Repairing a Rediscovered Stained Glass Window
Heritage Restoration was contacted to restore a window from the mid 1800s. This stained glass panel was discovered inside of a church wall facade during a recent renovation.
he semi-triangular stained glass window, originally installed above the front doors of St. Mary of Lourdes Catholic Church, was concealed within a wall following the construction of a new entrance walkway. Earlier this year, during renovations to add a vestibule, the window was rediscovered in a deteriorated condition after decades of enclosure. The glass exhibited multiple cracks and breaks, while the lead came had significantly weakened, necessitating a comprehensive restoration. Heritage Restoration was engaged to undertake the repair and conservation of this historic piece.
The window was carefully removed from the church and transported to Heritage’s glass studio. After thorough documentation of its condition, damaged glass sections were disassembled and replaced with matching materials. The window underwent a complete releading process, followed by meticulous cleaning to remove accumulated debris. Concurrently, two additional transom stained glass panels were restored using the same methodology.
As the restored triangular window was to be displayed indoors, Heritage crafted a custom light box to simulate natural sunlight, enhancing the window’s visual impact. The completed light box with the restored glass was subsequently installed at the church, marking the successful completion of the project.
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