Conserving Steel Framed Windows

Rare steel-framed windows contribute significantly to the historic significance of their buildings. With the right advice and skilled workmanship, they can be given a new lease of life.
All too often, the heritage values of steel windows are overlooked and dismissed as substandard and not worthy of conservation. Yet historic steel window frames belong to a specific era in architectural development, contributing to the historic significance of those buildings in which they are found.
Production of mild-steel window frames started in the second half of the 19th century, but in the aftermath of the first world war (when there was a severe shortage of timber), they became the glazing of choice for modernist architecture. They were used for everything from shop fronts and offices to council houses and could even be found in utopian communities such as Hampstead Garden Suburb.
They could be mass-produced, making them more affordable, and their sleek lines allowed in
more light; they were ‘modern’ and offered security. Several companies produced steel windows, although one in particular, Crittall Windows, dominated the market. The Crittall name is now synonymous with steel windows.
Steel window frames were either riveted and tenoned or welded together. Glazing bars often consisted of T-shaped or moulded sections, with the glass held in place with clips
and sealed with putty. Longer-lasting hardwood and metal beading was used to seal the joint between the glass and frame on later windows.

[@4Fecta]

Great video. Thanks.

[@HistoricEngland]

Glad you liked it!

[@ethel-arg]

Very interesting, the opportunity to collaborate in these tasks would be good.