Drawings and Specifications for a Steel-Look Window Order

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A complete steel-look window specification combines dimensioned elevations, sections showing the profile and glazing build-up, and a written schedule covering profile system, glazing, hardware, finish and installation tolerances. Including these items together lets the manufacturer produce windows to measure without repeated clarification, and gives the tender a clear basis for comparison.

Why a Clear Specification Matters

Steel-look windows are made to measure, so the drawings and written text are the only way the manufacturer knows exactly what you intend. A vague schedule leads to questions, revisions and sometimes units that do not fit the opening. A precise document protects the architect, the contractor and the owner alike.

Aim to describe each element once, clearly, and refer to the same reference code in the drawings and in the schedule. Consistency between the two is what prevents costly mismatches on site.

Drawings to Include

Provide a window schedule with a unique mark for each unit, plus elevations drawn at an appropriate scale showing sash layout, opening direction and fixed panels. Mark the handing of each opening clearly, as seen from the outside.

Dimensioned elevations with rough and finished opening sizes
Horizontal and vertical sections through head, sill and jambs
Plan details showing the wall build-up at each frame
Hardware locations and handle positions

Profile System and Sightlines

State the profile family you want, including the visible frame and sash widths and the sightline you expect. Steel-look profiles are slim by nature, so indicate whether the design relies on a specific sash overlap or a flush appearance, since these affect both looks and performance.

Where the window must match an existing facade or adjoining metalwork, show the relationship in a section rather than describing it only in words.

Glazing and Infill Details

Specify the glass type, build-up and thickness for each unit, including any laminated or low-emissivity layers, and the glazing bead style. Identify which panels are fixed and which are operable, and note any obscure or safety glass required by the project.

Give the glazing thickness range the frame must accept, so the profile is detailed to hold the chosen build-up without later adjustment.

Finish, Hardware and Accessories

Describe the finish as a colour reference and a finish type, such as powder coating or a specified surface treatment, and confirm whether the colour applies to both sides of the frame. Mention any internal or external colour difference, since this changes the profile order.

List hardware in the schedule: hinges, espagnolettes, locks, handles, stays and any security fittings. Specify the handle finish so it matches the rest of the project metalwork.

Installation Requirements and Tolerances

Set out the fixing method, the wall type the frames will be built into, and who is responsible for sealing and waterproofing. State the required tolerances on opening size and verticality so the site and factory work to the same standard.

Where the building has specific wind, sound or thermal requirements, reference the relevant performance class in the specification. Confirm exact technical values with your engineer rather than relying on general figures.

Frequently asked questions

Should I give the rough opening or the finished opening size?

Provide both where possible, clearly labelled, so the manufacturer knows which dimension is measured to the structure and which to the finished wall. Always confirm final sizes on site before production.

Do I need to specify glass build-up in the window schedule?

Yes, the glass type and thickness should be stated for each unit or group of units. This ensures the profile is detailed to hold the chosen glazing correctly.

How should handing be shown on drawings?

Mark the opening direction on each elevation as seen from the outside, and state it in the schedule. This avoids confusion about left and right handed units.

Can I reference an existing facade colour instead of a code?

You can, but attach a sample or reference to the document, since colour perception varies. A written colour code together with a sample is the most reliable approach.

Common mistakes to avoid

Omitting sections and relying only on elevations is the most common error, as it hides how the frame meets the wall. Leaving the finish, handing or glazing build-up unstated also causes delays and revisions.

Our recommendation

Send one consolidated drawing set with the written schedule and invite a short site or technical review before final approval. A single early check usually saves more time than any later revision.

Summary

A strong steel-look window specification pairs dimensioned elevations and sections with a written schedule covering profile, glazing, finish, hardware and installation. Consistent references across all documents make the order accurate and easy to tender.

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