Give Your Old Windows New Life with Our Linseed Oil Putty

Do your windows look dull? Missing putty? Cracks in the wooden frames? Or condensation on the panes after rain? Then it's time to maintain and restore your old windows.

It might sound complicated, but the process is often less time-consuming than expected—windows that look worn are often still in very good condition. You just need to learn how to oil them properly and how to apply window putty.

To make window maintenance easier, remember this rule: paint in time. Windows that are repainted regularly rarely need major renovation.

When Should I Restore My Windows?

The most common reason windows deteriorate is lack of simple maintenance—not oiling in time, and dried, cracked, or fallen-out putty. A good rule of thumb is to watch for when the oil in the putty has dried and the paint begins to chalk. That’s the time for some upkeep.

Most people can manage basic window maintenance and restoration themselves. Just inspect your windows regularly and give them a little attention now and then. That way, maintenance becomes simple—and neither puttying nor repainting is particularly difficult or expensive.

Our linseed oil putty is made from our raw linseed oil and various grades of chalk. It can be used for traditional glazing but also for filling cracks and holes, both indoors and outdoors.

How to Use Our Linseed Oil Putty on Your Windows

1. Empty the contents of the container and knead the putty until it's soft and even.
   If it feels too firm, gently warm it in the microwave or on a radiator.

2. Room temperature is ideal for working with the putty.

   • If it’s too sticky: knead it on cardboard or add extra chalk.

   • If it’s too firm: warm it gently or add a little extra linseed oil.

3. Make sure the edges of the glass are clean and free from paint, dirt, and old putty.

4. Brush shellac into the glazing rebate before inserting the glass. This helps extend the putty's life by preventing oil from migrating into the wood.

5. Ensure the glass is securely glazed and properly supported with glazing points.

6. Brush away oil residue from the glass using pumice powder and a clean brush.

7. Always paint your linseed oil paint strokes 2 cm onto the glass.

8. The putty can be painted immediately, or you can wait until a later time.

9. Once the paint is dry, moisten the glass surface with soapy water, and use a steel putty knife and razor scraperto trim the edge of the putty (about 2 mm onto the glass).

10. You can leave the putty at room temperature for several days during use. Any leftover putty can be stored in the freezer for future use.