VEKA, Salamander or Aluplast? PVC Window Profiles Compared

Anyone buying PVC windows quickly comes across three names: VEKA, Salamander and Aluplast. All three are German and European system suppliers whose profiles are made into windows all over Europe – including in Poland. But how do the systems differ, and which one suits your project? We compare the most important profiles we use at Aristofenster.

What is a profile system?

The system supplier manufactures the PVC profiles – the frames and sashes with their chambers, seals and reinforcements. The window manufacturer cuts the profiles to size, welds them and fits steel reinforcements, hardware and glass. The quality of a window therefore depends on both: the profile system and the workmanship.

What matters with profiles

• Frame depth: 70, 76 or 82 mm. More depth leaves room for more chambers and thicker glass units.
• Chambers: five or six chambers reduce heat flow through the frame (Uf value).
• Sealing system: rebate seal (AD) or centre seal (MD). The additional centre seal improves thermal and acoustic insulation.
• Profile class: Class A profiles according to EN 12608 have the thickest outer walls – important for stability and for fixing the hardware.
• Glass thickness: the thicker the possible glass unit, the easier it is to use triple, acoustic or safety glass.

VEKA Softline 82 MD and 76 AD/MD

VEKA is one of the best-known system suppliers worldwide. The Softline 82 MD is a 6-chamber profile with a frame depth of 82 mm and three sealing levels. With triple glazing (Ug = 0.5 W/(m²K)), the reference window reaches Uw = 0.74 W/(m²K). The profiles meet Class A. The Softline 76 AD/MD is the slightly slimmer version with 5 chambers and down to Uw = 0.81 W/(m²K) – ideal for renovations.

Salamander bluEvolution 82 MD

Salamander’s bluEvolution 82 MD system also offers 6 chambers and 82 mm frame depth with a centre seal. According to the manufacturer, Uw values down to 0.73 W/(m²K), glass thicknesses up to 52 mm, sound insulation up to 46 dB and burglar resistance up to RC 2 are possible. It is also suitable for tilt-and-slide doors (PSK).

Aluplast IDEAL NEO 76 MD and IDEAL 4000

With IDEAL NEO 76 MD, Aluplast offers a 6-chamber system with a centre seal and 76 mm frame depth (down to Uw = 0.76 W/(m²K), glass up to 54 mm, up to 46 dB). The proven IDEAL 4000 with 70 mm frame depth is an economical solution that still reaches Uw values down to 0.8 W/(m²K) with suitable glazing.

Which profile is the right one?

All three manufacturers supply high-quality systems – there are no major differences in quality between them. Much more important is the right configuration for your home:

• New build or close to passive house standard: 82 mm systems with a centre seal (VEKA Softline 82 MD, Salamander bluEvolution 82 MD).
• Renovation with good value for money: 76 mm systems such as VEKA Softline 76 or Aluplast IDEAL NEO 76 MD.
• Tight budget, e.g. outbuildings: Aluplast IDEAL 4000 with 70 mm.

Whatever the profile, our windows come with Roto NX hardware as standard, and concealed hinges (Roto Designo) on request. The glazing is also decisive for insulation – read more in our article The window U-value explained.

You will find all systems with technical details on our page PVC windows.