Alexandra Ramirez
Those were also our top factors for selecting our best wood filler.
If you are ready to wrap up your project now, Carpenter’s Color Change Wood Filler by Elmer’s scored above the rest in all categories and is our top pick.
1. Elmer’s Carpenter’s Color Change Wood Filler
Best Stainable
5/5 Product Rating
The non-toxic formula is made in the USA and comes from Elmer’s, a brand name that everyone can trust. The 16 oz bottle is just the right size for you to tackle a number of jobs, and it’s easy to use and is easily portable so that you can take it on the go to any job site.
Customers love this wood filler because it can handle the toughest jobs, and it comes at a price that most consumers can afford. When you’re ready to handle your wood-finishing tasks with ease, then you’re ready for a wood filler of this caliber.
– Darius Spieth
2. Elmer’s Carpenter’s Wood Filler for Interiors
Best Budget Wood Filler
4.8/5 Product Rating
There are a number of great uses for this wood filler and you’ll see that it gets the job done right, and better than the competition. Customers love this wood filler because it’s easy to take on the go, and it gives you a solid finish that you can depend on.
There are a number of different wood fillers on the market, but this is a top pick because it’s affordable and dependable. You’ll find that your wood looks better than ever before, and it will have a fine finish that looks as good as new. Give yourself the gift of perfect wood with this fine filler that is sure to help your wood surfaces stand the test of time.
– Darius Spieth
3. 3M Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler
Best Wood Filler for Hardwood Floors
4.6/5 Product Rating
Once the filler is dried, you can then sand it, shape it, drill, route it, and saw it as if it were new wood. The 1-quart can is plenty of product and allows you to complete a number of tasks without running out.
Customers love how easy this product is to use. It’s also portable enough to take on the go and comes at a price that you can afford. There’s no reason to have to put up with tattered wood, and that’s why this product was created, to help you to restore that wood so that it looks perfect.
– Darius Spieth
Wood Filler Buying Guide
What is a Wood Filler?
You use wood filler for various wood repair projects around your home, and there are different types of fillers that work great for various kinds of projects and needs. Some types of wood fillers work great for small repairs, while others are suited for large gapes and holes that you find in your wood. It’s best to review the various kinds of wood fillers that are on the market, and read what customers have to say, so that you can find a product that is going to work for your specific task. It’s also great to read reviews because you can then pick up on certain tips that are going to help you to use the filler properly, so that you get the best out of the product. Lets take a look at some of the key features that you want to look out for when you’re hunting for the right wood filler.
Types
There are basically four different types of wood fillers on the market. There are cellulose-based fillers, gypsum-based fillers, vinyl fillers, and epoxies, and each have their own unique features that make them right for certain jobs. You can review the various types, characteristics, and kinds of uses, and then decide which one is right for you.
- Cellulose-Based: This kind of cellulose based filler contains a combination of binders and wood fibers. It comes in a dry, mixable formula, or as a pre-mixed solvent. You can also find it as a water soluble pre-mix. There dry formulas are particularly useful because they have a long shelf life, they’re also inexpensive, and you can mix as much or as little as you need. Keep in mind that pre-mix solvents will dry more quickly. You can use cellulose fillers for any outdoor wood project, such as when you’re working on the porch or the fence.
- Gypsum-Based: This kind of filler is made of mineral powders that are mixed with water and form a crystalline substance that will not shrink or pull away from the edges of the filled space. Only use this kind of filler on spaces where you know you are going to paint afterwards, because it’s going to be prone to stain. You want to use this kind of filler only for indoor projects, and that’s because they’re not waterproof.
- Vinyl-Based: Vinyl-based fillers are going to consist of calcium carbonate mixed with polyvinyl acetate dispersion or emulsion as the binder. This is a lightweight and fluffy substance that is very easy to handle, and you can clean it with water. The formula dries quickly, but you should apply it in thin coats. Thick coats are going to crack when they get wet. This is the best kind of formula for small repairs on plasterboard or wood that you intend to paint. This will not stain, and sometimes it’s going to leave a white residue.
- Epoxies: An epoxy is a two-part, petroleum based filler that works as an adhesive or wood consolidate. When this combines with other materials, a strong wood filler will form. This kind of filler does not tolerate wood stains, but you can saw, sand, and nail over the substance after it dries. This bonds well with wood and it’s resistant to moisture, so this can be used outdoors for many kinds of projects. You can build up thick layers of epoxy to fill larger holes in window frames and sills, and it’s also great for porches and other areas.
Filler Based
There are a number of wood fillers on the market, and that’s why choosing the right one can be difficult. Once you review the different kinds of fillers, you can find the top rated products, like the ones that are mentioned above. Each top rated wood filler has its own unique features that are going to make it perfect for specific jobs. Lets take a look at some of the key features that you’re going to get with each type of wood filler.
Gypsum-Based
- You can mix it with water to form any desired consistency
- The drying time will vary according to consistency and the size of the patch
- You can use it both indoors and outdoors
- Great for sanding, priming, painting after the product dries.
WoodEpox
- Epoxy
- Will permanently bond to wood
- Helps to fill holes, cracks, and voids
- No odors
- You can change the color by adding dyes
- Dap plastic wood filler
Cellulose-Based
- It looks and feels like wood after hardening
- Can use indoors or outdoors
- Dries in 2 hours
- Anti-shrinking
- Must paint if used outdoors
Vinyl-based
- Can be used indoors or outdoors
- You can paint or sand over the set product
- Fast drying and cleans with water
- Non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets
Filling Tips
There are a few basic tips that you need to know about to successfully fill your wood. You can use any type of tool you are comfortable with when working with fillers. You can employ a putty knife, cotton swab, craft stick, or finger work when you are applying and smoothing the substance that you use. You want to make sure that you press the filler and allow it to set and dry for the specific amount of time. It’s best to remove excess filler around the edges to avoid a sloppy look. You can check to see if the filler is dry by making a small indention with the thumb nail. If you get an indention, then the filler will need a longer time to dry.
Finding Fillers
There are numerous places that you can find quality wood fillers. Not only are they sold at your local hardware store, but you can also find them online on Amazon or eBay. You will find this product at a lower price when it’s at retail stores or from other vendors. If you’re looking online, then be sure to use the keywords ‘wood filler’, and then see what you come up with. When looking on eBay, you can then narrow down your search by looking for a specific type or brand. When you’re shopping in the store, be sure to talk to the customer care associate so that you can find the specific kind of project that you’re looking for. When shopping at somewhere like the Home Depot, you’ll see that the associates are very knowledgeable about a number of different kinds of tasks and projects, and they’ll most likely help you to find a formula that is just right for your specific job.
Other Considerations
Keep in mind that most wood fillers are pretty affordable and all of them cost relatively the same. But you should still be conscious of what your budget is so that you purchase something that meets your needs. The most important consideration is what kind of job you’re working on, and whether it’s indoors or outdoors. This will dictate which type of wood filler you purchase. There 
are four basic types of wood filler, and when you’re constantly working on various wood jobs, then you may want to consider owning one of each. No matter which kind of filler you choose, you want to be sure to read the directions thoroughly before use, and this ensures that you will properly employ the product so that you get the best results.
Conclusion
There are tons of wood fillers on the market, and the one that you choose should suit your specific needs and budget. You need to begin by asking yourself what kind of project you’re working on, whether it’s indoors or outdoors, and whether or not you’ll be painting or staining the wood afterwards. The top rated wood fillers are ideal for most wood projects, and you can be sure that when you purchase one of these you’re getting a product that you can depend upon. The buyer’s guide will also help you to better understand wood fillers, how they’re used, and what kinds are best suited for certain projects. No matter what formula you buy, you need to be sure that you read the instructions fully before using.
Resources
- http://elmers.com/product/detail/e917
- http://elmers.com/product/detail/e868
- http://bondo.com/bondo-wood-filler-20082.html
