Window-putty tip

To the real estate editor: In a recent column you answered a question concerning window glazing. You had several solutions to the problem of the glazing compound coming loose in time.

In my remodeling work I have come across another method that bears sharing:

Once the mullions are clean of old putty and paint, rub them with linseed oil. Then glaze as usual with a product such as DAP. The oil on the mullions will prevent the wood from soaking the oil out of the compound, one reason for early cracking.

Actually, I have never seen my windows after a year has passed, but this was an old-timer's advice and seemed logical to me. He assured me it works. Susan Stillinger Urbana, Ill.