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How long it takes wood to rot can range from as little as a few weeks in poor conditions to as long as 40 years if properly maintained. Protecting pressure-treated wood against moisture is the best way to prevent rot—wood exposed to water for extended periods of time is more prone to rot. Wood used outdoors on decks and porches is more likely to rot due to the elements, so re-seal pressure-treated wood every two to three years to maximize protection.

The raw materials inside wood filler work as a binding agent that, once dry, stays hard and helps reinforce wood. It's a great way to help older lumber maintain its integrity and strength if you're looking to, say, build a new piece of furniture from old or repurposed wood.

There are a handful of things you can look for to determine if you need to pay for gutter repairs, including the following:

• Water leaking from the underside of your gutters during rainfall

• Visible gaps between your gutters and your roof

• Frequent issues with gutters overflowing or holding standing water

• Gutters that sag or pull away from the house

• Water damage to soffits, fascia boards, or other building materials

• Mold growth on your exterior walls

• Soil erosion underneath your roof overhang

• Foundation leaks or inward bowing of foundation walls

Wood epoxy is used to fill larger areas of damaged wood and has stronger adhesion than wood filler. Epoxy dries to a hard, waterproof finish and can be harder to sand than filler. Wood filler stays flexible for longer than epoxy, and is used for smaller areas of damage. Both are available in paintable options, although it’s easier to stain filler than epoxy.