things to think about when considering getting your broken leaded glass window repaired

1. The "Is It Worth It?" Factor

While most leaded glass windows within their first 8 to 15 years since being created can be repaired safely and efficiently and are worth repairing, there are things to understand as they age. Most all leaded glass windows rely on a specialized, dough-like putty which is poured onto the leaded panel and it slowly oozes  inside the lead "came" channel and the glass. After it dries sufficiently, this putty provides three things: A weather-proof seal, structural strength and a clean, even look between the lead and the glass.

Over time—thanks to sun, heat, and age—this putty dries out and starts turning to dust depending on the quality of the original putty. Once that happens, the window loses some of its strength. If your window "rattles" or leaks, the original purpose of the putty is definitely compromised.

The Professional Truth: Repairing one or more broken panes in a very old, dried out window is risky. The vibration of the removal and the repair itself can cause more of that brittle putty to easily fall out, especially if the old lead is degrading significantly. While a simple repair is the cheapest "band-aid," it may not be a long-term solution for a window that is already failing.

2. Full Restoration: New Life for Old Glass

A full restoration involves completely dismantling the window, cleaning and replacing broken pieces of the original glass, and then rebuilding it with brand-new lead and fresh putty.

• The Pro: You keep the history and the original glass, while the window becomes structurally "brand new."  (This is sometimes required by "historical home"  building codes.)
• The Con: This is labor-intensive. A restoration can cost more or less than ordering a completely new window. Really depends on various factors like types of specialty glass, if any hand painted and fired glass, or any other custom materials that were used in the original window.

3. The Big Decision: Repair, Restore, or Replace?

Before investing in a restoration, ask yourself these three questions:

1. Does it have "soul"? Was it original to the house, or do you have a deep sentimental attachment to it? If yes, repair or restoration definitely sounds like the best option. 
2. Does it still fit your style? Just because it’s there doesn’t mean you still love it. If you’ve been staring at a colored "duck scene" for years, but you would actually prefer a more modern, inanimate design with clear textures and bevels, now may be the time to make that change!

    3. So, Is it time for an upgrade? If your window has "quacks" in it (sorry, I had to), don't feel obligated to stick with the old design. Moving to clear textures or custom bevels can transform the light in your room without necessarily breaking your budget.  Put that cost to remove, repair and then re-install toward the cost of your new vision. I've had so many people thank me over the years for  mentioning the possibility of getting a new window.