Steel Casement Windows and Energy Efficiency
While steel casement windows may have a snug fit at first, over time, the sashes may crack. This can prevent them from closing properly and make them less energy-efficient. In fact, windows in homes are responsible for 12 to 15 percent of heat loss, regardless of the type of material.
Steel Casement Energy Efficiency
Steel is one of the least energy-efficient types of materials to use as framing around casement windows. Energy is lost through the steel as it would through aluminum. However, the durability of steel and the added architectural elements that it lends to the home is worth adding additional insulating factors and support to increase the efficiency of the steel. Below are several ways to preserve and help to reduce the energy loss from the steel casement windows.
In today’s standard, an architect or a building contractor suggests replacing any frame that has become rusted.
Re-Aligning Steel Casement Windows
A steel casement window can be re-aligned. Some problems you might have found with the windows are too many layers of paint been put on, broken handles, surface rust, loose handles and hinges, and even the foundation of the house moving. So by re-aligning the sash, remove rust and paint, take off old parts and repair them, and finally re putty with a glazed putty and re-paint using an oil-based paint will definitely make your windows look brand new.
Restoring Steel Casement Windows
The steel windows can be restored and have some energy efficiency installed into them. An original steel window is said to be not energy efficient and there is a lot of heat loss in the winter due to the cold weather. But, this type of window can have another glaze installed on the inside-mounting of the glass. It will take a retrofit but certainly does help with the heat loss.
You might even think about installing a screen for the window. There is a screen available that rolls up and down like a window shade. They are installed on a small track that would be attached to the interior of the sill. Added to this is what they call an acrylic storm panel, which is attached with a magnetic strip. This will also help with heat loss.
Using Reconditioned Steel
Another technique is to actually use reconditioned steel, which can be found from buildings that have been demolished. This is a good recycling method instead of the steel being thrown away. The only downfall would be you might not find the right size of a window to replace the old ones. If at all possible maybe redesign the opening to fit the reconditioned steel casement window.
New Steel Casement Windows
New steel windows can be installed but you probably will want to stay with the same historical element of the building. This might be pricey but well worth looking into.
