Important Things to Consider When Choosing the Right Steel Windows

Windows, when chosen correctly, complement the unique character of any property. They’re also integral to home security, energy efficiency and noise reduction. This means that window choice is an extremely important decision if you want to retain the style, safety and sustainability of your home. If you are considering replacing or fitting steel windows, there are a number of factors that should play a big part in the decision making process.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of what to look for, remember that it’s essential to see a variety of window samples up close before you make any decisions. Shop around and try to get a feel for different styles, quality, paint thickness and furniture available.

Metal windows are not always made of steel

Another material for metal windows is aluminium. Often, window manufactures will promise that aluminium has exactly the same look and feel as a steel window. Whilst this may seem true when browsing online or in a catalogue, unless you see a sample you won’t notice the difference; and there is a big difference.

Aluminium may be cheaper but it comes with a few drawbacks to be aware of

Steel is inherently stronger than aluminium. This means that steel windows can be up to 3x slimmer than aluminium windows, and so provide a much more elegant finish. Steel windows also offer welded joints, something that aluminium windows don’t always offer. This can leave aluminium windows looking unfinished.

The benefits of hot dip galvanising and a good paint finish

The finish of a steel window is important for more reasons than simply appearance. With a correct paint finish on top of hot dip galvanising, steel windows can be expected to last the lifetime of the building. All Clement windows come galvanised and with a great polyester powder paint finish. Our duplex painting system ensures corrosion does not occur.

Energy efficiency is key

It’s important to take into account the energy efficiency of steel windows before making a decision. Definitely worth noting is that the cost of the window may seem expensive at the time of purchase but it may save you a lot more money in the long run. The thermal resistance of steel is 5x greater than that of aluminium, so a good steel window should keep much more energy indoors. Clement’s window ranges can come with a guaranteed BFRC WER C or B rating for energy efficiency. This means that you can be sure that windows you buy from us are highly energy efficient and are saving you as much money, and energy, as possible and all the steel we use is from a recycled source.

Photography by Laura Kelly, LSK Photo.

As always, if you need any advice on choosing the right metal window for your home or project, Clement are here to help. Everyone is welcome to visit our Haslemere showroom to talk to an expert or browse our incredibly slim and strong steel window ranges. The sales team are also happy to visit your home or office to assess exactly what you need.

If you have any questions in the meantime we’d love to hear from you. The team have years of experience working with conservation and heritage projects. Clement have various steel window ranges designed to replicate whatever age or type of metal window you have. To find out more about how we can help you please do not hesitate to call us on 01428 643 393 or drop us an email us at info@clementwg.co.uk.