Stained glass was once used to decorate homes of the elite in ancient Rome. In time, church stained glass windows became prevalent as an essential decorative element for chapels, cathedrals, and other religious buildings. The clergy used the imagery depicted in the stained glass to educate and inspire the congregation. Today, stained glass continues to play an important role in churches, connecting the present with the past. Below, we’ve discussed seven of the most spectacular churches with stained glass in the U.S. Continue reading »
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What to Do When Church Stained Glass Falls into Disrepair
April 21, 2022 in Church Stained Glass RestorationStained glass windows are the crown jewel of a historic church. They’re the glittering emblem that ties together the past, present, and future, preserving a centuries-long tradition. But what happens when your church stained glass falls into disrepair? Is there any way that it can be salvaged, and what are the options? Here’s everything you need to know. Continue reading »
While we specialize in church stained glass restoration, our team is also highly experienced with commercial stained glass projects. Whether you’re looking for a full conservation project or simple repairs to your historic commercial stained glass, we’ve got you covered.
For more information regarding our commercial stained glass services, please contact us!
Things to Consider Before Restoring Church Stained Glass
August 30, 2021 in Aggrigate, Stained Glass RestorationIf your church is 80 years old or more and has stained glass windows, then it may be time to consider restoration. Restoring these pieces of history can help preserve their integrity and value. However, the decision to restore is not one to take lightly. Below are some considerations for your congregation.
Pros and Cons of Restoring Church Stained Glass
Pro: Antique Church Stained Glass Has Monetary Value
The stained glass windows in your church may not appear to be worth a lot but they may be. The materials used, the studio that made them, and current condition all determine how much it is worth. However, one thing is for sure– restoring old stained glass increases is a way to increase their value even more!
Pro: Antique Church Stained Glass Has Historical Value
Stained glass from the early days of this city has a lot of historical value for churches and their communities alike. Some church stained glass is more historically valuable than others depending on which studio made it, what materials were used in construction, where your parish resides within the area, etcetera. Preserving these windows not only helps to keep local history alive but also provides a means to preserve local and parish traditions and art.
Pro: Antique Stained Glass Has Sentimental Value
One of the best things about church stained glass restoration is preserving the sentimental value. Stained glass in churches has been a fixture throughout the years, and many congregation members really love it. By having it restored you allow congregants to hold on to memories from years past and create new ones for future generations as well!
Con: Church Stained Glass Restoration is Expensive
Stained glass restoration can be expensive. It all depends on the size and scope of repairs that need to happen, but it’s especially true when an entire frame must be taken down or reconstructed with new materials. This cost may prove prohibitive for churches with limited funds at their disposal. However, many times there are historical grants available from local organizations. Also, we can guide you with fundraising ideas that we have seen work in the past.
Con: Church Stained Glass Restoration can be Time-consuming
A church stained glass restoration project often includes several windows and many square feet of repairs. This means the process is lengthy, but it also offers an opportunity to improve a building’s aesthetics in ways that might not have been possible before. It takes time to match colors from over 100 years ago, so if your church is considering restoration make sure you account for having our studio remove all the damaged pieces and repair them in our studio for up to a year.
For more information on stained glass restoration and to schedule an inspection contact us today.
A church’s stained glass windows are more than just a pretty feature. They’re the key to unlocking secrets of the past and the church’s history, as well as a means of insight about its present and future. Church stained glass windows display symbolism that represents the values and teachings of the church and provide a deeply moving and spiritual experience for onlookers.
It’s no wonder that when it comes time to make repairs, most churches are more than willing to invest in stained glass restoration. However, this process may be confusing to those who are unfamiliar with its steps and intricacies. To shed some light on the matter, we’ve provided answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about restoration below. Continue reading »
Restoring the Stained Glass Windows in the Historic Vernon A.M.E. Church in Tulsa
June 14, 2021 in Aggrigate, Church And Religious Stained Glass, Church Stained Glass RestorationOver the years that we’ve been restoring church stained glass windows, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of how churches are connected to their community. In addition to their religious work, churches provide important services like education, public health services, charitable services such as clothing drives and food supply. They do this all without asking anything in return. Continue reading »
Why Most Churches Use Fundraising to Restore Stained Glass
March 22, 2021 in Aggrigate, Stained Glass RestorationStained glass is something almost every church and a member thereof take pride in. It represents the history of the congregation. This is why preserving these historical glass treasures is something we strongly encourage. We have yet to work with a church that wasn’t thrilled to see the glass they love restored to its former glory. However, to get to this point–financial hurdles must first be overcome.
Why Church Stained Glass Restoration is an Investment
It likely cost a fair amount to have installed in the first place. Therefore preserving the life and luster of antique stained glass will likely require a substantial financial investment still today to preserve. The investment is well worth it, as we have noted, since it keeps these beauties intact for another 100+ years for future generations. Like other non-profit institutions churches rarely have a lot of extra cash on hand; which is why churches often need to fundraise to sponsor the stained glass restorations we do for them. We have done countless jobs of this nature and have seen church congregations come together with a ton of great ideas to secure the money needed to have their iconic windows restored. Below are just a few of them
Fundraising Ideas for Church Stained Glass
Fundraising is certainly not a new concept for non-profit organizations. But we wanted to outline some of the most successful things we have seen in the past.
- Bake Sale: Traditional and simple–holding a special bake sale, especially around the holidays is a great way to raise money for your church’s new stained glass
- Silent Auction: This type of fundraiser gets local businesses involved in donating products and services–that sometimes auctions much higher than sticker price!
- Special Tithe/Offering: Handing out a separate tithe basket each service is a constant reminder to your church body of your need for funds specifically for your windows. Consider decorating the basket to make it fun for people to give.
- Grants: There are many historical grants out there to preserve stained glass in older churches–check with your local historical society if your glass is more than 80 years old.
- Social Media Posts: In this day and age, many churches are online. By posting on your church’s social media accounts you get the message out to more people than just your members.
- Email Blasts: If you have an email blast for your church, be sure to always include a link to a stained glass window fundraising page. If you don’t have one, talk to your members about starting one–likely someone in your congregation can donate their time to set one up. This type of marketing works really well is done continuously throughout the year.
For more information on ways to fundraise to restore your church stained glass to new–reach out to us today!
How to Get Started with Church Stained Glass Restoration
June 26, 2020 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass RestorationChurches have always utilized stained glass for portraying important biblical messages and teachings. With inspiring stained glass features housed within churches from around the nation, it’s always important to appreciate the significance your windows can bring to your congregation. Stained glass windows can truly inspire and become a considerable part of the worship process. Making sure your stained glass is properly preserved can provide numerous benefits for your church, congregation, and society. Church stained glass restoration offers an incredible way to keep your stained glass for generations to come.
The Church Stained Glass Restoration Process
When you start to notice any signs of deterioration among your stained glass windows, it’s important to see if your stained glass is in need of restoration. Signs of deterioration can include cracked glass, warped glass, convex/concave glass, missing glass, a white film appearing on your glass, discoloration, yellowing plexiglass, softened lead came, brittle joints, and much more. Once you discover these signs, the next step is finding the right stained glass studio for restoration. Vetting your studio should always include research, asking for recommendations from jobs of similar size, and viewing portfolios. The right restoration studio can add at least another century of product life to your stained glass windows. The restoration process typically takes about a month per window, depending on the size. If your stained glass was damaged by vandalism or severe weather, you may qualify for an insurance claim.
Work with the Nation’s Trusted Church Stained Glass Restoration Experts
Church Stained Glass Restoration is honored to be the trusted church stained glass restoration experts serving the nation. Our team is always happy to help evaluate the condition of your windows or features to see if they’re ready for restoration. For more information regarding church stained glass restoration for your property, please contact us!
The Stained Glass Restoration Process for Your Church
May 8, 2020 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass RestorationChurches across the nation understand the importance of their treasured stained glass features. Their stained glass windows often provide wide-reaching inspiration for both their congregation members and clergy members. In order to ensure your religious stained glass continues to offer inspiration for future generations to come, restoration is a necessary process. Stained glass restoration offers a multitude of different benefits for any church.
The Church Stained Glass Restoration Process
When you start to see signs of deterioration on your stained glass, it’s important to begin the restoration process as soon as possible. This process begins with an on-site assessment of your stained glass windows to see what exactly caused the deterioration and damage. The assessment will include a custom-tailored restoration plan, cost-benefit analysis, and project estimate. Once you decide to start restoration, we’ll remove your stained glass, install temporary windows, and carefully transport them back to our studio. We’ll soak your stained glass in our proprietary bath soak for up to two weeks in order to remove all the grime and dirt that’s built up over the past century. This also allows us to easily take apart your stained glass so we can restore it piece by piece. We always take the conservative approach and save as much of the original as possible. New lead came is also created and safety glass is often installed for better protection. You’ll be stunned once we reinstall your church’s newly restored stained glass.
Work with the Nation’s Trusted Church Stained Glass Restoration Artists
Church Stained Glass Restoration is honored to be the trusted church stained glass restoration artists serving the nation. We’re available during normal business hours and are offering virtual consultations and in-person appointments. We look forward to working with you!
For more information regarding church stained glass restoration, please contact us!
How to Fundraise for Your Church Stained Glass Restoration Project
April 13, 2020 in Aggrigate, Church Stained Glass RestorationChurch stained glass offers so many benefits for its congregation and clergy members, providing inspiration during services and serving as a sentimental part of your house of worship. Just like everything else, stained glass begins to deteriorate with age. From age-related deterioration to vandalism, stained glass can fall victim to numerous issues that impact its condition. In order to properly preserve your stained glass, restoration is essential. During these uncertain times, it can be hard finding the funds to restore your beloved stained glass. Here are some options for fundraising:
Fundraising Tips for Your Church Stained Glass Restoration Project
Fundraising efforts have actually successfully restored many stained glass windows in our experience. Even with the obstacle of social distancing, you can still accomplish your fundraising efforts from the comfort of your home:
- Create a fundraising committee: A fundraising committee can help you get better organized for your restoration project. Ask for volunteers and have virtual meetings to craft your fundraising plan.
- Reach out to your congregation: Church stained glass can often hold a special place in many congregation members’ hearts. You’d be surprised how many of your members would be willing to donate! Start a GoFundMe page and reach out directly to your church members.
- Look for nonprofit support: There are various nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to restoring art as well as religious properties. Do your research and see if you qualify for any grants or additional help.
Work with the Nation’s Trusted Church Stained Glass Restoration Experts
Church Stained Glass Restoration is honored to be the stained glass restoration experts serving the nation. We’re always happy to help with your brainstorming efforts and are providing free virtual consultations for all of your stained glass needs.
For more information regarding fundraising for your stained glass restoration project, please contact us!