Resources

Glass

Fanlights A fanlight is composed of an armature, or glazing web, of very slim iron or timber members, inserted into a timber sash. The glazing bars are of an inverted T - section, with the glass fitted on to the lips of the T and secured with putty. Several types of glazing web were patented, the first in 1774, in which the glazing bar is in two parts, the long bar of iron, and the rib of iron or lead, which were then soldered together (several compound metals were also used). Fanlights, unlike sashes, are glazed to the interior. Many houses have side lights made in a similar manner. Most fanlights have a basic pattern, on to the exterior of which cast iron or brass (or 'compo') decoration can be soldered, to give a much more ornamental appearance. Fanlights are always painted. In-situ, repair, if possible, is always to be preferred. The expert conservator will be able to carry out reglazing, careful removal of excess paint, repainting and possible repair or replacement of missing detail. If the armature needs repair, the method of construction should first be determined before piecing in repairs in a compatible material.

Stained Glass Stained glass, unlike the fanlight, is glazed using H section extruded cast lead, soldered at the joints. Stained glass will often have been painted or stained, and fired in the kiln. Work required may range from repair or replacement of missing or broken panes, to releading the panel if the lead is exhausted. Repairs to painted glass must be carried out in a manner sympathetic to the historic material and only absolutely necessary work should be undertaken. Stained glass is an architectural art, so problems may have arisen from factors, such as stone decay or condensation in the building and the cause should be ascertained in liaison with the architect or owner, and rectified prior to work on the stained glass being carried out. Work should be carried out in-situ if at all possible.

Glazing Dealing with historic glass needs an experienced glazier who understands sourcing, cutting old glass and glazing with it. Broken glass from historic buildings should not be thrown out, an expert will be able to identify historic types of glass and be able to reglaze cast iron or timber lights from diamond patterned cottage casements to slim late 18th century sashes. Historic glass is fragile, so glazing is best carried out on site, if possible. The same skills are needed to reglaze old bookcases and display cabinets, which are often dry-glazed (held in place with timber slips) to the inside.

The conservation and restoration skills of all three crafts overlap, and a person with skills in one area may be able to advise on the other related areas, the notable exception being the treatment of decayed paints on stained glass.

Resources

Glass

Further Reading