Do You Glaze Both Sides of a Window?

When it comes to the traditional painting techniques in house painting, glazing and puttying are crucial for achieving a smooth and professional finish. While glazing is an art in itself, many painters, especially those with experience in decor and renovation, might overlook the importance of glazing and putting up both sides of a window.

In the UK, painting schools teach not only the basics of painting but also specialized techniques like glazing. But over 35 years of work, I find that the practical application of these techniques is often limited. However, my experience with puttying up old windows suggests that both sides of a window do require attention. Let's delve into why glazing both sides is essential and the proper technique to follow.

Understanding Glazing and Puttying

Glazing and putting up involve the application of a special putty to the edges of a window. This putty serves multiple purposes:

To seal the gaps and cracks between the window pane and the frame, ensuring a watertight and airtight seal. To create a smooth, uniform surface that can be painted over without noticeable texture or gaps.

There are a few key steps and considerations when glazing and putting up a window:

Preparation: Clean the window thoroughly, remove any old putty, and ensure the surface is dry and free of dust. Application: Apply a small amount of putty to the window frame, pressing it into the gaps between the glass and the frame. Smoothing: Use a putty knife to spread and smooth the putty, ensuring an even and seamless finish. Clean-up: Remove any excess putty from the window frame, leaving a clean, professional-looking edge.

Do You Glaze Both Sides?

The question of whether to glaze both sides is a common one among painters. The answer depends on the condition of the window and the desired outcome. In the case of older windows, glazing the exterior side is often sufficient, but for new or troublesome windows, both sides may need attention.

For old windows, the exterior side is usually puttyed up completely to ensure the exterior is watertight and protected from the elements. However, the interior side may only require a small amount of putty to seal the bottom set of the glass, effectively preventing the cold drafts that can seep through.

Key Differences Between Interior and Exterior Glazing

The difference in approach between the interior and exterior sides of a window is primarily due to the environmental factors and practical considerations:

Exterior Side: This side requires a thorough sealing to protect the window from moisture and drafts. The putty is applied more expansively to ensure that the exterior is completely sealed and protected. Interior Side: The interior side may only need a small amount of putty, effectively sealing the bottom set of the glass. This is done to prevent drafts but keeps the interior looking clean and polished.

Overall, glazing both sides is important for both practical and aesthetic reasons. It ensures that the window is fully sealed and protected, and it provides a smooth, professional finish that can be painted over seamlessly.

Conclusion

While glazing may not be a regular task for every painter, understanding the importance of glazing both sides of a window is crucial for those in the painting and decor industry. With the right technique and attention to detail, a well-glazed window can add both beauty and functionality to any space.