Installation
My installation services are limited. I do not provide carpentry or mill work of any kind. Most clients have their home builder or other installation professional do this as part of a remodel or new construction project. I are happy to consult on site with the individual doing the work, at no cost to you, provided you are in the Austin metro area and this is scheduled in advance. I will install smaller commissions at no extra cost but it depends on various factors. Some installations require two or more people which will incur an additional charge. Even if I'm not doing the work, I do like to be present when a stained glass panel is being installed. It is my experience that no door or window is exactly square and there tend to be minor variations that can affect a proper fit. Should this occur I have several methods of adjusting a panel to fit the opening that are not familiar to most carpenters. However, I will not take responsibility for supervising or guaranteeing the work of other tradespeople.
It is still necessary for me to know which installation style you prefer in order to make your window accordingly. The primary question is : will you want to take the panel with you when you move from your current residence? If so you will not want a permanent installation.
It is still necessary for me to know which installation style you prefer in order to make your window accordingly. The primary question is : will you want to take the panel with you when you move from your current residence? If so you will not want a permanent installation.
Non-Permanent Options
1. Hanging in place from hooks and chains. This is only suitable for non-operable windows of 4 square feet or less. It is temporary and it looks temporary, but it does come away easily. The best choice for dorm rooms, apartments and rented homes. If you choose this method I will attach sturdy support rings to the panel and will provide chains at your request. (See Fleur-de-lis in the Gallery.)
2. Tacked in place. The panel is pressed against the existing window with picture frame points which can be supplied on request. This is very inexpensive and easy to install or remove. This can only be used with non-operable windows of 8 square feet or less that have wood trim in place. (See Bathroom window in the Gallery.) 3. Secondary trim placement. This gives the best finished look. Similar to tacking in place the panel is pressed against the exterior window without modifying any existing molding. New trim is nailed or screwed around the perimeter into the casing holding the panel in place. This will leave a slight gap between the exterior window and the stained glass so thorough cleaning before installation is essential. I must know the trim size before the design phase in order to create a panel that will not have elements obscured by the trim. (In the example shown on the installation gallery page the owner provided the window size, failing to note the exterior wood trim, thus there is a slight shadow visible against the glass.) Precise miter cutting and staining or painting of the trim is required. This is only used with non-operable windows. (See Prairie Style Clerestory windows in Gallery.) Very large windows (anything over 8 square feet) can be installed this way but they require special reinforcement that will impact the design and costs. (See Accidental windows in Gallery.) |
Permanent Options
For doors and operable windows there is really only one way of installation. The molding around the glass opening must be detached, the sheet glass removed and the area thoroughly cleaned. The custom panel is then inserted, caulked and the molding nailed or screwed back into place. If the opening is large enough the original sheet glass may be retained as a protection for the stained glass but this is not common. (See Corn Maiden door in Gallery.)
This is more difficult than it sounds. Molding is delicate and on older doors and windows and can easily break. Most modern doors and windows are frequently not deep enough to accommodate the thicker stained glass with large metal frame requiring that the original space be enlarged. This is done by planeing the trim if the material allows or purchasing smaller molding. Some people my try to route the inside of the frame but that is not recommended for structural reasons. Other Considerations
1. It is not advisable to remove the interior pane of double pane windows to replace it with a stained glass panel. This will break the vacuum seal on the window voiding your warranty.
2. Some installation techniques may not be suitable for metal or vinyl doors and windows. Tacking in place will not work if there is metal where the tacks need to penetrate. Caulk can be used and I have had one client use 3M products on small windows. These can give a clean finished look but they end up being permanent as the caulk/glue cannot be accessed without breaking the glass. 3. Doors and windows with mullions will cast a shadow on stained glass. Mullions may or may not be easily removable. |