Wood Filler

How long does wood filler take to dry?

Depending on the manufacturer, most single part and two part wood fillers take from 30 to 120 minutes to dry before you can sand, dye or overcoat them. Epoxy products are particularly temperature-sensitive. They will cure more quickly in warmer conditions and more slowly when temperatures are lower, so always allow sufficient time for the product to cure properly.

How do you choose a colour for a wood filler?

Pick out the darkest shade of the wood grain, as going darker often looks more natural. If you're dyeing or staining the wood, choose a filler colour that's closest to that of the wood grain, not the stain you're applying.

Can you stain wood filler?

Yes, most single part and two part fillers can be stained with a wood dye after the filler has dried.

Can you drill or screw into wood filler?

Only two part wood fillers are hard enough to be drilled into or screwed into. Single part filler will crumble.

Can you use wood filler on walls?

Single part wood filler can be used for very small holes or pin holes for walls. However bear in mind that they have been formulated to adhere to woodgrain, so there is a chance it might not stick as well as a Toupret filler. If you're filling scratches in plaster or plaster board gaps, use Toupret Fine Surface Filler or Toupret Interior Wall Filler.

How do you apply wood filler?

Each type of wood filler has its own process: ready-to-use, single part fillers are used straight out of the tub or tube. Two-part fillers need to be mixed with a line of hardener/activator and then applied. Usually, wood fillers are applied using a plastic or metal scraper or spatular. Apply the wood filler and sand prior to application of stain, dye or paint.

What PPE should I use when using wood filler?

We generally recommend wearing nitrile gloves when working with wood fillers. This is particularly important with two-part fillers, which can be difficult to remove from the skin once they begin to cure. Gloves also make it easier to manipulate some fillers when you're moulding them into a repair. For products with higher VOC content, such as some professional grain fillers, appropriate respiratory protection and good ventilation are also important. Always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

How long can wood filler be stored?

The shelf life of a wood filler will vary between products, so check the manufacturer's stated shelf life and date markings. As a general rule, store fillers above 5°C. Exposure to low temperatures can affect the formulation and reduce the product's performance, so it's better to store wood filler somewhere protected from frost rather than in an unheated shed or workshop.