Since the early Middle Ages, lead cames have been an integral component in stained glass, holding the glass pieces together, shaping the window into individual panels and, often, acting as part of the design, as an artistic element on its own. Lead is a strong metal, flexible, durable, weather resistant, and has been successfully fulfilling these functions for many centuries.

Likewise, lead, like any other material, is also susceptible to deterioration and damage, caused by both internal and external factors. In most cases, however, the leadwork of stained glass panels can be conserved and saved, making releading completely unnecessary and unjustified. Fernando will share his thoughts for determining whether a panel needs to be re-leaded completely, partially, or not at all.