Protecting Yuma’s Historic Stained Glass After a Devastating Hailstorm
Following a powerful hailstorm in Yuma, Colorado, several historic churches suffered extensive damage to their stained glass windows. Scottish Stained Glass was called upon to preserve these treasured works of art and restore their cultural and spiritual significance. This project demonstrates the importance of stained glass restoration in Colorado and highlights the methods needed to protect sacred glass from future harm.
The Urgent Threat: Hail Damage to Sacred Glass
In just a few minutes, hailstones shattered windows that had endured for more than a century. Panels cracked, lead supports weakened, and delicate glass fragments fell away. Without immediate intervention, these irreplaceable works could have been lost. The incident underscored the vulnerability of stained glass to extreme weather.
Tiffany-style and historic stained glass are widely recognized as both artistic and cultural treasures. Learn more about Tiffany glass and its significance in American history.
Our Restoration Response
Scottish Stained Glass responded quickly with a comprehensive plan:
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Emergency Assessment – Each damaged window was carefully documented and stabilized to prevent further loss.
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Cleaning & Repair – Using conservation-grade techniques, debris and dirt were removed, while damaged pieces were repaired or replaced with historically accurate glass.
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Releading & Reinforcement – Panels were rebuilt with strong new lead cames, providing both stability and authenticity.
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Protective Glazing – Exterior protective glazing was installed to guard against future storms and extend the lifespan of the windows.
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Reinstallation – Restored panels were returned to their frames, reviving the original brilliance of the sanctuaries.
For more about these techniques, see guidelines on stained glass conservation.
Cultural Impact for Yuma’s Congregations
The stained glass windows are more than architectural details; they are symbols of faith and history. For the Yuma congregations, seeing their restored windows was an emotional and unifying moment. The restoration brought back beauty, heritage, and continuity to the community, ensuring that worship spaces remain both inspiring and historically authentic.
Safeguarding Sacred Glass for Future Generations
This restoration highlights the importance of proactive conservation for historic churches, especially in areas prone to severe weather. With decades of experience, Scottish Stained Glass is committed to preserving the artistry and heritage of stained glass for centuries to come.
Learn more about our process on our Church Stained Glass Restoration page. You can also explore similar work, such as the Market Street Baptist Church stained glass restoration.
