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.
