Window Manufacturers Compared: Rehau vs KBE vs Veka
Introduction
Choosing plastic windows is a decision that will last for decades. One of the key factors affecting the quality, durability, and energy efficiency of windows is the choice of PVC profile. On the Ukrainian market, three German brands are the most popular: Rehau, KBE, and Veka.
In this article, we’ll compare these profiles in detail across key parameters to help you make an informed choice for your home or apartment. The profile selection tips will be especially useful for residents of Kyiv and the Kyiv region, where climate conditions demand quality thermal insulation.
General Brand Overview
Rehau
Rehau is a German corporation with over 70 years of history. It’s one of the world’s largest PVC profile manufacturers, with its own factories in Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, and other countries.
Key advantages of Rehau:
- High-quality PVC raw materials
- Excellent energy efficiency
- Wide range of profiles for different needs
- Durability (warranty up to 10 years)
Popular product lines:
- Rehau Euro-Design 60 — basic, budget-friendly option
- Rehau Brillant-Design 70 — optimal for most apartments
- Rehau Geneo 86 — premium segment with the best thermal insulation
KBE
KBE (Kunststoffwerke Berger Elster) is also a German manufacturer with over 40 years of experience, specializing in PVC profiles for windows and doors.
Key advantages of KBE:
- Optimal price-to-quality ratio
- Reliable construction
- Good thermal insulation
- Affordable price
Popular product lines:
- KBE 70 — versatile profile for most applications
- KBE 88 — energy-efficient option with 88 mm depth
- KBE Expert — professional series for complex projects
Veka
Veka is one of the world’s leading PVC profile manufacturers. Founded in Germany, the company has representatives in over 40 countries worldwide.
Key advantages of Veka:
- High structural strength
- Wide product range
- Modern design
- Excellent sound insulation
Popular product lines:
- Veka SoftLine 60 — basic profile
- Veka SoftLine 70 — improved thermal insulation
- Veka SoftLine 82 — premium with maximum performance
Technical Specifications: Comparison
Let’s compare the key parameters of the most popular models from each brand:
| Parameter | Rehau Brillant-Design 70 | KBE 70 | Veka SoftLine 70 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Profile depth | 70 mm | 70 mm | 70 mm |
| Number of chambers | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Outer wall thickness | 3 mm | 3 mm | 3 mm |
| U-value of profile | 1.3 W/(m²·K) | 1.4 W/(m²·K) | 1.3 W/(m²·K) |
| Sound insulation | up to 45 dB | up to 43 dB | up to 46 dB |
| Wind load resistance | up to 6000 Pa | up to 5000 Pa | up to 6000 Pa |
What do these parameters mean?
- Profile depth — the distance between the outer and inner walls. Greater depth means better thermal insulation.
- Number of chambers — cavities inside the profile that create an air gap. More chambers = better thermal and sound insulation.
- Outer wall thickness — affects strength and durability. Class A — 3 mm, Class B — 2.5 mm.
- U-value — a measure of thermal insulation. Lower values mean the profile retains heat better.
Price Range
The price of a PVC profile depends on the product line and manufacturer. Here’s an approximate price range per linear meter (standard white profile):
Budget segment (60 mm):
- Rehau Euro-Design 60: from 1,200 UAH/m
- KBE 60: from 1,100 UAH/m
- Veka SoftLine 60: from 1,150 UAH/m
Mid-range segment (70 mm):
- Rehau Brillant-Design 70: from 1,600 UAH/m
- KBE 70: from 1,450 UAH/m
- Veka SoftLine 70: from 1,550 UAH/m
Premium segment (80+ mm):
- Rehau Geneo 86: from 2,200 UAH/m
- KBE 88: from 2,000 UAH/m
- Veka SoftLine 82: from 2,100 UAH/m
Important: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the region, order volume, and profile color. Laminated profiles cost 15-30% more.
Which Profile to Choose?
Your profile selection depends on your priorities and budget:
Choose Rehau if:
- You need maximum energy efficiency
- You’re willing to pay for premium quality
- A wide range of additional options is important to you
Choose KBE if:
- You’re looking for the best price-to-quality ratio
- You need a reliable profile at a moderate price
- Budget is limited but quality matters
Choose Veka if:
- High structural strength is important
- You need excellent sound insulation
- You value modern design
Selection Tips
1. Assess your room’s needs
For a mid-floor apartment, a 5-chamber 70 mm profile is sufficient. For a private house or a top/bottom floor apartment, consider a 6-7 chamber profile 80+ mm wide.
2. Pay attention to the glass unit
The profile is only half the success. A double-glazed unit with a low-emissivity coating provides up to 70% of the entire structure’s thermal insulation.
3. Check certifications
Ask the seller for quality certificates on the profile. Original German profiles have corresponding markings and documentation.
4. Calculate the total budget
Don’t forget to account for installation costs, windowsills, flashing, and additional options (mosquito nets, blinds, etc.).
Expert tip: The best profile is one that’s properly installed. Even the most expensive profile will lose its properties with poor installation. Choose a company with experience and a warranty on their work.
Also consider additional services: window installation, window repair, mosquito net installation, and balcony services. UWS professionals will help you select the optimal profile and perform installation with a warranty in Kyiv.
Conclusion
All three brands — Rehau, KBE, and Veka — are reliable manufacturers with good reputations. The difference lies in price category and additional features.
Quick summary:
- Rehau — leader in energy efficiency and technology
- KBE — best price-to-quality ratio
- Veka — excellent strength and sound insulation
Regardless of your profile choice, trust installation to professionals. UWS works with all these brands and provides a warranty on completed work. Contact us for a free consultation and cost estimate for your windows in Kyiv. Our professionals will handle window installation, glass replacement, and door closer installation for any profile.
