Reinforcing Small Window In Cabinet Door

by Susan

I've read your comments on the large window reinforcement, and that reinforcement should be done on cabinets or doors that will be shut. My question is.... what about a window in a cabinet that is not used excessively that is 3 3/4 by 10 1/8th? Does this need reinforcement? I was planning on doing the copper foil method.

Thank you for your time.
Susan

Answer

No matter what the size, it will depend on the design more than anything. If there are a lot of hinge joints, it will need reinforcement. On the other hand, if the design has many small pieces that do not create hinge joints, something that small should be okay.

Foil won't flex like lead does, which is both good and bad. Since there is no give, at all, a foiled panel has the tendency to break easier than a leaded panel, if it is in a door that is frequently slammed shut.

A leaded panel has some give, but it's downfall is that over the years the lead can begin to give enough for the panel to bow. I've seen leaded panels not properly reinforced (in doors), with glass falling out from so much bow in the lead.

So...take everything into consideration when you're deciding on both design and reinforcement.