Window reglazing (also called re-puttying or re-glazing) is the maintenance process of removing deteriorated glazing compound from the rabbet (groove) of a wood window sash and applying fresh compound to restore the weathertight seal around each glass pane. It is the primary maintenance task for traditional single-pane wood windows and is essential for preventing water infiltration, glass loosening, and wood rot at the glass-to-wood interface.
When to Reglaze
Inspect window glazing annually. Reglaze when you see:
- Cracks running the length of the putty bead
- Compound shrinking away from the glass or wood
- Crumbling, chalky, or powdery compound
- Compound missing entirely on any section
- Glass that rattles or flexes in the sash (compound is the adhesive holding it)
The Reglazing Process
- Remove old compound — use a heat gun (preferred) or putty knife to soften and remove all old putty. Remove the glazing points (small metal tabs holding the glass).
- Inspect the glass and wood — replace cracked glass before reglazing; treat any soft wood with epoxy consolidant.
- Prime the rabbet — apply an oil-based primer to the bare wood. This prevents the wood from drawing oil out of fresh putty, which causes premature cracking.
- Bed the glass — apply a thin layer of compound in the rabbet before setting the glass (the “bed coat”).
- Set glazing points — push new points into the wood to hold the glass mechanically.
- Apply the face putty — roll compound into a rope, press along the glass edge, and tool to a 45° bevel with a putty knife.
- Cure and paint — allow latex compound 24–48 hours to skin over; oil-based up to 14 days. Paint over compound within 2 weeks to prevent premature cracking.
Cost
Professional reglazing: $50–$150 per window (single-pane). DIY material cost: $5–$15 per window for compound and glazing points.
