The main downsides of steel window frames are higher cost, heavy weight, rust risk if the coating is damaged and the need for specialist installers. Thermal performance can also trail aluminium unless a thermally broken steel system is used. Steel-look aluminium avoids most of these while keeping the look.
Why are steel windows more expensive?
Steel raw material, fabrication and finishing cost more, and fewer firms make them, so there is less price competition than for aluminium. Most steel is also fully welded and finished by hand, which adds labour.
Do steel windows rust?
Modern steel windows are galvanised and coated to resist rust, but chips and scratches left unattended can corrode over time. Coating upkeep matters.
Are steel windows hard to install?
They are heavy, so installation needs more labour and a specialist fitter. Large frames may need lifting equipment.
What is the alternative?
Steel-look aluminium copies the slim grid design in a thermally broken, lighter frame. Phoenix makes these in-house in Nuneaton, backed by Assure. See our steel-look windows.
Thinking about new windows? We make our own windows and fit them across Nuneaton, Bedworth, Hinckley, Tamworth and Rugby, with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. Call 02476 350 330, or request a quote.