R.D. Gibbs & Co.
Custom Leaded Decorative Glass
Frequently Asked Questions
♦ What is the procedure for starting the process of having a window(s)
made?
♦ Can I use my own design instead of your designs?
♦ Can you double glaze or glaze your leaded glass window with
another piece of glass?
♦ Do you install your leaded glass windows?
♦ What is the difference between leaded glass and stained glass?
♦ Is your glass really made in the U.S.A.?
♦ How do I clean my decorative glass windows?
♦ Can you repair damaged or broken leaded glass windows?
♦ Do I have to have my leaded glass window completely removed
from the opening if it needs repairing?
♦ Are you also involved in lampshades?
♦ What is the procedure for starting the process of having a window(s) made? [top]
It begins with the purpose of the decorative panel. Its function
is the first thing to consider. For example, will it be used as an exterior
window in the living room or will it be an interior door light? What
is its size and shape? There are many decorative glass applications so
it is important to consider its intended use. Once this has been determined,
the design will be developed based on how it will relate to its surroundings.
The coloring (if any) of the glass piece is then considered and again
is based on the location and function of the window.
♦ Can I use my own design instead of your designs? [top]
Because of the unique nature of decorative glass, it is best created
with its intended use in mind. Therefore, we prefer to consult with you
and learn about your specific need regarding the art piece and then begin
the designing process. If you have some ideas of your own or you would
like to use, if possible, we can work with you to develop a design.
♦ Can you double glaze or glaze your leaded glass window with another piece
of glass? [top]
We frequently double glaze or triple glaze our windows. This is done
at the customer’s request depending on the glazing situation.
♦ Do you install your leaded glass windows? [top]
We do install our own windows in a prepared opening or frame.
♦ What is the difference between leaded glass and stained glass? [top]
Leaded glass refers to the way a decorative glass panel is constructed.
It is pieces of glass that are cut and fitted together using a lead alloy
“came” to form the window. Stained glass is a process of painting an
image on the surface of the glass with a special paint and firing this
paint into the glass by heating the glass to a very high temperature.
♦ Is your glass really made in the U.S.A.? [top]
All of our work is done here in the U.S.A. using almost all American
made glass, lead and other materials.
♦ How do I clean my decorative glass windows? [top]
If the decorative glass is leaded or stained, it is best to use just
a soft clean cloth or soft natural bristle brush to brush the loose dust
or particles of the glass. For more stubborn spots, apply water or non-ammonia
based cleaner on the cloth or paper towel and wipe the dirty area.
Never clean the windows with a power washer or hose down a window…this
will damage the window.
♦ Can you repair damaged or broken leaded glass windows? [top]
We do offer this service on a case by case basis. Not every window
is
repairable.
♦ Do I have to have my leaded glass window completely removed from the opening
if it needs repairing? [top]
This will depend upon the extent of the damage. For example, if just
the glass has simple crack then probably not. But if there is major damage
such as the lead is broken or severely twisted or pieces of the window
are missing, then it is likely it will have to be removed to be repaired.
♦ Are you also involved in lampshades? [top]
We specialize in flat glass only. Lampshades are a specialty we prefer
to leave to the lamp professionals.