10 Best Wood Fillers for the Money | Reviews and Buying Guide
Walts DIY is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
The history of woodworking is vibrant. Ever since humans have taken up the craft, various creative and innovative techniques for repairing, joining, or working with this material have been developed. With the proper skill set, tools, and materials on hand, you can fix just about anything wooden – from an antique to your wood floor!
Wood fillers are an essential part of the finishing process for any woodworking project. They provide a smooth surface and help to hide imperfections in the wood, such as knots and scratches. The best thing about fillers is that they don’t have to be applied perfectly – because once you sand them down, they will become invisible!
We’ve created this guide so that you can find a suitable filler for your needs. In it, we’ll review ten different types of fillers on sale today – from epoxy to polyurethane products – so that you can make a more informed decision when purchasing yours.
Here’s what we cover in this Best Wood Filler review article:
- First, we showcase our top ten picks side-by-side for easy comparison. Perfect if you’re short on time!
- Next, we’ll tell you about the main features and benefits of each product
- Then, we’ll describe any drawbacks they have
- And finally, our buying guide will answer any of your nagging questions and give you a greater insight into the range available.
Sound good? Let’s begin!
Best Wood Fillers | Compared
CLICK any image to see Ratings and Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Title | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top | Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler, 16-Ounce | Buy Now | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
 | J-B Weld 8257 KwikWood Wood Repair Epoxy Putty Stick | Buy Now | 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) |
 | Famowood 40002148 Latex Wood Filler, | Buy Now | 4.7 / 5 |
 | Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler | Buy Now | 4.7 / 5 |
 | Coconix Floor and Furniture Repair Kit | Buy Now | 4.6 / 5 |
 | Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler | Buy Now | 4.6 / 5 |
 | Carpenter's Wood Filler | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | Elmer's E892 Stainable Wood Filler | Buy Now | 4.5 / 5 |
 | DAP 581 Series 00581 6oz Natural Latex Plastic Wood | Buy Now | 4.4 / 5 |
 | Katzco Furniture Repair Wood Fillers | Buy Now | 4.4 / 5 |
10 Best Wood Fillers | Reviews
- Minwax latex wood filler, 16-Ounce, is designed for repairing cracks, small gouges, nail holes, knot holes, and other defects in all types of unfinished indoor and outdoor wood.
- This filler dries quickly to continue with your next steps without delay - it also sands well! Once the product is cured, it feels like hardwood, you can screw or nail into it if you need to, and it easily sits against uneven surfaces or allows you to spread it as required.
- The Minwax Stainable Wood filler will even resist water once dry, and the fast-drying formula sands easily and is paintable with Minwax stainable wood stains.
- Ideal for any finishing, from environmentally sensitive water-based finishes to 200-year-old classic oil finishes. Minwax restores the natural beauty of your furniture projects with a rich sheen.
- J-B Weld KwikWood Wood Repair Epoxy Putty Stick is an excellent option for all of your damaged wood repairs. It is perfect for patching holes and cracks in window and door frames, dry rot, furniture, knot holes, birdhouses, insect damage, sheds, PVC trim board, and much more.
- Unique and robust, J-B Weld KwikWood is a two-part epoxy thats perfect for interior or day-to-day exterior repairs for solid and durable fixes.The epoxy putty stick formula will not rot, shrink or pull away and contains no solvents. After 1 hour, it can be machined, drilled, tapped, sanded, filed, and painted.
- The kit includes two tubes of gel that are to be mixed by hand before application. It takes 15-25 minutes to set with a lap shear strength of 900 PSI and cures in 1 hour for easy restoration and protection. The formula has a light tan color when cured.
- KwikWood is an expertly formulated epoxy putty designed to repair and rebuild wood and cures to the same density as wood.
- Famowood wood filler is a dream come true for DIYers and professionals alike and can be used for indoor or outdoor wooden surfaces. Its easy to work with because it dries in 15 minutes and can be sanded, drilled, or planed after the drying time, then go on to your next coat of paint or stain.
- The professional-grade white pine latex filler does not shrink or warp, so you wont need to fill cracks again soon after they dry. Plus, this product meets all EPA standards for toxicity.
- With this durable latex filler, you get all the qualities youd expect from a furniture filler: no shrinking, cracking, or unsightly seams after it dries. And cleanup is always easy since you can wash off this solvent-free product with water.
- This is a solid filler. However, it may not have an as long shelf life because it is solvent-free. To get the most from it, put the lid on tightly to prevent the filler from going off and drying out.
- Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler is a durable 2-part solution that provides permanent and non-shrink repairs. Repair doors, windows, fences, furniture, or wood trim with the quick cure formula.
- This two-part filler is designed for total adhesion to surfaces, making it hard enough to drill into but sandable in just 15 minutes for fast repairs. However, the downside to this quick-drying filler is working with it; you need to use small amounts at a time. Otherwise, it will harden off before you have finished.
- Bondo has an easy sanding surface and will fill gouges and scratches on most woods without showing any color difference. Offering a uniform medium-brown color when mixed, this versatile product is stainable and paintable in 25 minutes. The Bondo formula accepts paint and stains beautifully, which means you dont have to worry about any future adjustments!
- Bondo will also hold up against moisture like water or mold, making it ideal for outdoor use and refinishing old furniture indoors.
- Fix a crack in your floor or furniture with this Coconix Floor and Furniture Repair Kit! It comes complete with ten base colors, enough for large patches. Instructions are super easy to understand so that you can fix damages without any hassle.
- The Coconix floor and furniture repair kit is the perfect way to fix any imperfection you might find in most household items. With a water-resistant formula and colorless ink, its no wonder this repair kit is such a versatile material.
- Use it to fill holes of all sizes, make that scratch on your desk or marks on your wooden flooring disappear. After about 30 minutes, youll be amazed at how well this tiny product can transform a battered piece into something as good as new!
- The kit includes ten base wood colors, wood putty, putty knife, spatula, gap filler, crack filler, scratch remover, applicator brush, and mixing jar.
- Many benefits come with this kit, such as a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee along with a 30-day money-back guarantee, which also includes a 1-year free replacement warranty!
- Goodfilla is an easy-to-use, water-based wood and grain filler product that can repair your decking boards, furniture, or other wooden objects. It is designed specifically for any woodworking project, from table to cabinetry work, so that you can enjoy beautiful and robust pieces all day long!
- This innovative water-based filler is designed for professional woodworkers and DIYers alike and will repair cracks or split lumber. Use it to fill in any knots where nail holes are present on finished surfaces without affecting the finish quality.
- You can use this wood and grain filler on all surfaces without significant issues, and It is perfect because it does not shrink or sink, and it wont crack or peel off after the coats are applied. You can mix this product with any colorant for a personal touch. However, once the filler has dried, you wont be able to stain, tint or dye it, but you will paint over it.
- It has to be mixed with water-based weather-resistant glue to use outdoors, but it can withstand extreme temperatures. It does not expand and contract as some other fillers do due to its properties and is less likely to loosen from temperature variations.
- The bonus is a green product featuring zero VOCs, ZERO waste, and non-toxic properties. It also has an unlimited shelf life as it reconstitutes with water and is freeze-thaw stable.
- This product is made in the USA and has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you are not satisfied, Goodfilla will refund your money for up to a year after the date of purchase.
- Carpenters Wood Filler is Elmers easy-to-use spreadable wood filler ideal for repairing holes, dents, scratches, gouges, and defects on any wood, wallboard, molding, or painted surfaces.
- It comes in 16-ounce cans of paintable, neutral-colored, high-performance wood filler for interior carpentry projects only.
- This filler can be shaped like putty and doesnt dry too quickly, so it will not dry before you have the chance to work with it - but dont leave it drying overnight if you want to sand after!
- For storing this product after use, place it in a ziplock bag, so it doesnt dry out. If it does, then add water to the mix to make it more spreadable.
- Elmers Stainable Wood Filler is the perfect stainable wood filler product for various surfaces, including unfinished and finished. It fills holes, cracks, nicks, and gouges, is long-lasting, and breathes new life into old furniture!
- With actual wood fiber for outstanding results after sanding, staining, and painting. It resists shrinking and cracking while maintaining your desired surface.
- The solvent-free formula holds screws and nails in place with ease and gives a firm grip.
- This product can be used in interior or exterior applications, perfect for any repair work and projects of all shapes and sizes.
- Curing time varies depending upon how much filler is used. For more extensive repairs, it can take at least 24 hours or even longer to harden off.
- DAP 581 Natural Latex Plastic Wood is the perfect solution for repairing cracks, gouges, and holes on furniture, woodwork, molding, cabinets, paneling, and construction projects.
- The Latex in this product makes it easy to use, has a low odor, and cleans up easily. However, some reviews say it is not very easy to get the latex filler out of the tube.
- This latex plastic wood product is smooth and spreads quickly with a small putty knife and a wet cloth. It is quick-drying and sands quickly too.
- This premium product is shrinking and crack resistant, so you dont have to worry about its durability for years to come.
- This water-based formula cleans up with warm soap and water once dry except for deep stains like ink marks which may need white vinegar or paint thinner as needed.
- Katzco Furniture Repair Wood Fillers: Set of 25 is a practical solution to your furniture repair needs! The formula contains a special carpenter-quality stain that makes it 100% effective in bringing old wooden surfaces back to life and will last permanently.
- This set includes 12 Resin Compounds with distinct colors that are easy to blend for more nuanced shades. Theyre specially designed to match your furniture or wooden floor finishes.
- The Katzco Furniture repair wood fillers include everything youll need in one convenient box while matching all popular wood tones from mahogany to maple, oak to walnut, and cherry to even ivory.
- The 12 unique color resin compound repair wood fillers are ready to use with a see-through design soft bottle, a sealing cap, and a tip opening. Easy to apply by squeezing the repair compound into the nick, smooth with the scraper, wipe off any excess compound, and then leave to dry.
- For the blemish touch-up, dip the brush into the wood filler, apply to the blemish, wipe off excess repair compound and allow to dry.
- These kits come complete with twelve brushes to apply the Resin Compound, and an additional plastic scraper packed neatly inside the box for easy use.
What types of wood fillers are there?
Four different formulas classify wood filler; epoxy-based, gypsum-based, latex-based, and cellulose-based, and even more interestingly, they can be water-based or solvent-based.
Epoxy wood filler
Epoxy wood fillers are a durable and resistant material. However, it does require the most preparation before use. You must mix both parts of the epoxy for proper adhesion and consistency to get the correct result from this product as instructed by its manufacturer.
Epoxy wood fillers are the best choice for sealing foundations or walls in a home against wind and rain. They expand when it’s hot out but contract as temperatures cool down to prevent water from leaking through cracks. The drying process on the Epoxy wood filler takes much longer than other types of filler, so indoor projects should be the last choice.
Gypsum-based
Gypsum-based wood fillers are mainly for indoor use and are the perfect solution for filling gaps in drywall or baseboards. This type of filler is made from gypsum dust, which creates a paste when mixed with water. When it dries, it is no longer pliable but has a consistency like hardwood or rock!
It is important to note these wood fillers should not be exposed to rain after they have dried out as they are susceptible to water damage.
However, the gypsum-based wood filler is affordable and effective.
Latex-based
The latex-based wood fillers are an excellent choice for repairing rotted wood and fixing holes. These water-resistant, quick-setting products also require less preparation than epoxies, making them a breeze to work outdoors or indoors in any climate.
The latex-based wood fillers are very durable, and when thoroughly dried, they become rigid like hardwood. This means that you can use sandpaper on the filler to give a smooth finish – perfect for matching up with surrounding wood! The repair will not get damaged if screws or nails are driven into it.
Cellulose-based
Cellulose-based stainable wood fillers are not usually known as such on any packaging. Still, the product will say they contain real wood fibers and are inexpensive compared to Latex or epoxy. These water-based wood fillers can be mixed with a custom color giving it richer detail before application; many of them allow for indoor/outdoor use though there may be some exceptions, so always read the directions on the product.
Video: How to Fill Holes in Wood
Best Wood Fillers Buyer’s Guide
While they may not be complicated, wood fillers are still an essential part of any DIY project. There is more to them than meets the eye, and it’s important to know what factors matter when selecting a wood filler for your next home improvement job.
To help you with this process, we’ve compiled a list of some must-know information that will make choosing one easier!
Sanding and shaping
Wood is a rigid material, but it can still be damaged. It would be best to make sure the mixture you use dries well enough for sanding and shaping so that your piece will not have any imperfections after all of this work.
Buy on AmazonStaining and painting
Once your repair is finished, you’ll probably want to refinish the entire piece with either paint or stain. Luckily, the color goes on quickly and covers the surface; it will work well for most wood fillers. Staining can be a little more complicated; some filler materials absorb staining beautifully while others do not! If you plan to stain your project when the repair is finished, make sure that any filler material also accepts stains before using them together in this way!
Shrinking
When you apply wood filler, it’s essential to make sure that the surface is even. If your fill shrinks and exposes an old imperfection in the original material as a result of this process, then you will have to reapply more filler before letting it dry again.
Buy on AmazonDrying time
There is no set time for how long your filler will need to dry before moving onto the next step in a project. You might wait 24 hours or just 15 minutes, depending on what type of filler you choose.
You may think that glue is one of those items you can wing, but careful handling and following instructions are vital to getting the job done! Some fillers are quick-drying and require careful handling, but some can be left overnight without damaging them at all! Quick-drying adhesives can have a downside – they will ruin any materials still wet if dried while applying. Always read labels carefully and follow instructions before using adhesive products, so mistakes don’t happen.
Cracking
Filler is a great way to protect against cracks in your home, especially with significant repairs. However, the larger the area you are repairing and how close it is to its limits will determine if there’s a higher chance of cracking. This means that for big jobs like filling up an entire wall or floor space, make sure you get filler designed not to break!
Buy on AmazonColor Match
The color of wood filler should be vital if you plan on staining the repaired area. Wood fillers come in various colors so that you can match them to the natural wood. But not every filler comes in multiple shades, which may be an issue if you’re going to paint over the damage later on. If this is the case, then opt for matching your color as closely as possible when choosing what type of filler and finish you want since stains will show through any gaps or seams between pieces more quickly than paints would.
Durability
Wood filler is often used in high-risk areas to repair chips that are already there. However, the site will continue to have contact with a lot of stress on these scratches and holes after you finish your repairs, which means it’s essential for wood fillers to be durable enough to withstand constant force without breaking or chipping away like before.
Furthermore, if you know ahead of time that you may need some added strength for this process, such as drilling a hole, screwing, or nailing into the surface, then make sure you purchase an appropriate amount of quality wood glue when buying materials. They can work together seamlessly throughout all stages until completion!
Exterior durability
Many people are under the impression that you can use any type of filler both indoors and outdoors. The reality is, most fillers will soften if they come in contact with water or other liquids. Suppose you’re working on an outside project where rain may happen often. In that case, it’s vital to choose exterior durability since this characteristic helps protect your work from getting washed away when there’s moisture present around it.
Buy on AmazonWood putty or Wood filler; Which is better?
This depends on whether you are repairing wood inside or outside. Wood fillers are the best option for interior woodwork, as you can sand and paint over it to achieve an excellent result. Wood putty is better suited for external work due to its ability to be painted without needing any further treatment after application.
Wood putty is a compound that can be used in both painting and woodworking. Many seasoned experts will refer to it as “plastic wood” because of its ability to fill gaps with ease without the risk of damaging or destroying raw surfaces – such as those found on pieces made from pine.
It’s often recommended for use after staining or varnishing workpieces so they won’t get damaged by chemicals during these processes before you apply your desired finish.
Wood putty is a versatile filling agent that you can use to repair any number of different surfaces. One significant downside, though, is its long drying time.
This makes light colors more susceptible to dust accumulation and the eventual darkening from it over time; with so many color options available for this product, though, you’re guaranteed to find one that matches your wood stain or other surface needs!
Wood filler is a putty-like compound that adds not only function but also aesthetic to wood surfaces. Wood stains and finishes will adhere better if you apply the wood filler first before staining or finishing the project. Otherwise, it may not stay in place as well.
Wood filler comes in many different colors, but if yours doesn’t match, then there’s no need to worry! There are two options you can try. Add some dye with tints or mix sawdust into it for a more natural look instead – both will do just fine.
Latex is one of the most popular fillers, as it’s water-based and easy to clean up after. It is perfect for filling large cracks in unfinished wood like window or door frames. However, you can’t mix Latex with dyes, so there are no color variations if you’re using white paint, for example, but this isn’t a huge deal because we have other types of wood fillers such as epoxy and polyurethane at our disposal!
Conclusion
All of the wood fillers reviewed are the best on the market and would do a good job.
However, our Best Overall is the Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler. Suppose you’re looking for a highly versatile, easy-to-use, and affordable wood filler that can be used indoors or outdoors and accepts Minwax penetrating stains of either water-based or oil-based.
In that case, Minwax Wood Filler is the best overall. This product comes premixed, so there is no fuss; it is quick-drying, sands quickly before being painted or stained, is versatile and affordable. It will save you so much time as well as money! What’s not to like!
Our Best Value J-B Weld 8257 KwikWood Wood Repair Epoxy Putty Stick is a great, strong fix for many day-to-day DIY repairs. It sets within 15-25 minutes and cures in 1 hour, making it easy to use on the go or at home. This epoxy putty stick has a solvent-free formula that is both indoor and outdoor safe – so you can use it around your house without worrying about harming anything with harsh chemicals!
Suppose you’re looking for a top-quality solution that provides strength against shrinking, warping, or pulling away from wood surfaces. In that case, the J-B Weld epoxy putty stick might be what you need, and they are also of such incredible value!
We hope that the ten reviews and Buyer’s Guide have given you all the information you need to buy a wood filler that is right for your project, and you can now buy with confidence.
Here are some other articles you may like:
10 Best Stainable Wood Fillers & Buyers Guide
Brad Nailer Vs Finish Nailer: Which Nail Gun is Right for You?
9 Best Finish Nailers for Your Home Improvement Needs | Reviews & Buyers Guide
Here are our favorite Stainable Wood Fillers
CLICK any image to see Ratings and Reviews on Amazon
| Image | Model | Buy | Walts Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
Top  | Minwax (Model 42853000) Stainable Wood Filler, 16 oz | Click Here | 4.9 / 5 (Best Overall) |
  | Goodfilla Water-based Wood and Grain Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 (Best Value) |
  | Elmer's (Model E914) Carpenter's Color Change Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | FamoWood (Model 40022126) Latex Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.8 / 5 |
  | DAP Plastic Wood Latex Based Wood Filler (Model 211442) | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler Hardener | Click Here | 4.7 / 5 |
  | Timbermate Hardwood Wood Filler 8oz Jar | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | SYNKO Interior Latex Stainable Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.6 / 5 |
  | Varathane (Model 215198) Wood Filler | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
  | J-B Weld KwikWood Epoxy Putty Stick Wood Repair | Click Here | 4.5 / 5 |
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
- 6 Best Bathroom Paints | Reviews & Buyers Guide - October 8, 2021
- 8 Best Paint Strippers For Metal | Reviews & Buying Guide - September 30, 2021
- 9 Best Spray Paints for Metal | Reviews & Buying Guide - September 29, 2021
