How to putty timber windows?

[Aedp1]

This out building will be demolished but for the next 6 - 12 months I seek to make it look better and "disappear in the yard".  I have started to peel away dried putty and realised there is nothng to hold glass in.  I will sand (with mask) paint as it is lead.  2 questions - 1. what is the best and economical way to seal the windows in place and 2. once sanded is basic wood primer and then my fence paint ok for the window frames and sill.  TIA.

[JacobZ]

Hi @Aedp1,

I would strongly suggest you don't sand the paint regardless of whether you wear a mask or not. Sanding will make the lead-based paint airborne, which can carry it elsewhere and contaminate other areas. Protecting yourself is important, but thinking of your neighbours is also important.

If you must address the paint, then I would suggest you contact someone who specialises in lead paint remediation work.

If you can just leave the lead paint as it is, you can seal the windows up with a silicone like this Sikaseal 300 Glass And Weather Seal Silicone Sealant or a linseed putty.

Ultimately, safety is the most important thing, so I'd strongly encourage you to speak with a lead paint specialist before you continue with anything.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[JacobZ]

Hi @Aedp1,

I just thought I might link you to this discussion - How to replace putty around timber windows? as it provides some good information on how to putty your windows after the lead paint has been dealt with.

Using a Putty Knife to apply linseed putty would likely be the best way to go. You want to apply it like a triangular wedge, pressing it into the frame and the glass, then smoothing it as you go.

Assuming your lead paint specialist has removed and prepared the area, generally speaking, a standard primer and fence paint would be fine on timber like this, but it wouldn't produce the finest finish. As it will be demolished in the next 6-12 months, I imagine this should be fine with you.

Jacob