Hi there – I’m glad you’ve stopped by this morning! Today I’m talking about something that I’ve had a crush on for several years now – steel doors and windows. I’m exploring them for an upcoming project, and I wanted to share with you what I’ve learned, just in case you’re as smitten by them as I am! Come on inside and I’ll share everything I’ve learned so far.

Steel windows have taken the design world by storm these last couple of years, and for good reason – they’re sleek, they’re gorgeous, and they let in lots of that coveted prize – natural light!

We all know that they look amazing, but here are a few other things I’ve learn in my research:

• Due to the strength of the steel, windows made from this material can have very slender sightlines. That means there’s a minimal amount of framing material needed for structural integrity, so you get a cleaner look with less framing and more glass.

• Although you often see them in modern settings because of their sleek lines, they span all sorts of architectural styles and look awesome in both traditional and modern homes.

• These windows are extremely durable, and because of the steel frame and powder coating, they are resistant to decay, weather, and fire.

• Steel contracts less than wood does in cold weather, which makes these windows a more consistent barrier against the weather.

• They require minimal upkeep compared to wood windows and doors.

via: Southern Accents March 2009

• Because they require minimal framework, steel windows are a great solution for corner windows, which is a really cool feature.

• Although steel windows of the past were very poorly insulated, newer technologies have caught up, and the modern beauties are much more thermally efficient.

• You are not limited as far as style of windows – steel windows are available in lots of operable variations including casement, in-swing, out-swing, awning, horizontal pivoting, and vertical pivoting.

Sounds pretty amazing, right? Why on earth would anyone NOT use these amazing windows in their projects? Well, the bottom line is $$$$. Steel frame windows are expensive. Like VERY expensive. I can’t tell you what they cost, because of course it depends on your project, the size of your windows, etc.

But from what I’ve read, you can expect prices to be at least double that of wood, more than aluminum, but less than bronze (in case you were thinking of putting bronze windows in your next remodel).

These beautiful steel windows have a much longer life than standard wood, aluminum, vinyl, etc., so there is that.

I’m not sure that I’m going to be able to justify the cost of these gorgeous windows and doors in my upcoming project, although I would love to use at least a couple of them in strategic places.

I’m also going to be exploring some of the other options out there, because I know that there are companies who manufacture wood and aluminum windows who are trying to replicate the look of steel as much as possible, and I’ll be checking into those.

I’ll let you know what I find out!

Have a great day, and as always, thanks for stopping by! I’d love to hear if you’ve found an alternative to steel windows that you think looks great at a more affordable price!