Crittall Style Doors: A Comprehensive UK Homeowner's Guide

Crittall style doors and windows have seen a significant resurgence in popularity across the UK, becoming a defining feature in both contemporary and traditional homes. Their distinctive aesthetic, characterised by slim frames and multiple glazing bars, offers a unique blend of industrial chic and timeless elegance. But beyond their visual appeal, what exactly are Crittall style doors, and what should UK homeowners consider before investing?

This comprehensive guide will delve into the history, technical specifications, benefits, and practical considerations of Crittall style doors, helping you make an informed decision for your home improvement project.

What Are Crittall Style Doors?

The term 'Crittall' originally refers to a specific brand, Crittall Windows Ltd., a British company founded in 1849. They pioneered the use of steel-framed windows and doors, which became incredibly popular in the early 20th century, particularly during the Art Deco and Modernist movements. Think of iconic buildings like the Houses of Parliament or the Tate Modern – many feature original Crittall installations.

Today, 'Crittall style' is often used as a generic term to describe any steel or aluminium framed glazing system that mimics the aesthetic of original Crittall products. These systems are characterised by:

• Slim Profiles: Exceptionally slender frames, typically made from steel or aluminium, maximising the glass area.
• Grid-Like Panes: Multiple individual panes of glass separated by glazing bars, creating a distinctive grid pattern.
• Black Finish: Traditionally, frames are powder-coated in black, though other colours are available.
• Industrial Aesthetic: A look that blends well with both period properties and modern, minimalist designs.

While original Crittall products are still manufactured, many companies now offer 'Crittall style' alternatives, often using aluminium, which can provide similar aesthetics with different performance characteristics and price points.

Benefits of Crittall Style Doors for UK Homes

The enduring appeal of Crittall style doors is rooted in a combination of aesthetic and practical advantages:

Technical Specifications and UK Building Regulations

For any home improvement project involving new or replacement doors, compliance with UK Building Regulations is paramount. This is especially true for external doors, which significantly impact a home's thermal performance, safety, and security.

Thermal Performance (Part L)

The most critical aspect for external doors is their thermal performance, measured by a U-value (W/m²K). A lower U-value indicates better insulation. Current Building Regulations Part L (2022, England) specify:

• New Builds: Windows and doors must achieve a U-value of 1.2 W/m²K or lower.
• Replacement Doors: Doors must achieve a U-value of 1.4 W/m²K or lower.

Achieving these U-values with Crittall style doors requires careful specification:

• Double Glazing: Essential for thermal performance. Look for units with low-emissivity (low-e) coatings, warm edge spacer bars, and argon or krypton gas infill.
• Thermally Broken Frames: Modern steel and aluminium frames incorporate a 'thermal break' – a non-conductive material separating the inner and outer parts of the frame. This prevents heat transfer through the metal itself. Without a thermal break, even double glazing will struggle to meet modern U-value requirements.

Safety Glazing (Part K)

All glazing in critical locations (e.g., within 800mm of floor level in a door or side panel, or within 300mm of the edge of a door) must be safety glass. This typically means:

• Toughened Glass: Shatters into small, relatively harmless pieces upon impact.
• Laminated Glass: Consists of two panes of glass bonded by an interlayer, which holds the glass together if broken.

Ventilation (Part F)

Replacement windows and doors should not worsen the existing ventilation provision. This often means incorporating trickle vents, especially if the original windows had them, or if the room relies on background ventilation through windows.

Security (Part Q)

New doors and easily accessible windows in new dwellings must be proven to resist physical attack. While Part Q primarily applies to new builds, it's good practice for replacement doors to meet or exceed its standards, often requiring certification to PAS 24:2016 or equivalent.

Always consult with your supplier and local Building Control officer to ensure your chosen Crittall style doors comply with all relevant regulations for your specific project.

Steel vs. Aluminium Crittall Style Doors: A Comparison

While both materials can achieve the Crittall aesthetic, there are key differences:

Feature	Steel Crittall Style	Aluminium Crittall Style
Frame Profile	Ultra-slim, typically the slimmest possible.	Slim, but generally slightly thicker than steel due to material properties.
Durability	Extremely strong and robust, long lifespan.	Very durable, resistant to corrosion, long lifespan.
Thermal Performance	Excellent, when thermally broken and combined with high-performance glazing.	Excellent, when thermally broken and combined with high-performance glazing. Generally easier to achieve lower U-values than steel.
Weight	Heavier, requiring robust fixings and potentially more structural consideration.	Lighter, easier to handle and install.
Maintenance	Low; powder-coated finish is durable. Occasional cleaning.	Very low; powder-coated finish is highly resistant to weathering. Occasional cleaning.
Cost	Typically higher due to manufacturing complexity and material cost.	Generally more cost-effective than steel.
Aesthetics	Most authentic 'Crittall' look, often preferred for period restorations.	Very close aesthetic, more versatile for modern designs, wider colour options.

Design and Installation Considerations

Internal vs. External Use

• External Doors: Must meet stringent Building Regulations for thermal performance, security, and weather resistance. Always specify thermally broken frames and high-performance double glazing.
• Internal Doors/Partitions: While Building Regulations are less strict for internal applications, consider acoustic performance (e.g., using laminated glass for sound dampening) and fire safety if creating a new partition in a multi-storey dwelling.

Glazing Options

• Clear Toughened Glass: Standard for safety and maximum light.
• Laminated Glass: Offers enhanced security and acoustic insulation.
• Obscure/Frosted Glass: For privacy in bathrooms or certain internal partitions.
• Patterned Glass: For decorative effect.

Frame Finish and Colour

While black is classic, modern Crittall style doors are available in a range of powder-coated colours. Consider how the frame colour will complement your interior and exterior design scheme.

Hardware

Handles, hinges, and locking mechanisms should be chosen to match the industrial aesthetic and provide the necessary security and functionality. Look for high-quality, durable hardware.

Professional Installation

Given the precision required for fitting slim-profile frames and ensuring weather-tightness and thermal performance, professional installation is highly recommended. An experienced installer will ensure compliance with Building Regulations and optimal performance.

Maintenance and Longevity

Crittall style doors, whether steel or aluminium, are designed for longevity with minimal maintenance. The powder-coated finish is highly durable and resistant to corrosion and fading. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is usually sufficient to keep them looking their best. Inspect seals and hardware periodically to ensure they remain in good condition.

Conclusion

Crittall style doors offer a distinctive and elegant solution for homeowners looking to enhance their property with a blend of industrial heritage and modern design. By understanding the differences between steel and aluminium, the critical role of Building Regulations compliance (especially Part L for thermal performance and Part K for safety glazing), and the importance of professional installation, you can confidently choose the right Crittall style doors for your UK home.

Whether you're creating a light-filled extension, a stylish internal partition, or replacing outdated external doors, Crittall style provides a durable, secure, and aesthetically pleasing option that will stand the test of time.

At Shard AG, we specialise in high-performance glazing solutions, including bespoke Crittall style doors and windows. Our expert team can guide you through the selection process, ensuring your chosen products meet all UK Building Regulations and perfectly complement your home's design. Contact us today to discuss your project and discover how our precision-engineered steel and aluminium systems can transform your living spaces.