Ready To Use Filler

Fillers repair holes, cracks and dents in walls, ceilings, woodwork and masonry so the surface can be sanded and decorated. This category covers ready-mixed and powder wall fillers, lightweight deep gap fillers, interior and exterior wood fillers, masonry fillers and expanding foam fillers.

Types of filler

• Ready-mixed fillers: used straight from the tub or tube, which suits small repairs. Many fill only to a limited depth in one go, so build deeper holes up in layers.
• Powder fillers: mixed with water, usually about 2 parts powder to 1 part water. They give a longer working time and suit larger jobs; some fill holes of any depth.
• Lightweight and deep gap fillers: made for bigger holes, and lightweight types can be used on ceilings without sagging.
• Wood fillers: come in shades to match timber and can be painted, varnished or stained, though filler may take stain differently from the wood, so test first. Two-part fillers, mixed with a hardener, set hard enough to sand, plane, nail and screw, and suit deeper repairs inside and out.
• Masonry fillers: exterior grades that dry to a weatherproof grey finish for brick and concrete.
• Expanding foam: fills and seals gaps and cavities, such as around pipes, then is trimmed back once cured.

Choosing and using filler

Check whether the product is for interior or exterior use, the maximum depth per coat and the drying time. Prepare a clean, dry, dust-free surface, pack the filler in firmly, leave it slightly proud and sand it flush once dry. Expanding foam contains isocyanates: wear gloves and eye protection, use it in a well-ventilated area and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety data.

For finishing, see decorating tools and sundries and sealants and adhesives.