The Best Window Putty

If you are replacing or repainting vintage windows, you will find yourself needing to replace the old glazing. Sometimes the glazing will just need to be touched up and other times, you’ll be looking at replacing all of the glazing. Now, the question that comes up at this point is which glazing should you use?

Throughout this blog and video, we will discuss the top brands used for window glazing. We also will let you know which glazing we use in our wood window rescue shop. 

 

The Box Store Option: DAP 33

DAP 33 glazing is a ready-to-use glazing compound that may be used for face glazing wood or metal sashes. Its knife-grade consistency allows for smooth, easy applications. It also sticks tightly to the glass and sash while resisting sagging, shrinking, and cracking. This product is designed for both interior and exterior use. Just make sure to wait the recommended 7-14 days before painting this glazing...that will change based on temperatures and humidity. 

With the primary ingredients consisting of limestone, soya oil, talc, and quartz:  there are no caustic chemicals in this glazing compound. However, minor safety precautions still need to be taken. Be smart and always read the label! 

DAP 33 Glazing is also really easy to find! Not only can you find it in big box stores and paint supplies; DAP is available online and in most local home stores. It is definitely accessible for anyone needing glazing! Averaging about $30 per gallon, the DAP 33 glazing compound does its job!

Red Devil Window Glazing Compound

Red Devil is listed as a premium white, oil based glazing compound that is specially formulated for installing glass in wood or metal sashes. The glazing forms an airtight and watertight seal and is designed to take any paint after 24 hours. Its primary ingredients are calcium carbonate, soybean oil, talc and titanium dioxide. 

Though we have not personally seen Red Devil glazing products in any of our stores, we do know that it is carried at dozens of retailers across the US and can be purchased on Amazon..typically for around $30 per gallon.

Sarco Type-M

Sarco Multi-Glaze Type-M glazing compound is formulated for wood sash windows and doors. Type-M is for inside shop glazing. This modern glazing compound remains elastic which allows for normal expansion and contraction. It also adheres to all glazing surfaces thus forming a permanent, watertight bond between the glass and sash. After the putty has skinned, it should be ready to be painted with an oil or latex paint. This drying period will depend on temperatures and humidity.

The Sarco Type-M primary ingredients from the SDS sheet are calcium carbonate, ground limestone, linseed oil and soybean oil. Type-M is also a bit harder to find then the previous two options, but still pretty easy to track down. You can purchase this glazing compound on Amazon and several other window restoration supplies online. Usually found online for about $40 per gallon.

UGL Glazol

Superior to putty, UGL Glazol glazing compound is specially designed to create a watertight bond between glass and wood, glass and metal sash, and glass and doors. It forms a “cushion” against shock and vibrations when used in replacing broken glass. Glazol is ideal for knife-grade caulking compound and can be used to set plumbing fixtures along with fill cracks and nail holes in wood siding. This glaze offers a year-round workability by remaining pliable while resisting chipping and cracking. 

When it comes to painting this glaze, you’ll want to be mindful of what type of paint you are applying, as it has unique drying time recommendations.  While using latex paint, you’ll be waiting several days before applying any coats. If using oil based, it recommends 24 hours.  

You’ll also want to be careful with this putty as its primary ingredients contain Stoddard Solvent. That is a flammable liquid that smells and tastes like kerosene. It also contains Limestone and Soybean Oil. 

UGL Glazol can be found at about $35 a gallon on Amazon.

Our Personal Favorite

After testing all of these putty options, our favorite has to be the Sarco – Type M Glazing Putty! We love this glazing compound and their business. This glazing is professional grade and the owners give it a personal touch!  

Have a question? Leave a comment below!