Using an Infrared Heater to Soften the Glaze
In this video, I team up with Melanie from Glaze Craft Windows to demonstrate the power of infrared heaters for removing old glaze during historic window restoration. Using an infrared heater like the Speedheater™, Melanie shows how this technique softens stubborn glaze, making it easier to remove without damaging the sash or breaking precious wavy glass.
Why Remove the Glass?
Removing the original glass allows you to fully clean it before placing it back into the sash. It also enables you to more easily remove paint and later sand and prime the sash during the restoration process.
Why save wavy glass?
The original glass in a historic window is often what we call “wavy glass.” Wavy Glass is a one-of-a-kind relic of traditional glassmaking. Its ripples and imperfections refract light beautifully and add that special charm to an older home. Unlike today’s machine-made glass, wavy glass embodies true craftsmanship, preserving the authenticity, uniqueness, and value of historic buildings. Plus, it’s rare and once it’s gone, you can’t get it back. So do your best to save it!
Mastering the removal of old glaze without cracking the original glass is a skill worth perfecting, and we’re here to help! Check out more tips elsewhere on this website, including how to handle cracked wavy glass during restoration. Learn, preserve, and celebrate historic craftsmanship with us!
Popping Out the Glass
The most nerve wrecking part is often popping out the glass. While it can hard on the nerves, removing the original glass is generally fairly easy if you are careful about removing the old glaze and glazing pins surrounding the glass.
Here is Melanie demonstrating it in this short video:
Meet Mitch and Melanie
Mitch, creator of the Online Window Restoration Guide, offers online courses that make restoring wood and steel windows simple and affordable for DIY enthusiasts. Learn more at lowbudgetwindowrestoration.com.
Melanie, owner of Glaze Craft Windows, specializes in restoring pre-1945 wood windows using eco-friendly methods and traditional craftsmanship in the Mid-Atlantic region (including the Northern Virginia and Washington DC area). Visit glazecraftwindows.com to explore her services.
Follow Us on Instagram
Mitch: @onlinewindowrestorationguide
Melanie: @glazecraftwindows
For more step-by-step guidance on DIY Window Restoration, check our Historic Window Restoration Master Course: Historic Window Restoration Master Course
Join us as we make historic window restoration accessible, efficient, and fun!
A fun, short Video of the Whole Process
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