St. Uriel Episcopal Church Stained Glass Restoration

Sea Girt, NJ

March 2025

Historic Restoration & New Windows

About the Church

St. Uriel Episcopal Church, formally the Church of St. Uriel the Archangel, has been a part of the Sea Girt community for more than a century. The parish began in 1901, when Margaret Lennig Oglesby gathered local Episcopalians for worship in her home. Land for the present church was deeded in 1902, the cornerstone was dedicated in 1903, and the church was consecrated in 1907. St. Uriel’s has maintained a distinctive Anglo-Catholic tradition throughout its history.

Our Work

Willet Studios completed an extensive restoration and preservation project involving 20 stained glass windows at St. Uriel Episcopal Church. The project included historic restoration, structural repairs, new protective coverings, millwork refinishing, and the design and fabrication of a new stained glass window to replace an existing window.

Historic Window Restoration

Thirteen of the church’s stained glass windows underwent a complete program of historic restoration. Each window was carefully removed from the building along with its existing protective covering and transported for restoration.

While the stained glass was being restored, a temporary transparency was installed in each opening to maintain the appearance of the windows while allowing the church to remain protected.

Once restoration was complete, the historic stained glass windows were carefully reinstalled in their original openings.

New Stained Glass Window

In addition to restoring the existing windows, Willet Studios designed and fabricated one new stained glass window to replace an existing window. The new window was created specifically for the church and integrated into the overall character of the existing stained glass collection.

Klear-Flo™ Protective Coverings

All 20 windows received new protective coverings using the Klear-Flo™ protective covering system. A specialized perimeter frame was utilized with 1/4-inch acrylic to provide an additional layer of protection for the stained glass.

This protective system helps shield the windows from environmental exposure and potential impact while preserving the beauty of the original stained glass.

Structural Repairs and Ventilation

One of the stained glass windows required additional structural work. Bulged sections were carefully straightened, and new steel structural support braces were installed to stabilize the window and help prevent future movement.

On select windows, new single-glazed aluminum vents were also installed to improve ventilation within the window systems.

Millwork Restoration

The existing millwork surrounding all of the windows was repainted as part of the project, completing the restoration and giving the window openings a refreshed appearance.

Through a combination of historic restoration, structural stabilization, new stained glass fabrication, protective coverings, ventilation improvements, and millwork refinishing, Willet Studios helped preserve the stained glass at St. Uriel Episcopal Church for generations to come.

Resource

Saint Uriel’s Official Website: www.urielsg.org

Willet Studios: Architectural Art Glass Experts

Willet Studios is renowned for its expertise in architectural art glass, focusing on both restoration and new creations. The company combines traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to produce stunning stained glass windows that enhance the beauty and integrity of both historical and contemporary buildings.

With a dedicated team of skilled artisans, Willet Studios ensures that every project reflects the unique vision of its clients while adhering to the highest standards of quality and preservation. Their commitment to excellence has made them a trusted name in the industry, serving clients across various regions.

Techniques Used in Restoration

The restoration of stained glass windows requires a deep understanding of historical techniques and materials. Willet Studios employs methods such as glass replacement, lead re-cementing, and protective glazing to ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of each piece.

For instance, during the restoration process at St. Uriel Episcopal Church, the team meticulously documented each step, from the careful removal of the existing glass to the application of protective coverings that safeguard against environmental damage. This attention to detail is crucial in preserving the historical integrity of the windows.

Benefits of Protective Coverings

Protective coverings play a vital role in preserving stained glass windows, shielding them from harsh weather conditions, UV light, and potential vandalism. By installing these coverings, Willet Studios not only enhances the durability of the glass but also maintains its visual clarity and vibrancy.

In the case of the St. Uriel project, the protective covering was designed to be unobtrusive while providing maximum protection. This approach ensures that the beauty of the stained glass is preserved for future generations, allowing the artwork to be appreciated in its full glory.

Client Testimonials

Feedback from clients highlights the exceptional service and craftsmanship provided by Willet Studios. Many clients express their satisfaction with the finished projects, noting how the restored windows have transformed their spaces and preserved their historical significance.

For example, a recent client from St. Uriel Episcopal Church remarked on the seamless collaboration with the Willet team, praising their professionalism and dedication to achieving a beautiful result. Such testimonials underscore the company’s commitment to client satisfaction and quality workmanship.