Tips for choosing a profile for 104 series windows

Introduction

The 104 series refers to a common type of Soviet-era panel apartment block found across Latvia and neighboring countries. When replacing windows in these apartments, selecting the right PVC profile affects thermal performance, sound insulation, and longevity. This guide provides practical tips for selecting a profile, suited glazing options, and installation points specific to 104-series buildings.

Key profile parameters

• Number of chambers: 3, 5 or more. A 5-chamber profile is typically recommended for 104-series flats to improve insulation.
• Reinforcement: quality galvanized or reinforced steel inside the profile ensures stiffness and reduces deformation.
• Frame depth: usually 60–70 mm. Deeper frames allow better glazing and insulation performance.
• Seals: at least two sealing contours; three-contour systems are preferable in colder exposures.

Glass units and profile pairing

• Double-glazed units (24–28 mm) are a budget option.
• Energy-efficient units (argon fill, low-e coatings) combined with a 5-chamber profile significantly reduce heat loss.
• For noise reduction, choose insulated units with different glass thicknesses and total widths of 36–44 mm.

104-series specifics (panel flats)

• Thin wall-to-window details: correct sealing and both vapor and water protection are essential.
• Window niche depth and sill arrangement: account for sill depth and ventilation gaps.
• Balcony and kitchen glazing often require profiles with higher load-bearing capacity.

Installation and adjacent works

• Professional installation: in panel houses, careful dismantling and removal of old frames are needed to avoid damage to slabs.
• Installation gap: recommended 10–20 mm, filled with foam and followed by external waterproofing.
• Drip edges and sills: choose sills with sufficient slope and tight junctions.

Recommendations by need

• Budget: 5-chamber profile, standard double glazing, basic reinforcement.
• Thermal performance: 6-chamber systems, energy-saving glazing, quality seals.
• Soundproofing: wider glazing units (36–44 mm) and stiffer profiles.
• Longevity: reinforced profiles, good drainage, and correct installation.

Pre-order checklist

• Verify hardware compatibility with the chosen profile.
• Ask for certificates and technical passports for the profile.
• Measure openings after removing the old frames or use a professional measurer.

Common mistakes

• Choosing a profile only by price without checking chamber count or reinforcement.
• Incorrect installation gap and lack of external waterproofing.
• Ignoring differences between kitchen/balcony windows and living room windows.

FAQs

Which profile is best for a north-facing window?

A 5- or 6-chamber profile with energy-efficient glazing and three sealing contours is recommended.

Do 104-series apartments require special profiles?

No special series-specific profile is mandatory, but you must account for wall depth and niche dimensions — a wider frame often helps.

Is it safe to save on reinforcement?

Saving on reinforcement may lead to sash sagging and reduced functionality. It's not recommended.

Final checklist before purchase

• Opening measured by a professional
• Chamber count selected (recommended 5+)
• Energy-efficient glazing confirmed
• Reinforcement type verified
• Hardware and sill agreed
• Installation terms and guarantees clarified

The right profile is a combination of profile, glazing, hardware and professional installation — all elements matter.