You may have encountered scratches, cracks or holes in wood that are tough to fix. If it’s a rotten deck, an old outdoor trim or a damaged piece of furniture, these imperfections could ruin the look of your hard-earned work. But the good news? It’s easy to repair: wood filler.
There’s a catch: not all wood fillers work exactly the same. Picking the right one to work with for your project could have a significant impact. This guide will explain the proper way and time to utilize wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What exactly is Wood Filler?
Wood filler is a putty-like substance that is used to patch holes, cover cracks, and smooth out imperfections on wooden surfaces. After it dries, wood filler can be stained or painted making it a great product for achieving a seamless surface prior to applying the final coat.
According to the type of wood filler, it can either be solvent-based or water-based. Water-based is better for indoors and easier to clean. Solvent-based fillers are more durable and weather-resistant. The right wood filler depends on the specific project.
When is the best time to apply wood filler?
If you find a nick, a gouge, gouge or nail hole on the wood surface, you can make use of wood filler to fix the damage. Here are a few examples of the numerous uses for wood filler:
Repairing furniture damaged
Repairing the cracks in doors and window frames
Filling nail holes with trim or molding
The sealing of outdoor decks and fencing
If you’re contemplating painting over or stain it, you can give it a professional look by filling in any flaws.
What’s the significance of a wood filler that is used for exterior projects outside?
Working on outdoor wood projects like decks, fences, or siding? Here’s where things get important: indoor wood fillers won’t cut it outside. Wood expands and contracts due to temperature fluctuations in humidity, temperature, rain and sun. Fillers used in regular applications may crack or break in time if they’re not designed for outdoor use.
These fillers can withstand the elements. They stay flexible enough to move with the wood, preventing the repaired region from becoming damaged with the changing seasons. Many exterior fillers also ward off the growth of mildew and moisture as with UV rays. This is precisely the kind of material you’ll need for outdoor wood surfaces.
How do you apply deck filler correctly
Deck wood filler can be used to repair larger gaps or cracks on decks for outdoor use. The caulking comes in tubes and is applied using the standard caulking tool.
Here’s how you can perform it swiftly and effectively:
Take away any dirt, debris and filler that has been used up.
Prepare the Area: Gently rub the area around the crack to ensure that the filler will stay in place.
Apply the Filler using a putty knife or caulking gun to press the filler into the affected area. Fill the damaged area with a bit more than to allow for shrinkage.
It is important to let it dry completely. Make sure you follow the drying duration of the product (this can vary based on the kind or thickness).
Sand Smooth: Once dry Sand the area with the surrounding wood to create an even look.
Prime, paint or stain Paint or stain your project by using stains or paints that are in harmony with the rest of the project.
Small Step, Big Results
At first glance, grabbing the wood filler tube might not seem like a big difference. If you have a friend who has skipped this step and later regretted it the difference could be the difference between rough DIY and a polished and professional finish.
If you’re looking to restore a chair or repairing the deck in your backyard, use the right woodfiller. Choose a woodfiller for exterior use or deck filler when needed to ensure that the effort will last.
Before you pick up that paintbrush, just remember to smooth it first then fill it in and then finish it. Your future self (and your wood projects) will be grateful to you.