I want to install a large fixed sash window (3’x6’6″) with four lites of glass (each about 17″x32″). I could make the sash to be glazed (putty) on one side, or held in place with a  wood quarter round bead (3/8″ quarter round). I would prefer the wood bead to avoid all the putty work, and the constant need to repair (the putty would be 1/2″ wide and 5/16″ at the glass side).

         Here comes my question……should the wood bead be on the weather side, or inside? Since it replaces putty, I suppose the outside is the answer. But, the glass will still be set in putty, and if I put the bead retainer inside doesn’t that avoid another crack outside to collect moisture and invite rot?