If you’ve ever attempted home repairs or worked on some wood projects around your home there’s a good chance you’ve run through those painful cracks, dents, or tiny holes that seem impossible to repair. No matter what the issue is, whether it’s a worn-out deck, old trim for the outside, or a damaged furniture piece, these imperfections could ruin the look of your hard-earned work. The good thing? It’s easy to fix: wood filler.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all wood-fillers are created in the same way. The right filler for your project is essential. This guide will teach you how and when to utilize wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What Exactly What exactly is Wood Filler?
The wood filler material can be used to smooth out imperfections and fill holes on wood surfaces. After it dries wood filler is able to be painted or stained, which makes it an excellent product for creating a smooth surface before applying your final coat.
According to the type, wood fillers can be either water-based (easier to clean up and suitable to use indoors) or solvent-based (stronger and more weather-resistant). The type you choose will depend on what you are doing.
What is the right time to apply wood filler?
When you see a chip, crack or gouge, or dent on the surface of a wood, filler for wood can be used to repair it. Here are just a few instances where filler comes in handy:
Repairing furniture damaged
Cracks in door or window frames can be fixed
Filling in nail holes with trim or molding
Sealing the gaps between outdoor decks, fences, and other structures
Filling in any imperfections 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 fences, decks or siding? Wood fillers for indoor use will not be effective outside. The high temperature and humidity could cause wood to expand or contract. If they’re not designed to be for outdoor use, regular fillers can break or fall over time.
They are strong enough to withstand the elements. They are flexible enough to allow them to move with wood. This stops the repaired area from becoming degraded over time. Many exterior fillers are also resistant to mold, moisture and UV rays. This is exactly what your outdoor wood surfaces need.
How to Apply Deck Wood Filler correctly
Deck wood filler is utilized to repair gaps or cracks on decks for outdoor use. The caulking is usually available in tubes, and can be sprayed using an ordinary caulking tool.
Here’s a quick guide to make sure you’re doing it right.
Get rid of any dirt, debris and old filler.
Prepare the Area: Gently rub the area around the crack to make sure that the filler adhere properly.
Apply the Filler using a putty knife or caulking gun to press the filler into damaged areas. A little overfilling is recommended to allow for shrinkage once it dries.
Let it dry: The drying time can differ based on the type of product you are employing and the thickness of it is.
Sand Smooth: Once dry you can sand the surface flush with the surrounding wood for an elegant look.
Prime and paint or stain Complete your project with stains or paint that match the rest of the project.
Small Step, Big Results
A tube or a wood filler at first might appear to be no big deal. Ask anyone who missed this step and regrettably realized later that it had made all the difference between an amateurish DIY project and a polished professional result.
Whether you’re restoring an old chair or patching up a backyard deck, using the right wood filler, especially exterior wood filler or deck wood filler where needed, ensures your hard work stands the test of time.
Remember: before you grab the paintbrush, smooth it out, fill it in, and then finish it off. Your wood projects (and the future you) will be grateful to you.