If you’ve ever worked on home repairs or tackled some wood-based projects around your home there’s a good chance you’ve run through those painful cracks, dents, or tiny holes that seem impossible to fix. Whether it’s a weathered deck, aging trim for the outside, or a shabby piece of furniture, these flaws can affect the appearance of your work. The good news? There’s a simple solution: wood filler.
However, the fact is that not all wood fillers are identical, and choosing the correct one for the project can make a huge difference. This guide will explain the best time, place and method to make use of woodfiller in the correct way, especially for outdoor projects.
What exactly is Wood Filler specifically?
Wood filler is a similar to putty substance that is used to patch holes, fill cracks and smooth out imperfections on wooden surfaces. It is able to be sanded, stained, or painted after it’s dry. This makes it the go-to product to give a smooth finish prior to your final coat of paint or varnish.
According to the type of wood filler it is either solvent-based or water-based. Solvent-based is more suitable for indoors and easier to wash. Solvent-based fillers are more durable and weather resistant. The ideal wood filler depends on the task.
When do you need to use wood filler?
Wood filler can be a wonderful solution to repair any cracks, gouges, nail holes, or dents on wood surfaces. Filler is a great option for a variety of situations.
Repairing damaged furniture
Cracks in the door or window frames can be fixed
Repairing nail holes in trim molding
Filling in gaps on fences and decks outside
If you are planning to paint or stain the area you can create a more professional look by filling in any flaws.
The reason exterior wood filler is important for outdoor projects
Are you working on something outdoors like fences, decks or sidings? It’s important to note that wood fillers for indoor use aren’t suitable for outdoor use. The high temperature and humidity could cause the wood to expand or shrink. Fillers made from regular materials may crack or break over time if they aren’t designed for outdoor use.
The fillers are designed to withstand the elements. They are flexible enough to let them move with wood. This keeps the newly repaired area from degrading with time. Many exterior fillers are also resistant to moisture, mildew, and UV rays exactly the outdoor wood surfaces need.
How do I apply deck wood filler correctly
Deck wood filler can be used to fill in gaps or cracks on decks for outdoor use. It’s often found in handy tubes that can be utilized using conventional caulking guns. This makes the process of applying it quick and simple.
Here’s a brief guide to getting it right.
Remove any dirt, debris and filler that has been used up.
The Area to be Prepared: The crack should be lightly sanded or hole to allow the filler to stick.
Apply the Filler using the caulking gun or putty blade to apply the filler. Do not overfill the area so that it can shrink when it dries.
Let It Dry The drying time will depend on the kind of product you are making use of and how thick it is.
Sand Smooth: Once dry then sand the entire area with the wood surrounding it for a seamless look.
Prime, Paint or Stain You can finish the project by staining or painting the surface to match.
Small Step, Big Results
Making sure you have a tube of wood filler might not be essential at first. Ask anyone who has skipped this step, and regretted later that it made all the difference between an amateurish DIY task and a professional result.
It’s possible to make the work last longer by using outdoor wood filler as well as deck wood filler.
If you do decide to reach for the paintbrush, keep in mind: smooth it, fill it up, and finally finish it. You’ll be grateful for your woodworking projects as well as for the future self.