5 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, as well as other uses. It can take anywhere from five 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 the substance to last much longer, which means you won’t have to redo 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.

1. Drying Compound

A specially formulated, glazing putty drying compound is the choice of most professional contractors. It 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. To use it, mix the drying compound with the putty, following the manufacturer’s directions, and apply the mixture as you would apply it regularly. In a warm and dry environment, drying compound can cut your drying time in half.

2. 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, it can dry in as little as three days.

3. Extra Kneading

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

4. Drying Environment

Where your new 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 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.

5. Hair Dryer

Using a hair dryer set on low can help speed up your dry time. Although using a hair dryer won’t shave days off the total time, 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. If you have painted the glazing putty skin, it will actually take longer for it to fully cure but the coat of paint will protect it in the meantime.

Drying of Glazing Putty FAQ

How do you make glazing putty less sticky?

Glazing putty has a somewhat sticky texture to it that can make it difficult to work with. You can dust your hands with chalk to make putty easier to work with, or you might try filling two sealable plastic bags halfway with ice and placing the putty between them to cool it down, which can take the stickiness out of the material.

How long does putty glass take to dry?

Glazing putty, also called putty glass or glass putty, can take anywhere from five to 15 days to fully dry on its own.

How long does it take for putty to go hard?

The amount of time it takes for putty to go hard varies by how thickly the putty is applied. Some putty can harden in about two hours if it is a thin coat of putty but usually, one day or more is a more typical.

How do you smooth glazing putty?

Glazing putty can be smoothed and lubricated with mineral spirits. Dip a putty knife into the mineral spirits and smooth out the putty using this.

You might need to moisten the knife several times to smooth out the putty. It is usually easier to do this when the putty is warm.

Why does glazing putty crack?

Exposure to sun, water, and temperature fluctuations can cause glazing putty to crack. Painting the putty before exposure can prevent this cracking from happening.