Are you looking for an aluminum window system that offers good thermal insulation without excessive costs? Are you wondering if MB-86 ST actually provides an optimal balance between technical parameters and price, and whether it will work well in your project?
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Technical Specifications and First Impressions
- Practical Advantages
- Disadvantages and Limitations
- Comparison with Competition
- Applications and User Opinions
- Summary and Recommendation
Introduction
In today’s architecture, aluminum window systems are becoming an increasingly popular choice, combining elegant appearance with durability and good technical parameters. One system that deserves attention is MB-86 ST – the basic variant from the family of advanced window and door systems MB-86 by Aluprof, a leading manufacturer of aluminum systems in Europe.
The MB-86 system is available in three variants: ST (Standard), SI (Super Insulation), and AERO (with aerogel). MB-86 ST is the economical variant, designed for customers looking for a balance between good technical parameters and reasonable price.
As specialists with many years of experience in the aluminum window systems industry, we have had the opportunity to work with various MB-86 variants, including the ST version. In this review, we will share our knowledge and experiences to help you assess whether MB-86 ST is the right choice for your project.
Technical Specifications and First Impressions
MB-86 ST is a window and door system with a solid construction that provides a good foundation for various types of windows and doors. The system is characterized by the following parameters:
- Frame depth is 77 mm
- Sash depth is 86 mm for windows and 77 mm for doors
- Uses three-chamber profiles with thermal breaks of 32-42 mm width
- Allows installation of glazing packages from 13.5 mm to 67.5 mm in windows and 4.5-58.5 mm in doors and fixed constructions
The system allows for creating truly large constructions – windows can have a height of up to 3000 mm and width up to 1700 mm, with a maximum sash weight of up to 200 kg. These are significant capabilities that will satisfy most designers and investors.
In terms of thermal insulation, MB-86 ST offers a heat transfer coefficient for the window (Uw) from 1.0 W/(m²K) when using glass with Ug=0.5 W/(m²K). The coefficient for the profile itself (Uf) is from 1.39 W/(m²K). It’s worth noting that in the best configurations, the system meets the requirements of Technical Conditions 2021 (Uw ≤ 0.9 W/(m²K)).
Acoustic insulation reaches Rw up to 42 dB (e.g., with a 4/16/4 package with argon), which is a good result, especially in the context of urban development.
The first impression after familiarizing ourselves with the MB-86 ST system is positive. The profiles are slim and aesthetic, while at the same time giving the impression of being solid. The system uses standard Euro grooves, making it compatible with popular hardware from Roto, Maco, or GU.
Practical Advantages
Good Thermal Insulation
MB-86 ST, although it is the basic variant within the MB-86 system, offers really good insulation parameters. The Uw coefficient from 1.0 W/(m²K) is sufficient for most residential and commercial buildings compliant with current standards. This is a significant advantage, especially in the context of rising energy prices and increased ecological awareness of investors.
Exceptional Durability
One of the biggest advantages of aluminum window systems, including MB-86 ST, is their longevity. Aluminum with thermal breaks and appropriate impregnation provides resistance to corrosion, moisture, and UV radiation, which translates into a lifespan of even 50-60 years. This is significantly longer than for PVC windows or even wooden windows.
In practice, this means that the investment in the MB-86 ST system pays off in the long term, despite the higher initial price compared to PVC systems.
Design Flexibility
MB-86 ST offers a wide selection of sizes and glazing possibilities (up to 67.5 mm), which allows for the installation of double and triple glazing, including specialized acoustic or anti-burglary glass. The system is available in a wide range of RAL colors (over 200 shades), as well as with the possibility of anodizing or using wood-like coatings.
This flexibility makes MB-86 ST perfect for both modern and more classical architectural projects.
Favorable Price-to-Quality Ratio
MB-86 ST as an economical variant within the MB-86 system offers a very good price-to-quality ratio. It is cheaper than the SI and AERO variants, but still provides high energy efficiency and durability.
Possibility of Creating Large Glazing
The high rigidity of aluminum profiles allows for the creation of much larger constructions than in the case of PVC systems. Windows with dimensions of 3 x 1.7 m are not a problem for MB-86 ST, which gives architects greater design freedom and allows for better lighting of rooms.
Disadvantages and Limitations
Lower Thermal Insulation Than Premium Variants
The basic disadvantage of MB-86 ST compared to more expensive variants of this system is lower thermal insulation. The Uf coefficient of 1.39 W/(m²K) is significantly higher than in the SI variants (0.92 W/(m²K)) or AERO (0.57 W/(m²K)).
This difference may be noticeable especially in buildings with high energy requirements, such as passive or energy-efficient houses. In standard residential and commercial buildings, this difference will be less important, especially when using high-quality glazing packages.
Competitive Systems with Similar Parameters
Competitive systems with similar parameters are available on the market, which may be cheaper or offer certain additional advantages. Systems such as Yawal TM 74 (Uf=1.2 W/(m²K)) or Schüco AWS 70.HI (Uw=1.1 W/(m²K)) offer similar parameters, sometimes at a lower price.
Greater Weight Than PVC Systems
Aluminum windows, including MB-86 ST, are heavier than PVC windows, which requires solid installation and appropriate load-bearing structure. This may increase installation costs and limit the possibilities of use in some existing buildings with weaker construction.
Limited Innovation
As the basic variant of the MB-86 system, the ST version does not offer advanced solutions available in more expensive models, such as aerogel (as in AERO) or additional thermal inserts (as in SI). It is a standard solution without distinguishing technological innovations.
Comparison with Competition
To better understand the position of MB-86 ST in the market, it is worth comparing it with competitive systems:
MB-86 SI (variant from the same family)
- Better insulation: Uf=0.92 W/(m²K) vs. 1.39 W/(m²K) in ST
- Higher price: about 20-30% more expensive than the ST version
- Better choice for energy-efficient buildings
Cortizo Cor 70
- Similar insulation: Uf=1.4 W/(m²K)
- Lower price
- Slightly less tightness
Ponzio PE 68
- Slightly better insulation: Uf=1.3 W/(m²K)
- Similar price
- Wider choice of colors and finishes
In industry rankings, such as Debesto 2023, MB-86 ST usually ranks in the middle of the pack, standing out with a good price-to-quality ratio. The system is particularly competitive in the mid-range segment, where the highest thermal parameters are not required, but durability and aesthetics count.
Applications and User Opinions
Ideal Applications
MB-86 ST works best in:
- Mid-range residential and office buildings
- Modern-style single-family homes
- Shop windows and smaller commercial facilities
- Projects where the priority is a balance between cost and parameters
The system is particularly popular in regions with a moderate climate, such as central Poland, where extreme thermal requirements are not necessary.
User Opinions
User opinions of MB-86 ST are generally positive, albeit with certain reservations:
“The windows are quiet and durable, but on the coldest days, you can notice a difference compared to more expensive models with better insulation.”
“Simple, elegant design and easy handling – it’s hard to find a better choice in aluminum at this price.”
Users primarily appreciate the aesthetics, durability, and solidity of the system, while acknowledging that it is not a solution for the most demanding energy-efficient projects.
Summary and Recommendation
MB-86 ST is a solid, versatile window and door system that offers a good balance between technical parameters and price. With a rating of 7.5/10, it is a solution that can be recommended with a clear conscience for most standard residential and commercial projects.
For Whom Will MB-86 ST Be the Best Choice?
- For architects: Looking for a durable, aesthetic system for mid-range projects, where the balance between budget and quality matters.
- For distributors: The system is easy to sell, offers a good margin, and rarely generates after-sales problems thanks to its reliability.
- For individual users: An ideal solution for people who value durability and aesthetics but do not require the highest thermal parameters.
- For manufacturers: Easy to produce, not requiring advanced technologies, ideal for companies looking for stable orders.
Final Recommendation
MB-86 ST is a system worth recommending for projects where durability, aesthetics, and good (though not the highest) thermal parameters are key. If you are looking for a solution for a passive house or a building with the highest energy requirements, it is worth considering the SI or AERO variants. For most standard applications, however, MB-86 ST will be the optimal choice, offering an excellent price-to-quality ratio.
As a company specializing in high-quality aluminum solutions and custom-tailored projects, we can confirm that MB-86 ST is a system that works in practice and rarely disappoints customer expectations.
