How Much Does it Cost to Repair Stained Glass?

How Much Does it Cost to Repair Stained Glass?

Seeing any damage in your stained glass can be unsettling for anyone. Stained glass is an expensive investment and does require a higher level of maintenance than standard glass. Stained glass does require regular repairs as well as a timely restoration schedule to keep them in the best condition. One of the biggest concerns in terms of stained glass services is pricing. Unfortunately, pricing isn’t really as straight forward as other services. Stained glass restoration and repairs are based on many variables.

How to Tell if Your Stained Glass Needs Repairs or Restoration

Before we discuss pricing, it is important to know how to tell if your stained glass needs repairs or restoration. There are many symptoms that can indicate that your stained glass is ready for service. Glass indicators can include missing pieces, cracks, concave or convex shape, warped shape, discoloration, and more. Lead indicators can include disintegrating lead, brittle joints, softened lead, or a white film throughout from the lead oxidation. There can also be concerns among plexiglass or the exterior protective glass. If there isn’t proper ventilation, yellowing, discoloration, and accelerated deterioration can all be caused by heat buildup. If your stained glass has one or more of these symptoms, it is ready for either repair or restoration.

Repair vs. Restoration: Which Service Do I Need?

On-site assessments are the best way to determine which service you need. We always provide on-site assessments in order to troubleshoot what’s causing this damage in your stained glass. This is the best way to let you know if you need repairs or restoration. Repairs are less expensive and can usually be completed on-site for mild to moderate damage. Restoration is actually required for stained glass windows in the 75-year to 100-year age range. Restoration is definitely a more in-depth process that’s labor-intensive, more expensive, and can take around a month per window to complete. Both services can ensure the best condition for your stained glass.

Stained Glass Restoration Pricing for Denver Clients

Restoration pricing is based on different factors including condition, size, and technique. Stained glass restoration pricing can range from $200 to $500 per square foot. One important thing to consider in regards to restoration is the antique value that’s potentially reached. A restored stained glass window can often appraise for around $1000 to $2000 per square foot, making restoration a worthy investment. Restoration can make sure your treasured stained glass remains in good condition for another century or two. Restoration provides historic and antique value that can actually be more cost-effective than replacement in many cases.

The Stained Glass Restoration Process

Once you’ve decided to undergo the stained glass restoration process, your stained glass window is typically removed and transported back to our studio. Temporary windows are installed during this restoration and we soak your stained glass for up to two weeks. This bathing process removes the dirt and debris buildup from the last century while making it easier for our team to disassemble. Any pieces of glass that aren’t damaged are kept and cataloged. We go through every damaged piece of glass and replace it with a perfect match. Our stained glass artisans use all the leading techniques to ensure every piece replaced is a perfect match. From replicating painted glass to creating custom base colors, we’ve got it covered. New lead is also created to provide better structural integrity. A mixture of lead and zinc are used and finished off with black cement for optimal durability. Once everything is set, we polish your stained glass and return it for re-installation. You’ll be shocked by the new appearance of your restored stained glass.

Work with Denver’s Leading Stained Glass Restoration Experts

Stained Glass Denver is honored to be the leading stained glass restoration experts. We’re happy to help you determine if your stained glass requires repair, restoration, or replacement. We’re here to provide the assessments you need to make the best decision. For more information regarding stained glass restoration, please contact us!

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