If you’ve ever made repairs to your home, or on a few woodworking projects there is a chance that you’ve experienced frustrating cracks and scratches that were difficult to repair. It could be an old deck or an old outdoor trim or even a battered piece. The good news? The solution is simple: wood filler.
But let’s face it, the fact is that not all wood fillers are identical, and choosing the correct one for the appropriate project makes a big difference. This guide will explain the proper way and time to utilize wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What is Wood Filler exactly?
Wood fillers, like putty, and can be used to conceal cracks and smooth imperfections on wood surfaces. It is able to be sanded stained or painted once it’s dry. This makes it the best choice to create a smooth surface prior to the final coat of paint or varnish.
Wood fillers can be found in two types of water-based ones, both are less difficult to clean and suitable for indoor use. Solvent-based wood fillers are more durable and are more robust to weather. Selecting the best one is contingent on the specifics of your project.
When should you make use of wood filler?
If you notice a crack, gouge, nail hole or scratch on the surface of a wood, wood filler can help you make it better. Here are some of the many applications for wood filler:
Repairing furniture damaged
Repairing cracks in doors and windows
Repairing nail holes in trim or molding
Repairing the gaps in fencing and decks for outdoor use.
If you’re contemplating painting over or stain the area you can achieve a more professional appearance by filling in any imperfections.
What’s the significance of wood filler used on exteriors for outdoor projects?
Working on outdoor wood projects like decks, fences, or siding? Here’s where things get important: indoor wood fillers won’t cut it outside. Changes in temperature, rain sun, humidity, and rain could make wood expand or shrink. If they’re not made for outdoor usage, standard fillers may crack or break over time.
They are strong enough to withstand the elements. The fillers can be flexed to be able to change with the wood. They also prevent the repair from getting damaged with the changing seasons. Exterior fillers are also resistant to UV rays and mildew.
How do you apply deck wood filler correctly
Deck wood filler is utilized to repair cracks or gaps in decks for outdoor use. It is usually available in simple tubes that can be used with a standard caulking gun which makes the process of applying swift and simple.
Here’s a short step-by-step guide for getting it right.
Clean all debris and dirt from the surface.
Prepare the Area Sand lightly around the crack or hole so the filler can be properly bonded.
Apply the Filler Apply the Filler using a putty tool or a caulking gun, to press the filler into the affected area. Overfill the area to allow for shrinkage after it drys.
Let It Dry Completely Then, follow the product’s drying time (this can vary based on the type and thickness used).
Sand smooth after the wood is dry, then sand it smooth with the surrounding area to create a seamless appearance.
Paint or stain the primer Then finish your project with paint or stains that are in harmony with the rest of the project.
Small Step, Big Results
A tube or a wood filler at first might not seem to be a major deal. Ask anyone who skipped this step, and regretting later on that it caused the difference between a mediocre DIY task and a professional result.
It’s possible to make the work last longer with the use of exterior wood filler and deck wood filler.
Before you get your paintbrush, make sure to first smooth it out after which you can fill it with paint with paint and seal it. Your wood project (and your future self) will be grateful to you.