Vented storm protection extends the life of a window system. It circulates the air between windows by creating an upward draft in the space between windows. As the air between the covering and the stained glass warms, it rises and exits the vents at the top of the window. The upward movement of air pulls fresh air into the lower vents. This movement of air is critical for weeping out condensation and reducing the heat between the stained glass and the storm covering. For small- to medium-sized windows, the venting is along the perimeter while larger windows are also vented within the dividing framework of the window.
- Venting reduces the solar heat buildup between windows. As the air between the windows heats, it rises. This upward movement pushes heated air out of the top vents and draws cooler air into the bottom vents.
- Venting reduces moisture between windows. As fresh air is drawn into the window space and moves upward, condensation is wicked from the window space.
This 3D render indicates how the protective storm covering is installed on the exterior of the stained glass. LSG’s laminated glass features a U.V. resistant inner layer and resists hazing.
- Frames can be custom-colored to match the exterior trim color of the church.
- We custom bend and fabricate the aluminum frame to match existing window configurations.
- Frames are vented to reduce heat and condensation between the covering and the stained glass.
- Glazing is 0.25-inch thick safety glass (not plastic). This safety glass will not discolor with age, remaining clear indefinitely.
- We offer two types of clear glazing:
- Laminated Safety Glass: 2 layers of clear glass with an inner layer of Saflex, a material which holds the glass together in the event of breakage. (Laminated glass is the same material used in automotive windshields.)
- Tempered Safety Glass: just one sheet of glass.
Case Studies
Peaceful Tabernacle Church
Two months after LSG installed new stained-glass windows and protective coverings at Peaceful Tabernacle Church, the church was vandalized. Using a rock or similar object, vandals repeatedly struck the laminated protective glass panel which covered the stained glass. Afterwards, we obviously replaced the protective covering—but the stained glass itself was completely unharmed!
Atlanta, GA
In 2010, LSG provided a church south of Atlanta, GA with our Custom Protective Exterior Covering System for four antique stained-glass windows. In early 2023, vandals hurled cinderblocks at two of these windows. Despite over 12 years having passed since installation, the safety glass performed flawlessly, completely shielding the precious stained-glass windows from any damage whatsoever!
Video highlighting the incredible impact resistance of both laminated and tempered safety glass!
For full information and specifications regarding our aluminum frames system, custom-designed and fabricated in-house, please visit our 4-inch Double Glaze System or 5-inch Triple Glaze System pages.
