogging and the formation of fungus on the slopes and walls of the room.
If all the necessary rules of production and installation are observed, plastic windows can give an excellent result compared to the old Soviet ones. The variety of coatings makes it possible to produce designs of a wide variety of colors and shades - from white classics to imitation of valuable wood species. In addition, plastic does not need any tint at all throughout its entire service life.
Disadvantages of plastic window designs
However, despite such a large number of advantages, such designs also have disadvantages.
Complete tightness when closed. The window is not able to pass the cold in the winter, and in the summer it will protect from dust, however, without regular ventilation, the air in the room will stagnate. Can get stuffy and uncomfortable. Such a microclimate will primarily affect indoor plants: the leaves will dry out, lose their strength and color.
It makes no sense to say that people who are constantly in a room with plastic windows will also suffer from a lack of moisture. In such a case, a humidifier can save the situation, but only partially.
The window is not able to pass the cold in the winter, and in the summer it will protect from dust, however, without regular ventilation, the air in the room will stagnate.
The second obvious drawback is the artificial origin of the window material. Modern technologies and materials are trying to create plastic that is completely harmless to humans, but its artificial origin remains the same. When structures are heated by the sun's rays, a certain amount of chemicals will be released into the air, therefore, one can only guess how they affect human health.
The third problem of such plastic structures is that it is impossible to eliminate mechanical damage in them. In other words, plastic cannot be repaired in any way. If the glass unit cannot be replaced, traces of impacts or accidental scratches on the frames will remain until the next window replacement. Such damage can be especially noticeable on plain, light-colored surfaces.
The main advantages of timber structures
People who prefer using natural materials should opt for wood structures. The wood that is used in decoration and construction works has remained unsurpassed for many centuries. It can be in harmony with brick, stone, it can look great with absolutely any finish, both natural and artificial materials.
Today, the construction market offers Russian consumers two of the most common types of wooden windows: eurowindows and joinery.
Carpentry is much simpler and cheaper than euro windows. These are the same wooden windows that have been installed in homes before, but they are more sophisticated. The mullion structure makes it possible to easily open and close the sashes of windows and vents - each independently of the others. Reliable fittings allow you to move away from inconvenient wraps and latches, and the sealing contour can save the owners of houses and apartments from the need to glue the windows every autumn.
The relatively large distance between the flaps is able to provide an air pocket, thanks to which additional heat and noise insulation can be achieved.
The tree breathes naturally and will allow air to pass through even when the doors are closed. At the same time, the humidity in the room will remain at a comfortable level for both pets and plants, and for humans.
The process of installing woodwork is much easier than plastic structures, despite the fact that it requires adherence to some specific technologies.
The most common disadvantages of wooden window structures
The disadvantages of such windows may include the fact that they do not have the ability to fix the sash in the desired position. This can be especially noticeable when there is a strong wind outside and the room needs ventilation. The vents will clap against each other, and the glass can break with such blows.
Carpentry is most often made and solid wood. This is good because the material is completely environmentally friendly, but it should be understood that the quality of its drying is quite important. If the wood is poorly dried, there is a possibility that it can crack or change its geometry already in the product. This can easily lead to cracks and problems with closing and opening the flaps.
It is quite easy to wash the woodwork, but this process is very long. You will need to pay due attention to all glasses from all sides. In a one-section hall, you will need to wash two sashes, each on two sides. A fairly large amount of dust will inevitably accumulate in the space between the flaps, therefore, the internal compartments will also need to be cleaned.
Advantages of wooden euro windows
Wooden euro-windows are devoid of such disadvantages. Despite the fact that this type of windows appeared in Russia quite recently, it quickly gained consumer acceptance. This is due to the fact that wooden euro-windows combine natural materials, reliable double-glazed windows and modern fittings of a sufficiently high quality.
Great importance in the manufacture of wooden euro-windows should be given to the quality of wood. Frames are most often made of laminated veneer lumber, which can provide high strength and dimensional stability of finished products. Products from a bar will not dry out, crack, they will not lead when humidity and temperatures change. Double-glazed windows for such windows are made in the same way as for ordinary ones.
The window can be easily fixed securely in ventilation mode or opened completely. Thus, it will be possible to provide the required air flow.
The choice between double (single-chamber) or triple (two-chamber) must be made based on the climate and the room in which it is planned to install them. The fittings of euro windows made of wood will allow the frames to be opened in two directions, therefore, there is no need to install vents in the structure. The window can be easily fixed securely in ventilation mode or opened completely. Thus, it will be possible to provide the required air flow.
In a closed room with such windows it should not be stuffy either. Air is able to freely penetrate in both directions through the natural pores of the wood.
The variety of colors and shades makes it possible both to make the euro windows monochromatic, and to apply a coating that will emphasize the texture of the wood. In case consumers cannot afford windows that are made from expensive types of wood, decorative coatings can help imitate it.
Impregnation with special substances with fire retardants makes it possible to significantly increase the fire resistance of a structure made of naturally combustible material.
Unlike plastic windows, these windows can be repaired. Wood putties can help mask small chips or dents, while a hard lacquer coating will protect against new damage.
The main disadvantages of wooden euro-windows
The main disadvantage of such wooden structures is that they need to regularly renew the coating.
It is necessary to carry out such work approximately every 5 years. However, it is worth knowing that manufacturers of modern paints and varnishes are improving their products every year, giving the coating greater durability and wear resistance. The main thing is the choice of good quality materials.
Wooden or plastic windows have their own disadvantages and advantages. When choosing new window structures, it is necessary to study both the good and the bad, and then decide which is more important. Wooden euro windows are reliable, prestigious and beautiful, in addition, they cost much more than all other structures. The comparison suggests that plastic comes next, followed by woodwork.