The Metaglas Classic product line has been developed to replace slim non-insulated steel window frames with equally slender aluminium profiles, featuring a thermal break. At the same time, single glazing can be replaced with high-performance insulating glass.
This preserves the original character of buildings while bringing thermal insulation, comfort and sustainability up to modern standards. Maintenance costs are also reduced, as aluminium does not rust in the same way as traditional steel.
Why Choose Steel Look Window Frames?
Many older buildings feature characteristic steel window frames that are architecturally and historically valuable but no longer meet modern technical requirements.
Metaglas Classic retains the slim profiles and narrow sightlines of traditional steel, while allowing the system to be fitted with HR++ or HR+++ glazing.
Unlike traditional steel window frames, Metaglas Classic incorporates a thermal break. This significantly reduces heat loss without compromising the authentic appearance of the façade.
The result is a solution that combines the architectural character of traditional steel with the thermal performance expected from a modern window system.
Ideal for Both Renovation and New-Build Projects
Metaglas Classic has been developed for renovation, transformation and new-build projects where an industrial or traditional architectural appearance is required.
Additional mullions and glazing bars make it possible to accurately replicate the original configuration of steel windows.
At the same time, the slim aluminium profiles provide a durable, low-maintenance and future-proof solution.
This makes the system particularly suitable for projects where the original architectural character needs to be retained while improving the building's performance.
Less Disruption Through Prefabricated Installation
Metaglas manufactures Metaglas Classic elements off-site wherever possible.
This prefabricated approach enables fast and controlled installation on site, resulting in shorter construction times, less noise and minimal disruption for residents or building users.
This is a particularly important advantage when renovating occupied buildings, such as rented homes managed by housing associations.
Manufacturing the elements under controlled factory conditions also helps ensure consistent quality and reduces dependence on weather conditions during installation.
More Natural Daylight, Less Energy Loss
The strength and slenderness of the Metaglas Classic aluminium profiles leave more space for glazing.
This allows more natural daylight to enter the building and creates a greater sense of openness and space.
At the same time, the thermally broken profiles combined with HR++ or HR+++ insulating glazing improve indoor comfort and help reduce energy consumption.
This combination is particularly valuable in renovation projects. The original proportions and appearance of the façade can be retained while the building benefits from significantly improved thermal performance.
Suitable for Heritage Renovations and Architectural Design Requirements
Metaglas Classic is regularly used in renovation projects subject to strict local architectural design and heritage requirements.
Thanks to its slim profiles, bespoke detailing and authentic steel-look appearance, the system can be closely aligned with the original architectural principles of historic buildings.
Metaglas Classic has already demonstrated its suitability in projects complying with local architectural design requirements in Dutch municipalities including Amersfoort, Zeist, Amsterdam, Hilversum, Wassenaar and Utrecht.
One example is the renovation of homes in the Schildersbuurt district of Utrecht, where the original appearance of the façades was preserved while the window frames were upgraded to provide the performance and comfort of a modern aluminium system.
Metaglas Classic therefore offers architects, contractors and clients a proven solution for renovation projects in which preserving architectural character, meeting heritage requirements and improving thermal performance need to go hand in hand.
Why Choose Metaglas Classic?
Metaglas Classic combines the appearance of traditional steel with the performance of a modern window system through the use of thermally broken aluminium profiles, HR++ or HR+++ glazing and prefabricated production.
For projects where the appearance of traditional steel window frames needs to be retained without compromising on insulation, comfort or sustainability, Metaglas Classic provides a future-proof solution.
It is suitable for both heritage renovations and distinctive new-build architecture, combining narrow sightlines with modern technical performance.
Would you like to explore projects featuring Metaglas Classic or find out whether the system is suitable for your project?
View our projects, download the technical documentation or contact our team to discuss the possibilities.
