Since its inception in 1920, the mission of the Steel Window Institute (SWI) has been to serve the manufacturers of windows and doors made from hot-rolled purpose-made steel sections while working to demonstrate the benefits and attributes of steel windows and doors to architects and other design professionals. Today, the member companies of SWI represent over 300 collective years in the industry, allowing SWI to serve as an unbiased authority on technical, promotional, and other matters that pertain to the ever-changing needs of the steel window and door industry.

“The prominence and use of steel windows and doors are rooted in history, and they have long been recognized as the premier solution for residential, commercial, institutional, government, and healthcare buildings,” said Randy Manitta, SWI chair. “The continued advancements in product design and manufacturing technology have made steel windows and doors the perfect choice for many project applications, even those with the most stringent building code requirements—including fire safety protection, hurricane/impact resistance, blast mitigation, and historic preservation.”

Over the years, SWI has worked tirelessly to develop and maintain numerous technical resources,including the Steel Window and Door Specifications and Detention Specifications. These specificationsprovide clear instructions on the intent, performance, and construction of steel windows and doors andestablish a standard of excellence by including rigorous testing to meet air, water, and structural requirements. SWI’s specifications have been recognized by government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Defense.

Among SWI’s promotional resources are its website, www.steelwindows.com, which is home to a media center containing photos, press releases, and videos featuring steel windows and doors. “These videos sum up why steel windows and doors are a popular solution in use today,” said John Cashier, chair of SWI’s Promotional Committee. “Viewers get to see the many benefits of steel windows and doors, including aspects such as narrow sight lines, factory finishes, versatility, fire ratings, and thermal performance.”

SWI is proud of its century of efforts to promote the steel window and door industry and educate the public, which includes architects and specifiers. Steel windows and doors today, with their beauty, durability, and ever-advancing technology, have stood the test of time and continue to make a statement in a multitude of construction markets.

The members of SWI are leading manufacturers of windows and doors made from hot-rolled purpose-made steel sections and such related products as casings, trim, mechanical operators, screens, and moldings that are manufactured and sold by members of the industry for use with steel windows and doors. SWI provides the public with general and technical information concerning the industry’s products. Proprietary specifications produced by each SWI member are available from individual members upon request.

For more information, please contact the Steel Window Institute, 1300 Sumner Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115-2851. Phone: 216-241-7333; fax: 216-241-0105. On the web: https://www.steelwindows.com/.