If you’ve ever been involved in home repairs or worked on some wood projects around the house it’s likely that you’ve ran through those painful cracks, dents, or tiny holes that seem impossible to fix. It could be an old deck, an old outdoor trim or a scuffed-up piece. But the good news? It’s easy to fix it that is wood filler.
The thing is that Not all wood fillers are in the same way. The right choice to use for your project could create a massive difference. This guide will show you when, where and how to use the right woodfiller specifically for outdoor projects.
What is Wood Filler exactly?
Wood filler is a similar to putty substance that is used to patch holes, seal cracks, and smooth out any imperfections on wood surfaces. After it dries the wood filler can be stained or painted making it a great solution for creating a smooth surface before applying your final coat.
Wood fillers are available in two forms one being water-based. This is more easy to clean and is ideal for use indoors. Solvent-based wood fillers are more durable and more resistant to weather. Picking the right one depends on the specifics of your project.
When is the best time to utilize wood filler?
If you see a dent or gouge on a wood surface you can make use of wood filler to fix it. Here are some of the many benefits of wood filler:
Repairing damaged furniture
Fixing cracks in doors or window frames
Patching nail holes in trim molding
The sealing of gaps between fences, decks and other structures
If you are contemplating painting over or stain it, you can create a more professional look by filling in any imperfections.
The reason outside wood filler is crucial for outdoor projects
Working on outdoor wood projects like decks, fences, or siding? Here’s where things get important: indoor wood fillers won’t cut it outside. Wood expands and contracts in response to changes in temperature as well as humidity, rain, and sun. If they’re not specifically designed for outdoor use, fillers can crack or fall over time.
The fillers are designed to stand up to the elements. They are flexible enough to be able to move with the wood, keeping the surface from deteriorating in the changing seasons. Most exterior fillers also resist the growth of mildew and moisture as with UV Rays. This is exactly what you require for outdoor wood surfaces.
How to apply Deck Wood Filler correctly
Deck wood filler helps you cover more extensive gaps and cracks in your deck. It’s usually in convenient tubes that can be used with a standard caulking gun, making the application process swift and simple.
Here’s how to perform it swiftly and effectively:
Cleanse the surface: Clear away dirt or debris and old filler.
Cleaning the Area: The crack should be lightly sanded or the hole to let the filler adhere.
Apply the Filler Apply the Filler using a putty tool or caulking gun for pressing the filler into the damaged area. Fill the damaged area slightly over to allow shrinkage.
Make sure it is completely dry Make sure to follow the drying time (this may differ based on the type and thickness that is applied).
Sand it smooth: Once drying, sand it flush with the rest of the area to create a seamless appearance.
Prime, Paint or Stain Then finish your project by staining or painting the surface to match.
Small Step, Big Results
A tube or a wood filler may appear to be no significant thing. Ask anyone who missed this step and regrettably realized later that it had made the difference between a mediocre DIY project and a polished professional result.
When you’re trying to restore an old chair or repairing your backyard deck, utilizing the correct wood filler, particularly outside wood filler or deck wood filler where needed makes sure that your hard work will stand the test of time.
Make sure that you take the paintbrush, smooth it out to fill it in and then seal it off. Your future self (and your wood-based projects) will be thankful for it.