How to Use Wood Hardeners

Hunker may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

If you've got an old wood deck or maybe a wood column that is starting to show signs of age, one way to stop the decay is to use a wood hardener. This product seeps into the pores of the wood and hardens after two to four hours, keeping the wood intact. Using a wood hardener takes a bit of preparation to do correctly, but otherwise it's a straightforward process.

Step 1

Identify the area on the wood you want to harden. Scrape away any loose or decayed wood using a putty knife, working until you get to wood that is in reasonably good shape. Make sure there is no grease, oil or dirt in the affected area.

Advertisement

Video of the Day

Step 2

Shake a can of wood hardener. Pour some of the hardener onto the surface of the wood and spread it out around the area using a paintbrush.

Step 3

Apply a second and third coat using the paintbrush for extra strength, applying coats until the wood has a shiny surface.

Step 4

Let the wood hardener dry for two to four hours. Sand, paint or stain the surface, if you wish, to finish the project.

Advertisement

Advertisement

Video of the Day

Report an Issue

screenshot of the current page

Screenshot loading...