Large format steel windows Part L compliant

Two storey extension to a private residence in a fashionable area of north London has been completed using Part L compliant steel windows from Steel Window Service and Supplies.

A two storey extension to a private residence in a fashionable area of north London has been completed using Part L compliant steel windows, offering open aspects and ample natural daylight as well as good thermal performance and high security.

The large two storey extension to the property has been built by Firmco Limited, with London based consultancy, Warmans Surveying acting as project manager.

The owners' chosen fenestration specialist, Steel Window Service and Supplies, worked closely with the designers to ensure the glazing solution met both Building Regulations requirements and the aesthetic aspirations for a space containing a stylish gymnasium and leisure area.

Employing W40 system sections, the Steel Window Association member company fabricated five full height, high performance screens that dominate the main elevation.

Each screen is made up of a 1200 x 2500 mm frame beneath another measuring 1200 x 1800 mm.

These are separated by feature steel panels which conceal a balcony walkway with glass balustrade, reached by two spiral staircases.

The design maximises the amount of natural light and the open view for which steel frames with their slim sight-lines are renowned.

The frames, which are hot dip galvanized to guarantee a long corrosion resistant life, were finished with a polyester powder coating.

They are glazed with 24 mm thick sealed units containing an inner leaf of low-emissivity glass to achieve the required U-value.

A spokesman for the design team commented: "This is an excellent example of Approved Document L compliant steel windows and doors manufactured using W40 profiles and high performance double glazed units".

"They have created an interesting and well thought out elevation, bringing a modern dimension to a traditional domestic property".

One of the engineers on the project for Firmco, Paul Sluce, added: "The clients had seen steel window frames used on other projects and wanted to achieve that look on their extension, even though the rest of the property has timber sashes".

"There were inevitably some minor problems, but no real issues, and Steel Windows had someone there immediately we requested it".

"The client is very pleased with the finished job".

A guide to steel windows and list of members is available free from the Steel Window Association.

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