Understanding Putty for Glass Fixing

The question asks to identify the substance, which is a mixture of linseed oil and whiting chalk, used specifically for fixing glass panels. Let's look at the options provided.

We are looking for a material used to secure glass within a frame, often in windows. This material needs to be pliable when applied and harden over time to hold the glass firmly and seal against water and air.

Let's consider the options:

• Putty: Putty, specifically linseed oil putty, is traditionally made by mixing whiting (calcium carbonate) with linseed oil. It is a common material used for glazing windows, meaning it is used to fix panes of glass into a frame or sash. It starts as a pliable paste that hardens as the oil oxidizes.
• Mullion: A mullion is a vertical element that divides adjacent window units or other glazed openings. It is a structural part of the window frame, not a substance used to fix the glass within a single pane.
• Architrave: An architrave is a decorative moulding surrounding a door, window, or other opening. It is installed around the frame but does not directly fix the glass panel itself.
• Sash bars: Sash bars (also called glazing bars or muntins) are the strips of wood, metal, or PVC that divide a window into smaller panes of glass. While they hold the individual panes, the glass within each opening is typically fixed using a material like putty. Sash bars are structural dividers, not the fixing mixture.

Based on the description of the mixture (linseed oil and whiting chalk) and its purpose (fixing glass panels), the correct term is Putty. This mixture is specifically formulated for this glazing application.