How to Reseal Leaded Beveled Glass

Stained glass is one type of leaded glass.

Leaded beveled glass is often used for decorative purposes in homes, businesses, and churches. It is called leaded because the pieces of glass are connected to pieces of lead, lending it an artistic look. Beveled glass has a bevel around the edges, which gives the glass texture and a unique appearance. The glass allows light to shine through, but also provides privacy within. After some time, leaded beveled glass may become porous and need to be resealed, or re-grouted to keep it both beautiful and functional.

Things You'll Need

• Painting tarp
• Liquid cement
• Polishing compound
• Putty knife
• 2 small brushes

Instructions

1. Purchase liquid cement specifically made for leaded glass at an art supply store, hobby store, or hardware store. You are looking for liquid cement or glass putty specially made for sealing leaded glass surfaces. Some brands include AmChem, DAP 1012, and Inland's Cement System.

2. Remove the window or door from the wall that needs to be resealed if it is possible to do so. Lay the window or door on a protective painting tarp or blanket to protect both the floor and the glass. If it is not possible to remove the window or door, the job becomes more difficult but the following steps can still be applied. In this case, more time will need to be taken to ensure that the sealing products do not drip onto the glass.

3. Apply the liquid cement or glass putty product that you purchased to the area between the glass and the lead using a putty knife. Apply a small amount at a time to avoid getting too much of the product onto the glass itself. Using the putty knife and a small brush, push the product into the cracks in the lead. Repeat until the entire window or door is completed.

4. Wait for the product to harden for a few minutes on the lead. Apply the polishing mixture to areas of glass that got liquid cement or putty on them, and use a new small brush to polish the area. This will remove any excess product that may have gotten onto the glass surface.

5. Allow to dry for at least twenty-four hours before re-installing windows or doors.

References

• Transparent Dreams Glass Studio: Exceptional Stained Glass and Beveled Glass
• DAP: DAP® '1012'® Glazing (RTU)

Resources

• Inland: Cement and Chemicals