You may have encountered small cracks, dents or holes in wood that are tough to repair. Whether it’s a weathered deck, aging outdoor trim, or an old furniture piece, these imperfections can affect the appearance of your work. But the good news? There’s a simple solution for wood filler.
It is important to remember that there aren’t all wood-fillers that are equally. A suitable filler for the project is critical. This guide will tell you the best time, place and method to make use of woodfiller in the correct way specifically for outdoor projects.
What is Wood Filler exactly?
A wood filler, like putty, and is a great way to hide cracks and smoothen out imperfections on wood surfaces. It can be sanded stained, or painted after the wood is dry, making it the ideal product to give a smooth finish prior to your final coat of paint or varnish.
According to the kind of wood filler you are using it can be water-based or solvent-based. Water-based fillers are more appropriate for indoor use and is easier to clean. Solvent-based wood fillers are stronger and weather-resistant. The type you choose will depend on the task you’re undertaking.
What is the right time to use wood Filler?
If you notice a crack, gouge, nail hole, or dent on the surface of a wood, filler made of wood can help fill it. Here are a few of the many uses for wood filler:
Repairing damaged furniture
Repairing the cracks in doors or windows
Filling in nail holes with trim or molding
Sealing gaps in fences and decks outside
If you plan to stain or paint the surface, filling up those imperfections first will ensure a a much smoother and professional-looking appearance.
The reason the importance of exterior wood filler for outdoor projects
You’re doing outdoor wood projects such as decks, fences or siding. It is important to know that indoor wood fillers are not appropriate for use outdoors. The weather, temperature fluctuations sunlight, as well as humidity can cause wood to expand or shrink. Fillers that are not intended for outdoor use could crack with time or break off.
They are strong enough to withstand the elements. They are flexible enough to move with the wood. They also prevent the repairs from degrading as the seasons change. Exterior fillers are resistant to moisture, UV rays and mildew.
How to apply Deck Wood Filler in a Correct Way
For larger gaps and cracks in outdoor decks, deck wood filler is your best friend. The caulking is typically available in tubes, which can be sprayed using a standard caulking tool.
Here’s how to perform it swiftly and effectively:
Remove any dirt, debris and filler that has been used up.
Making the Area Ready Sand lightly around the crack or the hole to allow the filler to be able to stick.
Apply the Filler: Use a putty knife or caulking gun to press the filler into the damaged area. Do not overfill the area to allow for shrinkage when it drys.
Let it Dry Completely – Check the drying time of the item (this could vary depending on the kind or thickness).
Sand the Area: After the area is dry you can sand the area to a similar degree as the wood surrounding it. This gives an look of a seamless surface.
Prime and paint or stain Paint or stain your project with stains or paint that match the rest of the project.
Small Step, Big Results
At first glance, grabbing one of these tubes may not seem like a big difference. Ask anyone who has missed this step and regretting it later, and realized that it was all the difference between an amateurish DIY project and a polished professional-looking finish.
You can make your work last longer by using exterior wood filler and deck wood filler.
When you are ready to grab the paintbrush, make sure to smooth it out, fill it, then finish it. Your future self (and your wood-based projects) will be grateful to you.
