Priya Kapoor
Cedar decks are a great addition to any home, but they can be subject to cracking over time. While small cracks are normal and won't harm your deck, larger cracks can be a problem, especially if they are at the end of a board. So, what should you do if you want to paint your cedar deck and it has cracks? Should you fill the cracks before painting? The short answer is no. Fillers don't work well on exterior decking, and your best option is to replace the affected boards. However, if the cracks are minor, you can fill them with a flexible polyurethane caulk that matches your wood's tone before painting.
Characteristics and Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should cracks in cedar decks be filled? | No, it is not recommended to fill cracks in cedar decks with wood filler or caulk as they will not blend with the deck stains and will stand out as white blotches. Small cracks are normal and will not harm the deck. |
| How to restore a weathered deck? | Use a paintable acrylic caulk to fill any cracks deeper or wider than 1/4 inch. Use a putty knife to remove excess caulk and let it set for 30 minutes. Coat all vertical surfaces with a solid-color sealant and fill any missed gaps or cracks with caulk before resealing. |
| How to limit deck boards from cracking? | Keep newly installed decks out of direct sunlight to slow the drying process. Seal, paint, or stain the deck after installation to protect it from the elements and UV rays. Pre-drill clearance holes larger than the screw shank to allow the wood to expand and contract. |
| How often should decks be maintained? | Re-stain or seal decks every two to three years and repaint every ten years to protect against foot traffic, insects, and UV rays. |
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What You'll Learn
Fillers and caulk are not recommended for cedar decks
The instability of fillers and caulk is a significant issue. The natural freezing and thawing processes will cause them to fail quickly, resulting in an unsightly appearance. Fillers and caulk do not blend well with deck stains and tend to stand out as white blotches, making it challenging to achieve an even colour pattern. Even solid stains struggle to cover fillers, and the filler will likely require frequent re-filling, which can be tedious and costly.
Additionally, fillers and caulk can prevent the natural movement of cedar decking boards. Cedar siding is designed to expand and contract with changing weather conditions. By filling the cracks with a rigid material, you hinder this natural movement, potentially causing further issues. It is generally recommended to leave the cracks as they are since they are common and will not harm the structural integrity of the deck.
Rather than using fillers or caulk, it is suggested to sand down rough areas, replace damaged boards, or use a flexible epoxy. Sanding can help reduce the size of gaps and cracks, improving the overall appearance of the deck. If there are severely damaged boards, it is best to replace them entirely. While flexible epoxy can be used as a filler, it may not provide an aesthetically pleasing solution, as it can look unsightly under the stain or deck oil.
In summary, fillers and caulk are not recommended for cedar decks due to their instability, inability to blend with the wood, and hindrance to the natural movement of the decking boards. Alternative methods, such as sanding and board replacement, are generally preferred to maintain the integrity and appearance of the cedar deck.
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Cracks in cedar decks are normal and can be left as is
It is understandable that you may be concerned about the cracks in your cedar deck, but rest assured that these cracks are a natural part of the wood's aging process and do not necessarily indicate a structural issue. While you may be tempted to fill these cracks before painting, it is generally recommended to leave them as they are. Here's why cracks in cedar decks are normal and can be left as is:
Cedar decks develop cracks over time
Cedar is a softwood that can last a while, but it is susceptible to the elements. Over time, cedar decks are bound to show signs of usage, including cracks caused by foot traffic, weather conditions, and natural aging. These cracks, also known as "checks," are typically small and do not cause structural damage or concern.
Fillers are not a long-term solution
While you might consider using wood fillers, caulk, or glue mixed with sawdust to fill the cracks, these are not recommended for cedar decks. Fillers will not blend with the wood and will stand out as white blotches, detracting from the deck's appearance. Additionally, the natural freezing and thawing processes will cause the filler to crack and fail quickly.
Cracks can be managed without filling
Instead of filling the cracks, there are other ways to manage and minimize their appearance. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and sealing your cedar deck, will help prevent damage from insects, UV light, and moisture. Sealing, staining, or painting your deck every two to three years will also act as a protective barrier.
Painting can help fill minor cracks
When it comes time to paint your cedar deck, the paint itself can help fill in minor cracks. By using a saturated roller and slight pressure, you can push the paint into the surface cracks, creating a smoother finish. This technique can help improve the overall appearance of the deck without needing to resort to fillers.
Safety should be a priority
While cracks in your cedar deck are normal and can be left as is, it is important to prioritize safety. If you notice larger cracks, known as "splits," that run through the entire piece of wood, these can weaken your decking and become a safety hazard. In such cases, it is recommended to replace the affected boards to ensure the structural integrity of your deck.
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Cracks can be filled with a mixture of sawdust and glue
Cedar decks can be prone to cracking, especially when exposed to the elements. While some people suggest simply leaving the cracks, if you want to fill them before painting, a mixture of sawdust and glue can be used.
This method is recommended for small cracks and gaps. For larger gaps, you may need to use epoxy. The sawdust should match the type and colour of the wood, and you can use store-bought wood glue.
To fill the cracks, start by pressing the glue nozzle into the crack and dispensing enough glue to fill the area. Cover the glue with sawdust, adding more layers if necessary to ensure the crack is not visible. Allow the adhesive to harden and dry overnight. Once dry, smooth out the crack with fine-grit sandpaper.
If the area you are filling is deeper than 1/4 inch, you should fill it in layers of about 1/4 inch, letting each layer dry before applying the next. If paint peels from the putty, it may be due to high moisture content or the putty absorbing moisture. In this case, a thin coating of "Gorilla Glue", shellac, or an exterior polyurethane can be applied before painting.
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Cracks can be filled with a flexible polyurethane caulk
Cedar decks can develop cracks due to exposure to weather conditions, everyday usage, and the natural aging process of wood. While small cracks are typically not a cause for concern, you may want to fill them in for aesthetic reasons or to prevent further damage.
One option for filling cracks in cedar decks is to use a flexible polyurethane caulk. This type of caulk is designed to be flexible and move with the wood as it expands and contracts, which can help prevent the caulk from cracking or failing over time. It is recommended to use a caulk that matches the colour of your cedar deck to achieve a seamless appearance.
When filling cracks with flexible polyurethane caulk, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure a successful outcome. Begin by cleaning the crack to remove any dirt, debris, or loose wood. Use a putty knife to remove any raised or splintered wood fibres around the crack, creating a smooth surface. If the crack is deeper than 1/4 inch, fill it in layers, allowing each layer to dry overnight before applying the next.
Once the crack is clean and prepared, apply the flexible polyurethane caulk using a caulking gun. Work the caulk into the crack, ensuring it fills the entire depth and width of the crack. Use a putty knife to remove any excess caulk and create a smooth, even finish. Allow the caulk to dry and cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before painting or sealing the deck.
By using a flexible polyurethane caulk to fill the cracks in your cedar deck, you can help improve the appearance of your deck and protect it from further damage. This method offers a more durable and long-lasting solution compared to traditional wood fillers, which can crack and fail over time due to the natural movement of the wood. Remember to follow the recommended maintenance routine for your cedar deck, including regular cleaning, sealing, and staining, to maintain its overall condition and longevity.
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Cracks can be filled by pushing paint into them with a roller
Cedar decks can develop cracks due to exposure to weather conditions like sun, rain, and snow, as well as foot traffic and the weight of tables, chairs, and grills. While small cracks are a natural part of the wood's aging process and do not indicate structural damage, larger cracks can weaken the decking and cause issues like splinters and tripping hazards.
Before painting a cedar deck, it is essential to assess the severity of the cracks. Minor cracks, typically less than 6 inches long, can be filled to improve the deck's appearance and prevent further damage. One recommended approach is to use a paintable acrylic caulk, epoxy, or sealant that matches the color of the wood. After filling, use a putty knife to remove any excess material, and allow the caulk to set for about 30 minutes until it skins over.
However, it is important to note that simply filling cracks with wood filler or caulk is generally not recommended for exterior decking. Fillers may not blend well with the wood, resulting in visible white blotches. Additionally, freezing and thawing cycles can cause the filler to crack and fail quickly. Instead of using fillers, some experts suggest replacing severely cracked boards or using a deck finish that will seal and color the wood.
To address cracks in a cedar deck effectively, consider the following approach:
- Prepare the Deck: Before filling any cracks, ensure the deck is clean and dry. Remove any previous coatings or stains, and consider using a deck stripper to eliminate the old finish and prepare the wood for the new treatment.
- Select the Appropriate Filler: Choose a paintable acrylic caulk or sealant that closely matches the color of your cedar deck. Avoid using wood fillers or caulk as they may not withstand the elements and can be visually unappealing.
- Fill the Cracks: Using a small roller or a brush, work the paint or sealant into the cracks and vertical surfaces. For deeper cracks, fill them in layers, allowing each layer to dry overnight before applying the next.
- Seal and Paint: Once the filler has dried, apply a coat of paint or a paint-based protective seal. Ensure that the paint or sealant is worked into the gaps between the deck boards to provide a thorough coating.
- Allow for Drying: Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times. Typically, it is recommended to wait at least 24 hours before walking on the deck and up to four days before placing any furniture on it. Additionally, avoid rain or extreme humidity for at least 48 hours after application.
By following these steps, you can effectively fill the cracks in your cedar deck and create a smooth and protected surface with paint. Remember to maintain your deck by regularly cleaning, sealing, and staining it to prolong its lifespan and prevent future cracking.
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Frequently asked questions
Fillers, glues, and caulk are not recommended for filling cracks in cedar decks. The filler will stand out and look like white blotches, and it will crack and fail quickly. Instead, if the cracks are deeper than about 1/4 inch, fill them in with a paintable acrylic caulk, flexible polyurethane caulk, epoxy, or sealant. If the cracks are a safety hazard, replace the boards.
If the area you are filling is deeper than about 1/4 inch, fill it in layers of about 1/4 inch and let the putty dry overnight before applying the next layer. Use a putty knife to scrape off the excess, then allow the caulk to set for 30 minutes.
If you have a newly installed deck, set up a shade or canopy to keep it out of direct sunlight. Seal, paint, or stain your deck about 30 to 60 days after installation. Pre-drill clearance holes that are slightly larger than the shank of your screws to allow the wood to expand and contract.
Depending on the desired look, you can use a new stain or paint-based protective seal. Make sure the wood is completely dry before applying the stain. Wait for dry weather for 48 hours post-application before applying the finish coat.
Re-stain or seal your deck every two to three years, or repaint it every 10 years.
