These iconic windows and doors may be your first choice for your home renovation or extension, but how much do you actually know about them?
Image: Stiff + Trevillion
Crittall is a much lusted-after design element, especially here in the UK where these steel-framed windows, doors and screens are still produced.
Whether you’re renovating an existing home, adding an extension or self building, if Crittall is on your wishlist, here’s what you should know about this iconic brand.
What is a Crittall window or door?
Image: KJA Services
You’ll best know Crittall windows and doors as designs in grid-like panels, however Crittall can refer to a range of steel-framed products. In everyday parlance, you may use Crittall to refer to any black framed steel window, door or internal screen; however, that’s not always entirely accurate. Crittall is a registered trademark, so only those steel frame windows and doors made by Crittall can actually be called by that name. While you shop around, you may see terms such as ‘Crittall style’ or ‘Crittall type’, which are likely to not be genuine Crittall products.
Crittall was founded in Braintree, Essex, and has been in operation for over 160 years. Where windows were traditionally made from timber at this time, it had great success in introducing steel windows into circulation, with Crittall windows used in the likes of the National Gallery, the Houses of Parliament and the Tower of London.
Crittall windows became most synonymous with the Art Deco and Modernist architecture movements from the 1920s. While this style may have fallen out of fashion for a period of the time since, in recent years they’ve become a much sought after style for contemporary homes.
Are Crittall windows practical?
Image: Stiff + Trevillion
Crittall frames are galvanised, which permanently seals them against rusting and warping when exposed to the elements. As they are powder coated, they won’t need to be painted on site either, ensuring an easier install and that they won’t need to be redecorated for 25-30 years.
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Are Crittall windows energy efficient and environmentally friendly?
Crittall windows and doors can be double or triple glazed as required for external facing applications, while opening windows from Crittall’s HomelightPlus range are dual weather-stripped to offer draught proofing qualities.
Steel windows, unlike uPVC, are completely recyclable when they come to the end of their life and contain 100% recycled steel, claimed from the windows it replaces. You can expect steel windows to last for 60+ years.
How much do Crittall windows cost?
Image: Katerina Laurent
Crittall windows to represent a significant investment for your home, but one that has longevity. If choosing steel windows and doors, low price shouldn’t be your key criteria, as poor quality installs can be an issue to rectify and affect your home’s value. As a guide price, Crittall Homelight residential steel window starts from around £600 (incl of VAT); however, as Crittall windows are bespoke, your best bet for accurate pricing is to request quotes from several installers.
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