Wood Putty Ace Hardware (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between wood filler and wood putty? ›

Wood filler is intended for filling gaps, holes, and cracks in wood that is yet to be finished, and can be sanded and stained after it hardens. Wood putty is intended for filling minor gaps, holes, and cracks in wood items that are already finished and can't be sanded or stained.

The chemical composition of wood putty results in a longer drying time. Nitrocellulose-based putty takes approximately 10 minutes to harden. On the other hand, water-based wood putty takes up to 24 hours to dry while oil-based products require up to 48 hours.

The short answer is yes, you can screw into wood filler, but with some important considerations. While wood filler is not as robust as solid wood, it can provide adequate support for screws when used properly.

Our recommendation for the best wood filler is the Toupret Extrem Wood Filler, also from Toupret's filler range, as it provides a comprehensive repair system for interior and exterior wood, plus it is designed to repair both large and small gaps, cracks and holes.

It's very easy to damage wood and create a large hole. Whether your item is a wooden wall or a piece of furniture, you can easily repair it using some craft sticks and wood filler. Once you've covered the hole with wood filler, prime and paint it to give it a smooth, new finish.

Because it doesn't harden like wood filler, wood putty won't shrink or crack, but you can't sand it.

After a 6-hour cure in room temperature conditions, the Sculpwood Putty/Paste will be hard enough to sand and paint, cooler temperatures will extend this time. Both will accept any latex or water-based primer and paint. Prep the surface per the instructions of the manufacture of the primer/paint.

Minwax® Wood Putty®

A non-hardening, pre-mixed putty color-matched to Minwax® Wood Finish™ stains and intended to repair minor scratches, gouges and nail holes. Various colors available.

Acrylic Putty

That's right, this putty can not only be used for interior walls but also wooden surfaces. While accessible only in white shade, acrylic putty can give you the desired smooth finish while filling any dents on the surface. The acrylic putty is also alkali resistant and consists of special acrylic binders.

Does wood putty really work? ›

Wood putty is great for covering up nail holes, scratches, dings, and small gouges. Wood putty does not harden, making it ideal for outdoor use.

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. This process works particularly well if you're painting a whole piece of furniture that you've repaired holes on.

Wood filler is not suitable for exterior use. Difficult to adhere to stained or painted finishes.

Can I use filler instead of putty? It largely depends on what you are trying to achieve. As mentioned if you are working on an outdoor surface then you are probably better off using wood putty. However, some wood fillers are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, such as Mangers Ready Mixed All Purpose Filler.

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. This process works particularly well if you're painting a whole piece of furniture that you've repaired holes on.