How to Seal Birdhouses

Protect your birdhouses by applying a sealer.

If you enjoy watching birds, hanging a birdhouse in your backyard is a way to attract them. Many bird-lovers make their own birdhouses, but you can also purchase them from local hardware stores. Make sure the birdhouse is sealed properly to protect the birds from the elements and protect the wood finish, allowing your birdhouse to endure through the years.

Things You'll Need

• Wood birdhouse
• Solvent-based wood filler
• Putty knife
• Rag
• Wood sealant
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Inspect your birdhouse for cracks that might allow wind and rain to enter the house.

2. Fill visible cracks with solvent-based wood filler using a small putty knife.

3. Wipe excess wood filler away with the putty knife or a rag.

4. Apply a coat of wood sealant to the exterior of the birdhouse using a paintbrush, only on the outside of the house. The sealant will protect the wood from wind and water damage.

Tips & Warnings

• Birdhouses should have a drain hole at the bottom to allow rain to drain away and air holes drilled along the top of the birdhouse. Do not fill these important holes.

References

• All Birds: Bird Houses and Nestboxes
• Bane-Clean: Wood Filler & Wood Repair Putty/Filler