Step 9: Fine-tune

repairing a broken window
Photo: Kindra Clineff
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If the underside of the putty can be seen from the other side of the window, the putty is too wide and needs retooling.

Set the corner of the blade on the glass a little closer to the rabbet than before and hold the knife handle a bit closer to the glass.

Retool as in Step 8. You'll know you've gotten the angle right if the putty's edge lines up with the inside edges of the sash or muntins on the opposite side of the window.

Scrape away the excess (as shown).
Next

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    More in House Exterior

    Tools List

    Close
    • putty knife
      ½-inch putty knife,
      For tooling putty; should be flexible and clean.
    • painter's tool
      5-in-1 Painter's tool,
      For scraping out old putty.
    • electric heat gun
      Heat gun,
      For softening old putty.
    • paintbrush
      1-inch paint brush,
      For priming sash.

    Shopping List

    Close
    1. GLASS
    For pane dimensions, measure the opening from top to bottom and side to side, then subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement.

    2. ALUMINUM FOIL
    Protects undamaged glass from heat.

    3. GLAZIER'S POINTS
    Hold glass against sash. Tom uses push-type points with shoulders.

    4. GLAZING PUTTY
    Seals the edge of the glass against the weather. Tom uses an oil-based product in a can.

    5. EXTERIOR PRIMER
    Seals wood against moisture; extends putty life.