Russel Ager of Crittall Windows explores how a historic window design continues to find favour for countless commercial and residential projects prioritising sustainability
As we edge closer to the launch of the Future Homes Standard, sustainability-focused design has become a necessity. It means architects must consider every aspect of their projects.
It is essential that all building designs achieve optimal thermal performance to not just adhere to UK Building Regulations but to also positively reduce the amount of carbon emissions produced per property.
Unfortunately, more often than not, inefficient windows are one of the main reasons a building’s energy is unnecessarily wasted. Poor product design and materials are often the recipe for a disastrous window that struggles to retain heat within a property and maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
Ultimately, windows play a fundamental role within a building, so the type specified can ‘make or break’ a project, meaning their performance and sustainability credentials should be carefully considered.
One window material which is often overlooked but effortlessly ticks all boxes required from architects looking to work with the most energy efficient, high-quality building products, is steel.
Specifying steel windows in sustainable architecture
Originally introduced to the UK in the 1880s, steel windows have a long association with British architecture, and have been installed in properties up and down the country for well over a century.
Thanks to steel’s impressive strength, a new era of windows was born when steel windows were launched into the market. With impressively slim sightlines and large expanses of glass, commercial and residential buildings were transformed into light-filled spaces – a style which is now synonymous with the best steel windows.
Throughout the years, major developments and investments in steel window manufacturing ensure that any products created today perfectly combine cutting edge technology with traditional craftsmanship. For instance, polyester powder coating guarantees an unmatched steel window finish. This evolution in steel window design plays a role in transforming the final products into an incredibly economical, long lasting solution as it provides a layer of protection against corrosion, scratches and chips.
What’s more, with the introduction of components like thermally broken steel sections and co-extruded dual weather seals, steel windows today deliver superior weather and thermal performance in keeping with alternative window types.
Additional benefits of specifying steel windows that may not be well known is their incredible durability and versatility. When manufactured to the highest standards, steel windows last in excess of 60 years and work perfectly in the most demanding new build or replacement applications.
In terms of design, black steel framed windows remain a popular choice, but bespoke shades in any RAL, BS colour means that steel windows can be work with an array of styles.
Sustainable steel windows
Steel window manufacturers with a passion to evolve and adapt their offerings have worked throughout the decades implementing fantastic developments to the thermal performance of steel windows.
Specifically, this means reducing the U-values and increasing WER ratings, meaning modern steel windows excel in insulation and successfully capture beneficial solar heat, helping to create a more energy efficient home.
While steel windows have been adapted and developed to achieve outstanding thermal performance, steel in itself counts as a sustainable building material. It boasts exceptional recyclability with some steel window manufacturers working with profiles made from 100% recycled source. Plus, the steel systems can be recycled at end of life, creating a closed-loop process that conserves natural resources and keeps the metal out of landfill.
Steel’s durability also contributes to its sustainability credentials. With high quality products achieving a lifespan in excess of 60 years, the need for replacements and maintenance is dramatically reduced and therefore lessens the environmental impact of demolition and disposal.
Modern steel window design
Fitting perfectly within a modern commercial space as well as self-build or restoration projects, steel windows make a fantastic choice. If you’re looking to specify innovative, versatile and high performing windows, why not consider a solution that not only meets the latest building regulations but also lasts a lifetime and looks fantastic? Steel windows offer timeless style and lasting value.
Russell Ager is managing director at Crittall Windows