Steel Window Association – for the specialists in domestic and commercial refurbishment of steel windows

The UK-wide Steel Window Association members are the established, proven experts in the renovation and sympathetic refurbishment of steel windows and doors in both domestic and commercial premises; typically, those in listed buildings or properties in heritage and conservation areas.

One of the best qualities of a steel window or door is its longevity and this is where refurbishment and servicing are vitally important; this is where SWA members can help. Options range from a very basic ease and adjusting, where the windows and doors remain in-situ and are serviced, to a full in-situ overhaul involving significant paint removal and redecoration, where possible.

In a complete refurbishment, all the windows and doors are removed and taken to a factory environment for shot blasting, potentially galvanising, powder coating and servicing; then comes the reinstallation and reglazing. There is also the possibility, especially in heritage situations, of maintaining the original aesthetic of the original window by hand painting and reglazing.

The refurbishment has improved centuries, and, today, clients can expect an upgrade in usability and security as well as both thermal and acoustic performance through glazing and sealant enhancements. In addition, the windows are significantly more aesthetically-pleasing.

For owners of buildings or houses within listed or conservation areas, or those who would like to preserve the history of their own property, refurbishment is an invaluable and satisfying option. With this level of refurbishment, the SWA offers the ability to recycle, reuse and renew.

On-site servicing includes servicing, easing and adjustment of opening windows and doors for good operation; replacing or using draught excluder, replacement of defective or missing ironmongery including hinges and pivots; removal of broken or cracked glazing; and replacement of lead lights.

On-site overhaul is as above but includes removal of visible surface paint; treatment of the visible steel substrate; tightening or replacement of coupled frame intersections and perimeter fixings; replacement of damaged weather seals; potential for upgrading of glass specifications; potential to modernise or refurbish existing ironmongery to include enhanced security; re-introduction of perimeter and window mastic seals; replacement of glazing beads, mastic and putty; and redecoration of painted surfaces.

Full off-site overhaul includes removal of existing frames, and possible temporary protection of apertures, shot blast to bare metal to remove all existing paint and priming material; fully recorded survey of necessary repairs and replacement section, hinges and couplings; full pre-treatment primer and re-painting of the steel sections to required specification; re-installation of frames to apertures, re-glazing with the possibility of thermal / acoustic upgrades; refurbishment and replacement of existing specialist glazing; application of new mastic and primary weather seals; and re-instatement of refurbished or new ironmonger.

For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk or call 020 3475 8049.

Editors’ notes
SWA members have exclusive access to a range of collectively developed energy- rated systems which are compliant with building regulations and that are recognised by the British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC). The SWA also works in cooperation with both the British and European standards agencies, window research bodies and other influential organisations; including FENSA and as mentioned above, the Construction Products Association and the Glass & Glazing Federation. Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the repair and replacement of various types of old metal windows, doors and screens, as well as being able to manufacture new fenestration which fully meets the requirements of the building regulations.