By working with a variety of trusted Range Plus Partners, we’re able to offer our customers a wider selection of products. We got pretty scientific with this wood filler comparison. First, we found one piece of pine that was large enough to divide into separate sections for the different wood fillers. Then, each section was divided into four segments, each with its own test: Water-based wood fillers are generally a mix containing cellulose, wood fiber, or gypsum. They tend to have a less potent odor, as they emit few, if any, volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Some water-based wood fillers are more versatile than their solvent-based counterparts because they can be readily diluted with water and used in projects requiring thinner filler. Water-based fillers typically dry in about 15 minutes, and cleanup requires only soap and water.

Ronseal RSLMPWFN100G 100g Multi-Purpose Natural Wood Filler Tube Ronseal RSLMPWFN100G 100g Multi-Purpose Natural Wood Filler Tube

During testing, we found the tube of Elmer’s Stainable Wood Filler to have separated into a soupy liquid and a very stiff putty. After mixing (which was difficult to achieve in the tube), it reached a much better consistency and was easy to spread. The holes filled nicely, and despite its wetter consistency, it didn’t shrink much while drying. A screwdriver point driven into the wood both with and against the grain, meant to simulate the holes left by finish nailers It’s not so difficult to buy the best wood filler if you know these details to look for: What to Consider While Buying Wood Filler Task Those looking for professional results at a reasonable price would do well to consider Elmer’s Probond Filler. This tub of water-based wood filler features ceramic microsphere technology, which allows the dried wood filler to be tougher and more durable than most other wood fillers. Because it’s suitable for exterior applications (as well as interior), that strength could be a big benefit. When buying partner items like this one, your contract of sale will be with our Range Plus Partner instead of us.As it comes out of the tub, Goodfilla doesn’t spread easily, so it’s not exceptional for filling scrapes or small spots. However, it can be diluted with a bit of warm water to become a more spreadable consistency, although the clay-like consistency makes it very easy to wad into small balls and fill large holes. It’s also odor-free, doesn’t shrink at all, and is suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Overfill the hole. When adding the wood filler, you need to fill it a bit more than level with the rest of the wood. That's because the filler shrinks a bit as it dries, so it will end up flush with the wood if you overfill it. [8] X Research source Sand down the area until it is smooth and even with the wood. Use an orbital sander or standard sandpaper to sand down the area. Sand until the filler is evened out and it is level with the surrounding wood. Wipe it down to remove dust before painting or staining. [11] X Expert Source Jeff Baldwin Once each section was properly damaged, we set forth with the wood fillers to fill them in. When they were dry, we sanded the fillers to see how well they cured the damage. The result gave us all the information necessary to suggest the best wood fillers based on their strengths and weaknesses. FAQs

The Best Wood Fillers of 2023- Tested by Bob Vila The Best Wood Fillers of 2023- Tested by Bob Vila

Apply primer if you're painting the area. Most wood fillers can be painted, but fillers may affect how the paint looks. If you use primer first, it can help even out the look of the area. [12] X Expert Source Jeff BaldwinIf you’re looking for the best wood filler overall, it’s our opinion that you can’t go wrong with Minwax Stainable Wood Filler. However, if you’re OK spending a little more for an excellent finish, consider FamoWood Wood Filler for its top-notch quality and smooth finish. How We Tested the Best Wood Fillers Buy or make an appropriate filler. Stainable wood fillers are designed to be stained so you can match them to the rest of the wood. Some water-based wood fillers are also stainable, but they are specifically meant to be used indoors. [1] X Research source You can also make your own wood filler by adding sawdust to carpenter's glue to form a paste. [2] X Research source During testing, the Minwax Stainable Wood Filler proved to be a joy to work with. Its relatively dry consistency leads to almost no shrinking at all when dry. Also, because of its consistency, we were able to roll small wads of it to fill large holes like putty. Despite its grainy consistency, it was easy to spread with a putty knife and sanded to a very smooth texture. The only downside we could find is that the large fibers and grain could be too large to seal off small pores.