Metal Window restoration or replacement?

Older or period properties often have leaded windows (frequently termed leaded lights) that may last many years but ultimately do need restoration or repair at some stage. Traditional leaded windows are frequently encased in metal or crittall windows that also degrade over time and want repair. At that point a decision needs to be made whether to restore or replace a more modern option, for example aluminium windows. No chance however in a Grade I listed property or in some cases Grade II.

Replacement windows

So figuring out which is the best option for your house is frequently dependent on a number of factors, some of which are down to personal taste. Regardless of how poor the condition of the metal windows is, they can generally be restored. New leaded lights can also be manufactured if necessary, preserving as much of the old glass as you possibly can, and replacing missing or broken panes with antique glass. Older glass is generally preferred due to the variations in that (bubbles, deformity), it's these imperfections that give the leaded window its character. When leaded lights are being restored it is advisable to consider replacing strengthening bars (if needed) and also internal strengthening of the lead (steel inserts).

If you wish to preserve the look - slim metal windows with or without leads - but require less maintenance, better heat efficiency and security, then aluminium windows are a great alternative. With aluminium windows the profile is usually slim to match the feel of crittall windows (as opposed to uPVC), and they are double glazed with lead look inserts. Another benefit is they can be colour matched (to the RAL type) dual colour. To help you have for instance, black on the exterior and white inside, and diamond or square lead pattern within the windows to match existing.

The ultimate area of restoration associated with metal windows is normally the timber or hardwood frames these are fitted to. Metal windows are normally fitted into hardwood frames - rather than straight into concrete in domestic homes. These could also need repair or replacement.

The typical problem however is finding a company who specializes in all types of restoration or replacement, and can give sound suggestions about the different options allowing the homeowner to create the best informed decision. Most glazing companies may have little interest or knowledge in restoration, preferring instead to suggest replacement windows as the only sensible option and generally uPVC. However uPVC, although inexpensive, cannot replicate the look of a metal window (whether it is crittall or aluminium) or even the security level.

One specialist glazing company has the capacity to offer all the different kinds of glazing and more importantly their goal is to help preserve heritage - they're Tec Glass Ltd. in Thame, Oxfordshire. With Two-and-a-half decades combined experience in the they offer a consultative method of the solutions available and also have the capability to manufacture leaded lights or provide timber, aluminium and uPVC options.


Replacement windows

Published August 12th, 2011

Tags: replacement, windows