Replacing Crittall windows

[tomjimmann]

I live in a 1930s Wells’s cottage with the original Crittall windows, all of which are now warped, rusty and generally knackered - so we’ve undertaken to replace them - any advice? Are the original windows worth saving?

 

[MatthewC]

Hi. Welcome to the forum

I can't answer your question as I junked the replacement (1950s) Crittal french window on my Victorian house and replaced it with a new sash window more in keeping with the original house!

Hopefully someone else may have an idea.

Matthew

 

[MikeG]

Crittall windows can now be fully restored, galvanised, polyester poweder coated (I'm pretty sure), fitted with seals, and even double glazed. I would urge you to consider this rather than replacing them with something that may well be less appropriate. It is very hard to get anything with the really fine profiles that Crittall windows have, and when they work well they are a really beautiful window. Most people's view of them is understandably tainted by the awful condition they find them in.

 

[tomjimmann]

Thanks I will have a look on Google and see if I can find someone who would restore them!

 

[Feltwell]

You can restore them in-situ in the time-honoured strip and paint way, but things like galvanising would definitely require removal!

I've heard of this firm who do restoration:-

http://www.tecglass.co.uk/crittall-windows.html

I do know that new Crittall windows are galvanised, with thermal breaks and DG - so the old problems of peeling paint, rust and terrible condensation should be banished.

 

[MatthewC]

I'm starting to feel guilty about my scrapped Crittal door plus window either side (mentioned above). I'm pretty sure it was galvanised but, honest guv, no-one seemed to be interested in having it when I took it out (and it did have some glass broken by the electrician). I did keep the lock (and key) though, if anyone wants it.
M

 

[malcolm]

I repaired my Crittall windows. I figured they would be good for another 100 years if I shotblasted them and painted them with a 95% zinc paint. http://www.the-salutation.co.uk/blog/crittall-frame-restoration/ Retaining the openers allowed me to rebuild a magnificent gothic oriel window frame.

There are a few companies that can restore Crittall windows. I recall the price being similar to nice replacement windows. One consideration is the slim width of the frames. Wooden frames with openers would be 2 or 3 times the width which could block a little light.

 

[JohnW]

I'm starting to feel guilty about my scrapped Crittal door plus window either side (mentioned above). I'm pretty sure it was galvanised but, honest guv, no-one seemed to be interested in having it when I took it out (and it did have some glass broken by the electrician). I did keep the lock (and key) though, if anyone wants it.
M

I realise I am very late to this thread so apologies. I have recently bought a 1930s property which has Crittall windows and double doors and a window either side which lead to the garden. Sadly there is no key for the lock and I wondered if you still have the lock and key that you mention in your post. It's a long shot after 5 years I know but thought it worth asking. J

 

[Feltwell]

I realise I am very late to this thread so apologies. I have recently bought a 1930s property which has Crittall windows and double doors and a window either side which lead to the garden. Sadly there is no key for the lock and I wondered if you still have the lock and key that you mention in your post. It's a long shot after 5 years I know but thought it worth asking. J

If not - take the lock off and into a locksmith (a proper locksmith, not a key cutter) and they'll make you a new key to suit. It's quite easy really.

 

[Cubist]

As per Feltwells advice or.... you may find that Lockmonster stock suitable replacements. May be worth looking at their website (lock monster.co.uk) and search for 'crittal'.

 

[MatthewC]

I realise I am very late to this thread so apologies. I have recently bought a 1930s property which has Crittall windows and double doors and a window either side which lead to the garden. Sadly there is no key for the lock and I wondered if you still have the lock and key that you mention in your post. It's a long shot after 5 years I know but thought it worth asking. J

Actually I am pretty sure I do still have the lock andkey! I think I saw them in my second shed last year. I will PM you when I find it tomorrow

 

[MatthewC]

@tomjimmann - I have sent you a message on a "conversation" - click the envelope symnbol beside your username (top right)

 

[JohnW]

@tomjimmann - I have sent you a message on a "conversation" - click the envelope symnbol beside your username (top right)

Hi Matthew. I didn't get a notification for this message so I have only just seen that you replied to me. I think you may have messaged the wrong person as there is nothing in my conversation page. Could you try again. Many thanks for your help. J