How to find windows that combine the latest energy requirements with elegant design? What sets MB-79N apart from other aluminum systems and is it really worth investing in?
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Specifications and Design
- System Variants
- Practical Advantages
- Disadvantages and Limitations
- Comparison with Competition
- Applications and Opinions
- Summary and Evaluation
Introduction
The window and door market is dynamically evolving, responding to increasingly rigorous energy standards and changing architectural trends. MB-79N is a relatively new window and door system from Aluprof, introduced in 2021 as a response to the new Technical Conditions requirements (WT 2021).
The MB-79N system was designed as a successor to previously popular solutions (MB-70, MB-86), with the aim of combining high insulation parameters with an economical approach to production. As experts in high-quality fenestration, we decided to take a closer look at this system and assess whether it actually fulfills the manufacturer’s promises.
Specifications and Design
MB-79N is a three-chamber system with thermal breaks of a characteristic omega shape and width of 33.5-36 mm. The frame depth is 70 mm, while the sash depth is 79 mm for windows and 70 mm for doors. This difference in dimensions between the frame and window sash is one of the key structural elements affecting thermal parameters.
The system allows for the use of glazing packages with an impressive range of thicknesses – from 10.5 to 63 mm in windows and from 1.5 to 54 mm in doors and fixed windows. This provides great flexibility in selecting the appropriate glazing depending on project needs.
In terms of maximum dimensions, the system allows for the creation of structures with truly impressive dimensions:
- Tilt-and-turn windows can have a height of up to 2700 mm and a width of up to 1700 mm
- Doors can reach a height of up to 2800 mm and a width of up to 1400 mm
Aesthetically, MB-79N stands out with its slim profiles and minimalist design, which perfectly fits current architectural trends. The availability of a full RAL color palette (over 200 shades), the possibility of anodizing and wood-like coatings (e.g., ADECO) provides virtually unlimited possibilities for matching architectural concepts.
System Variants
One of the strongest aspects of MB-79N is its modularity and availability in various variants adapted to different needs and budgets:
Thermal Variants:
- MB-79N E (Economic): basic version with a single-component central gasket, ideal for projects with a limited budget where thermal parameters are not an absolute priority.
- MB-79N ST (Standard): version with enhanced insulation thanks to a two-component central gasket, a good compromise between price and performance.
- MB-79N SI (Super Insulation): the best version in terms of thermal insulation, equipped with additional insulating inserts and a two-component central gasket.
- MB-79N SI+: available for doors, a version with even better insulation parameters thanks to additional insulating inserts.
Structural Variants:
- Standard windows: fixed, side-hung, tilt, tilt-and-turn, tilt-and-slide
- MB-79N US: system with a hidden sash, where the sash frame is invisible from the outside, giving a very modern, minimalist effect
- MB-79N Casement: variant with outward-opening windows, popular especially in Scandinavian and Anglo-Saxon countries
This variety of variants makes the system extremely flexible and can be adapted to virtually any project – from economical implementations to the most demanding passive buildings.
Practical Advantages
Thermal Insulation
The most important advantage of MB-79N is undoubtedly its excellent thermal insulation. In the best configuration (SI variant with a glazing coefficient of Ug=0.5 W/(m²K)), the system can achieve a heat transfer coefficient for the entire window at the level of Uw=0.64 W/(m²K). The coefficient for the profile itself (Uf) can be as low as 0.83 W/(m²K).
These parameters not only meet the current requirements of the Technical Conditions (WT 2021), which specify a maximum Uw coefficient of 0.9 W/(m²K) for windows and 1.3 W/(m²K) for doors, but also provide a safety margin for the future when standards may become even more rigorous.
In practice, this means lower heating bills, elimination of thermal bridges and condensation, as well as higher comfort in rooms – without the “cold window” effect often felt with older systems.
Acoustic Insulation and Tightness
The system is also characterized by good acoustic insulation, achieving an Rw coefficient of up to 43 dB (depending on the glazing package used). In practice, this means effective dampening of external noise, which is particularly important in urban locations.
MB-79N can also boast excellent tightness parameters:
- Water tightness: class E1200 (1200 Pa)
- Air permeability: class 4 (highest)
- Wind load resistance: class C5/B5 (up to 2000 Pa)
Interestingly, the system has also passed hurricane tests compliant with American standards (ASTM, Florida Building Code TAS 201-94), which confirms its exceptional resistance even in extreme weather conditions.
Durability and Security
Aluminum as a construction material provides exceptional durability and resistance to weather conditions. Unlike PVC or wood, aluminum profiles do not deform under temperature influence, are resistant to corrosion, UV radiation, and practically require no maintenance.
The MB-79N system also offers the possibility of obtaining various anti-burglary classes (RC1-RC3) with appropriate hardware and glazing, which increases building security. Standard “Euro” grooves allow the use of hardware from various manufacturers, such as Winkhaus (e.g., AluPilot), Maco, or Roto.
Aesthetics and Functionality
The slim profiles and minimalist design of MB-79N perfectly fit current architectural trends. The system particularly well complements modern Scandinavian or industrial styles.
Options such as hidden hinges, rosette-free handles, or various surface finishes allow for the creation of a truly elegant effect. The hidden sash variant (MB-79N US) further enhances the minimalist character of the structure.
Disadvantages and Limitations
Price
The main limitation of the MB-79N system is its price. Like most aluminum solutions, it is significantly more expensive than PVC systems with similar thermal parameters. The approximate price for a reference window (1230×1480 mm) in the SI variant ranges from 2500-3000 PLN (depending on the glazing package and hardware), while a similar PVC window (e.g., Drutex Iglo Energy) may cost around 1500 PLN.
However, it should be remembered that investing in aluminum brings long-term benefits in the form of greater durability, aesthetics, and maintenance-free operation.
Weight and Installation
Aluminum windows are heavier than PVC, which requires a more solid supporting structure and precise installation. For large structures, cooperation with experienced installation teams is necessary, which may additionally increase the investment cost.
Improper installation can lead to problems with functionality and thermal parameters, so it is worth entrusting this work to specialists with experience in aluminum systems.
Technical Limitations
The maximum glazing package width (63 mm) is smaller than in some more advanced Aluprof systems, such as MB-86 (77 mm) or MB-104 Passive (84 mm). This may limit the possibility of using the thickest glazing packages in extreme applications, e.g., in passive construction.
Comparison with Competition
It is worth comparing MB-79N with other popular window systems available on the market:
Aluprof MB-86
MB-86 is a more advanced (and more expensive) Aluprof system, characterized by deeper profiles (77 mm) and the possibility of achieving better thermal parameters (Uw from 0.61 W/m²K). MB-79N can be seen as an economical alternative that retains most of the advantages of MB-86 at a lower price.
Reynaers CS 77
The Belgian manufacturer’s system offers slightly better thermal insulation (Uw=0.80 W/m²K), but has fewer glazing options and structural variants. Reynaers is often perceived as a more premium brand, which also translates into a higher price.
Yawal TM 77 HI
A Polish manufacturer’s system with similar parameters (Uw=0.74 W/m²K), but with less brand recognition and market availability. It may be an interesting alternative for those looking for less popular solutions.
Schüco AWS 75.SI
A German premium system offering slightly better thermal parameters (Uw=0.70 W/m²K) with comparable profile depths. The Schüco brand is synonymous with the highest quality, which is also associated with a higher price.
In industry rankings, such as Debesto 2023, MB-79N ranks at the forefront of aluminum systems in Poland (just behind MB-86 and MB-104 Passive), mainly due to a good ratio of parameters to price.
Applications and Opinions
For Architects
The MB-79N system is particularly valued by architects designing premium buildings, office buildings, or elegant facades in a minimalist style. Thanks to good technical parameters and aesthetics, it excels in modern architectural projects.
Architects also appreciate the technical support offered by Aluprof, including the availability of CAD/BIM documentation, which significantly facilitates design work.
For Investors and Individual Users
The system is used in single-family homes, especially for large terrace glazing or living room vitrines. Users praise primarily the aesthetics, thermal and acoustic insulation, and maintenance-free operation.
User opinions indicate high comfort of use – the windows are quiet, tight, and do not require specialist care. The main reservation remains the price, which for some investors may constitute a barrier.
Market Trends
It is worth noting that aluminum is systematically gaining popularity in Poland – according to industry data, sales of aluminum windows increased by about 15% in 2023, especially in the premium segment. MB-79N fits into this trend, offering a solution that combines modern design with excellent technical parameters.
Summary and Evaluation
MB-79N is a modern, versatile window and door system that deserves a high rating of 8/10. Its main advantages are:
- Excellent thermal insulation (Uw from 0.64 W/m²K)
- Slim profiles and minimalist design
- High tightness and resistance to weather conditions
- Modular construction with various thermal and structural variants
- Durability and maintenance-free operation characteristic of aluminum
The main disadvantages are the higher price compared to PVC systems and the greater weight requiring precise installation.
The MB-79N system is an ideal choice for:
- Architects looking for modern, energy-efficient solutions
- Investors valuing quality, design, and durability
- Users who prefer maintenance-free solutions with long life
As a company specializing in high-quality fenestration, we particularly appreciate the possibility of an individual approach to each project that the MB-79N system provides. Our many years of practice in working with aluminum systems confirms that it is a solution that works well both in large commercial projects and in demanding implementations for individual clients.
If you are planning an investment in aluminum joinery and value the combination of modern design with excellent technical parameters, MB-79N certainly deserves your attention.
