How to Make Your Windows Waterproof With Rice Paper & Linseed Oil

Applying New Glaze

• Remove the existing putty, or glaze, around the window with a putty knife. Holding the knife at a 45-degree angle, scrape off the cracked or damaged glaze from all exterior sides of the window. Dampen a rag with denatured alcohol and wipe away any remaining glaze residue from the window. Run a one-eighth inch line of window glazing caulk around the perimeter of the window, paying attention that the glaze also extends onto the window pane itself to waterproof the glass. Allow the caulk to set for at least 48 hours before painting the window sash.

Waterproofing the Sash

• Dampen a soft cloth with boiled linseed oil and rub the product on the window’s sash. Work the boiled linseed oil, which creates a waterproof coating over the wooden sash, using overlapping circles. Wipe away any excess oil that doesn’t soak into the wood with a separate soft cloth. Allow the boiled linseed oil to dry for at least eight hours. The linseed oil is a safe, effective way to waterproof the window’s wooden sash, which prevents moisture from damaging the delicate rice paper. Use boiled linseed oil instead of raw, as it dries much more quickly.

Prepping the Rice Paper

• Clean the window pane inside the home with commercial glass cleaner. Work the cleaner into the pane with a paper towel and allow the product to evaporate completely before continuing. Measure the window panes you intend to cover with the rice paper. Add approximately one-half inch to each side and jot the number down. Lay the pieces of rice paper on a flat surface and, using a pencil, draw an outline according to the measurements.

Hanging the Rice Paper

• Cut out the rice paper pieces with sharp scissors. Create a mixture of one cup white glue and three-quarters cup water. Dampen a paintbrush with the diluted white glue. Apply a thin layer of the glue mixture to the edge of the window. Center the rice paper panel over the window and run your hand along the window's edge to secure the rice paper and remove any air bubbles. Trim the excess paper with a pair of sharp scissors.