Everything You’ve Ever Wanted to Know About Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

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When you think of stained glass windows, you probably think of a church or cathedral. And it’s true: stained glass was originally used for religious buildings. But today, stained glass windows are becoming more common in hotels, museums, apartments, and residential homes.

When done right, a stained glass window can add value to your home and create an eye-catching piece of art. 

Read on to learn about the history behind stained glass and how this dramatic design statement has evolved over time.

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History of Stained Glass Windows

Notre-Dame de Paris

Stained glass has been around since the Middle Ages. Historically, stained glass was primarily used to create ceilings and decorative windows in churches and cathedrals. Some of the most well-known and incredible stained glass windows were crafted at the end of the 12th century and beginning of the 13th century. 

In these early days, most were painted with deep, intense colors, meant to dramatically diffuse the light as it entered the room. Later on, designers would experiment with brighter colors that allowed more light to enter the room.

Another interesting fact is that when stained glass first came about, glass was thicker than it is today. The variable thickness of that antique glass had a lot of texture. It caused light to shine through in all kinds of interesting ways.

As glassmaking evolved, glass panes became thinner and more even. But that made the textured effect disappear, so artists quickly returned to the ancient way of making glass.

Famous Stained Glass Windows

Kings College Chapel

One of the most famous examples is the King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, England. The stained glass windows were installed in the 1500s, coupled with a breathtaking fan vault ceiling. 

Another well-known example is the Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, France. This gothic chapel that sits on the Ile de la Cité, less than half a mile from Notre Dame. It’s filled with 15 floor-to-ceiling stained glass panels, each covered with intricate paintings.

In recent years, stained glass has been incorporated into a wider range of structures — including residential homes, museums, art galleries, and shopping malls. Another famous stained glass ceiling is located inside the Galeries Lafayette, a premier luxury shopping center in Paris. A stunning 141-feet-tall Neo-Byzantine dome was built and covered in stained glass in 1912. 

The Chicago Cultural Center, completed as a library in 1897, boasts two incredible stained glass dome ceilings. The larger of the two covers 1000 square feet with a 38-foot diameter. It’s currently considered the largest Tiffany glass dome in the world.

Chicago Cultural Center

How much do stained glass windows cost?

According to Home Advisor, stained glass windows can cost anywhere from $150-$1,500 — although the average is about $588. Custom-made stained glass will almost always cost more than pre-made glass. The size of the window frame will also affect the cost, and so will the design, the type of glass, the colors you use, and whether the glass is painted or fused. 

If you’re on a specific budget, make sure to inform the artist of this up front. They will be able to tell you what type of design, materials, and size will fit within your budget. 

Are stained glass windows out of style?

Absolutely not! Stained glass has been around for centuries, but it remains a timeless staple in today’s design landscape. Stained glass can be great for privacy, since it lets light in while obstructing the view. This makes it a good option for bathroom and bedroom windows, especially if a window is adjacent to another apartment. 

It is also is a popular choice for front doors, as well as windows that are placed near the roof line such as transom or clerestory windows. Custom-made stained glass can increase the value of your home. 

Are stained glass windows energy efficient?

They can be. Many stained glass windows are double-glazed or triple-glazed, which means there are multiple glass panels surrounding the stained glass. This protects the antique glass and artwork, and it also makes your window highly energy efficient. 

How are stained glass windows made?

Making stained glass has not changed much over the years. It requires two highly skilled professionals: a stained glass artist and a glassmaker. 

The artist will begin by sketching a design, making a note of the different glass colors that will be used. A glassmaker will cut and shape pieces of glass to fit the design. The artist uses a special kind of paint to tint the glass. Then the glass goes into a kiln where the paint becomes permanently fixed to its surface.

The glass is assembled using strips of lead, then glazed and soldered together into a solid panel. Finally, the panel is covered with cement and brushed dry. 

How should I care for my stained glass?

If your home or building has stained glass panels already installed, the Stained Glass Association of America recommends keeping them in place. You should contact a reputable glass specialist to look it over and decide if there is any maintenance to be done. If the glass is damaged, they may recommend removing and restoring it. 

For new glass, clean it carefully. If it’s dusty, wipe it down with a soft cloth. Use distilled water to dampen the cloth. Avoid tap water and any harsh cleaners or rags, because these can damage the glass. 

The Timeless Beauty of Stained Glass Windows 

Featured in historical buildings around the world, stained glass windows blend the lines between functional architecture and decorative artwork. Although they’ve been around for centuries, they stand out today as one of the most architecturally interesting types of windows.

Besides the obvious ornamental appeal, it can add privacy to a room. It can increase the value of your home and even improve your energy efficiency. Plus, stained glass is highly sensitive to different types of light.

As the sun moves in the sky throughout the day, the type of light coming through your window will change. There will be a noticeable difference in the light on sunny days versus overcast days, the morning sun versus the evening sun, etc.

For homeowners who want a unique artistic statement in their home, stained glass windows are the perfect choice.

Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C