Total drying time depends on size of amount of DURHAM’S used, humidity, and temperature. DURHAM’S Putty will withstand weather if kept painted, but paint will peel from damp Water Putty.
Moreover, DURHAM’S will absorb moisture, as from underneath a porch, deck floors, and from condensation within walls. Thus, an extremely humid environment such as a plaster shower or bathtub enclosure will prevent DURHAM’S from completely drying and adhering to the surrounding material.
For repair jobs, DURHAM’S Water Putty fills voids like holes, cracks, and the like. Just fill the void completely until the putty bounces back. After the putty has set up, remove the excess. It adheres to the sides of the hole for permanence. That means DURHAM’S isn’t designed to be spread in thin layers over large, smooth surfaces. For example, if a wooden door panel is weathered, replace it or sand it down. A thin layer of DURHAM’S spread over the panel will look great — but it may pop off with the first good slam of the door. Remember, DURHAM’S is meant to fill voids.
Where there is movement, expansion, or contraction — as between floor boards — Putty may become loose. DURHAM’S is not intended for load-bearing repairs. Finally, DURHAM’S Putty expands slightly as it dries so it will “stick and stay put.” This expansion, however, may also cause Putty to “pop” from a smooth concave surface.
DURHAM’S is to be mixed with water. If you add a great deal of powder or liquid paints, hardness and performance may be compromised.
