COST GUIDES
How much does leaded window repair cost in 2026?
Updated 07/26
Fast Facts
Average repair cost: £325
Average replacement cost: £272.50
Specialist work: Traditional leaded windows usually require an experienced heritage glazier
Leaded windows are an attractive feature of many period properties, but over time they can develop cracked panes, damaged lead joints or loose sections that need specialist attention.
In many cases, these problems can be repaired without replacing the whole window. However, because leaded windows are often handmade, repairs require specialist skills and can sometimes cost more than replacing a modern window.
This guide explains typical leaded window repair costs, what affects the price and when it's worth repairing rather than replacing your window.
Traditional leaded windows are made by joining individual pieces of glass together using H-shaped strips of lead called lead came. This is the traditional method of making leaded windows, which is why you may hear specialists refer to them as lead came windows. They're different from modern leaded-effect windows, where decorative lead strips are applied to the surface of double-glazed units to recreate the same appearance without using traditional leadwork.
Leaded window repair costs
Repair costs vary depending on the age of the window, the extent of the damage and whether you're repairing a traditional leaded window or a modern leaded-effect unit.
Small repairs can often be completed without replacing the whole panel, while extensive damage may require partial or complete reconstruction.
| Job | Low cost | High cost | Average cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leaded window cost (new or replacement) | £45 | £500 | £272.50 |
| Leaded window repair | £150 | £500 | £325 |
| Last updated: July 2026 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |||
Get quotes from checked leaded window repair specialists
Because every leaded window is different, most specialists will need to inspect the damage before providing an accurate quote.
When requesting quotes, include photos of the damaged area, the approximate size of the window and whether your property is listed or in a conservation area.
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Cost by repair type
Leaded window repairs
Most leaded window repairs cost somewhere between £150 and £500, depending on the extent of the damage.
Smaller repairs, such as replacing a cracked pane or repairing a damaged lead joint, are usually at the lower end of the range
Larger repairs involving multiple panes or sections of leadwork require more time and specialist craftsmanship, making them more expensive
Many specialists quote per panel rather than per window because the complexity of the design and accessibility of the glass can significantly affect the work involved.
Leaded window replacement
Replacing a leaded window typically costs £45–£500, with an average cost of around £272.50 per window, depending on size and specification.
The wide price range reflects the variety of leaded windows available. Replacing a small leaded panel is much less expensive than replacing a large handcrafted leaded window or a bespoke heritage design.
Traditional leaded windows also require specialist materials and skills, which can increase costs.
Stained glass window repairs
Stained glass windows require many of the same repair techniques as standard leaded windows, but matching coloured or painted glass often demands additional specialist knowledge.
If your stained glass window needs repair, it's important to choose a heritage glazier with experience working on decorative and historic glass.
Leaded glass sealing
Leaded windows should be inspected and re-sealed periodically to help maintain their weather resistance and prolong their lifespan.
Re-sealing typically costs £40 to £70 per window.
Although it can be tempting to delay this type of maintenance, keeping leaded windows properly sealed may help prevent more extensive repairs in the future.
Whether you’re looking for checked specialists in stained glass repair, glass restoration or glass replacement, at Checkatrade, we’re here to help.
What affects leaded window repair costs?
Several factors influence the final price.
Type of repair: Replacing a single cracked pane is usually less expensive than rebuilding sections of damaged leadwork or repairing multiple panels
Window size and design: Larger windows and intricate lead patterns require more materials and more time to repair
Specialist craftsmanship: Traditional leaded window repairs require specialist skills that differ from standard glazing work. Heritage glazing is a specialist trade, and this is reflected in the cost
Access: Ground floor windows are generally quicker and easier to repair than windows that require scaffolding or specialist access equipment
On Checkatrade, you'll only find trades who meet our high standards and pass up to 12 checks.
Additional costs
Depending on your project, you may also need to budget for:
Scaffolding or specialist access equipment
Specialist colour-matched or heritage glass
Repairs to surrounding timber or stone window frames
Listed building consent or planning permission, where required
Decorating or making good after repairs
Is it worth repairing or replacing a leaded window?
In many cases, repairing a leaded window is the preferred option, particularly for period properties where preserving the original glass adds to the character and value of the building.
However, leaded window repairs are highly skilled and labour-intensive. Carefully removing damaged glass, repairing the lead came and matching replacement panes can take considerably longer than fitting a modern replacement window.
As a result, repairing a traditional leaded window can sometimes cost more than replacing a standard modern window.
If the damage is widespread or the lead network has deteriorated significantly, replacing the window may provide better long-term value. A specialist glazier will be able to advise which option is most appropriate.
uPVC leaded-effect units (double-glazed with a decorative lead overlay bonded to the glass) are generally cheaper to replace than traditionally hand-crafted lead came windows, which need skilled labour and may need custom-sourced glass. If the original window is listed or in a conservation area, a like-for-like replacement with traditional lead came may be required.
Do I need planning permission to replace leaded windows?
In many cases, repairing a leaded window won't require planning permission. However, replacing leaded windows can be more complicated, particularly if you live in a listed building or a conservation area. If your property is listed, you'll usually need listed building consent before replacing original leaded windows. This is separate from planning permission and is designed to help protect the building's historic character. If your home is in a conservation area, you may also need planning permission if the replacement windows would change the property's external appearance. This often depends on the type of property, the proposed replacement windows and whether any planning restrictions apply. Building regulations may also apply to replacement window installations, depending on the work being carried out. Before arranging replacement work, check with your local planning authority or ask your glazier for advice.
An experienced specialist should be familiar with the requirements for listed buildings and conservation areas and can help you understand whether any permissions are likely to be needed.
Leaded window repair cost calculator
The calculator below provides a guide price based on previous Checkatrade jobs.
Job Estimate Calculator
This calculator provides a guide price only. For a more accurate estimate, compare quotes from a selection of checked leaded window repair specialists working in your area.
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Leaded window repair checklist
Before requesting quotes:
Find a checked leaded window repair specialist near you
An experienced heritage glazier can assess the condition of your leaded windows, recommend the most appropriate repair and help preserve their appearance for years to come.
When comparing tradespeople:
Read verified customer reviews
Compare itemised quotations from a selection of specialists
Ask whether matching glass is included where required
Check what guarantee is offered on the repair
Confirm whether an initial site visit is included in the quotation
Providing photos and a description of the damage will often help specialists prepare a more accurate estimate before visiting.
Browse checked leaded window repair specialists working in your area
Enter your postcode to find a top tradesperson near you
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Leaded window repair cost FAQs
Most leaded window repairs cost between £150 and £500, depending on the type of damage and the complexity of the repair.
A new leaded window typically costs £45 to £500, depending on the size and complexity of the lead design. Bespoke stained glass work will cost more than standard leaded lights.
For isolated damage, a cracked pane, a broken lead joint, or a section of missing solder, repair is almost always cheaper and more appropriate, especially in older or listed properties where replacing the whole window could need consent. If more than 30 to 40% of the glazing is damaged, or the lead came throughout is heavily corroded, replacement may be more cost-effective. Get quotes for both before you decide.
Leaded window repair is a specialist skill, so DIY repair isn't recommended beyond very minor jobs. Cutting, fitting and soldering lead came needs tools and training most DIYers don't have, and an amateur repair can weaken the lead network. For anything beyond tightening a loose external putty seal, use a professional.
Custom leaded windows typically take 4 to 6 weeks from order to delivery, depending on the complexity of the design and the glazier's current workload. Allow extra time for listed building consent if that's required.
Minor repairs, replacing a single cracked pane or re-soldering a joint, can usually be done in a few hours. More extensive work, such as re-leading a full panel or repainting stained glass, may take one to two days or longer, depending on the complexity of the design.
Traditional lead came windows are single-glazed by nature, but secondary glazing can be added inside the frame to improve thermal performance without altering the original window. Purpose-made double-glazed leaded units are also available as a replacement option: these use uPVC frames with a decorative lead overlay bonded to the glass.
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