Installing steel windows in your house can be a worthwhile investment. This is not merely because steel windows and steel staircases are in vogue these days. But, rather because they offer a lot of benefits, which other materials do not. Many people might feel that steel is a heavy material. As such, installing it will involve several hassles. For instance, people who follow the ‘Do It Yourself’ (DIY) approach, might feel that the heavier weight of steel is inconvenient. It will necessitate hiring professionals to install the doors and windows. But, steel is not as heavy as other materials. In fact, it is lightweight. This is one of the reasons why fabricators and suppliers can get away with providing minimal frames for doors and windows. It is worth highlighting that the minimal frame of steel doors and windows does not compromise the security that steel offers. Despite being lightweight, steel frames and doors are essentially robust and sturdy. This is why you will invariably come across several kinds of steel windows in several neighbourhoods in your city.
Some of the most common kinds of steel windows that you might come across include:
- Fixed Steel Window Frames: These window frames typically feature a large pane of glass (or several smaller panes) divided by vertical and horizontal bars. The primary reason people install these frames is to facilitate the entry of light. Therefore, you will not be able to open or close these windows. These kinds of windows are highly popular in various commercial designs. In many cases, people use over-glass vents with these windows.
- Pivot Steel Window Frames: These window frames usually feature panels that rotate horizontally or vertically around the frame. These window frames have intricate styles. This makes them highly attractive to look at. The rotating panels are useful for facilitating better levels of ventilation. In addition, you could combine these frames with other steel frames to obtain a better look. For the security conscious, it is worth highlighting that these frames come with locks as well. You could use these locks to prevent anyone from opening the window from the outside. These window frames are highly popular for their affordability and minimal maintenance.
- Casement Steel Window Frames: These window frames are available in top-hung, bottom-hung and side-hung varieties. As such, you could consider opening these windows in different directions. These windows are popular for their classic design and construction. In addition, their slim mullions enhance the visual appeal as well. Experts opine that these frames offer the greatest amount of ventilation too.
- Awning Steel Window Frames: These window frames feature hinges placed at the top. This makes the window pivot vertically and open outwards.
- Hopper Steel Window Frames: These bear a close semblance to awning window frames. The only difference is that these frames have hinges placed at the bottom, rather than at the top. As such, these frames pivot vertically. People often use these window frames in small spaces such as basements and apartment complexes.
- French Casement Steel Window Frames: Unlike other window frames, these frames do not feature a centre mullion. This enables you to enjoy a clear view. The hinges on these frames are on the outer side. As such, you could open them outwards or inwards.
- Tilt and Slide Steel Window Frames: These sliding windows usually are of the same size as a door. They feature a sash, which tilts inwards from the top. Then, it slides in a horizontal position beneath the fixed pane of glass.
- Tilt and Turn Steel Window Frames: These windows could tilt inwards from the top. Alternatively, they could open inwards with the help of the side hinges. If you plan to install these windows, it will be good to keep the floor space in front of this window clear.
- Bay and Bow Steel Window Frames: These window frames usually protrude from the wall. They feature multiple windows set at varying angles, which end up creating a multi-dimensional space. Not surprisingly, these windows are useful if you want to make them the focal point of a room.