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Wood filler is a great way to repair large holes in wood. The cost of it may be expensive, but the benefits are well worth it. Wood filler comes in different colors so you can choose one that closely matches the color of your wood.
We have compiled some of the best wood filler for large holes that you can use for your project.
- Elmer’s E855 Carpenter’s Wood Filler, 3.25-Ounce Tube, White
- Minwax 42851000 Stainable Wood Filler, 1-Ounce
- DAP 00585 Latex 6oz, White All Purpose Plastic Wood Filler, 6 Oz.
- DAP INC 18741 Platinum 16OZ Patch Filler, 16.0 Fl Oz, White
- Aqua Coat, Best Wood Grain Filler. Clear Gel, Water Based, Low odor, Fast Drying, Non Toxic, Environmentally Friendly. Quart.
- Rustins AWOOT250 Quick Dry Varnish Matt Clear 250ml Acrylic Wood Filler, Teak, 250 ml
- 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
- Gorilla All Purpose Wood Filler, 6 Ounce Tube
What Is Wood Filler?
Wood filler is a mixture of resin and hardeners. When mixed with wood fibers, it becomes very strong and can be used to fill in holes or cracks in many surfaces such as:
- Wood Paneling
- Furniture
- Cabinets
- Kitchen Countertops
- Floors
- Door Frames
Types Of Wood Fillers for Large Holes
There are many types of wood fillers. Each serves a different purpose and can be used for large holes on specific surfaces.
1. Polyvinyl Acetate Fillers
These are similar to polyurethane fillers but they dry a little bit faster and have a shorter open time. They also cost less than the other types of wood filler which makes them a good choice for small holes on inexpensive surfaces such as paneling or cabinets.
2. Wood Filler Paste
Paste fillers are best for large holes on unfinished wood surfaces such as bare plywood. It is very easy to use and it works great in corners where other types of fillers cannot reach easily. These can be tinted so you do not have to stain the entire surface after applying the filler. However, they do not come in a variety of colors so you will have to choose from the options provided.
3. Wood Filler Putty
This type of wood filler for large holes is best for repairs that need a smooth finish such as on furniture or cabinets. They dry very quickly and can be sanded within 20 minutes which makes them ideal for small holes.
4. Polyurethane Fillers
This type is ideal for smooth surfaces such as kitchen countertops, floors, cabinets, etc. They do not require clamps or pressure to dry which makes them easy to use and effective.
5. Epoxy Fillers
This type is great for exterior surfaces such as decks, porches, shed floors, and outdoor furniture because it can withstand weather elements like rain and sun. They are also very durable once dry so they will last a long time without any problems arising.
6. Bondo® Fillers
These fillers are ideal for filling holes in wood. They are great to use for cracks, knots, and large holes because the material hardens very quickly so you can sand it down smoothly within minutes after applying it.
Related Post: How To Use Wood Filler for Large Gaps—A Step by Step Guide
Tips For Using Wood Filler to Repair Large Holes in Your Furniture or Cabinets
Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when using wood filler for large areas:
- When using a product like Bondo®, make sure to wear protective gloves and safety goggles. The product may be dangerous if it gets into your eyes, especially while wearing contact lenses. You will also want to cover up any exposed skin for protection from the chemicals that can irritate the skin or cause rashes.
- When filling large holes with wood filler, make sure to apply it in thin layers. This allows the product time to dry before adding more on top of it. It is also important that you blend the new material into what was already there so your project does not look patchy or uneven when finished.
- Make sure you use a plastic putty knife when applying the wood filler to your project. This ensures that you do not add any scratches or grooves to it while working on filling the hole.
- When finished, let the product dry completely for between 24 and 48 hours before attempting to sand down or use a sander of any kind on top of it. Sanding too soon can disrupt the product and cause it to dry unevenly.
- If you are repairing a large hole with wood filler on your home’s exterior, be sure to wait at least two days before applying any sort of paint or stain over top of it so the chemicals do not affect each other. Many types of wood fillers will recommend that you putty the hole first and then paint over it after.
- Be sure to keep in mind that wood filler can be messy so you will want to apply it somewhere where the excess material can easily be cleaned up or wiped away without any problems. You may even consider wearing an apron while applying your product because of how much cleanup is involved with this step.
Related Post: How to Fill Gaps in Plywood: A Step-by-Step Guide
Top 8 Best Wood Fillers for Large Holes
1.Elmer’s E855 Carpenter’s Wood Filler, 3.25-Ounce Tube, White
- Paintable and sandable
- Sands easily to a smooth finish
- Resists shrinking and cracking
- Easy water clean-up
Product Description
This filler is environmentally friendly and safe to use for any project you are working on around your home or garage that requires wood filler. It will not irritate the skin, cause rashes, allergies, or breathing problems while using it which makes it very versatile in its application process.
The manufacturer offers a complete money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the results you get from using this product.
Pros
- Easy to measure out the right amount.
- It dries very quickly
- No strong chemical smells
- Has a complete money-back guarantee
Cons
- Shrinks quickly
- It is difficult to sand after drying
2.Minwax 42851000 Stainable Wood Filler, 1-Ounce
- This product adds a great value
- Interior and exterior use
- Stainable and paintable
- Interior and exterior use
- Fast drying/sands easily
Product Description
Minwax wood filler opens up new possibilities for all of your projects by allowing you to fill cracks, knots, and large gaps. This ensures that your project does not look uneven or patchy when complete and it will make the entire process easier for you.
This filler is meant to be sanded down after drying which makes applying a new coat of paint, stain, or varnish on top very easy compared to other products available in this category. The process is also quick so you will not spend a lot of time waiting to finish your project.
The product dries very quickly at only 15 minutes which means that there are fewer chances for you to make mistakes when applying it or have issues with the filler being wet while trying to apply other products on top of it. This makes this filler ideal if you are working on a large project.
Pros
- Dries quickly
- It does not shrink when drying
Cons
- It cannot be used with exterior projects
3.DAP 00585 Latex 6oz, White All Purpose Plastic Wood Filler, 6 Oz.
- DAP plastic wood filler looks and acts like real wood; ideal for corners and vertical surfaces on interior or exterior wood
- Easy-to-use, latex-based formula can be sanded, planed, cut, drilled, screwed, nailed, sanded & painted, unlike many wood putty fillers
- White wood filler is shrink, crack & crumble resistant with strong nail & screw anchoring for easy wood repairs
- Thick, knife grade formula can be molded and sculpted allowing it to fill any shape imperfection
- Low odor spackle dries in 3 to 6 hours for repairs up to 1/8" in depth and 36 hours for deeper fills 1/4" and over
Product Description
DAP white all-purpose filler is ideal for filling small holes and cracks in your furniture, cabinets, floors, walls, or any other project you are working on around the home that requires wood filler. It will not shrink or crack while dry which makes it easier to sand down after use without compromising its overall quality.
The product has a smooth creamy texture which makes it easy to apply and use on your project. It is also available in several different sizes so you can order the one that best fits your needs depending on how big of an area you are trying to cover with this filler.
Pros
- It does not shrink
- This filler dries very quickly
- It has a smooth creamy texture
Cons
- The product can dry out if not stored properly
4.DAP INC 18741 Platinum 16OZ Patch Filler, 16.0 Fl Oz, White
- 16-ounce Package
- Use on metal, composite, PVC, fiber cement, wood, and more
- Easy to apply, sandable, and paintable
- Exceptional weatherproofing and UV protection
Product Description
DAP platinum 16oz patching compound has a high adhesive strength that can be used on many different types of surfaces including wood, metal, glass, and more. Its quick-drying formula allows you to apply the filler without worrying about it drying out before you are finished or having any troubles with its consistency when applying.
The product is meant for both interior and exterior projects which makes it ideal if you have a larger project that requires multiple types of products depending on where you will be working.
Pros
- It dries quickly
- High adhesive strength
- The product can be used on wood, metal, glass and more.
Cons
- It can be difficult to remove once dried
5.Aqua Coat, Best Wood Grain Filler. Clear Gel, Water Based, Low odor, Fast Drying, Non Toxic, Environmentally Friendly. Quart.
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED FOR DEEPER PENETRATION - Our small particle size gel formula penetrates and seals the pores minimizing the absorption of your clear topcoat.
- IMPORTANT RECOMMENDATION - If painting, we recommend Aqua Coat WHITE Cabinet Grain Filler. It is higher solids with better visibility and adhesion making it perform better in less coats. This Clear formula is best when using Clear Coats vs Painting
- WATERBORNE AND ECO- FRIENDLY: Our entire line of products are MADE IN THE USA, low VOC, low odor, non-flammable, non-combustible, water-based fast drying, easy to apply, easy sanding, excellent adhesion, water clean up, environmentally friendly. This makes it the healthier option for your employees and your family. Achieve that beautiful glass smooth finish while keeping the environment and your health in mind.
- VERSATILE AND COMPATIBLE WITH OTHER PRODUCTS: Filling your wood grain before you stain not only creates that beautiful smooth finish you are looking to achieve it will also seal the pores and help minimize absorption of your top coat, saving you time and money. Aqua Coat Clear Grain Filler can be mixed with water soluble pigments/dyes.
- EASY TO USE- Work the Clear Grain Filler generously into open wood grain and pores against the grain with a small squeegee, bondo blade, old credit card, or fingers with a glove. Scrape off excess with a squeegee, bondo blade, or an old credit card with the grain. Let dry 45-60 minutes. VERY lightly sand with a 320 or higher grit sandpaper or a fine scotchbrite sanding pad immediately before your next application of grain filler. 2-3 coats are recommended.
Product Description
Aqua coat water-based filler comes in a variety of sizes so you are able to choose the one that best fits your needs for any project around the home or office that requires filling holes or cracks. It is clear which makes it ideal if you are trying to match the surrounding area with your project color scheme.
This filler dries quickly and does not have a strong odor so it can be used in larger rooms without worrying about covering up all of your other furniture, drapes, etc. The product also has low VOC which makes it safe for the environment as well as those that work with it.
The product is non-toxic and environmentally friendly so you can use it without worrying about any harsh chemicals or irritants being added to your project area after application. It also dries clear which allows you to match its color scheme if needed depending on what type of project you are working on around the home.
Pros
- It is non-toxic
- Environmentally friendly
- The product dries quickly
- Low odor
- Clear
Cons
- You have to wait 24 hours before painting over the product
- It can be difficult to remove once dried
6.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
7.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
8.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.
Related Post: How Strong Is Wood Filler? Answer By A Pro
How to Use Wood Filler on Large Holes
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fill large holes in wood:
Step 1
Clean the hole of any dust or debris. You can use a small wire brush to do this and wipe it away with a dry rag afterward. This ensures that you will not have anything interfering with your filler after applying it.
Step 2
You will want to cut off the tip of your wood filler tube so only about ½ inch of the tip is showing. This allows you to control how much filler comes out at a time and prevents it from coming out all in one go and spilling over your project.
Step 3
Squeeze some wood filler into a disposable container like an empty yogurt container or tin foil so that there is enough for your repair but not too much that it cannot be used.
Step 4
Use a plastic putty knife to apply the wood filler in small layers over your project and brush away any excess material with a dry rag so you do not have an excessive amount of build-up on top of it. Make sure to let each layer dry before adding another one. This allows the product to dry completely and ensures that you do not have any problems with it adhering after applying more on top of your project.
Exterior Wood Filler for Large Holes
1.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: The only water-based, non-latex/acrylic, trowel-ready wood filler in the world. Innovative and easy-to-use, it’s designed for professional woodworkers but perfect for your everyday DIYer, too. 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 instrument to finish, this is YOUR product. Sand, stain, tint, prime, fill and seal every knot & grain 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.
- ⚒️ MORE COVERAGE & EASY TO USE: Goodfilla offers 25% more coverage than other trowel-ready fillers. Our professional formulation allows a longer open time because it holds onto the water longer. Unlike other water-based woodfillers, Goodfilla TR maintains its consistency over a wide range of ambient temperatures.
- ⚒️ 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
2.Gorilla All Purpose Wood Filler, 16 Ounce Tub
- 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 16-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.
3.Elmer’s Product P9892 Probond Woodfiller, Brown, 32 Ounce
- Patented formula for use on interior and exterior surfaces, 24 hour dry time, 32 Ounce resealable tub
- Ideal for repairing holes, dents, scratches, and defects on wood, wallboard, molding, or painted surfaces
- Contains ceramic microspheres and no solvents making this premium wood filler 3X stronger, resistant to shrinking and cracking, and ideal for easy water cleanup
- Stands up to heat from high-speed sanders or can be sanded by hand
- Contains real wood fibers and is designed to work with all stains and paints
Product Description
It can be used on both interior and exterior surfaces and is great for repairing cracks, holes, and other damage. It is easy to apply and dries quickly, so you can get your project done in no time. It is also sandable and paintable, so you can match it to the surrounding area. Plus, it is waterproof and can be used on both wet and dry surfaces.
Pros:
- Easy to apply
- Dries quickly
- Sandable
- Paintable
- Waterproof
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Can be difficult to match the color to the surrounding area
4.DAP INC 18741 Platinum 16OZ Patch Filler, 16 OZ, White
- 16-ounce Package
- Use on metal, composite, PVC, fiber cement, wood, and more
- Easy to apply, sandable, and paintable
- Exceptional weatherproofing and UV protection
Product Description
This product is ideal for repairing holes, cracks, or other imperfections in your walls or ceilings. It dries quickly and is sandable, so you can paint over it once it’s dry. It is durable due to its high-quality ingredients, and it will not shrink or crack over time. The waterproofing formula ensures that your repairs will last for years to come, and offers UV protection to prevent fading.
Pros:
- Dries quickly
- Sandable
- Paintable
- Does not shrink or crack
- Waterproof
- UV protection
- Durable
Cons:
- May be difficult to apply for beginner DIYers
5. 3M Bondo Wood Filler 12 OZ Can with Hardener (Pint)
- 3M Bondo Wood Filler is a fast curing, all-purpose wood fill solution intended for minor to advanced repairs on rotted or damaged wood products.
- The quick-drying formula is ready to be sanded by hand or with power tools only 15 minutes after being applied and is paintable/stainable after 25 minutes. This results in the ability to perform a professional-grade repair in under half an hour.
- The two-part formula includes a hardener cream that accelerates the curing process, in addition to ensuring that there is a strong water-resistant bond that will not shrink, dry out, or deform over time or with exposure to the elements.
- 3M Bondo wood Filler is excellent for many applications both inside and outside the home, on a wide variety of commonly damaged wood surfaces such as window sills, furniture, exterior wood trim such as door frames/jambs, soffits, fascia, cabinets, fences/posts, decks, garage doors, wood floors/stairs, siding, exterior wood columns, interior doors, baseboards, and more.
- 00051131300811 , 00051131300811 , 00051131300811 , 50051131300816 , 70051131300810
Product Description
3M Bondo Wood Filler is a two-part wood filler that hardens to give a durable, repair that is sandable and paintable. It is ideal for repairing holes, cracks, or other damage to wood surfaces. The filler can be used on interior or exterior surfaces and can be stained or painted to match the surrounding area. it is easy to use and gives a professional looking repair.
Pros:
- Hardens to give a durable repair
- Sandable
- Paintable
- Can be used on interior or exterior surfaces
- Stainable
- Easy to use
- Gives a professional looking repair
Cons:
- Two-part filler can be difficult to mix for beginner DIYers
FAQs
Is Wood Filler Safe for My Pets?
Wood filler is not recommended to be used around your pets due to the chemicals that are sometimes added which can irritate if they rub against it. It might also result in poisoning if your pet ingests too much of the product at once or over a long period. If you have any concerns you should contact your local veterinarian.
What Are the Side Effects of Wood Filler?
Some people might have an allergic reaction to certain types of wood fillers. It could also irritate if it’s used around your eyes or mouth, etc., so you should wash off any excess product immediately after application and avoid contact with sensitive areas on your body.
How Long Does It Take for The Wood Filler to Dry?
This can depend on the type of product you are using, but generally speaking, it takes between one and two hours for most types of wood fillers to set properly. You should always read through your product instructions before application in order to avoid any issues with drying time or other side effects that might result from improper use.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of options when it comes to wood filler for large holes. Each product is designed with varying purposes to be used effectively on different projects around the home or office depending on your needs and preferences.
Wood filler is a great product to use if you need to fill in any holes or cracks around your home. It is important to read through the product instructions before use in order to ensure proper application and avoid any issues with drying time or other side effects.
The product is safe for the environment and non-toxic so you can use it without worry. Wood filler is a great way to make any repair job look professional and seamless.
