Why choose us?

With years of experience we have the knowledge and skills to handle even the most challenging stained glass conservation projects. Our team includes an Icon Accredited Conservator (ACR), and we demonstrate professional competence in all we do.

Our EPG systems are designed to provide the ultimate protection for your stained glass, combining traditional techniques with modern innovation.

We work closely with our clients to understand their needs and deliver personalised solutions that honour the original beauty and significance of their stained glass.

Discover how Northern Lights can help preserve your stained glass treasures. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation.

Stained glass conservation

  • Before embarking on any conservation or restoration work, we conduct a thorough examination to assess the condition of the stained glass windows. We produce documentation which includes detailed photography, measurements, diagrams and historical research to understand the context and significance of the artwork.

  • We can offer the highest quality professional photography as part of our documentation service. Our skilled photographers have extensive experience in photographing stained glass, understanding the nuances of lighting, composition, and perspective to capture the condition of each element of the stained glass. We use state-of-the-art equipment and techniques to capture high-resolution images that faithfully represent the intricate details and colours of stained glass windows, ensuring stunning visual accuracy. We can take microscopic images in order to document the condition of fragile paint, enamel, sanguine or corrosion layers.

  • We employ cleaning techniques appropriate to the condition of the glass in order to remove dirt and any damaging surface accretions such as mould and mildew. Using gentle yet effective cleaning methods, we remove dirt, grime, and pollutants that have accumulated on the surface of the glass over time. Our cleaning processes are carefully tailored to ensure that any fragile decorative layers are preserved.

  • We utilise a range of techniques for the repair of broken glass pieces, and specialise in edge bonding broken glass back together using conservation grade adhesives. For multi-cracked glass pieces, we can employ epoxy resin edge bonding techniques to stabilise and reinforce the glass, preventing further deterioration and ensuring structural integrity. Historically, mending leads were used to secure broken pieces. This can lead to a distortion of original design which in some cases may limit its legibility. In such cases edge bonding techniques may also be used to remove and replace distracting repair leads and improve the legibility of a panel.

  • Our skilled artisans are adept at repairing damaged lead came, the framework that holds the individual glass pieces together. Whether it's repairing breaks or tears, reinforcing weak joints, or replacing distorted or corroded lead, we ensure that the structural integrity of the stained glass is retained or restored.

  • In cases where the lead came is damaged or deteriorated beyond repair, we offer re-leading services to meticulously remove and replace the lead came while preserving the original glass pieces. This process involves careful craftsmanship to ensure a seamless transition and maintain the authenticity of the artwork.

  • We offer bespoke framing and installation solutions for panels, and our team has over a decade of experience in the design and fabrication of manganese bronze frames. We are fully equipped to provide customised and innovative framing and fixing systems, which allow panels to be placed into a protected environment.

  • Where necessary, our specialist painters can make new replacement pieces carefully crafted to match the original. Painted backing glass, or unfired paint can be used to enhance areas where paint has been lost, in a sympathetic and reversible way.

  • We understand the importance of minimising disruption to the environment and ensuring the safety of delicate stained glass windows during conservation work. Our team is experienced in performing in situ cleaning, repairs and redecoration of bars, allowing us to work directly on-site without the need for removal or transportation of the windows.

Environmental protective glazing (EPG)

At Northern Lights, we understand the historical and artistic significance of stained glass windows.
Our state-of-the-art Environmental Protective Glazing (EPG) solutions are designed to safeguard your cherished stained glass from the ravages of time and nature. Ensure the longevity of your historic stained glass with our Environmental Protective Glazing.

Environmental Protective Glazing (EPG) is crucial for fragile historic stained glass, especially if it is experiencing paint loss or corrosion. By investing in Environmental Protective Glazing, custodians of historic stained glass can significantly extend the lifespan of these precious artefacts, ensuring that their beauty and historical value are preserved for future generations.

EPG typically involves removing the historic stained glass and installing an additional layer of clear glass within the original glazing groove. The historic glass is carefully framed with manganese bronze and re-installed in front of the new glass with a ventilation gap. This allows air circulation between the EPG and the stained glass, which is crucial for creating a stable environment and enabling the long-term preservation of the stained glass.

Expertise: With years of experience in environmental protective glazing, our skilled artisans and technicians deliver the highest quality of care and precision.

Advanced Technology: Our EPG systems incorporate the latest advancements to provide superior protection against condensation, pollution, physical damage, and if required, UV damage.

Tailored Solutions: Every stained-glass window is unique. We offer customised EPG installations that respect the aesthetic and historical value of your windows and building.

Benefits of Our Environmental Protective Glazing

Climate Control: Our internally ventilated systems provide a stable environment for your fragile stained glass, protecting against extreme weather and temperature fluctuations.

Protection: Prevent paint and enamel loss by removing condensation, and protect against mould and mildew growth.

Pollution Shield: Guard against urban pollution and acid rain to keep your windows pristine.

Damage Prevention: Avoid costly repairs with an added layer of protection against impacts and vandalism.

Stained glass creation

Whether it's recreating missing pieces or designing new installations, we bring creativity and craftsmanship to every custom stained glass project. At Northern Lights, we bring your vision to life with our new stained glass creation services, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation. Our skilled artisans masterfully employ classic techniques such as glass painting and staining, alongside contemporary methods like fusing, sandblasting, screenprinting, and spray enamelling. Whether you have a specific brief or a design from another artist, we work closely with you to develop a bespoke piece that reflects your unique style and needs.

With many years of experience in translating diverse artistic designs into stunning stained glass, we ensure that each creation is a masterpiece that resonates with the client. We like to understand the full context of the site, its light conditions, interior and exterior surroundings, to ensure we create the perfect piece of art for your proposed location. We are also able to create bespoke stained glass with back-lit display, for the non-architectural setting. We have worked closely with galleries and artists to create new stained glass for international settings and are experienced with packaging, transporting and installing stained glass internationally.

Let us use our knowledge and skills to transform your artistic vision into stunning stained-glass masterpieces!

Stained glass consultancy

  • We carry out a range of professional condition assessments, site-based surveys, and comprehensive reports to help you understand the condition of your stained glass. Whether you are a church steward, a heritage building manager, or a private collector, our team is dedicated to ensuring the condition of your stained glass windows is accurately assessed and appropriate recommendations made for preservation. Our team of experienced conservators and art historians provide advice and guide our clients towards the most appropriate and cost-effective course of action, ensuring that your stained glass windows receive the best possible care. With an Icon Accredited Conservator on team, we ensure the highest possible standards are maintained, staying at the forefront of best practice.

  • Every stained-glass window is a unique work of art, and our consultancy services are designed to reflect that. We offer personalised advice and strategies for preservation, restoration, and ongoing maintenance. Our team of seasoned professionals possesses extensive knowledge and experience in the field of stained glass. We understand the intricate details and historical contexts that make each piece unique, allowing us to provide tailored solutions that respect the original artistry.

  • We conduct thorough on-site condition surveys that document and gather detailed information about every element of your stained glass windows. We provide clear and comprehensive reports that are underpinned by art historical research, high-resolution photographs, detailed diagrams, and expert commentary. Our thorough approach ensures that every aspect of the window's condition is documented, from the stability of the glass, paint and leading to the integrity of the supporting structures. Our surveys include statements of significance which highlight the importance of your windows, and the need for their preservation. Our condition reports and conservation plans offer a clear analysis of the current state of your stained glass which informs our recommendations for its preservation and restoration. Commissioning our comprehensive surveying is often a prerequisite for securing funding. By providing detailed and accurate documentation, we support your efforts to preserve these valuable works of art and ensure their continued appreciation by future generations.