The Best Wood Filler Products for White Exterior Wood
When it comes to repairing exterior wood, finding the right wood filler product is crucial. This article will explore various options, including Timberfill, painters putty, and Arbor Crete, to help you choose the best wood filler for white exterior wood.
Understanding Wood Filler Types
Before diving into specific product recommendations, it's essential to understand the different types of wood fillers. Automotive body fillers like Bondo are intended for internal use and may not withstand outdoor conditions over time. Painters putty is more suitable for a more temporary solution, while polyester-based products like Timberfill are designed for longer-lasting applications.
Timberfill: A Popular Choice
Timberfill is a polyester-based filler that comes in various colors to match different woods. It is similar to car filler, which can be grey or white. Unlike traditional slate dust fillers, Timberfill contains wood dust. However, it's important to note that even with the best filler, wood will expand and contract with moisture changes. This can cause the filler to crack over time. To address this, you may want to use a piece of identical wood at the same moisture content to fit into the hole or crack and seal it with waterproof glue.
Painters Putty: A Reliable Option
A painters putty is an excellent choice for white exterior wood. It is easy to work with and relatively permanent, making it a popular choice for temporary repairs. Look for it at your local professional paint store. While it is white in color, you can always touch up the area with a coat of white paint to ensure it matches the surrounding wood.
Arbor Crete: A Versatile Option
Arbor Crete is a two-part epoxy that is highly competent for larger repairs. Available online or at Woodcrafters supply store, it is a versatile product that can be used to rebuild wood. Although it is not white by nature, it takes paint well, making it suitable for projects where a white finish is required. Arbor Crete is particularly useful for larger voids and repairs that need more structural support.
Bondo: A Versatile Filler for Exteriors
Bondo is a well-known automotive body filler that can also be used for large repairs on exteriors. While it is usually applied to automotive repairs, it works well for filling large voids in wood. From my experience, it performs excellently as an exterior repair, although it requires painting for a neat finish. It is also a good option for home DIY projects.
MH Ready Patch: A Quick and Convenient Choice
MH Ready Patch is a product I frequently use for paint grade exterior work. It is ready to use out of the can, dries quickly, and sands easily. While it may require two coats to completely fill as it dries and shrinks, its ease of use makes it a preferred choice. Available at some big box stores, it is a reliable option for quick repairs.
In conclusion, whether you need a temporary solution or a long-lasting repair, there are several wood filler products available that can meet your needs. From painters putty and Arbor Crete to Timberfill and Bondo, each product has its own advantages and applications. By considering the specific requirements of your project, you can choose the best wood filler for your white exterior wood repairs.