Lead verses Zinc frame for side light 5 3/4" X 69"

by Larry Hauck
(San Antonio, TX)

Would you still advise using lead came for frame on a window of this size? If so, how exactly would you start and end the frame?

Answer

First of all, I wouldn't make the panel in one piece. It too long and narrow to be stable while constructing it let alone installing it. I'd break it up into 2 or 3 sections (which ever would work the best design wise).

Use whatever H lead you'd normally use for three sides but on each section put U came on the top of the bottom panel and H came on the bottom of the top panel. The H came should be reinforced came and have enough room in the channel for the U came to fit in it. Try to get round U. Run the reinforced H and the U all the way across the panel.

It works like a tongue in groove. When you install the panels you'll need 2 people. Set the bottom panel in at an angle. Hold the top panel above it and push the 2 panels together, then set the entire piece in place. Nothing needs to be soldered once they are together. The H and U will fit snuggly enough to make a solid bond.

I'd practice putting the panels together before the actual installation, first of all to make sure everything fits correctly and the dimensions are right, and secondly to know what you're doing when it comes time to install it.