Anyone who watches HGTV, reality home shows, or even just takes a moment to look at houses they pass by on the street can see that steel windows are the hot, new thing. These modern windows give off a sleek appearance that can no doubt boost the aesthetics of any home. So, it makes sense that many homeowners are jumping aboard the steel trend and leaving their traditional, run-of-the-mill windows in the past.
In this article, we’ll explore the perks of these contemporary windows and how they can add value to your home.
What’s a steel window?
Okay, this might seem like an easy question at first glance. I mean, it’s a window made from steel, right? Not exactly.
For the most part, these strong, metal windows are made from wire-reinforced, heavy-duty steel. But, there are several cases where they have a core that’s made entirely of timber and then coated with a layer of steel.
Regardless of whether the window is 100% steel or not, it’s no secret that they’ve helped pave the way toward the contemporary and classic abode.
Why steel windows are all the rage right now
Commercial and residential steel windows offer unique benefits. These benefits set them miles apart from other window materials that leave many wondering why they ever settled for plain old wood or vinyl windows in the first place. So, let’s go over some of the most popular benefits you’ll reap when you say yes to these modern, metal windows.
Steel windows are strong
These windows are renowned for their exceptional strength and durability– and for good reason. Steel is an incredibly sturdy material that can withstand a wide range of environmental and physical stresses. Unlike other materials that may crack, warp, or decay over time, these industrial-esque windows remain strong and stable year after year. So, whether it’s the scorching sun beating down on your house during an August heat wave, or a volatile hail storm playing a drumline on the exterior of your home, you don’t have to worry about your windows breaking under pressure.
Steel is also highly resistant to corrosion. This means that it doesn’t rust or deteriorate in even the harshest weather conditions. But what makes this material corrosion-proof?
Why modern steel windows are resistant to corrosion
Steel’s resistance to corrosion can be attributed to its unique properties and the way it’s manufactured. This type of metal is an alloy made primarily of iron, but it also contains small amounts of carbon and other elements. And it’s these additional elements that can enhance the steel’s corrosion resistance, depending on the specific alloy used.
They have a long lifespan
The intense strength and corrosion-resistant nature of steel attribute to its impressive longevity. Steel window frames can maintain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal for decades without needing replacement.
Thus, there are many windows made from steel that not only remain intact but functional as well, even after three generations. Moreover, some classical architectural structures in Europe with windows made from steel are over a hundred years old. This is why when these windows do need to be replaced, it’s typically because of surface issues. For example, it might warrant a replacement from poor glazing or finishing, but not because the functionality of the window is failing.
In a nutshell, modern steel casement windows, or any other steel window design, can stand the test of time with much more grace than any other window material.
They’re easy to maintain
Because steel frame windows are corrosion-proof, you won’t have to do much cleaning or maintenance work. Unlike other window materials such as wood, steel does not require frequent upkeep or refinishing to maintain its appearance. Likewise, steel’s a non-porous material and has a very smooth surface, which makes it resistant to stains and dirt buildup.
How to clean them
The cleaning process for these metal windows is pretty straightforward and doesn’t require much time or effort. Simply mix a mild soap solution in a bucket of warm water and use a soft cloth or sponge to gently scrub the window surface. Be sure to avoid using abrasive materials or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the steel’s finish.
So, if you have rowdy kids running around the house all day, you don’t have to worry about any hard-to-clean smudges or stains on your windows. All you’ll need to do is occasionally wipe down the window and frame with your soap and water mixture.
They’re versatile
The classic black steel window has a sleek and modern appearance that can complement contemporary architecture, but it also has a quintessential look that can enhance the beauty of traditional homes. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including square, rectangular, and arched, which makes them a versatile option for any design style.
What’s even better is that they can be customized with different finishes and colors to blend seamlessly with the existing décor or to create a striking contrast for a more dramatic effect. So, whether you have a modern, minimalist home or a cozy cottage-style dwelling, steel windows for residential homes can be designed to meet your taste. This makes them the architects’ choice for a diverse range of homes.
They offer narrow sight lines
Sleek narrow sight lines have become the gold standard for contemporary homes in the real estate industry. Narrow sight lines on windows refer to the width of the visible frame surrounding the glass pane. The slimmer the sight line, the less visible the frame, creating a larger and more unobstructed view. This is particularly desirable for homeowners and designers who want to maximize natural light and outdoor views while maintaining a sleek and clean aesthetic.
Thus, enjoying crystal-clear, open views through windows that bring lots of light into your home is what offsets the steel window cost for many homeowners.
They’re energy-efficient
Let’s be honest. If you’re not being energy efficient in 2023, then what are you doing? It’s time to get on board the energy-efficient windows trend and help reduce our environmental footprint, all while keeping your utility bill low. Thus, having windows that promote energy efficiency is a win-win!
Windows made from steel are amazing at providing insulation. They can help to reduce heating and cooling costs in any home or building. Also, they can be designed with multiple panes of glass and low-emissivity coatings, which help to further reduce heat transfer and increase insulation.
What makes steel energy-efficient?
Steel has a low thermal conductivity, which means that it does not transfer heat as readily as other materials such as aluminum or wood. This allows for better insulation and improved energy efficiency. As a result, these modern windows will keep you warm on those frigid winter nights without having to make your heating system go into overdrive.
A window you can depend on
Whether you’re looking for enhanced security, durability, or energy efficiency, steel windows have got you covered. By choosing these windows, you can transform your humble abode into a stunning, modern masterpiece; while also enjoying the many benefits they offer. Likewise, if you’re renovating a historical building or constructing a commercial property from the ground up, these reliable windows are a beautiful option that will bring you years of enjoyment and value.So, why settle for boring, outdated windows when you can have windows you can count on to protect and enhance your home? If you want a window upgrade, contact Climate Seal today to support all of your window needs.