If you’ve ever completed home repairs, or embarked on some projects in the woodworking department and you’ve run into frustrating cracks or scratch marks that seemed to be impossible to repair. It could be an old deck or an old exterior trim or even a damaged piece. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
But here’s the thing that not all wood fillers are identical, and choosing the correct one for the project can make a huge difference. This guide will teach you how and when to utilize wood filler (especially in outdoor projects).
What is Wood Filler specifically?
A wood filler, which is like putty, and is a great way to hide cracks and smooth out imperfections on wood surfaces. When it is dry, wood filler can be painted or stained, which makes it an excellent product for creating a smooth surface before you apply your final coat.
The type of wood filler you choose wood fillers could be water-based (easier to clean up and better for indoor use) or solvent-based (stronger and more weather-resistant). The best type to choose depends on what you intend to do.
When is the best time to apply wood filler?
If you find a hole, crack or gouge, or dent on the surface of a wood, filler made of wood can help fill it. Here are some examples of how filler comes in handy:
Repairing furniture that is damaged
Fixing cracks in doors or window frames
Filling nail holes using trim or molding
Repairing the gaps in outdoor decks, fences, and other structures
If you are planning to paint or stain the area, you can create a more professional look by filling in any flaws.
Why Exterior Wood Filler is Important for outdoor Projects
You’re working on wood projects for outdoor use such as decks, fences or siding. Here’s where things get important Indoor wood fillers will not make it work outside. Wood can expand and contract in response to changes in temperature as well as humidity, rain, and sun. Fillers not designed to be used outdoors may break with time or break off.
These fillers are made to handle the elements. The fillers are flexible enough to move along with the wood and prevent the repair from deteriorating with the changing seasons. Most exterior fillers also resist moisture and mildew as well being resistant to UV radiations. This is precisely what you require for outdoor wood surfaces.
How to apply deck wood filler correctly
For cracks and gaps that are larger in outdoor decks, deck wood filler is the best partner. The caulking comes in tubes, which is applied using the standard caulking tool.
Here’s a short guide to make sure you’re doing it right.
Remove any dirt, debris and filler that has been used up.
Prepare the Area: Gently rub the area around the crack to make sure the filler will stick properly.
Apply the Filler – Use the caulking gun or putty knife to apply the filler. Fill the damaged area with a bit more than to allow for shrinkage.
It is important to let it dry completely. Be sure to follow the drying times of the item (this can vary based on the thickness, type or kind of product).
Sand the Area: When the area has dried Sand the area to the same degree as the wood surrounding it. This will give an look of a seamless surface.
Prime, Paint or Stain Then finish your work with paint or stain to match the remainder of the surface.
Small Step, Big Results
A tube or a wood filler may seem like a major deal. Ask anyone who skipped this step, and regretting it later, and realized that it was the difference between a mediocre DIY project and a polished professional finish.
If you’re planning to restore chairs or fixing an outdoor deck make sure you use the correct woodfiller. Choose a woodfiller for exterior use or deck filler as needed to ensure that your hard work will last.
Before you pull out the paintbrush, remember to first smooth it then fill it in and finish it. Your future self (and your wood-based projects) will be thankful for it.