Mending broken glass in leaded light windows?

[kathykate]

We've got square and diamond leaded light windows, some are probably original (1910) some are more modern (ie in 70's extension) but all are proper leaded lights with lead on both sides (ie not upvc with stuck on lead).

Now, several windows have a broken bit of glass ie in one window where there are 20 sections of glass, one bit has cracked. My question is - how do I repair these? I've googled but had no success. It looks like some repairs have already been done on other windows. It looks like some lead has been removed and then reapplied. Is this a repair job I can do myself or is it best to get an expert in?

also, while we're on the subject of leaded lights, a few of the windows have 'blown' ie the are now bowed and slightly convex is shape. How would I go about getting these repaired?

Cheers to anyone with any advice.

[RATTER15]

Definitely not a job for you!! look in the yellow pages or on the net for a specialist, if you cant find one phone your local glass company who will have one on record for sure!!

It isn't a complicated job but does need to be done by an expert who will have all the specialised equipment and know how!!

[Herc]

I repaired one myself, well with help from my wife as it is a two person job! The glass was broken, so we removed the broken section, old putty and cleaned the slit in the leading out.

I then took a template of the glass to a glass cutter who made me a piece. I asked for it to be made 2 mm bigger on each side so it can slot in the lead (small slits). The only problem we did have was making the lead slightly wider, but have now found out if you heat it with a hair dryer it makes the lead more subtle so easier to get in.

I am no DIY expert, and I guess it took 45 minutes.

[RATTER15]

Herc. heating lead with a hair dryer is not going to make a blind bit of difference, I work with metal everyday including lead, take my word for it!!

I'm glad you fixed your window but it really does sound like a bit hit and miss!! you say you cleaned the putty out!! their shouldn't be any putty in a leaded window!!

KathyKate, I think this advice, though well meant could cost you dearly!!

[dilligaf]

I knew someone in Hornsey (North London) who had a hobby in making and repairing leaded windows. If you are in that area let me know and I will try to find his contact number.

[Herc]

I can only go on what I done.

When I removed the glass there was while power clay in the slit, I presumed it was putty, maybe it had been repaired? I used putty to secure the new window.

The hairdryer tip was given to me by a window fitter.

Personally speaking, if money is no object get the professionals in, if you can�t afford them give it a go!