advice on using window putty

[dpsservices]

hi can anyone tell the tips on how to use window putty and how to get good corners and a smooth finish . i have bought a putty knife but to be honest i cant seem to get the hang of it . i have used a lubricant on putty knife when trying to tidy it up but it still look uneven ect any help would be appreciated

 

[stuart45]

I prefer to use a flat knife. Practice is the main thing. When you first try it there is a tendency to go too carefully and push too hard with the blade. If you watch a glazier they draw the knife quickly down the pane. Playing around with the putty often makes it worse.

 

[dpsservices]

cheers for that, do you normaly put the putty all round then start to tidy up and how do you get a even edge on the glass

 

[marshman]

putty all round, rest your hand on the frame or next pane to steady you as you draw along/ down. I used to use a 1¼ inch sharp paint scraper.

 

[squowse]

the guy who showed me how to do it used a "finger trowel" which is a long, narrow trowel. It's designed to be used by bricklayers for repointing. So I did the same and it worked well. Not quite sure how you're meant to use a putty knife.

http://www.manchestertools.co.uk/finger-trowel-10mm-wooden-handle-p-28807.html

You know the basics? - knead the putty in your hand till it's stretchy and workable. (leaving it somewhere warm before hand will help). Stretch it out, stick one end down to the glass/wood then work your way round alternately stretching it along the joint and pushing it back into the joint.

corners - have to improvise a bit, use your fingers to shape it and then smooth it , maybe with your putty knife.

 

[BREAKALEG]

Helps if your putty is fairly new as it does go hard lumpy over time especially if kept in the cold (van/shed), work it for 10 mins or so and if you are slow at applying it it might be best to just do each side as you go.

I find a 30mm paint scraper which i have put a slight bend on works best for me keep it very clean!
Also after handling the putty clean your hands everytime!
Finally using a soft dusting/paint brush go around all the putty - just once dont play to much - be carefull cleaning the glass afterwards then stand back and admire

Oh there is better brands of putty also you are better buying it from a glaziers shop as its normally what they use some of the putty in the sheds is hard to work with.