When I started searching for information on how to stop sap coming out of wood, I was still a beginner DIYer. Thus, I had a very vague idea of how stubborn this particular issue tends to be.
After some trials and errors, however, I did learn my lessons and find out how to stop the sap which kept bleeding through continuously.
If you want to avoid the fuss and find out how to put an end to your troubles with sap coming out of wood, then you are at the right place! By the end of this tutorial, you will be ready to fix the problem easily and confidently.
What You Will Need To Follow This Tutorial
- Turpentine
- Coarse plastic sponge
- Sandpaper
- Wood stain (optional)
- Paint (optional)
- Bin Sealer (optional)
- Paintbrush (or paint roller)
Pro Tips
1 – Goo Gone can also be of help to remove sap from wood
Ultimately, Turpentine works great for cleaning sap from any wood surface. In my humble opinion, Turpentine in one of the best options out there. However, the cult classic Goo gone adhesive remover liquid is also amazingly helpful to deal with sap. Moreover, it can make a better alternative to Turpentine as it emits less of an offensive odor.
2 – If you want to put a permanent stop to sapping, consider replacing the affected wood
When I shared with you that I’ve been through quite some trials and errors for stopping sap coming out of wood, I didn’t over exaggerate even the slightest bit. The sap is very, very stubborn. It can keep bleeding out of wood for years to come after you have already put all your hard work to clean the surface properly. Thus, it’s best to consider your strategy very well.
Are you okay with the idea that you may have to apply an additional layer of Bin sealer every few years to prevent the remaining sap from oozing out? If that doesn’t sound acceptable to you, then it might be better to simply replace the affected wood.
Step by Step Instructions for Stopping Sap Coming Out of Wood
Step 1 – Clean all the sap which bleeds out of the wood carefully
Image Courtesy of today.com
For a start, you need to clean all the sap which is gradually crystallizing on the top of the affected wood. Turpentine works perfect for this purpose and it will not damage the quality of the wood. Use a coarse plastic sponge to scrape the oozed resinous compounds and go over the surface of the wood with a clean towel. As mentioned above, Goo Gone can work fine, too.
Many people will automatically opt for sandpaper in order to clean the sap. However, mind that it will gum up very quickly. Thus, it’s best to use sandpaper for polishing the surface of the wood well once you have already removed the sap with Turpentine or Goo Gone.
Step 2 – Treat the affected areas by sealing them properly
Image Credit: protectpainters.com
You can stop the sap bleeding from wood by either staining the affected surface after cleaning the ooze or by bin sealing the knots and re-painting. Typically, a bin sealer is used for cases when you are dealing with very stubborn sap. For example, if you live in a region where the weather is hot and dry, this will encourage sap to keep coming out of wood.
Thus, bin sealing the knots and re-painting is a better option for you. On the other hand, staining can work very well, too but it’s the wiser alternative for those of you who live in more humid and/or cold climate zones.
As a rule of thumbs, I want to remind you that sap is not the worst nightmare you may face when dealing with wood. It’s important to keep a positive attitude when working to stop sap coming out of wood. Otherwise, you may end up exhausted and frustrated for no reason. Or at least that’s exactly how I felt.
However, that’s why we have compiled this tutorial for you! We are hoping that by sharing this guide, we’ll help to get you prepared on what to expect when fighting with sap which keeps oozing out of wood. And if we did manage to be of your assistance, we’ll be happy to feel your support!
Like and share this article but do also feel welcome to join us in the comment section below.
