How is Repair Care different from ordinary wood filler?
Ordinary wood fillers are typically designed to fill small holes, cracks and cosmetic imperfections. While they're ideal for minor repairs, they can become brittle over time and may crack or fail if used to rebuild larger areas of decayed timber.
Repair Care is a complete timber repair system that goes far beyond simply filling a hole. After all decayed wood has been removed, DRY FIX® UNI Universal Wood Stabiliser prepares the substrate before DRY FLEX® permanently rebuilds the missing timber using a flexible epoxy repair compound. Unlike conventional wood fillers, DRY FLEX® moves naturally with the surrounding timber as it expands and contracts, helping to create durable, weather-resistant repairs that can be sanded, shaped, drilled and painted.
For small cosmetic repairs, products such as DRY FLEX® Super Finish provide the smooth finish of a traditional filler with the strength and durability of an epoxy. For larger areas of decay, the full Repair Care system offers a long-lasting alternative to replacing the timber - making it an ideal choice for heritage restoration projects.
Can Repair Care replace rotten timber?
In many cases, yes. Repair Care can permanently rebuild areas of decayed timber that would otherwise need to be replaced, helping preserve original joinery while reducing waste and labour costs. For very large or structural repairs, a timber splice may still be the most appropriate solution.
How long do Repair Care repairs last?
When the Repair Care system is applied correctly to sound, dry timber and finished with an appropriate coating, repairs are designed to provide a long-lasting solution. Contractors who complete Repair Care training and use the system in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines can also offer a 10-year warranty on qualifying repairs.
Can the repairs be sanded and painted?
Yes. Once the repair compound has fully cured, it can be sanded, shaped, drilled and painted just like the surrounding timber.
Which DRY FLEX® product should I choose?
The right product depends on how much working time you need.
DRY FLEX® 1 – Fast-curing for smaller repairs and quick turnaround projects.
DRY FLEX® 4 – Ideal for most everyday timber repairs, offering a balance of working time and productivity.
DRY FLEX® 16 – Extended working time for larger or more intricate repairs.
DRY FLEX® Super Finish – Fine surface filler for nail holes, cracks and finishing repairs.
What's the difference between the standard and 2-in-1 DRY FLEX® products?
Both products deliver the same durable repair. The difference is how they're dispensed.
Standard DRY FLEX® products are dispensed and mixed manually using the Repair Care EASY•Q™ system.
The 2-in-1 versions are supplied in a convenient cartridge that dispenses both components in the correct ratio, making application quicker and reducing measuring errors.
Do I always need to use DRY FIX® UNI?
When using DRY FLEX® 1, DRY FLEX® 4, or DRY FLEX® 16, DRY FIX® UNI should always be applied to clean, sound timber after all decay has been removed. It penetrates the timber and maximises adhesion between the substrate and the repair compound.
The exception is DRY FLEX® Super Finish, which does not require DRY FIX® UNI.
Why is it important to check the timber moisture content?
Timber should have a moisture content of 18% or below before carrying out structural repairs. Repairing damp timber can trap moisture and increase the risk of future failure. The Repair Care EASY•Q™ Wood Condition Meter makes it quick and easy to check whether the timber is ready for repair.
Can Repair Care be used on materials other than wood?
Yes. Although primarily designed for timber repairs, selected Repair Care products can also be used on substrates including masonry, plaster, concrete and metal.
Is Repair Care suitable for exterior use?
Yes. Most Repair Care products are suitable for both interior and exterior applications. Once the repair has been completed, it should be finished with a suitable paint or coating to provide long-term protection.
Can I use DRY FLEX® on top of existing repairs?
Yes, it can be used on top of existing epoxy repairs, including previously applied DRY FLEX®. Just make sure the repair is sound, dry, and well bonded to the substrate. For best adhesion, give the surface a light sand to remove any surface contamination or gloss before applying the new layer. If the existing epoxy is loose, cracked, or showing signs of failure, it should be removed before carrying out the repair.
