Get matched with top furniture refinishers in Hershey, NE

When browsing the hardware store, you may wonder about wood putty versus wood filler. Wood putty is made with plastic adhesive, whereas wood filler is made from sawdust or wood products. 

The main difference is that people use wood filler to fix the interior portions of wood. Wood putty contains chemicals that could damage the inside of wood, so it's best for exterior sections. If the crack or hole goes into the middle of the lumber, it's the right product for the job.

Wood can appear blotchy after staining due to uneven absorption, which happens when the wood has varying grain density. The denser the grain, the less the stain will be absorbed. This can cause the wood to appear uneven in color, with some areas darker than others. 

To prevent this issue, apply a wood conditioner before staining. Wood conditioners help to equalize the absorption of the stain, resulting in a more even finish. There are many different types of wood conditioners available, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for the type of wood you are staining.

The cost to refinish furniture varies significantly depending on the type of furniture, its material, and its age, but the average cost is about $600 per piece. For larger pieces or antique pieces that require greater care, you could pay up to around $1,000 per piece for refinishing. Small pieces of furniture like bar stools or dining chairs usually cost between $100 and $400 each. Your refinishing professional might charge by the hour rather than by piece, in which case you would expect to spend $40 to $100 per hour of work required.

Yes, there are several wood filler products on the market that look like wood. Your best bet is to take a cabinet door to your local hardware store to match the appropriate wood filler to your door. Some brands make filler that is masked to look like wood and can also be sanded, cut, stained, and painted.