Tips to Keep the Glow of your Stained Glass Window

It’s not only in churches that we see stained glass windows. Even on residential homes, stained glass windows are used in lieu of the ordinary glass windows to give the house an added charm and beauty. Stained glass windows are indeed attractive because of its artistic touch especially if it’s antique and aside from that, it also adds value to a house. However, it is very important that stained glass windows are cleaned and maintained properly to avoid the fading of its beauty. If cleaned harshly the glazing or the waterproofing of the glass may be removed and this would gradually be ruined. Careful window maintenance for this type of window should be given attention. It is recommended to have professional window cleaners to do the job because they are trained in cleaning different types of windows. But if you would like to try cleaning it yourself, here are some simple tips that may be helpful.

            First, prepare the material that you need to do the task. Use a soft cloth specifically microfiber to wipe the glass, you will need at least two of this. You will also need cotton buds or cotton swab for the edges. For the cleaning solution, you will need distilled water, this helps to avoid streak on the glass. Mix it with approximately 1/8 cup of a pH-neutral cleaner that is vinegar-free, ammonia-free, and non-abrasive. Next, dip and soak one cloth to the mixture and make sure that wring out the cloth until it is almost dry before you start wiping. Do this to avoid drips on the area. Start wiping one section of glass thoroughly but carefully. Once you finish cleaning one section, wipe it dry with the other microfiber cloth that you prepared. Do the same thing to the remaining sections of the stained glass window. When done, get a cotton swab and dip it to the solution and gently use it to clean the edges of each section and make sure to wipe it clean before proceeding to the next section. Doing this to all of your stained glass window would surely make them shine and glow beautifully with the light.

            This task might sound easy with the tips given but keep in mind that stained glass has lead. The leading between glass sections are naturally dark-colored so you don’t have to polish them. However, if you see some kind of white powder on the leading, this means it is due to oxidation and this can be harmful if inhaled. Make sure to put a face mask and use gloves to wipe away the white powder. Make sure that you wash thoroughly the mask and gloves afterwards or better yet throw them away. Also, make sure that children won’t go near the oxidized leading. Moreover, if you see a lot of this white powder on your stained glass windows, it is strongly advisable to call professional cleaners to also help you have the windows restored. Always remember that window cleaning is important not only because it keeps the beauty of your house but also for a healthy home sweet home.