Custom Aluminum Windows for Historic Building Restorations

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Custom aluminum windows for a historic building are made to the original opening sizes, frame profiles and glazing divisions rather than standard stock dimensions. The process starts with an on-site measurement and a drawing that the owner approves before production begins. This keeps the restored facade faithful to the building's proportions while still giving modern durability and thermal performance.

Why Standard Window Sizes Often Fail Heritage Buildings

Older buildings rarely follow modern dimensions. Openings may be taller, narrower or set at slightly different heights than today's standard stock windows. Forcing a ready-made window into such an opening usually means oversized frames, awkward filler strips and a facade that looks wrong from the street.

Custom production solves this by working from the actual opening. The window is designed to fit the wall as it exists, with the same visual weight and rhythm as the original.

Measuring and Drawing the Opening On Site

A careful site visit is the foundation of a good restoration window. We measure width, height and depth at several points, since old masonry is seldom perfectly square or level. We also photograph the existing frame details, sills and reveals.

Opening dimensions at top, middle and bottom
Reveal depth and sill projection
Position of the original divisions, if any
Surface condition of the surrounding stone or plaster

These measurements feed into a written specification and drawing for your approval before any metal is cut.

Matching Proportions and Glazing Divisions

Proportion is what makes a heritage window look right. The relationship between sash width, height and the number of panes often defines the character of a facade. We can reproduce the original pattern of mullions and transoms in aluminum, or propose a restrained division that suits the period.

Frame sightlines are kept as slim as the structure allows. This is especially important where the original windows were timber or steel and had narrow profiles.

Choosing Finishes That Suit the Period

Aluminum can be finished in a range of colors that complement traditional stone and plaster. Powder coating offers a consistent, durable surface, and we can select shades that sit comfortably beside existing elements such as shutters, railings or metalwork.

Where the building has matching ironwork, we can coordinate the window finish with those pieces so the facade reads as one composition.

From Approval to Production in Our Workshop

Once the drawing is approved, production takes place in our factory at 37 Rival Street, Tel Aviv. Profiles are cut, joined and glazed under controlled conditions, then finished before delivery. Working in-house lets us check every unit against the approved measurements.

Installation follows, with attention to sealing, drainage and fixing into the existing masonry so that the restored window performs as well as it looks.

Working With Architects, Engineers and Committees

Heritage projects often involve architects, structural engineers and building committees. We provide drawings and written specifications that can be shared with the design team and reviewed by the relevant approvals body. Where structural loads or safety requirements apply, exact values are confirmed with your engineer rather than assumed.

Clear documentation at every stage makes approvals smoother and avoids surprises during installation.

Frequently asked questions

Can you match the original window proportions exactly?

Yes, we work from measurements taken on site and can reproduce the existing opening and division pattern. Where the original is unclear, we propose options for you and your architect to review.

Are aluminum windows suitable for a protected heritage building?

They can be, depending on the profile, finish and the requirements of the approving body. We recommend confirming the design with your architect and the relevant authority before production.

Do you need the original windows to be removed first?

Not always. We can measure the opening with the old frame still in place, though removal may be needed for an accurate installation and to inspect the wall condition.

Can the window color match existing metalwork?

Yes. We can select a powder-coated finish that coordinates with your existing railings, shutters or gates so the facade looks unified.

Common mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is ordering standard-size windows and adjusting the opening to fit, which changes the facade proportions. Another is skipping a proper on-site survey, since uneven old walls can cause costly fitting problems later.

Our recommendation

Measure the opening yourself at several points and bring old photos of the building to your first meeting. This gives us a stronger starting point for a drawing that respects the original design.

Summary

Custom aluminum windows let a heritage building keep its original proportions while gaining modern durability. Accurate measurement and an approved drawing make the difference.

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