BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY HOW TO
BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY PATCH
BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY FULL

If the finished product has sustained a big enough gash, then you might want to refinish it instead. These can be rubbed over the scratch, and instantly improve the appearance. If you’re just trying to touch up a dent or scratch to make it match the surrounding wood, then you should go with wood putty sticks. Finished or unfinished projectsįinished projects already have a stain and top coat applied. Here are three questions to consider when deciding which type of wood filler you need. To get the best finished product, you should be aware of the properties of the wood filler, and the needs of your project. Other types are not meant to fill large gaps. Some types of wood filler aren’t made to be painted or stained.

BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY FULL

If you're at the hardware store staring at a shelf full of wood filler options, there are a few things to consider. Is it the end of the world if you choose the wrong product? No, but it can cause problems.

BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY HOW TO

Then smear it on your project for a perfect color match! How to Choose the Right Wood Filler You can also make your own wood filler! Just mix sawdust from your sander's dust bag with standard wood glue until it forms a paste. You can form and shape it to fill in larger chunks, such as damaged door frames or rotted trim. The nice thing about this filler is that it can bind to other materials as well, and it dries quickly and sands down nicely. Two-part wood fillerīondo is better known for auto body repair, but they also make a two-part wood filler! It works similarly to epoxy, with two separate components that activate when combined. This is also popular for exterior woodwork.

Some of these compounds contain wood fibers and are advertised as stronger than wood, meaning you can place nails and anchors within the filler itself. Solvent based fillers are durable and typically used for large gaps. The grab bars and cabinet end panels didn't look smooth even after sanding and painting because the grain wasn't filled. I wish I had used this product when painting the oak parts of my 80's kitchen cabinets! Oak has large, open grain that is obvious even with multiple coats of paint. This is a translucent type of wood filler that is usually a little watery, and can be wiped onto the wood, similar to a thick stain. If you want to hide the open grain of the wood before painting, consider using a pore-filling wood filler first. You should also wear protective gloves, safety glasses and a chemical respirator (or work in a well ventilated area) to avoid the fumes. Only mix the amount needed for your project and stir well to make sure they're combined thoroughly.Įpoxy generates heat when combined, so be careful when handling it. It comes with two separate components that are mixed together right before application. Unlike liquid epoxy, epoxy wood filler has a putty-like consistency can be molded into shape.

BEST EXTERIOR WOOD PUTTY PATCH

The patch won't soften when exposed to moisture, making it a better choice for exterior use. Epoxy is an adhesive, so it bonds with the surrounding area rather than sitting on top. It's more durable than water-based wood fillers and dries to a harder finish. Epoxy wood fillerĮpoxy is all the rage in woodworking these days! It's commonly used to fill large voids in highly figured wood, with colorful dyes and pigments added for a cool effect.Įpoxy can also be used as a wood filler. I've found that a larger tub is easier to use, because I can scoop out what I need with a putty knife rather than squeezing it out.

This type of wood filler is best for indoor projects that will be painted. Always overfill your holes so you don't end up with a divot after the water evaporates! I tend to stick with wood putty for stained projects.Īnother downside to water-based wood filler is that it shrinks as it dries. The wood filler absorbs the stain differently than the surrounding wood fibers, and looks flat. While many brands say they are stainable, I've found that the patches are pretty obvious. You don't want your repair job to melt away! However, because it's water based and will turn back into a paste when exposed to water, it's not a great idea to use it outdoors or in areas that might get wet. Because it's water-based, it cleans up easily with soap and water, and can be rehydrated if it dries out in the jar. This is the most common type wood filler, and it's usually made with wood glue mixed with wood fibers and other additives. Different Types of Wood Filler Water-based wood filler Please visit my disclosures page for more information. Purchases made through these links may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. This post contains affiliate links for your convenience.

Best exterior wood putty