Many
of my customers ask what is the most effective way to
install their antique stained glass windows. Most
times, it's easier than you think. But there are
applications that may require the assistance of a qualified
carpenter.
Window
Installation
Antique
stained glass windows can be framed in any window opening,
either as a stationary unit, or as part of a movable unit…whatever
suits your need.
The
greatest protection from outside elements is gained if
you frame the antique stained glass window on top of the
transparent outer glass (inset from the inside).
For
a stationary unit, I use tempered glass (thermapane) as
the structural and insulating support for the outer layer
of my opening, then place the stained glass in the opening
resting against the tempered glass. I place the inside
molding right up against the antique stained glass window.
If
you want the window to open, I recommend mounting the
antique stained glass window in the actual movable window
unit, then use a storm window as the protective outer
layer and to insulate your opening.
Doors
and Panels
Same
goes for doors and panels. If the antique stained glass
window is stationary, such as for use as a panel, protect
it from the outside with tempered glass.
As
an attachment to a door, the transparent glass framed
into the door serves as your protective outer layer. Or,
you can replace the original transparent glass with the
antique stained glass window and add tempered glass on
top of the antique stained glass window (from the outside).
It's even possible to inset the antique stained glass
window against the already-framed-in transparent glass;
then attach your molding against the inserted stained
glass—however works best for your particular application.
If
you buy an original antique stained glass door, my suggestion
is much the same for protection against outside elements
- attach a protective layer to the outside surface.
China
Cabinets, Wardrobes
Of
course, you may not need to protect your mounting inside
the home unless used in a bathroom or passage door where
tempered glass is required for safety in most building
codes. Most stained glass pieces are fairly durable. Unless
the kids get wild and throw things around inside, your
inside mountings are pretty safe without protective layers.
Simply remove the existing panel and inset the antique
stained glass window. Replace the molding.
Special
Applications
For
special uses and applications, contact a local woodworker
or craftsman for suggestions. A recent customer wanted
to make a dining table with stained glass inlays. The
main concern here would be the structural integrity of
the horizontal mount. A skilled woodworker can provide
the particulars regarding a specialized application of
this sort.
For
25 years, Jack Belk has owned Casa Que Pasa Antiques, located in
historic Trade, Tennessee, and distributes antique stained glass
windows, doors, beveled glass, architectural salvage, and an assortment
of international collectibles over the Internet at Jack's
Stained Glass Windows - Antique Stained Glass Windows, Doors, and
More!
You can contact Jack by phone at 423-727-9172, or by email at jack@jacksstaineglass.com
Visit his web site at www.jacksstainedglass.com for
further details and more FREE articles.
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free to reprint this article in your newsletter, ezine, or on your
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Copyright
2003, 2004, 2005 Jack's Stained Glass Windows.
All rights reserved.
