Restoration and conservation of historic stained glass is a very specialised field, and only a small number of experts throughout the country are qualified to undertake it. Different skills are required for the care of different periods of glass, whether Medieval, Victorian or 20th Century. Even cleaning should not be undertaken by anyone except an expert: do not attempt the job yourself. The Glaziers Company recommends that you visit the Corpus Vitrearum Medii Aevi and BSMGP websites (see above) for further information on conservation and UKIC accredited conservators. You can also download the CVMA guidelines for conservation of stained glass.

How you can help: If you are interested in stained glass, or have historic windows in your care, you can render an invaluable service in the following ways:

1. Observation: Regular and careful observation of the paintwork for signs of flaking - particularly common on glass of the 1840 - 1880 period, and for leaks, deterioration of the leads or bowing of the window itself. Draw these to the attention of those responsible for the maintenance of the building.
2. Recording: Make a careful photographic record of the window, both for historical purposes and as a reference in case of later damage, especially inscriptions, heads of figures and artists' signatures. The Glaziers Company has produced an information sheet on the Photography of stained glass (see below).
3. Protection: Make sure your windows are adequately protected both from the elements and from vandalism. In the event of damage it is essential that all the fragments of a broken window are carefully kept, as the smallest piece may provide crucial information to guide the restorer.
4. Research: For a deeper understanding of the range and history of this unique artistic medium visit our Links page.

Information sheet on the Photography of stained glass (17kb pdf)