A Guide To Stained Glass Appraisal

How Stained Glass Is Appraised?

We often talk about how stained glass windows add value to homes right here in the Colorado Springs area and in other cities across the country that we serve. How stained glass adds value is based essentially on how the glass appraises. You may think appraisals are only something for galleries or auctions but in all reality, regardless of whether you are talking about an antique stained glass window, a stained glass window built in the last twenty years or a church stained glass window, appraisals are relevant, accessible and something you may want to consider for insurance policies or to help with an estimate for the sale of a home. So how are stained glass windows appraised? Find out the basics below!

Who Can Appraise My Colorado Springs Stained Glass Window?

As we mentioned stained glass appraisals are very accessible–especially in the age of the internet.  Regardless of location: church, synagogue or home, it can be appraised by a professional from the American Consultation of Stained Glass. They can found online at www.americanstainedglass.org.

What Do Stained Glass Window Appraisers Look For?

Appraisers look for a variety of features when determining how much stained glass windows are worth. Below are some of the key elements that can increase or detract from the value of your stained glass.

Stained Glass Design: Ex: Are the pieces painted/fired with stencil designs or are they straight colored glass? Did the artist use straight lines or varied lines? Varied lines involved more time and effort to cut the glass, therefore making it worth more.

Stained Glass Construction Techniques: will also count the layers used– some use two layers; some use four. Is there custom painting design involved or just simple leadlines and no design? Are there any medallions, figures or symbols used in the design? These are some of the things appraisers will look at when determining value.
*Note: Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to stained glass elements–smaller stained glass pieces used in a window compared to larger pieces, that automatically increases the value.

Stained Glass Artist:  Appraisers will consider who made the glass, also, when and where.  This is because, just like with high-end art, certain names command more respect and money in the stained glass world.
Stained glass Age:  Age matters, as well. Typically the older the window the more it’s worth as it is harder to replace.  The rarer something is, the higher price it will always command.

Stained Glass Condition: Finally, appraisers will look at the current condition of the glass to see how good (or damaged) it is, as well as the presence of or lack of a protective coating.

As with most things, there are plenty of factors that go into determining the value of stained glass windows–and estimates will even vary from appraiser to appraiser. If you have any questions on stained glass appraisals or are thinking about adding a stained glass masterpiece to your Colorado Springs home or church, contact Scottish Stained Glass today!