Tips For Stained Glass Windows
Antique stained glasses are considered treasured pieces by many people. The condition of your antique stained glass windows is vitally important to their value therefore, for the proper care and preservation. Many damaged or unrestored antique stained glass windows can be highly affected in terms of their value. It is therefore advisable to have your antique stained glass windows for sale properly inspected and restored. Repairs and restoration make a significant difference in antique stained glass values, so if you’re planning on maintaining your antique stained glass window, it’s worth it to buy antique stained glass windows for sale from a reputable dealer.
Evaluating the Glass
The first step when it comes to antique stained glass windows for sale is to determine the original condition of your window. You should examine the glass pane with the lightest of touch using a magnifying glass. It’s also advisable to use one light source to avoid causing an orange glow. If you have no access to a light source or need to test the window safely, try using a flashlight.
When testing your antique stained glass window, examine the entire window frame, including all surrounding elements such as trim, wallpaper, and moulding. Perform a side-by-side comparison to identify condition differences. If any panels show signs of wear or damage, these can be replaced. When comparing colour, pay special attention to the background colours, which often fade with age, on the outer portions of panels. Generally, the back part of the window receives the most wear, so pay special attention to this area when examining your antique stained glass window for sale.
Next, pay close attention to the texture of your antique stained glass window. Some windows are textured and have a raised border, which is especially evident on antique stained glass windows for sale. Others may have a smooth flat edge, while still others may exhibit both textured and flat surfaces. Regardless of the type of surface, pay close attention to the finish applied to the window, which can indicate if the window was refinished at some point.
An antique stained glass window may not include a frame. If the window does not include a frame, the glass should be inspected for its condition. The condition of the glass will determine if the antique stained glass window includes a protective frame. Generally, the frame included with the window is covered with a felt lining to provide a soft surface for the window to rest on.
The location where your antique stained glass window is located is important. It is best to inspect your antique stained glass window from the inside of your home. This will ensure that you do not accidentally break the window while attempting to access the window. Always open the window yourself to avoid damaging it or injuring yourself as you open the window. Always turn off your light before attempting to access the window, as the light may temporarily blind you when you try to look inside the window without being careful.
Antique Windows
Antique windows should never be used as an exterior window, especially in areas exposed to strong sunlight. This is because antique stained glass windows can fade from the harshness of the sunlight over time. You should also keep your antique stained glass windows well covered and protected from the elements, such as wind. Strong sunlight can cause the colours in the glass to fade, so you should either cover the windows with blinds or use curtains to keep the sun from streaming into the windows.
If you find antique stained glass windows for sale that you are interested in, always look for sellers who are willing to make special antique stained glass installation offers to make your purchase more affordable. These sellers may offer to inscribe custom instructions for the windows to help you install the glass yourself. You may have to pay a little extra for this, but it can save you a lot of money if you plan on doing the installation work yourself. It is also important to remember to properly clean antique stained glass windows after you have installed them. Cleaning the windows regularly will prevent any water seeping into the interior of the glass, which can cause damage to both the colour and the structure of the glass.
