How to Repair Rotted Wood: a Step-by-Step Guide

8 Steps for Fixing Wood Rot

Wood rot repair is paramount and can be done in a DIY way by following the steps below. However, if the damage is too great or the area too big, it may be wise to hire professionals.

Step 1: Remove Rot-Softened Wood

When removing rotted wood or board, it is important to not damage the surrounding wood. Use a claw hammer, chisel, or Five-in-one tool to remove the rotted board carefully. Before replacing rotten wood, make sure that the wood next to the removed board is dry.

Step 2: Use Consolidated

In a clean plastic container, pour the two-part solution into that container. Use a wooden stick to mix the solution. Use a chip brush to apply the mixture to the wood generously. You can even pour the solution onto the area if the area to be fixed is large or deep.

Step 3: Mix Filler

Wood filler is an essential element of wood rot repair. Before mixing the filler, it is important that the consolidant has had time to rest. Then open the filler container and mix it with a wooden stick using latex gloves.

Step 4: Apply Filler

Once the filler has been properly mixed, it is important to apply the filler to the area that will need to be replaced. Using a putty knife, a generous amount must be applied to the section that will need replacement.

Step 5: Shape the Epoxy on the Wood

Allow for the filler to dry for a few hours. Once the filler has dried, use sandpaper or sanding block to shape the filler to the size that will allow for the new board to be put in place accurately. This step is critical when repairing rotted wood.

Step 6: Let the Epoxy Set Overnight

Once the filler has been shaped to size using #80 sandpaper, it is important to let the filler rest for at least 24 hours before continuing to repair wood rot and ensure that the new board will sit in place sturdily.

Step 7: Sand Down Filler

To finalize the shaping of the area before fixing wood rot, it is important to switch to #120 sandpaper and continue the sanding process until the filler is entirely smooth and ready for the next step.

Step 8: Paint or Stain Filler

Painting or staining the new boards is an optional step but highly recommended to ensure that the replacement board perfectly matches the rest of the wooden area. Using a tack cloth, it is recommended to clean, dust off, and dry the area before painting. Once it is ready to paint, apply a primer coat. Let the primer coat dry fully before applying the additional coats of paint. When painting it is always recommended to apply two coats at the very least. This will complete your wood rot repairs project. It is also a good idea if the project is too great to hire professional residential painters.

Benefits of Priming

• Priming allows a surface for the paint to stick to
• It helps seal the wood
• Priming allows the wood to be further protected and aids in durability
• It covers imperfections

Benefits of Painting

• Paint ensures that the replaced area of wood matches the other wooden areas around it.
• Paint makes the wood look better
• After painting, wood becomes easier to maintain and upkeep
• Painting offers the wood protection from future rot or other issues