5 Reasons to Use Linseed Oil when Repairing a Window Pane
Linseed oil is a common natural ingredient in many products that are used today. Linoleum is made with linseed oil, some soaps and inks also contain this product. Several paints, stains, and varnishes contain linseed oil also as it has great preservative properties. It can be used on wood and concrete without any damaging effects. Using linseed oil for home repairs, such as repairing a window pane, also adds to its versatility.
Raw or Boiled Linseed Oil
Linseed oil is available in two different ways. Choosing the correct one will make a big difference in the way it works. The first is raw oil. This is natural linseed oil squeezed directly from the flax seed. This type of linseed oil takes a very long time to dry and should be used for projects where a week long drying time is not a consideration.
The second type of linseed oil is the boiled version. This is the kind that should be used when you need to have something cure quickly. This is great for preserving wooden tools and other things that are used often. However, it is not the boiling that actually changes the character of the oil, but some of the additives and solvents. Care must be used when using the boiled linseed oil because of the different chemicals.
Linseed Oil is Water Resistant
One of the repairs that is needed on a window pane is re-glazing of the glass. Because of the natural resistance to water, linseed oil is the perfect choice for an ingredient to the glaze. However, it is also important for the entire sash of the window pane. By applying linseed oil, the sash can hold up against cleaning and weather much better.
Additive for Glazing Putty
Sometimes the glazing putty that has been stored for awhile will be a little stiff. When this happens it is harder to apply to the window pane and will not work the way it should. Adding a small amount of linseed oil will help to break up the stiffness of the glazing putty for a smoother application.
Protects Wooden Sash
Before applying any glazing putty to the window pane, brush on some linseed oil to the wooden sash. After wiping off the excess amount of oil you will be able to apply the glazing putty immediately. This will protect the wooden sash and keep it from soaking in the oils from the putty creating an overly dry contact point.
Raw Linseed Oil Is Green
For anyone who is thinking about a green footprint on the environment, then linseed oil is a great product choice. Many preservatives have added chemicals that are toxic to the environment. Boiled linseed oil is no exception to this. However, the raw type of linseed oil is very environmentally friendly. The drawback to using the raw linseed oil is the long curing period.
Ease of Use
When working with linseed oil, you only need to use a small foam brush. It is easily applied to any surface and penetrates quickly. Usually there is only the need for one coating of the oil, and two for larger applications.
