What Are Crittall Doors? An Expert's Guide

Crittall doors are timeless thanks to a minimalist yet impactful design that suits both domestic and commercial properties. Crittall Windows Ltd gave life to this style of door and window back in the late 19th century, and ever since, thousands of buildings across the UK have chosen to feature doors and windows with sleek steel frames and lines, iconic glass panes and an industrial aesthetic.

This expert guide will tell all on what Crittall doors are, the difference between Crittall doors and Crittall-style doors, and how you can get your hands on reclaimed Crittall doors.

What Are Crittall Doors?

A Crittall door is a distinct door style made from a steel frame with a grid-like pattern of multiple glass panes. The steel frame and slim sightlines are traditionally dark in colour and allow for plenty of natural light to flow. Overall, Crittall doors blend contemporary with classic, making them a very versatile door for both interior and exterior entrances.

The Crittall brand began in Braintree, Essex, in 1849, with Francis Berrington Crittall purchasing an ironmongery on Bank Street. He was followed by his son, Francis Henry Crittall, taking over the business to begin manufacturing steel windows in 1884. Fast forward to today, Crittall continues to make distinctive doors and windows, and other manufacturers have adopted their style, with these doors labelled as “Crittall-style” or “Crittall-inspired”.

Steel is the original material used for Crittall doors, but inspired and modern options use more affordable materials like aluminium.

What is Crittall Style?

A true Crittall door is one from the brand Crittall Windows Ltd, and will be hand-crafted in England using steel. A Crittall-style door refers to a similar steel or aluminium door that’s styled to the original design, being industrial, minimalist and associated with the Art Deco movement.

You’ll likely spot Crittall-style doors and windows across many old factory buildings, and many modern homes are choosing aluminium Crittall doors for extensions, internal partitions, lofts and connecting different interior spaces. They provide a seamless, open feel thanks to the large glass panes and thin sightlines.

Crittall Doors vs Modern Steel & Heritage Doors

Crittall vs Heritage Steel Doors

Authentic Crittall doors focus on traditional sightlines and historic detailing. Heritage steel doors replicate this aesthetic but provide more flexibility in design, glazing options and finishes, often at a more accessible price point.

Crittall vs Aluminium Lookalikes

Many Crittall-style doors use aluminium as an alternative to traditional steel because it’s more affordable to manufacture. While more expensive, steel offers ultra-slim sightlines, narrow frames, extreme strength and a distinctive industrial characteristic.

While aluminium frames are lightweight, corrosion resistant and thermally efficient, the profiles are usually thicker than true steel. But, for many homeowners, aluminium provides a convincing alternative.

Why “Crittall” is Used as a Generic Term

“Crittall” has become a catch-all phrase for black, grid-style steel doors due to the brand’s long-standing influence on early 20th-century industrial and Art Deco architecture.

Much like “Hoover” became a generic term for vacuum cleaners, the name is often used generically, even when doors are steel alternatives or aluminium replicas.

Are Crittall Doors Still Made Today?

Crittall Windows Ltd continues to make doors and windows to this very day and is still manufacturing in Essex.

New vs Reclaimed

Crittall doors are considered premium, and with authentic Crittall doors being hand-crafted using labour-intensive processes, the price for new doors is high. For a brand-new steel Crittall door, you’ll likely pay £5,000+, with aluminium alternatives ranging between £1,500 and £3,000.

There is the option to save lots of money and purchase a reclaimed Crittall door. These are authentic doors made by the brand Crittall but are used and often refurbished. A reclaimed Crittall door, like ours here at Green Doors, ranges from £300 to £2,000+, helping you get the real thing for far less.

We also offer Crittal door refurbishment, a service that you’ll only find from us. We bring 100-year-old Crittall doors back to life and even give you the option to add double glazing to make them more energy efficient.

Bespoke Steel Doors

All authentic Crittall doors are bespoke for each customer, further adding to costs. Crittall-inspired doors made from mild steel will also likely be made bespoke. While you’ll have a unique design, choosing bespoke steel doors increases lead times and costs.

Planning / Conservation Considerations

Looking for a Crittall door or an inspired alternative? If you live in a listed building or conservation area, door replacements may require approval from your local planning authority. In heritage properties, maintaining original sightlines, glazing bar proportions and frame materials is often essential. Always check with your local council before installing new doors, especially if altering the appearance of the facade.

Explore Our Range of Preloved Crittall Doors

At Green Doors, we help homeowners save on doors and windows by rescuing what otherwise would be thrown away. Our range of pre-loved Crittall doors are the real deal and come with a friendly price. You can also shop a range of French doors, bi-fold designs and patio doors that have been refurbished and are ready to be fitted in your home.

If you need any help choosing a Crittall door or another from our range, don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling 01582 34 35 34.

Frequently Asked Questions