Crittall and steel framed windows have a distinctive, minimalist character but, are well known for being cold, draughty and prone to heavy condensation. In many homes, they can also let in significant outside noise.
Recognised for having poor thermal performance, Crittall and steel framed windows result in not just decreased levels of comfort but also, increasingly higher energy costs.
As well as being expensive to change, replacement options are often limited by local conservation and planning rules.
WindowSkins magnetic secondary glazing is designed to improve the comfort and performance of Crittall style windows without having to replace them. Retrofit to existing Crittall and steel framed windows, they significantly reduce problems related to Cold, Draught, Condensation and Noise.
Not just effective, the near-invisible design offers an unrivalled elegance and discreet aesthetic, with minimal impact to utility.
We offer a comprehensive measure, supply & professional fit service.
Why Crittall & Steel Framed Windows Can Feel Cold and Draughty
Traditional steel framed windows are often single glazed, with metal frames acting as cold bridges, conducting heat far more readily than timber or modern insulated systems. Opening windows often lack insulating seals allowing for uncontrolled airflow. That means many original Crittall windows can suffer from;
- cold internal glass surfaces
- noticeable draughts
- condensation build-up & moisture pooling
- outside noise
- heat loss in winter
- reduced comfort near the window
- mould growth
- premature corrosion
These issues are especially common in larger windows, bay windows and period properties where maintaining the original appearance is important.
WindowSkins magnetic secondary glazing helps solve these problems without the disruption or cost of full window replacement.
The Benefits of Magnetic Secondary Glazing for Crittall Windows
WindowSkins magnetic secondary glazing is a modern, practical solution for homeowners who want better insulation and comfort while retaining their original steel framed windows.
Reduce Cold and Heat Loss
By creating an insulating air gap behind the existing glass, secondary glazing helps reduce heat loss through older steel framed windows. Rooms feel warmer and more comfortable, particularly in winter.
Minimise Draughts
Older Crittall windows can be prone to cold draughts around frames and panes. Magnetic secondary glazing helps prevent this and improves comfort throughout the room, especially in nearby seated areas.
Control Condensation
Condensation often forms on cold steel windows and single glazed panes. Secondary glazing helps improve the thermal performance of the window, reducing cold surfaces and helping to limit condensation build-up.
Improve Noise Reduction
If your property is near a road, school, railway line or other external noise source, secondary glazing can help reduce the amount of sound coming through older windows.
Preserve Original Character
Crittall and steel framed windows are often an important part of a property’s design. Magnetic secondary glazing is discreet and removable, helping preserve the look of the original windows. Approved for Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings.
Lower Costs
Compared to traditional secondary and double glazed solutions, WindowSkins is an affordable alternative. Start saving with lower monthly energy bills.
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WindowSkins Build Specification
Our magnetic WindowSkins are typically built using 3mm Acrylic XT panels, paired with premium 13mm magnetic tapes.
Every WindowSkin is carefully crafted with exacting mitre joins in each corner, adhered with a premium foam backed TESA adhesive for long lasting use.
Precision laser measuring using our proprietary software solution ensures a perfect fit every time, even for irregular shaped windows.
The magnetic system creates an airtight seal, and is easily removed for cleaning and storage.
This significantly reduces the problems of Cold, Draught, Condensation and Noise.
Where noise is of primary concern, we can increase the panel thickness to 4mm.
Window Types & Suitability
For Crittal style and steel framed windows, there are three main category types, namely;
- Crittal style windows set within an intermediate timber frame
- Crittal style windows set against plaster or brick
- Crittal style windows set against stone mullion
This article considers the first two window types. For stone mullion, please click here.
Regardless of category type, the main challenge to fitting, thereby ensuring compatibility, is the issue of obstructing window hardware, in particular protruding window handles and stays.
Crittal Windows with Intermediate Timber Frame
For Crittal & Steel Framed windows set within a timber frame, we prioritise fitting using the ‘Outer Placement‘. This is generally the most desirable option as it has better compatibility with protruding window furniture.
Outer Placement
For deep timber framed Crittal style windows, the ‘Outer’ placement paired with 4mm WindowSkin panels are an excellent choice for noise problems in busy urban areas.
This placement is where magnetic tapes are positioned on the ‘outer’ timber window frame (nearer the inside edge).
The minimum frame space required for optimal fitting is 18mm and should (ideally) provide clearance of obstructions, especially window handles.
The ‘Outer’ placement is usually the better position for noise reduction as the air gap between glass, panel and total coverage, is maximised.
However, some utility is lost as the WindowSkin panels do need to be removed in order to open the window (this is simple and straightforward).
Paintwork should be in fair condition and the window in a reasonable state of repair.
Click here to view ‘Outer Placement’ image examples
Crittal Windows Against Plaster/Brick
For Crittal & Steel Framed windows set against plaster or brick surfaces, we prioritise fitting using the ‘Subframe Placement‘.
The type of fitting is similar in style to traditional secondary glazing as it has a separate frame sitting in front of the existing window.
Subframe Placement
Regardless of placement, all options are effective at reducing problems related to cold, draught, condensation and noise
Obstructions
Our specialist expertise provides for a myriad of often simple solutions to seemingly difficult problems.
For Crittal & Steel Framed Windows, the most common issue is that of protruding window handles and stays.
In general, WindowSkins can accommodate handle protrusions up to 8mm with minimal adjustment.
Over 8mm and fitting is with a deepened magnetic frame (see image). This is a discreet design with minimal impact to the overall aesthetic (see image).
In addition to handles and fasteners, other possible obstructions are outlined below;
- Narrow/Uneven Surfaces: where part or all of the window frame is narrow or uneven.
- Blinds: generally compatible by remounting the blind bracket on spacers.
- Ironmongery & Locks: usually bypassed, remounted or replaced with a suitable alternative.
- Low Voltage Cables: we usually embed or reposition low voltage cables and junction boxes.
- Alarm Sensors: if obstructing, they may need repositioning by a qualified technician.
Please note that all workarounds are on a best efforts basis so compatibility is not always guaranteed.
Additional Considerations
The remaining aspects of the WindowSkins retrofit to Crittal style and steel framed windows are broadly similar in characteristics to regular Casement Windows. Click on the subheadings below to read about those common features (opens in a new tab).
Are you ready for a warmer, quieter, more comfortable home?
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