This document discusses common concerns and questions about leaded glass conservation,
        restoration, and new work that have been presented to Northeast Stained Glass Studio.
        Please do not hesitate to contact us with any other questions you might have.

        Q: What is involved in creating a new art glass window?

        A: With the help of an experienced studio, the process is simple and enjoyable.
        A knowledgeable artist/craftsperson will guide you through all aspects of the project:
        design decisions and options; budget considerations; glass selection; frame choices;
        architectural woodwork; installation; and care.

        The basic procedure that a studio will follow:

        Visit the site and consult with the client to see the surrounding architecture,
        decorative elements, lighting, and exterior environment, all elements that have
        a profound effect on the windows.

        Careful measurements are taken at this time.

        Prepare a small colored sketch to give an accurate impression of how the artist
        visualizes the finished window. Obtain client approval for the sketch.

        Prepare a contract specifying the technical aspects of the project: its materials
        and procedures, all costs, payment schedule, approval schedule, and time frame
        necessary for completion of the project.

        Submit colors and types of glass, matrix materials (lead or zinc cames, epoxies, etc.),
        framing system, glass decoration techniques, and full-size working drawings (cartoons)
        for client approval.

        Create and install the window.

        You'll enjoy the play of light through the window for many years to come.

        The making of an art glass window is a blend of art and craft. The process has changed
        very little from medieval times, even though many new materials and techniques have
        evolved since the beginning of the twentieth century. We feel the creative process
        should be a pleasing one.

    Q: How can I tell if our stained glass windows need attention and/or restoration?

    A: To help you determine this, look for the following conditions:

        Buckled or bowed areas or sections 
        Cracked, bent, or missing sections of lead came
        Broken solder joints
        Putty falling out from under lead flanges
        Separated tie wires or support bars
        Glass separated from lead came
        Broken or cracked glass
        Missing glass
        Painted glass deterioration
        Deteriorated frames (wood or metal)
        Ventilators difficult to operate
        Condensation between protective glazing and window

        Windows, as with anything else, need periodic maintenance. It is best to consult an
        expert in stained glass restoration to get accurate information and advise, as the actual
        condition can often be deceptive. Have a consultant on file to call and arrange an inspection
        of your windows every three to five years, as well as in the event of an emergency.

    Q: Why do our windows buckle/bow?

    A: The basic cause is the force created by the window expanding and contracting
        due to daily temperature changes. This force is exerted throughout the entire
        window, and over a long period of time causes metal fatigue in the lead cames
        and solder joints. Inadequately ventilated protective glazing can drastically
        accelerate any deterioration process.

        The area where the window buckles or bows is determined by many variables, such as:
        The pattern, type, and quality of the lead cames used to fabricate the window
        Insufficient or improperly applied support bars
        Inability of the panels of leaded glass to expand and contract within a flat plane
        (i.e., panels fitting too tightly in their frames)
        Using hard-setting sealing compounds
        Un-vented protective glazing (pressure is created as the trapped air heats up
        and expands, bowing the window into the interior)

    Q: Do our stained glass windows need exterior protective glazing?

    A: The primary reason for installing protective glazing is vandalism. Stained glass
        windows generally do not need protection from the weather or air pollution.
        Energy conservation is not an important issue, since all protective glazing must be
        ventilated, which reduces insulating value. Furthermore, the stained glass window
        itself should be quite air-tight, if the putty under the lead flanges of the cames is
        in good condition.

    Q: Can our windows be repaired in place?

    A: Only a very simple repair (usually of accidentally broken glass), i.e., one or two
        pieces of damaged glass replaced, can be performed on site. Repairs in place require
        the lead cames to be cut in the corners, the flanges bent up, glass replaced, and
        flanges puttied and flattened. Because the window is vertical, a proper solder joint
        is not possible, which leaves the window's lead matrix in a weakened condition,
        which is why repairinganything more than one or two pieces is unwise.

        All work beyond the simplest repairs must be done on a table in the studio.
        once the windows are removed, the window openings are secured with plywood,
        glass, or acrylic sheet. Anyone proposing the restoration of windows
        (beyond a simple repair) without removing them is offering only a stopgap measure.
        Any work performed in situ on a window with problems only deals with the symptoms of
        the window's condition, not the root causes, and is definitely not recommended.