How To Look For Damage On Your Austin Home Stained Glass

How To Spot Damage In Your Austin Home’s Stained Glass Windows

18 years after the turn of the last century, we are seeing the nation’s stained glass and leaded glass nearing or already at the 100th-anniversary mark. This same glass, however, here in Austin and around the US, has not been cleaned or repaired–sometimes since it was installed. But In order to have the best, brightest and most beautiful stained glass in your Austin home, proper care is essential. The question then becomes– when it is time to have your stained glass cleaned or repaired and how can you tell? Below are some things to look for in your Austin home’s stained glass windows to give you an idea about its condition and whether or not it needs repair or simply cleaned.

Look For Deterioration On Your Stained Glass

Stained glass is fairly immune to deterioration through natural causes like aging. American glass, in particular, is extra stable because of the hallmark composition of the glass. Make no mistake though– this does not mean the glass cannot be damaged. One obvious sign the glass in your Austin home needs repair are broken panels, but scratches and abrasions can also impede the clarity of your glass. Most commonly chemical agents and smog build up on your glass over time–making it look dingy and dated. These signs of deterioration are apparent by windows that lack shine or tiny cracks and chips in the glass that are fairly apparent.

Look For Structural Deterioration On Your Stained Glass

Likely the most common way leaded glass breaks down is deterioration of the skeletal structure that holds the glass. The frame itself or the leaded caming that secures the individual pieces of glass in place starts to rot or sag. When frames fail it is pretty apparent and you will even see cracking in the glass near or connected to the frame. This type of damage absolutely needs to be taken care of right away because the stained glass is close to falling out and could do so from simple wind pressure or vibration.

Look For Signs Your Stained Glass Is Dirt Or Needs Cleaning

Sometimes stained glass, even very old stained glass, may be perfectly fine and just need a thorough professional cleaning to make it as lovely as ever. Over time dirt, soot, and grime build up on both sides of the glass from pollution, smoke, and oxidation- affecting its clarity. It is important to have a professional stained glass company do the job since overly aggressive cleaning with the wrong chemicals will cause damage. Regular cleaning is also a must to avoid build-up of chemicals or air pollutants. In the long run, this makes the job easier, less expensive/ time-consuming and carries less risk of long-term damage.

See more about stained glass repair and cleaning in the video below:

Contact us at Stained Glass Austin to have your stained glass inspected by a true professional today!