Tips for Repairing a Broken Chandelier
Repairing a broken or cracked arm on a chandelier should be a priority for the owner; after all, the last thing anyone wants is for the arm to break and the crystals to be shattered if the arm comes crashing to the ground. If you don't want to take it down and have it repaired professionally but would rather have a quick and easy fix to ensure that it doesn't come tumbling down, you will need a 6 by 6 inch block of craft foam, needle nose pliers, metal hanging wire, instant glass glue, and a small utility knife.
You will have to take the chandelier down in order to fix it. Be sure to disconnect all power so that you do not shock yourself during the process. Always use caution when climbing up ladders to retrieve your chandelier. Some chandeliers can be extremely heavy and difficult to handle without breaking, so be sure to have individuals there to assist you. When the chandelier is on a flat surface, you will need to carve out the foam block using the utility knife. Do not make it too large, as it will need to fit the arm perfectly and it is difficult to make it fit after it is too large rather than carving more if the shape is too small. Using an undamaged arm as a guide, cut the foam block so that it fits perfectly around said undamaged arm. It is important that you set up shop in an area where it will not be disturbed for at least 36 hours. You will not be able to move the chandelier until it is completely dry. After having the foam block cut to the shape of the arm, position the broken arm into the foam block. It is important that the two broken ends meet seamlessly. If not, you may have to carve out another foam block to better fit the arm. If it seems as if the broken arm requires more support, make adjustments to meet its needs. This will vary on the severity of the broken arm.
It is best if you use already existing wires from the chandeliers other arms to prop up the broken arm. You will want to try and use the least amount of additional wire because it will take more time to glue and prime. Before applying the glue, start at the base of the chandelier and loosen the wires that are fastened. You will then move the foam block back halfway from the area where there is a fracture. Afterwards, rub glue on the area where it is broken. You will then push the block back to join the pieces back together. Wires will have to be fastened using the pliers so that the arm will not move while it is drying. It will also offer support so that the arm is not bent or deformed when it dries. Do not hang back up until it is completely dry. Prematurely hanging it will cause the broken arm to weaken. If any other arm breaks, repeat the process.
