If you have ever done home repairs, or taken on some small tasks in the woodworking department there is a chance that you’ve faced frustrating cracks or dents that seemed impossible to repair. These imperfections can ruin the work you’ve put into it, whether you’re dealing with an old deck, worn-out outdoor trim or a piece of furniture. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
There’s a catch: Wood fillers don’t all work exactly the same. Selecting the best one for your project could have a significant impact. This guide will help you understand how and when to use wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What Exactly is Wood Filler?
A wood filler, which is similar to putty, can be used to hide cracks and smoothen out imperfections on wood surfaces. It can be sanded stained, or painted after the wood is dry, making it the ideal product for creating a seamless finish prior to your final coat of paint or varnish.
The type of wood filler you choose wood fillers may be water-based (easier to clean and suitable to use indoors) or solvent-based (stronger and more weatherproof). The correct wood filler will depend on the project.
What is the right time to use wood filler?
If you find a hole, crack, gouge, nail hole or scratch on a wood surface wood filler can help you make it better. Here are a few of the many benefits of wood filler:
Repairing damaged furniture
Repairing the cracks in doors and window frames
Reparing nail holes in the trim or molding
Filling in the gaps between fences, decks, and other structures
Making sure that the imperfections are filled in prior to staining or painting will result in a smoother, more professional finish.
Why exterior wood filler is important for outdoor Projects
Are you working on wood projects for outdoor use like decks, fences, or siding? It’s important to note that the wood fillers used indoors are not appropriate for use outdoors. The humidity and temperature can cause the wood to expand or contract. Fillers that aren’t intended for outdoor use could crack in time or even fall out.
The fillers are able to withstand the elements. They can be flexed to be able to change with the wood, and stop the repair from getting damaged when the seasons change. The majority of exterior fillers are also resistant to mildew and moisture as well as UV radiation. This is exactly what you need for your outdoor wood surfaces.
How to apply deck wood filler correctly
Deck wood filler can be used to fix larger cracks or gaps on outdoor decks. The caulking is usually available in tubes and can be applied using the standard caulking tool.
This is a short step-bystep guide on how to ensure you’re on the right track:
Eliminate all dirt and debris from the surface.
Cleaning the Area The crack should be lightly sanded or hole to allow the filler to stick.
Apply the Filler using either a caulking gun, or putty blade to apply the filler. Fill the damaged area slightly to allow shrinkage.
Let it Dry The time to dry can depend on the kind of product you’re using and the thickness it is.
Sand Smooth After drying Sand the area with the surrounding wood to create a seamless appearance.
Prime and paint or stain Then finish your project by painting or stain to match the remainder of the surface.
Small Step, Big Results
Making sure you have a tube of wood filler may not seem important at first. If you ask someone who skipped the step and later regretted it, it can make all the difference between an amateur DIY, and a polished, professional look.
You may be restoring an old chair, or repairing your backyard deck, using the right wood filler, specifically an outside wood filler or deck wood filler, if required makes sure that your hard work will stand the test of time.
Be sure to remember: before you pick up the paintbrush, smooth it out to fill it in and then seal it off. Your wood project (and the future you) will be thankful for it.