Custom Architectural Bronze Door & Window | Pros, Cons & Cost

August 2, 2024

Key Takeaways

Custom architectural bronze doors and windows are extremely durable – potentially lasting for centuries.
They offer a timeless aesthetic that gives a unique aesthetic to each space.
While they are corrosion-resistant and ideal for different climates, they come at a higher cost and require a lot of maintenance.
The cost varies based on design complexity, size, and additional features.
At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer custom door and window solutions that combine quality, functionality, and design.

What are Custom Architectural Bronze Doors & Windows?

Architectural bronze is a heavy-duty alloy, primarily made of copper and tin, with small amounts of other metals added. Due to its strength and resistance to wear and tear, it’s a material that allows doors and windows to maintain their quality and aesthetic for a long time.

The Crafting Process

To create a custom architectural bronze door or window, a skilled craftsman pours molten bronze into molds to form the desired shapes and patterns. Once cooled and released from the molds, these bronze pieces are cleaned, polished, and assembled for the final product. This process produces doors or windows that are beautiful enough to be considered art pieces.

Common Uses in Home Design

While architectural bronze doors make for durable entryways, they can also be used as interior room dividers, shower enclosures, statement pieces in a wine cellar, and other home design purposes.

Founded in 1991, Panda Windows & Doors specializes in state-of-the-art custom glass wall systems for both residential and commercial spaces through Panda Windows & Doors. Operating from our manufacturing facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, we have been at the forefront of innovation for over 30 years. Our extensive product lineup includes over 80 high-end offerings, such as pivot doors, French doors, folding doors, lift & slides, multi-slides, horizontal sliding walls, and operable windows. These systems are available in materials like aluminum, steel, stainless steel, bronze, solid wood, and aluminum-wood clad.

We are renowned for our award-winning designs, engineering solutions, and fast lead times, delivering in just 6-10 weeks to customers throughout the U.S. and Caribbean. Trusted by leading architectural firms and glaziers nationwide, we stand as the premier manufacturer of custom luxury windows and doors in the United States.

Explore Custom Solutions from Panda Windows & Doors Today

Pros of Custom Architectural Bronze Doors & Windows

Durability and Longevity

One of the biggest advantages of architectural bronze is its durability and longevity. As indicated by many classic artifacts, bronze can survive for centuries if crafted correctly.

Custom architectural bronze doors and windows benefit from that durability and can last a very long time without deteriorating.

Aesthetic and Timeless Appeal

Architectural bronze has a rich, golden-brown hue and develops a patina over time, which adds character and depth to the metal. This natural aging process means that custom architectural bronze doors and windows become more visually appealing as they age.

This timeless, elegant quality of architectural bronze complements both traditional and modern home designs.

An image of an architectural bronze artifact that has developed a patina after decades.

An architectural bronze artifact offers a unique monumental aesthetic.

Weather Resistance

Bronze is remarkably resilient in different weather conditions. It doesn’t corrode like iron, or warp and crack like wood.

Architectural bronze doors and windows work well for homes in coastal areas or regions with extreme weather patterns because:

They resist saltwater corrosion.
They can withstand high winds and heavy rains without suffering damage.
They don’t require frequent refinishing or sealing like other materials.

Cons of Custom Architectural Bronze Doors & Windows

Installation Requirements

Due to their weight and the complexity of the material, custom architectural bronze doors and windows require professional installation by experienced technicians.

To make sure they function correctly and last as long as possible, they need:

Proper structural support to bear the weight of the bronze.
Precise measurements to avoid gaps and ensure a perfect fit.
Specialized hardware to accommodate the unique properties of bronze.

Energy Efficiency

Architectural bronze doors and windows have traditionally lagged behind modern materials like vinyl or fiberglass in terms of energy efficiency.

Although insulating materials and thermal breaks within the bronze frames can improve their thermal performance, architectural bronze doors are not ideal for saving energy at home.

A custom architectural bronze door with glass panes and intricate carvings.

Cost of Custom Architectural Bronze Doors & Windows

Architectural bronze doors and windows have very high price tags because they are popular in luxury, high-end spaces — especially the custom pieces.

Factors Influencing Price

The size and complexity of the design.
Customization options, such as intricate patterns or special glass.
The current market price of bronze as a raw material.

Long-Term Value

When you choose architectural bronze for your doors and windows, you’re choosing a material that has historically held its value. The cost of maintenance and potential replacement for less durable materials can easily surpass the initial investment in bronze.

Cost Comparison with Other Materials

Material	Initial Cost	Longevity	Maintenance
Architectural Bronze	High	Centuries	Low
Aluminum	Medium	Decades	Medium
Wood	Low-Medium	Varies	High
Vinyl	Low	Decades	Low

Choose Panda Windows & Doors for Custom Solutions

At Panda Windows & Doors, we offer custom solutions that blend quality, performance, and design excellence. We work closely with homeowners, architects, and designers to bring your vision to life.

With over 30 years of experience, we’ve honed our craft and understand the nuances of working with architectural bronze.

The Panda Process

1. Design: We help you select custom architectural bronze doors and windows from over 85 options. Tailor every detail to your needs and approve the sales order to confirm all specifications before we create detailed engineering plans.

2. Manufacturing: Our project manager ensures all components are ready. CNC machines precisely cut and mill extrusions, which are then cleaned and powder-coated for durability.

3. Quality Control: Each product undergoes rigorous inspection and testing to ensure functionality and quality. We provide photos and videos of your completed products before packaging, ensuring they meet all standards.

4. Packaging & Shipping: Products are wrapped in protective materials and placed in custom-built crates for safe transit. We ensure your order arrives intact, whether shipping domestically or internationally.

5. Delivery & Warranty: Inspect your order upon arrival and register the product to activate the limited warranty. Apply a high-quality finish to wood surfaces within 7 days to prevent damage.

6. Care & Maintenance: Follow our care and maintenance guide to keep your Panda products in top condition. Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure a lifetime of use and beauty, preserving the quality of your architectural bronze doors and windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What makes architectural bronze unique?

Architectural bronze stands out for its durability and timeless beauty. It can withstand intense weather conditions and maintain its integrity for a very long time.

Bronze’s natural patina evolves over time, offering a living finish that adds depth and character to your home.

How long do custom architectural bronze doors and windows last?

Unlike other materials that may degrade or go out of style, bronze’s durability and timeless appearance will keep it relevant in homes for many years. With proper care, architectural bronze doors and windows can last for hundreds of years.

Can I customize the design of my architectural bronze doors and windows?

At Panda Windows & Doors, we work with you to create custom solutions that align with your personal style and the unique architecture of your home.

From the size and shape to the finish and glass options, your architectural bronze doors and windows will be meticulously designed to fit your vision.

Are custom architectural bronze doors and windows energy efficient?

Architectural bronze doors aren’t naturally energy efficient. However, modern advancements have greatly improved their energy efficiency – with insulating materials and thermal breaks, these doors and windows can help maintain a comfortable indoor climate while reducing energy costs.

What is the lead time for custom architectural bronze orders?

The lead time for custom architectural bronze orders varies depending on the complexity and scope of your project. Generally, you can expect a lead time of several weeks to a few months.