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Wood filler is a versatile product that can be used to fill in both large and small gaps. It is an easy way to make your woodworking project look like it was professionally done.
When you have a gap in wood that is too large to simply glue together, you need to use a wood filler. To use wood filler, start by cleaning out the gap you want to fill. Then, apply the wood filler to the gap, using a putty knife. Once the wood filler is in place, use a wet rag to smooth it out. Allow the wood filler to dry for the amount of time specified on the product’s packaging.
Wood fillers are beneficial because they can be sanded down once dry and also, they can be stained or painted to match the surrounding wood.
What Is a Wood Filler?
A wood filler is a thick substance that can be used to fill in cracks and fix holes. It is a putty-like substance that hardens when it dries, making it perfect for filling in gaps.
Uses Of Wood Filler
- Wood filler can be used to fill in cracks, holes, and other imperfections in wood.
- It can also be used to repair furniture and other woodworking projects.
- It is also a good way to change the color of wood.
Types Of Wood Fillers
There are three types of wood filler:
1. Solid Wood Filler
This type can be sanded and is good for large to medium-sized holes. It comes in a tube or tub, which makes it easy to apply to your project. They usually come with more color options than other fillers do as well.
2. Latex-Based Wood Filler
This filler is easy to use and dries quickly. It also comes in a variety of colors, so you can find the perfect one for your project. However, it does not sand well, so it’s not ideal for larger holes.
3. Epoxy-Based Wood Filler
This type of wood filler is the most durable and can be used for both small and large holes. It dries slowly, so you have plenty of time to work with it.
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Top 8 Best Wood Filler For Large Gaps On Amazon
1. Minwax 13616000 Wood Putty, 3.75 oz, White
- WOOD PUTTY – Minwax Wood Putty is a non-hardening, pre-mixed putty color-matched to Minwax Wood Finish stains and intended to repair minor scratches, gouges, and nail holes.
- REPAIR CRACKS – The durable wood putty is ideal for filling nail holes and covering other minor imperfections in bare, painted, stained, and finished wood.
- WHITE PUTTY – The oak wood putty is pre-mixed to color-match Minwax Wood Finish Wood Stain Painted Surfaces.
- EASY TO APPLY – Easily apply the non-hardening nail hole filler for wood with a putty knife. No sanding necessary!
- A BRAND YOU CAN TRUST – Minwax is America’s leading brand of wood finishing and wood care projects. Since 1904, we have been inspiring consumers to Keep on Finishing. We offer consumers a complete line of products to meet every wood finishing need.
Product Description
Minwax wood putty is composed of fine wood flour, a binder, and a solvent. The binder is usually a latex-based resin, which gives the putty its adhesion and flexibility. The solvent evaporates as the putty dries, leaving the binder and wood flour behind.
While wood putty is typically used to fill small holes and cracks, it can also be used to repair bigger damage. It can be used to fill in gouges and scratches, as well as to patch up larger holes. You can even use it to replace missing pieces of wood veneer.
Wood putty is a versatile repair tool that every homeowner should have on hand. It’s easy to use and can save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Flexible
- Used to fill small and cracked holes
- Non-hardening
- Used to fill gouges and scratches
- Available in various colors
Cons:
- Some people may find the interface a little daunting at first, but it is quite straightforward once you get used to it.
2. Famowood 40002126 Latex Wood Filler Natural, Gallon, Net Wt 13.0 lbs
- Dries in 15 minutes
- Won't crack or shrink
- Can be sanded, drilled or planed
- Stainable and paintable
- Interior/exterior use. Temperature Range 45 Degrees to 85 Degrees F
Product Description
This product is a latex wood filler that can be used on a variety of wood surfaces. It is designed to fill in cracks and holes, and it can be painted or stained to match the surrounding area. It is a natural color, so it will not stand out against the wood grain. This product is a gallon in size, and it has a net weight of 13.0 pounds. It dries in 15 minutes, and it can be sanded, drilled, and nailed after it has dried.
Pros:
- Dries in 15 minutes
- Won’t crack or shrink
- Used on a variety of wood surfaces
- Its natural color
- Can be sanded
- Paintable
- Stainable
- Easy to use
- Easy to apply
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
3. Rustins AWOOT250 Quick Dry Varnish Matt Clear 250ml Acrylic Wood Filler, Teak, 250 ml
- Flexible
- Easy to sand
- Stainable
- Durable & top quality product
Product Description
Austin’s varnish is a quick dry varnish that is perfect for protecting your wood surfaces. It is a clear varnish that will allow the natural beauty of the wood to shine through. It is also a great way to protect your surfaces from scratches and scuffs. This varnish is perfect for those who want to protect their wood surfaces without changing the natural color or grain of the wood. It is also a great option for those who want a quick and easy way to protect their surfaces. It is durable, flexible, easy to sand, stainable, easy to use with low VOCs, and has excellent clarity.
Pros:
- Can be sanded
- Paintable
- Stainable
- Easy to use
- Easy to apply
- Durable
- Flexible
- Low VOCs
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
4. Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler (Trowel Ready) – Neutral/Base – 1 Gallon By Goodfilla | Replace Every Filler & Putty | Repairs, Finishes & Patches | Paintable, Stainable, Sandable & Quick Drying
- ⚒️ HIGH QUALITY & MONEY SAVING: Save time and money with this wood filler that does not shrink, sink, or crack, and has excellent adhesion. Only need to apply once, and it flawlessly accepts any finish or stain! In fact, this product can be mixed with any pigment, tint, stain or dye.
- ⚒️ DESIGNED FOR PROFESSIONAL WOODWORKERS: This is the most innovative, easy-to-use, water-based wood filler in the WORLD. Designed for professional woodworkers but perfect for your everyday DIYer, too.
- ⚒️ HARDY & CONSISTENT: As any woodworker will tell you, they throw hardened wood filler out all the time. But Goodfilla offers an unlimited shelf life since it reconstitutes with water and is freeze-thaw stable.
- ⚒️ MADE FOR EVERY HANDY-PERSON & WOODWORKER: Whether you have furniture to repair, a floor to finish, a craft to complete or an insturment to design, this is YOUR product. Sand, stain, tint, prime, fill and seal every knot on your to-do list. Goodfilla is so easy to sand you'll be amazed by how much time you save. BONUS: It's a green product; Zero VOC, zero waste and non-toxic.
- ⚒️ USA MADE & 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Your experience with this product is our number one priority. If your Goodfilla wood filler doesn't do everything you need it to do with ease, we'll refund your money up to 365 days with no questions asked!
Product Description
Goodfilla is a water-based wood and grain filler that is ready to use straight from the container. It can be used to repair, finish, and patch a variety of surfaces and is paintable, stainable, sandable, and quick-drying. Goodfilla is a versatile product that can save time and money by eliminating the need for multiple fillers and putties.
Goodfilla can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces and is perfect for repairing holes, cracks, dents, and scratches. It can also be used to fill in gaps between trim and molding and to level uneven surfaces. Goodfilla is easy to apply and can be smoothed with a putty knife, sandpaper, or by hand. It dries quickly, so there is no need to wait for it to set before painting or staining.
Pros:
- Can be sanded
- Paintable
- Stainable
- Easy to use
- Easy to apply
- Durable
- Flexible
- Low VOCs
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
5. Minwax 448520000 Color-Matched Filler Wood Putty, Natural 6 oz
- Fills flaws with color, and easily wipe off the excess
- No sanding needed, saves time
- Solvent free for easy soap and water cleanup
Product Description
The Minwax Color-Matched Filler Wood Putty is perfect for repairing holes, dents, and scratches in wood surfaces. The putty comes in a 6 oz container and is available in a variety of colors to match your wood surface. The putty is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a great choice for quick repairs. The putty is also sandable and paintable, so you can customize the repair to match your wood surface.
Pros:
- The Minwax Color-Matched Filler Wood Putty is a great choice for repairing holes, dents, and scratches in wood surfaces.
- The putty is easy to apply
- Dries quickly, making it a great choice for quick repairs
- The putty is also sandable
- Paintable, so you can customize the repair to match your wood surface
Cons:
- The putty can be difficult to remove if you change your mind about the repair
- The putty is not always color-matched perfectly to the wood surface
6. Gorilla All Purpose Wood Filler, 6 Ounce Tube
- Gorilla All Purpose Wood Filler is the go-to product for strong, durable repairs on cracks, gouges and holes.
- The unique formula is easy to spread allowing for a smooth, natural finish.
- Its high performance stainability, paintability, and sandability provides you with a professional looking finished project.
- Shrink & Crack Resistant
- Interior/ Exterior; Water Resistant
Product Description
This wood filler is perfect for a variety of woodworking and home repair projects. The Gorilla Wood Filler is a two-part epoxy that woodworkers and carpenters can use to fill small holes, cracks, and scratches in wood surfaces. The two-part epoxy is easy to use and can be applied to a variety of wood surfaces. The wood filler comes in a 6-ounce tube and is available in natural wood color. It is water resistant, doesn’t shrink and crack, and offers a strong and durable finish.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Can be applied to a variety of wood surfaces
- Available in a natural wood color
- Water resistant
- Paintable
- Stainable
- Offers a strong and durable finish
Cons:
- Gorilla wood filler will take longer to dry in cold or humid conditions.
7. Elmer’s E868 Carpenter’s Wood Filler, 3.25-Ounce Tube, Natural
- Paintable and sandable
- Sands easily to a smooth finish
- Resists shrinking and cracking
- Easy water clean-up
Product Description
Elmer’s E868 Carpenter’s Wood Filler is a high-quality wood filler that can be used on a variety of wood surfaces. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a great choice for busy DIYers. The wood filler comes in a natural finish that can be stained or painted to match your project.
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- Dries quickly
- Can be stained
- Can be painted to match your project
- Sands easily
- Easy water cleanup
- Resist shrinking and cracking
Cons:
- May not be suitable for all wood surfaces
- Can be difficult to remove if you change your mind about the finish
8. DAP 540 Series 00540 5.5oz Natural Plastic Wood-X W/Drydex, 5.5 OZ
- 5.5-Ounce Package
- Easy to use formula
- Dries to a natural, wood finish
- Changes Color to indicate when ready to sand
Product Description
DAP 540 Series 00540 5.5oz Natural Plastic Wood-X W/Drydex is a water-based product that is designed to help you repair and patch wood surfaces. It is easy to use and dries quickly, making it a great choice for smaller projects. It is a natural product, it is easy to use, and it is affordable. It is easy to sand while also providing a smooth, even finish. It is also easy to clean with water.
Pros:
- It is a natural product
- It is easy to use
- It dries quickly
- It is easy to sand
- It is easy to clean
Cons:
- It may not be the best choice for large or intensive projects
How To Choose The Right Type Of Filler
Now that you know about the different types of wood filler, how do you choose the right one for your project? Here are a few tips:
- Choose a solid wood filler for large holes.
- Latex-based fillers are good for small to medium-sized holes.
- Epoxy-based fillers are good for both small and large holes.
- Choose the right color; if you are using wood filler to match the existing wood, choose a filler that is close in color to the wood.
How To Mix The Wood Filler
Tools Required:
- Gloves
- Putty knife
- Stir stick
- Wood filler
- Paint stirrer (if using epoxy-based filler)
Instructions:
If you are using an epoxy-based filler, mix it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
For latex-based and solid wood fillers, put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands. Use the putty knife to scoop out some filler from the tub. Then, use the stir stick to mix it until it has a creamy consistency.
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How Do You Use Wood Filler for Large Gaps
Tools Required
- Putty knife
- Wood filler
- Fine sandpaper
Step One: Clean the Area
The first step is to clean the area where you will be applying the wood filler. This will help the filler to adhere to the surface better.
Step Two: Apply the Filler
Next, use a putty knife to apply the filler to the gap.
Step Three: Smooth the Filler
After you have applied the filler, use the putty knife to smooth it out. You can also smooth it out with a wet rag.
Step Four: Let It Dry
Let the filler dry for the time specified on the product.
Step Five: Sand the Filler
Once the filler is dry, use fine sandpaper to smooth it out.
What To Use to Fill Large Gaps in Wood
Several products on the market can be used to fill large gaps in the wood. These products include wood putty, epoxy, and resin. Each product has its advantages and disadvantages.
Wood putty is a popular choice for filling large gaps in the wood. It is easy to apply and can be sanded down once it is dry. However, wood putty is not as strong as epoxy or resin and may not be able to withstand heavy use.
Epoxy is another option for filling large gaps in the wood. It is stronger than wood putty and can be sanded down once it is dry. However, epoxy is more difficult to apply than wood putty and may require the use of a putty knife.
Resin is the strongest option for filling large gaps in the wood. It is also the most difficult to apply and may require the use of a putty knife. Once it is dry, the resin cannot be sanded down.
FAQs
What Is the Best Wood Filler for Large Gaps?
The best wood filler for large gaps is one that is easy to apply and dries quickly. A water-based wood filler is a good option for large gaps, as it can withstand sanding and staining.
How Big of a Gap Can Wood Filler Fill?
Wood filler is great for filling small gaps in the wood, but it is not ideal for filling large gaps. Large gaps should be filled with wood putty or epoxy.
Can You Use Wood Filler for Large Gaps?
Yes, the wood filler can be used for larger gaps. However, it is important to note that wood filler is not a structural product and should only be used to fill in cosmetic imperfections. If the gap is too large, the wood filler may not adhere properly and could fall out.
Conclusion
Wood filler is a great way to fill in large gaps in wood. It is easy to use and dries quickly. You can find wood filler in a variety of colors to match the existing wood. Follow the steps above to learn how to use wood filler for large gaps. Thanks for reading!
