Putty
Putty is a material used as a filler and sealant in the construction industry. It is traditionally made by mixing finely ground chalk (sometimes referred to as whiting) with linseed oil, kneaded to the consistency of dough. Putty is available in a range of colours and can be painted when dry.
Putty is highly plastic and is commonly used in traditional single glazing to seal panes of glass into timber frames. It can also be used as a general filler, and intumescent and plumbing versions are available.
Wall putty can be used to give a damp-resisting, smooth surface to walls prior to painting.
Pratley Putty is a strong epoxy adhesive putty originally developed as an insulator and adhesive for fixing brass terminals in cast iron junction boxes. It can be used for steel bonding.
Synthetic putty can be made using polybutene, and this and other fillers and sealants have largely replaced traditional putty.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.