If you’ve ever attempted home repairs or tackled a few wood projects around your home it’s likely that you’ve ran through those gruelling cracks, dents or small holes that appear impossible to repair. Whether it’s a weathered deck, an old trim on the outdoor, or a beat-up furniture piece, these imperfections could ruin the look of the work you’ve put into it. The positive side? The solution is simple: wood filler.
The thing is that Wood fillers don’t all work in the same way. Selecting the best one for your project can create a massive difference. If you’re wondering how, where, and how to utilize wood filler in the right way (especially for outdoor projects) This article will answer your questions.
What Exactly is Wood Filler?
A wood filler, like putty, and can be used to conceal cracks and smooth out imperfections on wood surfaces. Once it’s dried it can be sanded or painted. It’s the most effective product for creating a smooth finish prior to applying your final coat.
Wood fillers can be found in two kinds that are water-based, which is less difficult to clean and suitable for indoor use. Solvent-based wood fillers are stronger and more robust to weather. The best choice will depend on your specific project.
When is the best time to use wood filler?
If you find a hole, crack or gouge, nail hole, or dent on the surface of a wood, filler made of wood can help fill it. Here are a few of the many applications for wood filler:
Repairing furniture damaged
Repairing holes in doors or window frames
Repairing nail holes on molding or trim
Sealing the gaps between outdoor decks, fences and other structures
If you’re planning to paint or stain it, you can get a more professional appearance by filling in any flaws.
The reason outdoor wood filler is essential for outdoor projects
You’re building outdoor wood projects like fences, decks or siding. Indoor wood fillers will not work outdoors. Changes in temperature, rain sun, or humidity could make wood expand or shrink. If they’re not designed to be for outdoor use, regular fillers can break or fall down over time.
The fillers are designed to stand up to the elements. These fillers remain flexible to allow them to move with wood. This prevents the repaired surface from deteriorating over time. Exterior fillers are resistant to moisture, ultraviolet rays, as well as mildew.
How to Apply Deck Wood Filler correctly
For larger gaps and cracks in outdoor decks, deck wood filler is your best friend. It often comes in easy-to-use tubes that can be used with a caulking gun that is standard and make the application swift and simple.
Here’s a quick guide on how to do it correctly.
Cleanse the surface: Get rid of dirt, debris, and any old filler.
Cleaning the Area: Sand lightly around the crack or hole to allow the filler to stick.
Apply the Filler using a caulking gun or a putty blade to apply the filler. Overfill the area to allow for shrinkage when it drys.
It is important to let it dry completely. Follow the drying time of the product (this could vary depending on the thickness, type or kind of product).
Sand Smooth: Once dry then sand the entire area with the surrounding wood to create an even look.
Paint or stain the primer Complete your project with paint or stains that complement the rest.
Small Step, Big Results
At first, the act of grabbing one of these tubes might not seem like a big deal. If you ask someone who skipped the step and later regretted it this can be the difference between an amateur DIY finish and a polished professional look.
You can make your work last longer by using exterior wood filler and deck wood filler.
Remember: before you grab the paintbrush, you need to smooth it and fill it in and then seal it. You’ll be thankful for your woodworking projects as well as for the future self.