In almost all cases the stained glass maintenance work I undertake is reactive – panes are cracked or the leaded window itself is loose or collapsing. Problems are compounded behind the scenes when water ingress leads to corrosion of window frames or internal damage and rectifying the results can be more involved than expected. Missing or loose fitting window catches are another issue where the mere fact that the window is not properly closed allows for problems to start.
Acting promptly
Prompt repair and regular maintenance can save time and money later and with the proactive scheme I focus on three key areas:
- Any cracked or loose fitting panes are replaced or resealed to avoid water ingress.
- Ensure the leaded window is held securely in the casement with either mortar or putty and with the latter that it has a protective paint covering. Any cracks are repointed or filled.
- All opening sash windows have free movement of the hinges and window catches and that these are well lubricated to prevent them seizing.
A number of my main clients are now using proactive maintenance and seeing the financial benefit of heading off a problem before it starts – if you would like to know more about the scheme please email me here.
Using non specialists is always a risk – as you can see here with this example. The glass needed to make the repair was cut undersize (next image)
resulting in an air gap around the repair (image shows the gap clearly open to the weather) which was then filled internally using clear silicone whilst the lead was externally over folded behind the glass.
Revisiting and correcting poor quality work is time consuming and in this case five other windows were damaged beyond economical repair and had to be completely replaced.