40502t 
25 August 2021    

Windows manufactured byMetali Window Services Ltd.

 Click here for a high resolution image

Steel isthemost recycled material by weight on the planet

Genuine sustainability is about the kind of tomorrow we want to leave to our childrenand grandchildren - and onwards. It touches every facet of life and means making the right choices, so it is increasingly important to understand and evaluate materials from cradle to grave. In the case of steel windows, they combine high quality, attractive aesthetics, low maintenance and longevity with a design life of 70 years.  

All steel windows fromSteel Window Associationmembers are manufactured in the UK, while the high-gradesteelis imported from Switzerland, minimising its carbon footprint relating to transportation. Members even have the ability to refurbish steel products. At end of life, the windows can be systematically dismantled and the steel frames, fittings and glass recycled, reducing pressure on landfill.

Steel is inherentlydurable and recyclable and is easily recoverable from the waste stream by magnetic separation. Indeed, steel can be recycled and reused indefinitely with no diminution in quality; it is the most recycled material by weight on the planet. On average, new steel products have a 37% recycled content which minimises the use of virgin resources. In short, steel is a permanent material that plays a part in the circular economy, helping reduce the burden on nature by ensuring resources remain in use for as long as possible.

Embodied carbon is a factor in almost any product, and steel is no exception, but modern processes and business practices are designed to reduce energy consumption. They have resulted in one tonne of steel produced today requiring just 40% of the energy it did in 1960.

As well as reducing energy consumption and preserving resources, recycling steelcuts CO2 emissions and water usage. One tonne of steel recycled saves, on average, 1,400 kg of iron ore, 740 kg of coal and 120 kg of limestone. Today, almost every by-product formed during the steelmaking process is used in new products, ranging from fertilisers and asphalt to plastics and paints, minimising the amount of waste sent to landfill and preserving raw materials.

Along with steel's recyclability and durability, asignificantbenefit in the manufacture of windows is the superior strength-to volume ratio of the material. It contributes to the slim sightlines of the frames thatensure maximum light transmission and unmatched design versatility, resulting in steel windows being both a sustainable and stylish choice.

For further information on the Steel Window Association, please visitwww.steel-window-association.co.ukor call020 3475 8049.

Editors' notes

SWA members have exclusive access to a range of collectively developed energy- rated systems which are compliant with building regulations and that are recognised by theBritish Fenestration Rating Council(BFRC). The SWA also works in cooperation with both the British and European standards agencies, window research bodies and other influential organisations; includingFENSAand as mentioned above, theConstruction Products Associationand theGlass & Glazing Federation.  Members of the Steel Window Association offer a UK wide service for the repair and replacement of various types of old metal windows, doors and screens, as well as being able to manufacture new fenestration which fully meets the requirements of the building regulations.

-ends-

With compliments:
Taylor Alden Ltd
7 Bell Yard
London
WC2A 2JR
Tel:  020 3137 9041
Email:media@tayloralden.co.uk