Terminology
Some the language used in our website may be unfamiliar to you. Below is a list of some common terms used within the glazing/stained glass industry.
Leaded lights – The term “light” is basically an old term for a window. A leaded light is a panel made with pieces of glass held together with lead came
Stained glass – The art of painting on glass. Using a stain and or trace. Usually associated with ecclesiastical windows also popular in some Victorian properties
Rebate – A recess cut into the edge of a piece of wood to house (in this case) glass
Glazing/glaze – To glaze refers to installing a glass panel/leaded light. Glazing refers to different types of glass that are installed in a frame
In situ – A Latin phrase that literally translates to “on site”
Cartoon – The scale pattern of leaded light of which is used as a template to manufacture
Lead came – The material that holds individual pieces of glass together in a leaded light. The profile is typically that of the letter “H”. The Pieces of glass slot into each side
Cement – A mixture of Boiled and Raw Linseed Oil, Turpentine, Calcium Carbonate and black pigment used to seal and stabilise a leaded light
Putty – A mixture of Boiled Linseed Oil and Calcium Carbonate used to create a weather seal for traditional single glazing. Not suitable for double glazing
Beads/beading – Thin strips of moulded wood used to secure all types of glazing into a frame
Fanlight – The glass panel above a door typically
Transom / top light – The glass panels at the top section of a window, typically the “top lights” within a bay window
Sidelight - The glass panels to the side of a door typically
Antique glass – Mouth blown glass, not a definitive texture but a subtle wavy/wobbly appearance with reams (lines) and seeds (bubbles) noted as natural imperfections during the process. Typically, higher in value than rolled glass
Rolled glass – Molten glass which is then passed through rollers. Rollers come in a variety of different textures depending on the manufacturers
Float Glass - Made by floating molten glass on molten Tin, which gives a uniform thickness with no imperfections