Windows · Aluminium
Heritage Steel-Look Windows
Slim glazing bars, period proportions.
What are heritage steel-look windows?
Heritage steel-look windows are aluminium windows designed to reproduce the slender frames and glazing bars of traditional steel windows. They are not steel.
We used the Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage system with 25mm glazing bars in RAL 9005 matt black on 29 windows at a detached stone property in Harrogate.
Where it works best
- Traditional stone properties
- Barn conversions
- New builds seeking period character
Why people choose it
- Slim glazing bars for a true steel-look
- Symmetry maintained across period elevations
- Modern weather and security performance
- Matt finishes that contrast cleanly with stone
Design options
Decided at specification
- Glazing bars
- Bar layouts planned across the whole elevation so proportions and symmetry are consistent.
- Configurations
- Opening casements, fixed picture windows and bespoke shapes — the Harrogate project included a triangular window in the roof space.
- Colours
- Typically matt black or dark finishes; other powder-coated colours available.
- Ventilation
- Trickle ventilation can be integrated to meet Building Regulations.
Technical figures — sizes, thermal and security ratings — are confirmed for your specific specification rather than quoted generically. Systems used include Smart Systems Alitherm Heritage.
Suits these homes
Planning & conservation
Whether consent is needed depends on the property and the local authority. We check before specifying.
Where we’ve used it
- West Yorkshire32 Heritage Windows and 4 Doors, Stone Self Build32 aluminium Heritage windows, black · 4 aluminium Heritage doors · Georgian bar detailing throughout · Triangular gable glazing to both gable ends · Full-height slim side-light glazing
- HarrogateSteel-Look Aluminium Installation29 aluminium windows · 2 heritage bifolds · Aluminium doors · Bespoke glazing
- DoncasterFull House Heritage Installation24 aluminium windows · Heritage bifold · Aluminium doors
Compare
Aluminium vs timber
We do not currently supply timber; where timber is required we will say so plainly.
| Feature | Aluminium | Timber |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Slim, uniform, powder coated | Traditional joinery character |
| Maintenance | Low | Periodic redecoration |
| Planning | Depends on property and authority | Often preferred on listed buildings |
Aluminium vs uPVC windows
Aluminium for slim sightlines and large panes; uPVC for practical, cost-effective replacement.
| Feature | Aluminium | uPVC |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Slim, crisp frames | Wider frames; timber-look options |
| Frame width | Narrower | Wider |
| Maintenance | Low | Low |
| Suits | Contemporary homes, extensions, barns, stone | Wide range of houses, whole-house replacement |
| Cost positioning | Higher | Lower |
| Planning | Depends on property and authority | May not be accepted on some protected buildings |
Questions
Are steel-look windows made of steel?
No. Our heritage steel-look windows are aluminium, designed to look like traditional steel windows with slim frames and glazing bars.
Can steel-look windows be used in a conservation area?
Possibly, depending on the property and the local authority. We check the position before specifying and can help with the information a planning application may require.
How much do heritage steel-look windows cost?
There is no meaningful fixed price. Cost depends on size, configuration, glass, colour, hardware, access and the complexity of installation. We provide a written quotation against an agreed specification, typically within 48 hours of having the details we need.
Related guides
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Specifying this product?
Technical information, drawings and specification support for architects and builders.
Professional supportDiscuss your project
Tell us about the property and the openings. Price depends on size, configuration, glass, colour, hardware, access and installation — we quote against an agreed specification.