Traditional Stained Glass Windows (Leaded Lights) can last for hundreds of years, but they are adversely affected by vibration, physical damage, shrinkage and expansion due to temperature changes, pollution, or water damage.
This leads to broken leads, failing lead cement, loose and broken glass and a build up of deposits. The 'saddle bars' (metal rods tied to the panel with wire) can become detached, losing their effectiveness as supports. The glass itself can be broken or missing.

Original Designs by AR Glass
Previous repairs have often been badly carried out, using non-matching glass, or plain glass where the original piece was painted. It is easy to see repair lines which have been added over the years to old windows. Some windows will have been removed and rebuilt several times.
If a window is to last and remain in sound condition, then periodic maintenance is required.
Alan Robinson Glass offers a full Repair and Restoration service, including removal and refitting. I will assess the damage and provide guidance and cost estimates for remedial work, prior to undertaking any agreed work.
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Windows are often removed for repair, although minor repairs can be done in-situ. Badly deteriorated leading may require a window to be dismantled and rebuilt, using the original glass.
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Painted panels can be reproduced or repaired, as appropriate.
Restoration involves removing the leaded panels and fitting temporary glazing or boarding. A tracing is made of the panel and each piece of glass is numbered. The panel is then fully or partially dismantled. The broken or missing glass pieces are matched with new glass, or repaired with lead or specialist glue. Decorative painted elements may be faithfully reproduced using traditional fused paints, enamels and silver stains. The panel is then rebuilt, using matching traditional lead 'cames'. The final stage is cementing and polishing the panel.
- Where Conservation Standard work is required, the aim is to retain as much original lead and glass as possible and to document the restoration work.
- Sand etched and acid etched glass can be reproduced from a damaged (or matching original) panel.
Reproduction
Missing leaded or painted panels can be accurately reproduced from similar panels, such as in a neighbouring building.
Traditional fired-on paints, silver stains and enamels are used. Other techniques may include acid etching and sand etching. Great care is taken to create the impression of an original window, including distressing the paint to match other older parts.

Reproduction Painted Glass

Replacement stair window - AR Glass original design in Victorian style 2020

Cafe, Stockbridge - Restoration