Wood Filler Or Caulk For Exterior Trim

So if caulking is part of a painting project it s best to prime before you caulk.

Wood filler or caulk for exterior trim.

Caulk is a substance designed to seal a joint between two surfaces and to fill small holes. Use top quality caulk outdoors where it needs to withstand extreme temperature changes and remain flexible for 30 to 50 years. On most new homes the trim goes up after the siding is installed which creates a large gap that should not be caulked. Best for use with aluminum metal concrete mortar plastics rubber stone vinyl and exterior wood.

Personally i really love wood filler. In the old days the builder would install the trim bring the siding up to it and caulk the corner. Some are suitable for filling voids such as divots holes or gouges in. When do you guys use caulk and when do you use wood filler or putty instead.

Trim the tip of the tube of caulk with a utility knife or razor blade. When looking for a fine grain filler choose a water borne grain filler that cleans up easily works with all types of film finishes and dries clear. When should i use wood filler. Work the primer into gaps but don t try to fill them with primer.

I have to fill my nail holes and a few nicks in the trim. Good for gutters siding and concrete. Choosing the best wood filler for your project. Before caulking joints between dissimilar materials make sure that the manufacturer recommends the caulk for both materials.

The best exterior caulk for roofing construction and repairs since it can withstand extreme temperatures and creates a strong insulating and water tight seal. When it comes to wood or wood based materials like hardboard primer sticks better than caulk and provides a great adhesion surface for caulk. Some wood filler needs to be mixed with water but most wood filler comes already mixed and ready to use. My corners are coming out pretty good.

For small holes make the opening in the tube no more than 60 to 70 percent of the width of the hole in the wood. Use wood filler to patch flat cracks or gaps in molding. Again use a caulk gun to squirt caulk in the gap then smooth with your finger or a wet rag. Wood filler typically comes in beige color similar to the color of unstained wood but you can also buy white wood filler.

This is my first time installing trim work. Wood fillers are typically formulated for one or more specific tasks. You can apply it with your finger or with a small putty knife if you prefer. Trim boards that sit on top the siding.