Many reasons exist for why property owners choose to restore the steel windows of their buildings rather than replace them. This goes beyond aesthetics. In the past, property owners would have had their steel Windows completely replaced with another material, like aluminum, as steel was not considered energy-efficient. Even older steel windows, which were once regarded as inefficient, can now be upgraded to make them more energy-efficient. What can you expect if you decide to restore the older steel windows on your property? Answers to your most pressing questions.

Is it more feasible to replace rather than restore?

There are several aesthetic benefits to restoring original steel windows rather than replacing them. Restoration can better match the actual details of a property. It is better to fix the windows of a historical property if they are an important part of its architecture. The building’s original charm and character can be lost if steel windows are changed. Restoring steel windows is more cost-effective than replacing them completely. Alloys used to make older steel windows are more corrosion-resistant than those used in the manufacture of new windows.

You may want to consider replacing your building if it does not add value. If the windows have already deteriorated significantly and restoration is not feasible, you may want to consider a replacement.

How does the process work?

It is best to consult an expert in the field of metal window restoration or replacement if you’re unsure if your steel windows should be replaced or restored. They will be able to assess the damage and the repairs needed for your windows.

Surface rust, for example, will always appear worse than it really is. If there is no severe corrosion that has caused the material to lose its integrity, strength, frame members, or sash, then restoration will be cheaper and more successful than a replacement.

They will also inspect the condition of each window to determine if the restoration work can be performed on-site or if the windows need to be removed from the building and brought to the workshop. The experts will create a detailed and comprehensive numbering system to help them identify the parts of each window that may need to be disassembled. This process includes a window inspection (with photographs) in order to determine the extent of problems and their types.

Addressing Issues

Most often, corrosion is the enemy of older steel windows. The level of corrosion will determine the type of repair or refurbishment that the specialists must do. The majority of window repairs involve both minor and moderate corrosion, as well as serious corrosion. The inspection and replacement of fasteners can follow the removal of paint, latches, and hold openings, as well as other hardware.