Of all metals used in architecture, engineering, and the construction industry, steel is the most widely used building material. From macro details of steel framing system down to the finest precision of industrial steel windows, this form-and-function beauty is as versatile as it can be.
Slim profiles, narrow sightlines, massive glass panes, and indoor light quality – steel window is a no-brainer on function and aesthetics. Not only is steel elegantly beautiful, it is also high-performing in flexibility, security, and strength.
Aside from the classic 1920s heritage look rendered by steel windows, you are guaranteed of its long-lasting value for more years to come. Your curb appeal improves drastically, thereby increasing your residential property value and giving you the maximum return of investment.
By far, the only material that outperforms steel window is thermally broken steel windows. If you are looking to have your home renovated or retrofitted, thermally broken steel windows should be number one on your list.
Due to exceeding demands of energy codes, most efficiency standards were adapted to meet more stringent requirements. The steel industry ups the ante for code compliance. Advanced window technology is now paving the way for more energy-efficient windows, particularly called thermally broken steel windows.
Non-thermally broken steel windows are prone to ‘thermal bridging’, meaning the heat or cold can transfer directly from inside out to outside in through the steel perimeter framing or true divided muntins. This property is naturally inherent not only for steel, but of all metals including aluminum and bronze.
To mitigate unwanted temperature or heat flow inside the building, thermal breaking is introduced. Interior and exterior framing of steel windows are split into halves where a thermal barrier – a fiber-reinforced, polyamide, or polyurethane insulating polymer – is placed in between.
This gives you an ideal and comfortable room temperature – it reduces the conduction and convection of exterior heat transfer to the inside of your home during summer, as well as retaining the warmth necessary during winter. Your savings on energy costs dramatically increase as you decrease on heating and cooling loads of your residential building.
Thermal breaking does not only dampen undesirable sound pollution; it also resists build-up of frost and condensation. When hot exterior steel meets the cool interior framing, your non-thermally broken steel windows are susceptible to sweating and moisture penetration.
For better resistance to interior dew, a higher condensation rating is desirable, while for superior thermal performance, lower U-values meet the optimum requirement. Non-thermally broken systems have lower condensation rating and higher U-values, while thermally broken steel windows do the exact opposite.
To be even more energy-efficient, your thermally broken steel windows can be calibrated further with insulated glass units and low-E glass.
At West Leigh we are a leading UK supplier and manufacturer of commerical and domestic thermally Broken Steel frames. To book an appointment with a member of our team please get in touch today.
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