Can steel framed glazing be used externally?

As home exteriors continue to evolve, more and more homeowners are interested in using steel framed glazing to create unique looks for their homes. Glazing is a great way to add natural light and visual interest to your home, and when combined with steel framing, it can create a truly stunning effect.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you're considering using steel framed glazing externally.

First, it's important to make sure that the steel framing is properly sealed and protected from the elements.

Second, you'll need to carefully consider the amount of natural light that you want to let in, as too much light can cause glare and make it difficult to see inside your home.

Finally, you'll need to decide whether you want clear or tinted glazing. Clear glazing will offer the most natural light, while tinted glazing can provide privacy and reduce the amount of heat that enters your home.

Your Steel Framed Glazing Needs to Be Weather-Resistant

If you're using steel framed glazing externally, it's important to make sure that the framing is properly sealed and protected from the elements. Unprotected steel can rust and deteriorate quickly, so it's important to take steps to ensure that your framing will last for years to come.

There are a number of ways to seal steel for weather resistance. One option is to use a sealant designed specifically for steel. These sealants can be applied directly to the steel surface and will create a barrier that will protect the steel from moisture and other corrosive elements. Another option is to apply a coat of paint to the steel surface. This will also create a barrier that will protect the steel from the elements, but it will also give the steel a finished look.

If your sealant or paint is not applied evenly and smoothly to the surface. Any imperfections in the application process can cause your windows and doors to rust and corrode much more quickly.

The best quality option that ensures your steel frames are fully protected against the elements is to have your windows powder-coated.

Powder coating is a type of finishes that is applied as a free-flowing, dry powder. The main difference between powder coating and other types of finishes is that powder coating does not require a solvent to keep the binder and filler parts in a liquid suspension form.

The powder used in powder coating is a mixture of finely ground particles of pigment and resin which are electrostatically charged and then sprayed onto the metal surface. The charged particles adhere to the metal surface and are then cured under heat to allow the powder to flow and form a smooth, even film.

Powder coating provides a number of advantages over other types of finishes, including better adhesion, durability, and resistance to corrosion and weathering.

Consider Natural Light & Glare from Your Glazing

You'll need to carefully consider the amount of natural light that you want to let in, as too much light can cause glare and make it difficult to see inside your home as well as causing issues with fading your interior textiles and homeware.

There are a few ways to avoid glare with new windows. One option is to use window treatments such as blinds, shades, or curtains. These treatments can be adjusted to allow in the desired amount of light while still reducing glare.

Another option is to use tinted glazing. Tinted glazing can reduce the amount of light that enters your home, which will reduce the amount of glare.

Finally, you can use reflective film on your windows. Reflective film reflects light away from the window, reducing the amount of light that enters your home and reducing the amount of glare.

Decide Whether You Want Clear or Tinted Glass

As well as being a consideration for the natural light and glare from the sun, the decision to have clear glazing versus tinted glazing has some other pros and cons to think about.

Clear glass allows you to see outside very clearly, which can be a benefit for a number of reasons. If you live in a home where your external views are beautiful and your neighbours are a distance away from your property, then you may prioritise the ability to appreciate the scenery outside.

Clear glass also means that natural light will be untinted by the colour of your windows, so you have a greater sense of openness.

With tinted glass, you can enjoy the benefits of natural climate control as it reduces the amount of heat that enters your home. Particularly as British summers get hotter and hotter, this can make your home much more comfortable.

Tinted glass will also provide UV protection, so that your furniture and floor aren't damaged and faded by UV rays, as well as reducing glare so you can see more easily during bright sunlight.

If you want the benefits of tinted glass, but without the commitment of installing tinted glass in your steel framed glazing, then you can install reflective film on your windows to replicate the benefits of tinted glass without it being a permanent decision.

Get a bespoke quote for external steel framed glazing today

If you are considering steel framed glazing for your home, whether it's a bi-fold door as part of a rear extension, or a desire update the external aesthetic of your home, then Steel Framed Doors can provide you with specialist support and a bespoke quote for your project.