How do you use window putty?

Answer 1

Linseed-oil based window putty is usually quite stiff and difficult to use when first removed from the can. If so, you can prepare the putty by working it between your fingers, kneading it as you would do with bread dough, until it has the consistency of soft modeling clay. Have a little linseed oil handy, since you may need to add some to the putty if it refuses to soften. But be careful not to add too much oil, or the putty will get wet and tacky, and thus difficult to work with.

Once you have the putty in a workable consistency, lay a thin layer of putty in the window frame before you fit the window, as sort of a "bedding compound". Press the new window glass onto the putty.

Carefully install glazier points every foot or so, all around and tightly up against the glass, to hold it in place. Glazier points are tiny flat squares of metal with a sharp pointed edge that can be pushed or gently tapped into the window frame. You can reuse the glazier points you removed from the old window; or, in a pinch, you could use small finishing nails.

Next, roll a gob of putty between your hands, until you have a long "snake" of putty. Press it up against the glass and the window frame, making sure to use enough putty that it reaches the edge of the window frame. Repeat, all around the glass, until the entire window is puttied.

Finally, use a putty knife to remove excess. Smooth the putty at an angle that matches the other windows -- usually about a 45 degree angle bead of putty.

You'll need to paint the putty to protect it from drying out. But don't paint the putty until it's firm enough, or it will never harden properly! Check the side of the can for the appropriate dry-time.