There are many small cracks, dents or holes in your wood that are hard to fix. It doesn’t matter if it’s a weathered deck, aged outdoor trim or a shabby piece of furniture, these imperfections can ruin the final look of your hard work. What’s good? There’s an easy solution that is wood filler.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all wood-fillers are created equal. A suitable filler for your project is crucial. This guide will explain what, when and where to make use of woodfiller in the correct way especially for outdoor projects.
What exactly is Wood Filler precisely?
A wood filler, which is similar to putty, can be used to conceal cracks and smooth out imperfections on wooden surfaces. Once dried, it can be sanded or painted. It’s the best solution to achieve a smooth finish prior to applying your final coat.
The kind of wood filler you are using it can be water-based or solvent-based. Water-based fillers are more appropriate for indoors, and it is less messy to wash. Solvent-based is stronger and weather resistant. Selecting the best kind of wood depends on what you are doing.
When is the best time to use wood Filler?
If you find a hole, crack, gouge, nail hole or a dent on a wood surface, filler for wood can be used to make it better. Filler can be used in a variety of scenarios.
Repairing damaged furniture
Repairing cracks on doors or windows
Repairing nail holes in trim or molding
Sealing the gaps between fences, decks, and other structures
Filling in any imperfections prior to staining or painting results in a more smooth, professional finish.
What is the importance of a wood filler that is used for exterior projects outdoors?
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 can expand and contract due to temperature changes, humidity, rain and sun. Fillers that are used regularly may break or break when they age if not designed for outdoor use.
These fillers are made for use in the harshest conditions. They are flexible enough to move with wood, preventing the repaired area from breaking down as the seasons change. Some exterior fillers are resistant to mildew, water and UV rays. This is exactly what your outdoor wood surfaces need.
The Right Way to Apply Deck Wood Filler
Deck wood filler can be used to fix larger cracks or gaps in decks for outdoor use. The caulking comes in tubes and can be applied using an ordinary caulking tool.
Here’s a brief guide on how to do it correctly.
Eliminate all dirt and debris off the surface.
Preparing the Area: Lightly rub the crack around to ensure that the filler will be able to adhere correctly.
Use the Filler. Make use of a putty, or caulking tool for pressing the material into the affected area. Fill in the area until it is sufficient to allow for shrinkage when it drys.
Make sure it is completely dry – Check the drying time of the item (this may vary depending on the type or thickness).
Sand the area: Once the area has dried Sand the area to the same level as the wood around it. This gives the look of a seamless surface.
Prime and Paint or Stain Then finish your project with paint or stain to match the other surfaces.
Small Step, Big Results
At first glance, taking the wood filler tube might seem like no big thing. But ask anyone who’s been a bit lazy and regretted it later it makes all the difference between a messy DIY project and a polished, professional finish.
If you’re looking to restore the chair or making repairs to an outdoor deck make sure you use the correct woodfiller. Choose a woodfiller for exterior use or deck filler if needed to ensure that the hard work will last.
Before you grab the paintbrush, make sure to smooth it out, fill it, then finish it. Your wood work (and your future self) will be thankful for it.