Surveys and Expert Advice

Our team of fully trained conservators and art historians have wide experience handling stained glass of all periods - from medieval to modern and contemporary. The Trust is able to offer advice to those considering the conservation of their historic windows, including the appropriate use of preventative long-term measures such as protective glazing and other methods of environmental and mechanical protection. Advice on all of the costs associated with the commissioning of conservation and new work is also available.

Surveys and Specifications

The expert staff of the YGT offers a wide range of expert advice and services ranging from desk-based assessments to site-based surveys and initial reports, providing historical evaluation, statements of significance, statements of need, condition reports, conservation plans, detailed specifications and cost plans. High quality, comprehensive, and authoritative advice from experienced, accredited conservators and art historians can guide the client towards the most appropriate and cost-effective course of action. These specialised and expert documents are vital to understanding and recording the current condition and value of artworks, and are a central component of good heritage management. The commissioning of this paperwork is also often a prerequisite for funding. We have four ICON accredited (ACR) conservators able to support and supervise the process of surveying and specifying.  

We can provide all of the associated supporting documentation required to secure grant funding and statutory permissions, including faculty, and listed building consent. We are able to assist in the preparation of grant applications (such as statements of significance and need, conservation plans, and historical evaluations) to national funding bodies, including the Church Building Council, the Heritage Lottery Fund, the William and Jane Morris Fund, the Pilgrim Trust, the Headley Trust, the National Churches Trust, and Worshipful Company of Glaziers, and can also compile the necessary specifications and schedules for work required so that the client or the client's supervising architect is able to initiate a tendering process for the procurement of the conservation work. This includes designing and initiating trials, such as for protective glazing. The Trust is also experienced in offering advice regarding appropriate funding bodies to approach for the financing of reports and execution of conservation work. As a starting-point, grant-aid to fund the commissioning of initial reports can be applied for from the Church Building Council and the Worshipful Company of Glaziers.    

The Trust's team are also proficient in the use of SLR and medium-format photography, and are able to capture minute details about your object. Such images are not only useful as visual records, but form another complimentary type of analytical tool, ensuring nothing is missed. Currently, no other studio is able to offer a comparable standard of professional photography as part of their standard package of works.  

Cost Advice

Following the initial survey of the stained glass, and compilation of a report and prioritised recommendations for conservation, strategic cost advice is given to clients.  From the outset, the York Glaziers Trust will set realistic and responsive budgets that match the project's objectives. Our 'trusted business partner' philosophy, and 'no surprises' communication, defines our professional approach to managing and delivering effective strategies. We understand the vital importance of delivery to budgets, and the need for full transparency from the outset of, and throughout, any project.