If you’ve ever made home repairs, or taken on some small tasks in the woodworking department, you may have experienced frustrating cracks and scratches that were difficult to repair. The imperfections could destroy your hard-earned work, no matter if you’re dealing with an old deck, worn-out exterior trim or a piece of furniture. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
The thing is that Not all wood fillers are exactly the same. Picking the right one to work with for your project can create a massive difference. This guide will show you what, when and where to properly use woodfiller, especially for outdoor projects.
What is Wood Filler exactly?
Wood filler is a similar to putty product used to patch holes, seal cracks, and smooth out blemishes on wooden surfaces. After drying, wood filler can be painted or stained, making it an ideal product for creating a smooth surface prior to applying your final coat.
Based on the kind of wood filler you are using it could be water-based or solvent-based. Water-based fillers are more appropriate for indoors, and it is less messy to wash. Solvent-based fillers are more durable and weather-resistant. The correct wood filler will depend on the project.
What is the right time to make use of wood filler?
If you notice a crack or gouge or a dent on a wood surface filler wood will help make it better. Filler can be utilized in many different situations.
Repairing damaged furniture
Fixing cracks in doors or window frames
Repairing nail holes in trim or molding
Sealing gaps in fencing and decks for outdoor use.
If you’re contemplating painting over or stain the area you can achieve a more professional appearance by filling in any flaws.
The importance of exterior wood filler for Outdoor Projects
Are you working on an outdoor wood-based project such as a fence, deck or sidings? The wood fillers you use indoors will not work outdoors. Changes in temperature, rain, sun, and humidity could make wood expand or contract. Fillers that are used regularly may break or break in time if they’re not specifically designed for outdoor use.
The fillers are designed to stand up to the elements. They are flexible enough to be able to change with the wood and prevent the repairs from degrading with the changing seasons. Many exterior fillers also ward off mildew and moisture as well as UV radiation. This is exactly what you need for your outdoor wood surfaces.
How to Apply Deck Wood Filler Properly
Deck wood filler allows you fill larger cracks and gaps in your outdoor deck. It’s usually in convenient tubes that work using a standard caulking gun and makes the process quick and easy.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get it right:
Clean all debris and dirt from the surface.
Prep the Area: Lightly sand around the hole or crack to ensure the filler can properly adhere.
Apply the Filler. Utilize a putty or caulking tool for pressing the filler into the damaged region. Fill the damaged area slightly to allow shrinkage.
Let it dry: The drying time can vary based on the type of product you’re employing and the thickness of it is.
Sand smooth after the wood has dried smooth it out with the surrounding area in order to give a seamless appearance.
Prime, Paint or Stain: Finish off your work with paint or stain to match the rest of the surface.
Small Step, Big Results
Grabbing a tube wood filler might not be crucial at first. If you ask anyone who’s been a bit lazy and regretted it in the future. It can make all the difference between a messy DIY task and an elegant, professional look.
It’s possible to make the work last longer by using exterior wood filler as well as deck wood filler.
So before you reach for the paintbrush, keep in mind: smooth it out, fill it up, and finally finish it. You’ll be thankful for your wood projects and future self.
