Lead window cames?

MCQUADE

MCQUADE

Well-Known Member
Joined
Dec 19, 2016
Messages
1,105
Location
Troy
Rating - 100%
30   0   0
So, I ran across a fellow that has probably a ton of this stuff. He claims it came off of some huge windows off of an old building that was being demolished. I ain’t sure what it truly is other than the lead that’s in it but I cannot scratch it with my thumbnail. I can cut a gouge in with a key and can shave a piece off with a knife blade. It’s pretty hard but I can flatten a small piece with a hammer.I’ve not run across anything quite like it. Most window cames are a lot smaller and shaped differently. I may put it in my pot tomorrow and see at what temp she melts.
Anybody have an idea what it might be?
Piece in the pic weighs 25lbs.IMG_0023.jpeg
 
A lot time in the 1800's lead was used to seal glass to seal wood window frames. Like window putty.

Might be from a stain glass window.

It was also used to be used in pre 1945 cars to hold trim on doors. The lead was mounted on the inside of the door skin and the trim was mounted on holes in the doors with fastened being mounted in to the lead.
 
Last edited:
It's probably a lead-zinc alloy. On bigger windows the lead could still stretch under the weight, especially in warm weather. They also used brass and copper, but I think those would be more visually noticeable.

My mom used to do stained glass, and went to foil because this was such a PITA to work with.
 
Last edited:
liquified once the pot got past 622 F., some tin and dross floated up but nothing abnormal . I’m sure now that it is linotype. I’m gonna get what I can from him. I’ve got a source for pure lead to mix with it as I usually run my stuff on the softer side than most people. Whomever had this stuff before definitely used it on a structure or something because it’s covered in old paint. Haven’t figured that one out yet…
Wish me luck😁 and thanks again @cubrock
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom