Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Questions About the Restoration & Preservation Process
These address common concerns from building owners and facility managers of historic or commercial properties.
Inspections should be routine (e.g., every 5-10 years). Full restoration (re-leading) is typically needed every 75 to 125 years, depending on environmental factors and original craftsmanship and how often you replace the protective coverings. See the following section of FAQs for more on protective coverings.
Bowing/Bulging (exceeding 1.5 inches out of plane), Rattling glass (indicating putty failure), Cracked solder joints, Flaking paint (deteriorated surface paint/grisaille), and Moisture or water leaks around the frame.
Repair is minor (e.g., replacing a cracked piece or re-puttying) and done on-site. Full Restoration involves carefully removing the entire panel, dismantling, cleaning, replacing all lead cames, and reassembling in our controlled studio environment.
Provide a realistic range (e.g., a small window takes 4-8 weeks; a large-scale church or commercial project can span several months to a year). Emphasize that time is needed for meticulous hand-craftsmanship.
Confirm you install temporary, weather-tight protective panels (e.g., Lexan or plywood) to maintain security and climate control during the restoration period.
Confirm you install temporary, weather-tight protective panels (e.g., Lexan or plywood) to maintain security and climate control during the restoration period.
Questions About Protective Glazing & Structural Integrity
This addresses architect and preservation committee concerns about long-term protection and energy efficiency.
Yes, but only with a properly vented system (like the Klear-Flo® system Willet offers). Explain that an unvented system traps heat and moisture, which rapidly accelerates deterioration of the original lead and wood/stone frames.
Focus on the best options for longevity and clarity (e.g., laminated glass, tempered glass, or high-grade polycarbonate). Highlight the need to match the protective system to the building’s architecture and security needs.
Detail the use of internal and external reinforcements like new steel T-bars, perimeter armatures, and modern framing systems to ensure the restored panel will remain structurally sound for another century.
Questions About New Design & Fabrication
This section targets new construction and building renovation projects.
Absolutely. Emphasize your 125+ year legacy, archive of 25,000+ designs, and collaborative design process that seamlessly integrates new art with existing styles (traditional, modern, secular, or liturgical).
Outline the key phases: Consultation (vision/theological theme), Conceptual Sketching, Full-Scale Cartoons (the blueprint), Client Approval, and Fabrication.
Yes. State your warranty period (e.g., 10-year warranty, as mentioned in search results) and what it covers, demonstrating confidence in your craftsmanship.
General & Logistical Questions
Confirm your national reach, as you work on major landmarks, and clarify where your on-site consultation teams are based.
Direct them to your contact form or phone number. Explain that the first step is usually a free on-site inspection/assessment or a design consultation to determine the scope, condition, and budget.