If you’ve ever completed home repairs or worked on some projects in the woodwork department, you may have run into frustrating cracks or scratches that were difficult to repair. It could be an old deck or an old exterior trim or a scuffed-up piece. The good news? The solution is simple: wood filler.
But here’s the thing there aren’t all wood fillers the same, and using the right one for the right project can make a huge difference. This guide will explain the best way to utilize wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What exactly is Wood Filler?
Wood fillers, which is like putty, and can be used to cover up cracks and smooth out imperfections on wood surfaces. After drying it’s able to be sanded or painted. It’s the best solution to achieve a smooth surface prior to applying the final coat.
Based on the type, wood fillers can be either water-based (easier to clean up and better to use indoors) or solvent-based (stronger and more weatherproof). Selecting the best kind of wood depends on what you intend to do.
When is the best time to use wood filler?
Anytime you spot a crack or gouge, nail hole or scratch on the surface of a wood, filler for wood can be used to patch it up. Here are a few of the many applications for wood filler:
Repairing furniture that is damaged
Repairing the cracks in doors or windows
Filling nail holes with trim or molding
Protecting outdoor decks and fencing
If you’re planning to paint over or stain it, you can give it a professional appearance by filling in any flaws.
What is the importance of exterior wood filler in projects outdoors?
Are you working on an outdoor wood-based project such as fences, decks or sidings? Here’s where things get important: indoor wood fillers won’t make it work outside. The high temperature and humidity could cause the wood to expand or expand or. Fillers made from regular materials may crack or even fall off as time passes if they’re not made for outdoor use.
These fillers are created to stand up to the elements. These fillers remain flexible to let them move with wood. This stops the repaired area from degrading with time. Exterior fillers are resistant to UV rays, and mildew.
The Correct Way to apply Deck Wood Filler
For larger gaps and cracks in outdoor decks, deck wood filler is your best friend. It’s typically available in convenient tubes that are able to be used by conventional caulking guns. This allows for a quick application and easy.
Here’s a quick guide to getting it right.
Cleanse the surface: Remove dirt debris, any old filler.
Making the Area Ready: The crack should be lightly sanded or the hole to allow the filler to adhere.
Apply the Filler – Use a caulking gun or a putty blade to apply the filler. A little overfilling is recommended to allow for shrinkage while it drys.
Let it dry The time to dry can depend on the kind of product you are using and the thickness it is.
Sand Smooth: Once dry, sand the area flush with the wood surrounding it for a seamless appearance.
Paint or stain the primer Paint or stain your project with stains or paint that complement the rest.
Small Step, Big Results
The process of picking up a tube wood filler might not be important initially. If you ask someone who skipped the step, only to regret it later the difference could be the difference between an amateur DIY and a polished and professional look.
If you’re restoring a chair or repairing a deck in your backyard pick the proper woodfiller. Make use of exterior woodfiller or deck filler if needed to ensure that the hard work is durable.
So before you reach for the paintbrush, make sure to smooth it, fill it up, and finally finish it. Your wood-based projects (and your future self) will be thankful for it.