Crittall frames: repair and refurbishment

By Jeff Howell Published: 7:00AM GMT twenty-four February 2010

Jeff Howell

Q We have a Thirties residence with pleasing semi-circular brook windows that have steel Crittall frames extrinsic in to the ash horizon of the bay. I have regularly confirmed the wooden frames with unchanging portrayal sessions. Unfortunately, the steel frames decay and need replacing. Why did the strange builders select to make use of these steel inserts rather than wooden beading? It contingency have been sincerely viewable that the steel would erode over time and infer to be a source of condensation. RW, by email

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A Steel-framed windows were a higher element in their day, and a little would disagree that they are still superior. The actuality that yours have survived for 80 years, notwithstanding your miss of maintenance, is covenant to this. Softwood joist frames left unpainted would have lasted maybe twenty years, and PVC-U has a hold up outlook of twenty to thirty years. Crittall windows are an critical piece of the architectural firmness and worth of a Thirties residence and you are propitious to have them.

Crittall will supply a list of internal distributors who yield a correct and refurbishment use (01376 324106, www.crittallwindows.co.uk).

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