We are proud to be the trusted source for Dalle Glass restoration in San Antonio. Dalle de Verre is a stunning art form that is becoming increasingly rare. While it was popularized in the U.S. in the 1960s and 70s, Dalle Glass originated in France. In the 1930s, Parisian stained glass artisan Jean Gaudin developed the technique, which relies heavily on the use of thick glass slabs which are arranged into abstract designs. Gaudin was a prolific painter, but was also known for his fascinating glass mosaics, which is why Dalle Glass has a mosaic-like appearance. It is this aesthetic for which Dalle Glass is revered, as well as its uncanny ability to capture and reflect light from multiple angles.
About Dalle Glass
Dalle de Verre is made by cutting large pieces from thick, heavy slabs of colored glass. The artisan takes a hammer to the edge of the glass pieces to produce a faceted look. This jagged edge is what helps the glass capture and refract light from various angles. The shaped glass is placed on a flat bed of sand and secured in place with epoxy mortar. Then, more sand is added for aesthetic purposes to fill the gaps and create a tiled or grouted look.
Usually, Dalle Glass deteriorates due to pressure which has been placed on the panels from buildings shifting and settling or exposure to the elements. Over time, the epoxy may weaken and fail, and thereafter begin crumbling apart. Owners will sometimes notice cracks in the glass pieces themselves or pieces that look like they may fall out. At this point, it becomes eminent that the Dalle glass needs restoration and our San Antonio team is contacted for an assessment.
Dalle de Verre Restoration Process
Dalle de Verre restoration involves removing the panels so they can be strengthened and rebuilt. Through this process, pieces of cracked glass and crumbling epoxy are replaced. Though it is a time-intensive process, it is often a necessary one once deterioration sets in. Usually, Dalle Glass begins to decline once it is 50-60 years old.
As always, our restoration process begins with an onsite consultation and inspection of the glass. Once a plan has been made for repairs, we start by removing one or two sections at a time. During the repair process, there are techniques we can use to ensure that the appearance of your composition remains unchanged and does not look like it’s missing pieces.
Once removed, the panel is taken apart and each individual slab of glass is cleaned up around the outside to remove all sand, epoxy, and buildup. Pieces that are shattered, missing, or severely damaged may need to be replaced entirely. Then, we assemble the panel back together using the same process in which it was made. Now, the panel has new epoxy mortar and can be reinstalled. This process is repeated until the entire composition has been successfully restored.
Contact Us for More Information
For more information on our Dalle de Verre restoration services in San Antonio or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office directly.