In building construction there are two types of steel sections: hot-rolled steel shapes and cold-formed steel shapes. The hot rolled steel shapes are formed from steel ingots heated to extreme temperatures while the cold-formed steel shapes are formed at room temperature. Cold-formed steel structural members are shapes commonly manufactured from steel plate, sheet metal, or strip material. The manufacturing process involves forming the material by cold roll forming to achieve the desired shape. When steel is formed by cold rolling, there is a change in the mechanical properties of the material through the cold working of the metal. When a steel section is cold-formed from flat sheet or strip, the yield strength and to a lesser extent the ultimate strength, are increased as a result of this cold working, particularly in the bends of the section.

Yes, each window and door is made to order. If you require each unit to be a different size we can do so and it will be clearly indicated on the shop drawings.

Yes, true artisans working for over 40 years still fabricate these windows resulting in a high quality, superior product with great attention to detail. Crittall has been fabricating steel windows and doors since 1849 and Serramenti Brombal since 1970.

Steel windows are very energy efficient and have a much better thermal efficiency than aluminum. Coupled with high performing glass, steel windows provide very low U values. Ask us about providing specific U value calculations for your specific sized units. Depending on site needs and product chosen – single, double, or triple glass may be used.

Depending on the manufacturer, Crittall offers as a standard hot dipped galvanizing and 38 powder coat colors to choose from, and Brombal offers products in bronze style, stainless steel, galvanized steel, Corten, any of the RAL colors for a powder coat finish, and painted finishes.

Hot-dip galvanizing is the process of coating iron or steel, with a thin zinc layer, by passing the metal through a molten bath of zinc at a temperature of around 860 °F (460 °C). When exposed to the atmosphere, the pure zinc (Zn) reacts with oxygen (O2) to form zinc oxide (ZnO), which further reacts with carbon dioxide (CO2) to form zinc carbonate (ZnCO3), a usually dull grey, fairly strong material that stops further corrosion in many circumstances and protects the steel below from external elements.

We will create a full set of shop drawings that indicate everything from unit size, configuration, hardware, and surround conditions. Typically shop drawings take 1-2 weeks depending on the size of the project.

Each frame section we utilize has different limitations. Options are virtually endless. Our in house engineers will help design each project to meet your specific requirements.

Standard lead time is 16-20 weeks. Depending on the location, manufacturer, and size of the project, it could be slightly shorter or longer.

There are steel windows that are over 80 years old still being used today. Through advanced engineering and fabricating techniques, steel windows fabricated today will probably outlast the structure they are installed into. Due to the strong yet recyclable material, steel windows and doors are a great sustainable choice as well.

Steel windows and doors are field glazed for a variety of reasons.

1. Steel windows and doors are typically heavier than other products. Installing them without the glass allows the installer the ability to maneuver the unit into position for exact alignment and shimming.

2. When installing a fixed unit, the fastener is installed through the glazing pocket. Installing glass in the factory would require the glass to be removed for installation. This allows the unit to be installed securely without seeing any of the fasteners. The same applies for units that are fastened together. When installing a swinging door to a fixed sidelite the fasteners penetrate though the glazing pocket so they are not visible after the glass is installed.

3. Typically our units are larger than conventional windows and doors, and require many hands to move them. With the glass installed it would be virtually impossible to move these massive units with the glass in place.

4. The glass plays an integral role in the stability of steel window and doors. It is important to have the frame installed level, plumb and square. Once this is accomplished the glass can be installed with the proper blocking to ensure correct functionality.

Yes, we have provided steel windows in many areas which required landmark approvals. We are happy to provide you with details as required to present for landmark and historical approvals.

Yes, we can utilize a fixed, hinge, or roll down screen system based on the needs of your project.

We carry a wide variety of custom hardware which spans from traditional to modern. We can also use customer supplied hardware if it is compatible with our system.

Yes, all steel windows have glazing beads that can be easily removed for replacement of glass.

Yes, we have a nationwide installation network and can service most areas. Please inquire about specific locations.

Condensation occurs where humid air comes into contact with an area of lower temperature. To learn more about reducing condensation, click here