If you’ve ever tackled home repairs or tackled some wood-based projects around the house it’s likely that you’ve ran through those gruelling cracks, dents, or small holes that appear impossible to repair. If it’s a rotten deck, aging trim on the outdoor, or a shabby piece of furniture, these imperfections could ruin the look of your hard work. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
Here’s the thing: Wood fillers don’t all work similarly. Selecting the best one to apply for your project can have a significant impact. If you’re wondering how what, where, or how to use a wood filler in the right way (especially when it comes to outdoor projects) this article will answer your questions.
What is Wood Filler?
Wood filler is a putty-like product used to patch holes, seal cracks, and even out blemishes on wood surfaces. It can be sanded painted, or stained once the wood is dry, making it the go-to product to give a smooth finish before your final coat of varnish or paint.
The type of wood filler you choose wood fillers can be either water-based (easier to clean and better for indoor use) or solvent-based (stronger and more weatherproof). The best type to choose depends on the purpose for which you’re using it.
When Should You Use Wood Filler?
If you notice a scratch, dent, gouge or nail hole on a wood surface you can use wood filler to repair the damage. Filler can be utilized in a variety of situations.
Repairing damaged furniture
Repairing cracks on doors or windows
Filling in nail holes using trim or molding
Protecting outdoor decks and fencing
If you’re planning to paint or stain the area, filling up those imperfections first will provide you with a an even, professional look.
Why outside wood filler is crucial for outdoor projects
Are you working on an outdoor wood project like a deck, fence or sidings? Indoor wood fillers will not be effective outside. Variations in temperature, rain sun, or humidity could make wood expand and expand or contract. Fillers not designed for outdoor use could crack over time or fall out.
These fillers are constructed to handle the elements. They’re able to move along with the wood, keeping the region from becoming damaged as the seasons change. Exterior fillers are resistant to UV rays and mildew.
The Correct Way to Apply Deck Wood Filler
To fill in cracks and gaps on decks for outdoor use, deck wood filler is your ideal all-rounder. It is generally available in tubes that is applied using a standard caulking tool.
Here’s how you can accomplish it efficiently and accurately:
Cleanse the surface: Get rid of dirt, debris, and any old filler.
Preparing the Area: Lightly rub the crack around to ensure the filler will be able to adhere correctly.
Apply the Filler using the caulking gun or putty knife to apply the filler. A little overfilling is recommended so that it can shrink as it drys.
Let it Dry The time to dry can differ based on the type of product you are employing and the thickness of it is.
Sand the area: Once the area is dry, sand to the same degree as the wood surrounding it. This gives an appearance of a seamless finish.
Prime, Paint or Stain Complete your work with paint or stain that matches the rest of the surface.
Small Step, Big Results
At first glance, taking one of these tubes may seem like a small issue. Ask anyone who has missed this step and regretting later on that it caused all the difference between a amateur DIY project and a polished professional result.
If you are restoring the chair or making repairs to an outdoor deck make sure you use the correct woodfiller. Use exterior woodfillers or deck filler when needed to ensure that your effort will last.
Don’t forget: before you get the paintbrush, smooth it to fill it in and then finish it off. The future you (and your wood-based projects) will be grateful to you.