Five ways to speed up the drying of glazing putty

 

Glazing putty is the material used to form a seal between your glass window and the wooden frame and it can take anywhere from 5 to 15 days for it to dry completely. You don’t want your glazing putty to dry too fast, however, as proper curing will allow your glazing putty to last much longer which means you won’t have to return to the job any time soon. There are a few things you can do to help with the drying of your glazing putty without compromising its quality.

Drying Compound

 

A specially formulated glazing putty drying compound is the choice of most professional contractors. Glazing putty drying compound can be found in most hardware stores with many brands offering both putty and compound together. Drying compound is made specifically to help glazing putty dry without compromising quality. Mix the drying compound with the glazing putty following the manufacturer’s directions and apply the mixture as you would apply regular glazing putty. In a warm and dry environment, drying compound can cut the drying time of glazing putty in half.

Latex Over Oil

 

Many DIY enthusiasts prefer latex glazing putty instead of the traditional linseed oil variety. Since latex glazing putty is water based, it takes a lot less time to cure. In the right conditions, latex putty can dry in as little as 3 days.

Extra Kneading

 

Glazing putty needs to be worked into a smooth consistency before it is applied. Kneading your glazing putty for a few extra minutes will make it a little stiffer and easier to apply. Also, by kneading a little longer, you will be working out some of the glazing putty’s oils, thus helping to speed up the drying time.

Drying Environment

 

Where your newly glazed windows are located will play a big factor in how long it takes your glazing putty to dry. Windows located in cool, shady areas will take a lot longer to dry than if they were in the warmth of the sun. Dampness will also increase glazing putty drying times. If you have the luxury of letting your windows sit in an ideal location for a few days before installing them, take advantage of the situation. Remember, however, that you do not want your glazing putty to dry too quickly as this will cause the putty to crack and break its seal, ultimately forcing you to do the job all over again.

Hair Dryer

 

Using a hair dryer set on low can help speed up the drying of your glazing putty. Although using a hair dryer won’t speed up the drying time by days, it will help your glazing putty develop an outer skin of dried putty that is paintable. Use this method sparingly as you do not want the surface of your glazing putty to dry too quickly and crack. Once you have painted the glazing putty skin, it will actually take longer for the glazing putty to cure but the coat of paint will protect it.

Best Results

 

How to use putty for best results? Read more/..

 

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