Putty for windows - how best to apply

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sandwitch

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Does anyone have any tips or a good window putty brand to recommend?

I don't know what I'm doing wrong (I do compress it as much as I can and I do paint it afterwards, too) but the putty on my windows doesn't last long at all, only about 3-4 years at most.
 
sandwitch said:
Does anyone have any tips or a good window putty brand to recommend?

I don't know what I'm doing wrong (I do compress it as much as I can and I do paint it afterwards, too) but the putty on my windows doesn't last long at all, only about 3-4 years at most.
Click to expand...

Same here, i've come to my own conclusion, based on nothing: the putty of today is no longer what it used to be. I don't remember putty cracking and coming off hardly a year after application.
 
Make sure you're using the correct putty (it's different for wooden or steel frames). Also make sure you allow the prescribed time for the putty to set off before painting - could be a few weeks depending on the climate.
 
riscbroker said:
Make sure you're using the correct putty (it's different for wooden or steel frames). Also make sure you allow the prescribed time for the putty to set off before painting - could be a few weeks depending on the climate.
Click to expand...

This. Putty also doesn't like something that moves. If your window frames are rotten or worn (in the case of wooden frames) the putty will just crack and come out again. Maybe try premixed putty?
 
I don't know if steel frames can wear out at all? Or move? Because the putty cracks and falls apart. I know they're not particularly good frames but still. I'll try leaving it to dry for longer and adjust it to the Gauteng environment. I'll look at changing my paint, too JIC. I want to get it done before summer rolls around.

You'd think YouTube would have good what-to-do-if-putty-doesn't-work videos but it keeps redirecting me to Bollywood videos. I think it's a sign that I'll be redoing the putty for the rest of my life.
 
The surface must be clean. Not as new, but 95% of paint gone
There must be no rust
Wipe the metal surface with Linseed oil so it is slightly moist (important part)
Use only fresh putty, not stuff that has been on the shelf for months
Mix the putty thoroughly and if necessary add a tiny bit of linseed oil
Apply the putty and cut off excess with a sharp putty knife
Clean off dirt before painting with a primer. Recommend a calcium plumbate primer
Two coats of finish

I was shown the wiping Linseed oil trick by an old guy who used to rebuild boats. Some of his windows were 60 years old and perfect
 
chrisc said:
The surface must be clean. Not as new, but 95% of paint gone
There must be no rust
Wipe the metal surface with Linseed oil so it is slightly moist (important part)
Use only fresh putty, not stuff that has been on the shelf for months
Mix the putty thoroughly and if necessary add a tiny bit of linseed oil
Apply the putty and cut off excess with a sharp putty knife
Clean off dirt before painting with a primer. Recommend a calcium plumbate primer
Two coats of finish

I was shown the wiping Linseed oil trick by an old guy who used to rebuild boats. Some of his windows were 60 years old and perfect
Click to expand...

Thanks Chrisc! :D:D:D I've never used Linseed Oil so I'll see if that makes a difference.
 
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