Area to be repaired should be free of dust, grit and oil. Pour dry putty into a clean dish and add water little by little, mixing as water is added until desired consistency is reached (about 3 parts powder to 1 part water by weight). Prepare only the quantity needed as it sets quickly. A small amount of vinegar (less than 25% liquid) added to water when mixing will retard hardening. Press Putty firmly into cavity, filling completely, smoothing off with putty knife. Try to remove any excess putty before it is thoroughly hardened. Allow it to dry completely. If needed, smooth and finish with sandpaper.

COLORING:
Putty dries to a natural cream color. Because of its hardness, Durham’s will NOT take most surface stains. It can be colored by mixing with a dry pigment, water-based stain or water-based paint. Do not mix with any oil-based material, as Putty may not harden. Experiment with dark colors, since too much coloring may affect the mixture.

CAUTION:
Putty must be thoroughly dry before painting. Total drying time depends on size, humidity and temperature. Putty will withstand weather, if kept painted and sealed from moisture. On outside work, paint will peel from Water Putty if it is still damp. Putty is not waterproof and will absorb moisture, as from underneath porch or deck floors and from condensation within walls. If there is movement between floor boards, or expansion and contraction, Putty may become loose. Putty expands slightly as it dries helping it to “stick and stay put,” however, this expansion may cause Putty to “pop” from a smooth concave surface. Do not use thin paint-like layers.

HANDLING PRECAUTIONS:
Proper eye protection should be worn. Dust may cause slight eye irritation. In case of contact with eyes, rinse with water. Use product in a well-ventilated area. Avoid breathing dust. NIOSH approved dust respirator may be required when generating dust. Avoid ingestion. May generate heat while drying – do not apply to skin.