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Interior Decorating > How to Remove Church Windows

How to Remove Church Windows

Church windows are often made of stained glass. These stained glass windows may need to be removed for a variety of reasons, such as window reframing or other building renovations. Regardless, these beautiful and majestic windows require extra care and precaution if they need to be removed.


1.Obtain a ladder or scaffold if needed. Churches and cathedral windows are often located high above a normal reach. You may need special equipment to reach the windows comfortably. If tall ladders or scaffolding is needed, a safety harness can support the person removing the window.

2.Loosen individual windows by using a putty knife to release the frame from the window. Slip the putty knife between the side and frame, easing it away by starting at the bottom. Be careful not to split the wood in the process. Remove both sides before removing the top.

3.Remove the church window. Use a nail puller or claw hammer to remove nails that are sticking out of the window frame. Be sure to pull them out from the back side so that you do not chip the varnished face. If you don't remove the nails that are still in the stops, you can reuse them when putting the stop back in place.

4.Use gentle pressure to loosen and lift the top of the window sash forward. You will then lift the entire window up and out of its channel. Be careful not to crack the plaster in the wall when you are removing the window sash. The windowsill should stay intact and where it is to avoid any plaster cracks.

Tips & Warnings

Old or fragile windows may require custom-built crates to protect the windows throughout the removal process.
Wear gloves to protect your hands if any glass breaks
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