There are many brands of alu-clad windows on the market, but Velfac vs Rationel are frequently compared and especially when they are part of the same Dovista brand comprising many other European and Scandinavian windows. Velfac is a more contemporary and slimmer product. Rationel also offers traditional styling you won’t get with Velfac. Here are the similarities and differences when comparing Velfac vs Rationel to help you decide which of these excellent alu-clad windows and doors are right for your property project.
Velfac vs Rationel – different types of alu-clad windows and doors
Velfac and Rationel are both part of the Dovista group – a Danish company focused on providing some of the leading brands of Scandinavian and European windows. Within Dovista, you’ll find other long-established brands, including WERU and Wertbau – both established German window brands for many years. Dobroplast is a big name in PVCu windows in Europe. Krone has a great reputation for contemporary hybrid doors and windows.
So when comparing Velfac vs Rationel, both these companies are part of a big group of some of the oldest and best known brands of windows and doors.
Windows available from Velfac and Rationel
If you’re looking for new alu-clad windows, there are some differences between the products you get comparing Velfac vs Rationel.
Velfac is better known for slimmer windows and a more contemporary design. In fact, we don’t think there is a slimmer alu-clad window than those available from Velfac.
Rationel provides both contemporary and traditionally styled windows. Aura and Auraplus is the modern window product offering. Forma and Formaplus are great when you want classically styled alu-clad windows for period houses, country cottages, sympathetic replacements of existing wood windows and other softer-looking frames. Therefore, when comparing Velfac vs Rationel your choice depends on how slim you want your new windows or whether you’d prefer a more traditional style.
Doors available from Velfac and Rationel
When it comes to choosing alu-clad doors, the choice again depends on the styling you want and the sightlines you’d prefer. Velfac doors are slimmer than Rationel and provide a consistent sightline when matched with fixed windows – something not available with Rationel.
By comparison, Rationel doors give you the option of both traditional and modern styles. If you love the look of Georgian or Astragal bars in your new doors, Rationel offers a solution with their Formaplus doors.
Commercial doors and windows by Velfac and Rationel
Rationel does not offer a dedicated range of commercial glazing systems. Velfac is already well-established in the market, with its products widely specified in schools, hospitals, retail, housing and other commercial buildings.
Within the commercial Velfac range are their wider range of windows, but you’ll also find specific products for balconies, fire-resistant glazing, facades and other commercial products. And because certain commercial products are best only in aluminium, Velfac provides aluminium entrance doors as well – something not available with Rationel.
Therefore, if you’re comparing Velfac vs Rationel for a project that is not a dwelling, Velfac is the preferred choice.
Velfac vs Rationel for security
There is little to separate the two alu-clad brands for security and energy efficiency. Both Velfac and Rationel have windows and doors tested to the latest security requirements. Rationel holds a security tested licence under the Dovista Group name.
Velfac has third-party certification for Velfac 201, Velfac 210, Velfac 212, Velfac 231ES and Ribo products.
If you’re looking for SBD, PAS24 or Document Q-compliant products, both Velfac and Rationel should be able to meet your security requirements.
Velfac vs Rationel energy efficiency
When it comes to who has the more energy-efficient windows, Velfac vs Rationel, both will meet or exceed current Building Regulations. Rationel products depending on the product type and glass specification can go as low as 0.8Wm2K.
The Velfac 200 Energy product can go even lower, with quoted U-Values as low as 0.47wm2K. So whilst Velfac and Rationel will comfortably meet most requirements, the U-Values depend on other factors.
Velfac vs Rationel – Summary
When comparing Velfac vs Rationel, the best product depends on several factors, based on styling, sightlines, building type, performance requirements and more.
Reasons to Choose Velfac
- Slimmer windows and doors
- Best for contemporary windows and doors
- Consistent sightlines when required
- Already established with a range of commercial windows and doors
Reasons to choose Rationel
- Offers both all wood and alu-clad products
- Best for traditionally styled windows and doors
- Comes with more astragal/glazing bar options
- Suits a greater range of property styles
Suppliers and installers of Velfac and Rationel alu-clad windows and doors
Our range of Velfac and Rationel windows and doors is available for homeowners and on a trade supply basis for installers and the glazing trade.
Contact us today for prices on these two excellent alu-clad brands, providing solutions for general window and door replacements and new build projects.
