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How to remove corrosion from stained glass

Stained glass corrosion is commonly known as white mold. It shows up in lead or solder lines, leaving the glass piece stained and unappealing. Corrosion or white mold is often the result of flux residue that was not completely removed.

One method used to remove corrosion is to scrub the piece of art glass with a cleaner. This will remove corrosion, but it can also cause scratches on the glass.

The best way I have found to remove corrosion is to use baking soda. Baking soda is not as abrasive as cleaner and will not scratch glass.

You will need a small scrub brush or very fine steel wool. First wet the scrub brush or steel wool with water. Then generously sprinkle baking soda over the piece. Using a damp scrub brush or steel wool, scrub the glass piece vertically, horizontally, and in circular motions.

Once all corrosion has been removed, rinse the baking soda thoroughly and dry the art glass piece. If the piece had a patina finish, you may need to reapply the patina to the piece. This will depend on the amount of corrosion that has built up on the part.

After the piece is completely dry, use a finishing compound to protect and polish the art glass piece.

This process works very well, although it takes time, work, and reapplying finishes. If you have corroded stained glass, you really don’t have a choice. For future reference, you can prevent corrosion from occurring by properly removing the flux when you build your next part.

The common cause of corrosion is flux. Never flux a part for more than a few hours. There are a variety of commercial flux removers that you can use. Be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions.

I have found CJ’s to be a good commercial flux remover. Following the manufacturers instructions, I generously spray CJ on one side of the glass piece. Using a soft brush, I scrub the glass in a circular motion and then rinse the piece with water. Then, following the same procedure, do the other side.

Using baking soda and dish soap is an alternative to commercial flux removers. Sprinkle the piece with baking soda first, then apply a small amount of dish soap to the piece. Using a soft, damp scrub brush, use a circular motion to scrub the part. Rinse with water and then do the other side.

After the part has been cleaned and rinsed with water, dry the part with a clean, soft cloth and allow it to air dry. Once completely dry, patina can be applied. The last step is to apply the finishing compound on both sides.

Don’t rush cleaning and finishing. A good cleaning and finishing will save you time, labor and later expenses.

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