Stained Glass Resources

The Qualities of Stained Glass

The Quality of Lead: Like Stained Glass Resources, Massachusetts Materials Research has been providing high quality services for many years. So when they came to MMR for help in understanding the metallurgical characteristics of lead used in fabricating stained glass windows, we were both honored and intrigued to be involved. Stained Glass Resources hired us to perform research and analysis related to lead used for fabrication in the past, versus lead used in the modern restoration process.

Restoration by Complete Releading: “Releading is the process in which all of the original lead channel is removed from the stained glass window and is replaced with all new lead channel.” “Once this has been done, the main structural support of the window has been replaced with new material.”

MMR and the Quality of Stained Glass Resources Inc:

A leader in the field of Stained Glass Restoration and Fabrication, Stained Glass Resources, Inc. chose MMR to assist them in their long standing tradition of providing top quality craftsmanship and materials in their stained glass restoration projects. Through experience, research, and education, Stained Glass Resources, Inc. is dedicated to providing state of the art restoration services, while at the same time maintaining the historic integrity of the original works of art.

Massachusetts Materials Research: As Stained Glass Resources Inc. is a leader in the field of stained glass restoration and fabrication, MMR is a leader in the field of materials testing, materials engineering, and materials consulting. Our product is an accurate, understandable, timely, and economical test report, and we have similar commitments to the quality of our services. For more information on Stained Glass Resources Inc. go to www.stainedglassresources.com . For information on how MMR can help you with your quality programs or other testing requirements contact us at sales@massmaterials.com

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Lead came (channel), like all materials has a finite useful life span and will eventually fail in service. In general, the life span of lead is dependent upon its alloying composition, and if optimized can contribute to a performance life of 100 years or more. On the contrary however, the life span can be adversely affected by the composition as well.

Our analysis shows a significant degradation in life span properties as the result of various lead compositions. Lead of greater purity (or a lack of alloying elements) was found to be weaker and more prone to cracking than lead with the addition of alloying elements. This in turn affects how the lead will behave under applied stresses and significantly lowers performance quality related to strength and longevity.