If you’ve ever attempted home repairs, or taken on several tasks in the woodworking department You may have run into frustrating cracks or dents that you were unable to fix. This can be an old deck or an old outdoor trim or a scuffed-up piece. The good news is? The solution is simple wood filler.
But here’s the truth: there aren’t all wood fillers alike, and selecting the right one for the project is a major difference. This guide will teach you what to do and when to use wood filler (especially when working outdoors).
What is Wood Filler in the first place?
Wood fillers, which is similar to putty, can be used to fill in cracks and smoothen out imperfections on wooden surfaces. Once it has dried the wood filler can be stained or painted, which makes it an excellent product for creating a smooth surface prior to applying your final coat.
Wood fillers can be found in two varieties that are water-based, which is more easy to clean and is ideal for use indoors. Solvent-based wood fillers are stronger and are more resistant to weather. The best choice will depend on your particular project.
When is the best time to use wood filler?
Wood filler is an excellent way to fix any cracks, gouges, nail holes, or scratches on wood surfaces. Here are some examples of the numerous uses for wood filler:
Repairing furniture damaged
Repairing cracks on doors or windows
Repairing nail holes in the trim or molding
The sealing of outdoor decks and fencing
Filling in the imperfections before staining or painting can result in a more smooth, professional-looking finish.
The importance of exterior wood filler 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. The humidity and temperature can cause wood to expand or expand or. If they’re not designed to be for outdoor usage, standard fillers could crack or fall over time.
The fillers are designed to withstand the weather. They are flexible enough to move along with the wood, and prevent the area from degrading when the seasons change. Many exterior fillers are also resistant to moisture, mildew and UV rays precisely the outdoor wood surfaces require.
The Most Effective Way to apply Deck Wood Filler
For larger gaps and cracks in outdoor decks, a deck wood filler is the best friend. It’s often found in convenient tubes that can be used with regular caulking guns. This allows for a quick application and simple.
Here’s how to perform it swiftly and effectively:
Remove any dirt, debris and old filler.
Cleaning the Area Sand lightly around the crack or hole to allow the filler to stay in place.
Apply the Filler. Make use of a putty, or caulking tool to push the filler into the affected area. The area should be filled to allow for shrinkage once it drys.
Make sure it is completely dry Then, follow the product’s drying time (this can vary based on the thickness and type that is applied).
Sand the Area: After the area has dried Sand the area to the same level as the surrounding wood. This gives an look of a seamless surface.
Prime, paint or stain You can finish the project by staining or painting the surface to make it look like.
Small Step, Big Results
At first glance, grabbing the wood filler tube might not seem like a big issue. If you have a friend who has skipped this step and later regretted it, it can make all the difference between a rough DIY finish and a polished professional finish.
If you are restoring a chair or repairing a deck in your backyard pick the proper woodfiller. Choose a woodfiller for exterior use or deck filler if needed to ensure that your effort will last.
Remember: before you grab the paintbrush, you need to smooth it and fill it in and then finish the project. You’ll be grateful for your woodwork and for the next self.