Many people assume leadlight only belongs in timber windows. It is a fair assumption, because almost all original leadlight in Melbourne’s period homes sits in timber sashes, casements and doors. But plenty of homes now have aluminium frames, and their owners still want decorative glass. Using special external lead came made for these windows, Verity Leadlights can create leadlight for aluminium frames. We have worked in leadlight since 1979, from our workshop at 82 Derby Street, Kew.
Why so many homes have aluminium frames
Aluminium windows became common in Melbourne homes in the second half of the twentieth century. Many houses were built with them, and many older homes had their original timber windows replaced with aluminium during renovations. In some of those homes, the original leadlight was removed at the same time. Owners often want some of that character back without replacing the frames.
When leadlight in aluminium suits
Leadlight in aluminium frames can work well in situations such as:
- Homes that had timber windows replaced with aluminium, where the owner wants decorative glass back
- Newer homes with aluminium frames throughout, where a feature window is wanted in an entry, stairwell or bathroom
- Windows where privacy is needed but the owner wants something more interesting than plain obscure glass
- Renovations where new rooms have aluminium frames and need to connect with leadlight elsewhere in the house
How it differs from timber
The frame
Timber frames have been glazed with leadlight for well over a century, and the methods are well established. Aluminium frames are designed around manufactured glass of a set thickness, so the way the leadlight is fitted, and the lead used, are different. This is why special external lead came is used for these windows.
Weather
Like any external window, leadlight in an aluminium frame needs to keep out wind and rain. How the panel is sealed into the frame matters, and the exposure of the window, such as a west-facing wall or a window on an exposed upper floor, is part of planning the job.
Safety glass
Some windows and doors need safety glass under Australian Standard AS 1288, for example glass in doors and low windows where people could walk into it. We can advise on what applies to your window.
When timber is the better choice
Aluminium is not always the right answer. In a period home where the front of the house is being restored, original-style timber windows and doors with traditional leadlight are usually more appropriate, and they may be expected where heritage overlays apply. Timber frames also suit full restorations, where an original leadlight is being reinstated in the opening it was made for. If you are not sure which way to go, we can talk through the options for your home.
Designing for an aluminium window
The design process is the same as for any new leadlight. We look at the style of the house, how the room is used and how much privacy you need. Period-style designs can echo leadlight elsewhere in the house, while contemporary designs can use textured clear glass, a single strong colour or bevels in a simple grid. We keep a large range of glass in stock, and we recommend looking at samples against the actual window before you decide, because colours change with the light.
What happens at a measure and quote
When we look at an aluminium window, we check the frame type, the size and depth of the glazing, the window’s exposure and whether safety glass is needed. We then explain what is possible for that window and give you a quote. If leadlight in that particular frame is not a good idea, we will tell you, and suggest an alternative.
Looking after it
Leadlight in an aluminium frame needs the same gentle care as any leadlight. Clean the glass with mild soapy water and a soft cloth, avoid abrasive cleaners and high-pressure hoses, and call us if you notice any rattles or leaks.
Bringing character back to a renovated home
Homes that lost their leadlight when the windows were replaced often feel plainer than the rest of the street. Adding decorative glass to one or two key windows, such as the entry, a stair landing or a bathroom, can bring some of that character back without the cost and disruption of replacing every frame. Where some original leadlight survives elsewhere in the house, new panels can pick up its colours and patterns so the old and new feel connected.
What affects the cost
The main factors are the size of the window, the complexity of the design, the glass chosen, whether safety glass is needed and how easy the window is to reach. A small bathroom window with a simple pattern is a very different job from a large stair window with many pieces. We explain the options before we quote, so you can choose a design that suits both the house and your budget.
Frequently asked questions
Can leadlight really go into aluminium windows?
Yes. Using special external lead came made for these windows, we can create leadlight for aluminium frames.
Is it the same as leadlight in a timber window?
The design and glass choices are the same, but the way the leadlight is fitted and the lead used are different for aluminium frames.
Is aluminium suitable for a heritage home?
Often timber is better for a period home, especially at the street front or where heritage overlays apply. We can advise on your home.
Can you match leadlight elsewhere in my house?
Yes. We can design panels that echo existing leadlight, or create a contemporary design.
What about safety glass?
Some locations need safety glass under AS 1288. We will check what applies to your window.
Related pages
- New leadlight windows in Melbourne
- Triple glazing of leadlight and stained glass windows
- Leadlight doors
- Leadlight restorations in Melbourne
- Leadlight and stained glass designs Melbourne
- Edwardian and Victorian leadlights in Melbourne
Talk to us about leadlight for aluminium windows
To talk about leadlights for aluminium windows, call Verity Leadlights on 03 9853 8611 or 0418 395 628. Our workshop is at 82 Derby Street, Kew VIC, and we have worked in leadlight since 1979. We are highly rated by our customers. Please ring ahead if you plan to visit.
