If you’ve ever tackled home repairs or tackled some wood-based projects around your home it’s likely that you’ve ran into those frustrating cracks, dents or tiny holes that are impossible to fix. If it’s a rotten deck, old outdoor trim, or a beat-up piece of furniture, these flaws could ruin the look of the work you’ve put into it. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
However, that not all wood fillers are the same, and using the right one for the project will make a significant difference. If you’re thinking about when it’s best, where and how to use a wood filler correctly (especially for outdoor projects) this guide will help you.
What Exactly is Wood Filler?
Wood fillers, similar to putty, can be used to conceal cracks and smooth imperfections on wood surfaces. Once it’s dried, it can be sanded or painted. It’s the most effective product to create a smooth surface prior to applying the final coat.
According to the type, wood fillers are either water-based (easier to clean up and suitable for indoor use) or solvent-based (stronger and more weatherproof). Selecting the best one is contingent on the particular task you are working on.
When should you use wood filler?
When you see a chip, crack, gouge, nail hole, or dent on the surface of a wood, filler for wood can be used to make it better. Here are some examples where filler comes to the rescue:
Repairing furniture damaged
Repairing the cracks in doors or windows
Repairing nail holes in trim or molding
Sealing gaps in fences and decks outside
If you’re planning to paint over or stain the surface, you can create a more professional appearance by filling in any imperfections.
Why outdoor wood filler is essential for outdoor projects
You’re building outdoor wood projects like fences, decks or siding. It’s important to note that outdoor wood fillers aren’t appropriate for use outdoors. Temperature changes, rain sun, humidity, and rain could cause wood to expand or contract. If they’re not made for outdoor usage, standard fillers can break or even fall off over time.
These fillers are created to handle the elements. They are flexible enough to allow them to move along with wood. This keeps the newly repaired area from degrading over time. Exterior fillers may also be resistant to moisture, UV rays, and mildew.
How to Apply Deck Wood Filler Correctly
Deck wood filler can help you to cover larger gaps and cracks in your outdoor deck. It’s often available in user-friendly tubes that work with a standard caulking gun and make the application fast and clean.
Here is a quick guide to make sure you’re doing it right.
Cleanse the surface: Remove dirt and debris as well as any old filler.
The Area to be Prepared The crack should be lightly sanded or the hole to let the filler stick.
Apply the Filler. Make use of a putty, or caulking tool to press the filler into the affected area. The damaged area should be filled slightly over to allow shrinkage.
Dry It Let It Dry vary based on the type of product you are employing and the thickness of it is.
Sand Smooth: Once dry, sand the area flush with the surrounding wood for an elegant look.
Paint or stain the primer Then finish your project with paint or stains that match the rest of the project.
Small Step, Big Results
The act of grabbing a tube wood filler may not seem crucial at first. If you ask anyone who’s not done this and regretted it later it makes all the difference between a messy DIY task and an expertly polished finish.
If you are restoring a chair or repairing the deck in your backyard make sure you use the correct woodfiller. Choose a woodfiller for exterior use or deck filler if needed to ensure that your laborious work will last.
When you are ready to grab the paintbrush, be sure to smooth it, fill it, then finish it. Your wood work (and your future self) will be thankful for it.