Details of the Great West Window Installation

I was recently asked about the installation at First Presbyterian Church, Edmonton, which John completed over 6 weeks this summer – I was gently reminded that I had promised a post with more details! So, apologies for the delay….here we go….

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all involved in this project and congratulate all on the preservation of this historic window.

FPC2 ©Gilroy Stained Glass

Installation underway; two thirds of the traceries in position.

FPC3 ©Gilroy Stained Glass

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Installation commencing on the main lights.

FPC5 ©Gilroy Stained Glass

Detail showing different widths of brass support bar used, and the multiple copper ties used to secure the window to the bars prior to pointing. Note that the larger 5/8” brass bar to strengthen the lap-lead joints where the panels interlock. The lap leads are specially manufactured wide heart and u-shaped lead came, which spread the weight and tensions on the window evenly. They interlock similarly to “tongue and groove” joints.

FPC6 ©Gilroy Stained Glass
Detail of installed main lights prior to pointing showing 1/4” lead came used to repair original glass.
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Detail of the narrow recess into which the windows had to fit with barely any leeway. To simply fill the very narrow gap with stone mix would not give us enough pointing material to hold the exterior long term.
FPC7 ©Gilroy Stained Glass
Detail of pointing on the outside of the main lights. With the recess channel cut into the masonry being so narrow, John pointed the stone mix to the inner edge of the perimeter lead came. This was to get as much material holding the window to the exterior as possible to aid long term stability.
FPC ©Gilroy Stained Glass
The completed restoration of the Great West Window.
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The restored window from the exterior after the scaffolding was removed (Photo courtesy of David Murray, architect)