Whether you’re an architect, conservation officer or homeowner, SWA members help to protect and celebrate the legacy of steel windows and doors.
The Steel Window Association (SWA) represents the UK’s leading specialists in the preservation and refurbishment of steel windows and doors – particularly in listed buildings, heritage properties, and conservation areas. Members are trusted custodians of architectural legacy, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern performance standards.
Steel windows and doors are renowned for their longevity and preserving them is often more sustainable and historically respectful than replacement. SWA members offer a range of services designed to retain original features, improve performance, and ensure compliance with conservation guidelines.
Preservation process overview
Preservation can range from in-situ servicing to full off-site restoration, depending on the condition and requirements of the commercial building or property:
- In-situ servicing includes easing and adjusting windows and doors, replacing damaged ironmongery, and treating surface rust and lead-based paints safely.
- In-situ overhauls can also involve a deeper restoration: removing surface coatings, treating exposed steel, replacing seals and glazing beads, and repainting with heritage-appropriate finishes.
- Full off-site work includes:
- Careful cataloguing and removal of each item
- Secure off-site storage
- Shot blasting to remove rust, lead paint, and old coatings
- Galvanising and powder coating or hand painting for heritage accuracy
- Reinstallation and reglazing, often with upgraded acoustic and thermal performance
Throughout the process, every element is documented and preserved, ensuring the building’s character and historical value remains intact.
Why preservation and refurbishment matters
Preserving and refurbishing original steel fenestration maintains the architectural integrity of heritage buildings; supports sustainable building practices by reusing existing materials while enhancing security, usability, and energy efficiency without compromising design.
From January 2026 Westminster Council is introducing a new Retrofit First policy, placing the city of London at the forefront of local government action on climate change. The policy requires developers to fully explore all reasonable options for retrofitting and adapting existing buildings before seeking permission for demolition and redevelopment. It recognises that not all buildings can be retrofitted, and therefore takes a retrofit-first, not retrofit-only approach. More information is available here on the policy.
For a deeper technical overview, the SWA’s Commercial or Domestic Refurbishment Fact Sheet, which is available to download from the website, outlines the full scope of preservation practices, including the safe handling of lead-based paints, rust treatment, glazing upgrades, and the importance of cataloguing and storing components off-site before reinstallation. This resource is invaluable for architects, conservation officers, and property owners seeking to preserve the integrity of steel windows and doors in heritage buildings.
For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visit www.steel-window-association.co.uk or call 020 3475 8049.