If you’ve ever completed repairs to your home, or on some woodworking projects there is a chance that you’ve run into frustrating cracks or dents that you were unable to fix. Whether it’s a weathered deck, aged trim for the outside, or a beat-up furniture piece, these imperfections can affect the overall appearance of your hard-earned work. The good thing? The solution is simple to this problem: wood filler.
But let’s face it, that not all wood fillers are alike, and selecting the correct one for the right project is a major difference. If you’re wondering how it’s best, where and how to use wood filler appropriately (especially when it comes to outdoor projects) this guide will help you.
What Exactly is Wood Filler?
The wood filler product can be used to smooth out imperfections and to fill in holes on wood surfaces. After drying wood filler is able to be painted or stained, making it an ideal product for achieving a seamless surface prior to applying the final coat.
According to the type of wood filler it can be solvent-based or water-based. Solvent-based wood fillers are better indoors and easier to wash. Solvent-based is more durable and weather resistant. The correct wood filler will depend on the project.
What is the right time to use wood Filler?
If you find a nick, a gouge or gouge, or nail hole on a wood surface you can use wood filler to repair the damage. Here are a few of the many applications for wood filler:
Repairing furniture damaged
Cracks in door or window frames can be repaired
Filling nail holes with trim or molding
Sealing gaps in fences and decks outdoors
If you are planning to paint or stain the area you can create a more professional look by filling in any imperfections.
Why Exterior Wood Filler Matters for Outdoor Projects
Working on outdoor wood projects like fences, decks or siding? Indoor wood fillers will not be effective outside. The weather, temperature fluctuations sun, humidity, and rain can cause wood to expand and contract. If they’re not made for outdoor use, the fillers can crack or break over time.
These fillers are resistant to the elements. They’re flexible enough to be able to move with the wood, preventing the repaired surface from deteriorating when the seasons change. Exterior fillers may also be resistant to UV rays, and mildew.
How to apply deck wood filler correctly
For cracks and gaps that are larger on decks for outdoor use, deck wood filler is your ideal option. It’s often found in handy tubes that can be utilized by standard caulking guns. This helps make the application quick and easy.
Here’s a brief guide to getting it right.
Get rid of all dirt and other debris off the surface.
Making the Area Ready The crack should be lightly sanded or hole so that the filler can adhere.
Apply the Filler using a caulking gun or putty blade to apply the filler. A little overfilling is recommended so that it can shrink when it drys.
It is important to let it dry completely. Follow the drying time of the product (this may vary depending on the type or thickness).
Sand smooth after the wood has dried, sand it flush with the surrounding area in order to make it appear seamless.
Prime and paint or stain: Finish off your project with paint or stain to match the other surfaces.
Small Step, Big Results
The act of grabbing a tube or a wood filler in the beginning might not seem to be a big deal. Ask anyone who has skipped this step, and regretted later that it made all the difference between a mediocre DIY project and a professional-looking finish.
Whether you’re restoring an old chair or patching up a backyard deck, using the right wood filler, especially exterior wood filler or deck wood filler where needed, ensures your hard work stands the test of time.
Make sure that you take the paintbrush, you need to smooth it and fill it in and finally, finish the project. You’ll be grateful for your wood projects, as well as your future self.