Addressing nail holes can indeed pose a challenging task, as not all formulas offer the adherence required, often necessitating reapplication and potentially leading to frustrating results. So, using an incompatible formula can culminate in a visually unappealing finish, not to mention the unnecessary waste of time and additional expenses incurred.
To steer you clear of the trial-and-error phase and fast-track your way to flawless finishes, I’ve compiled a list of the most reliable putties for nail holes — products that have proven their worth and earned their place in my toolkit over many successful projects.
Reviews of the Top Putties for Nail Holes
1. 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair
I recently tried out this product for some nicks and nail holes in my walls, and was impressed. First off, it does make repairs 3 times faster compared to traditional vinyl spackling, which is a major time saver.
The result was very professional-looking, and you can’t even tell that there were any holes there. The 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair is suitable for interior and exterior use if finished with exterior paint.
The repair process was quick and easy. It could fill holes up to 3 inches in diameter without any issues. The primer-enhanced spackling compound also provided excellent hiding ability.
What I Like
- Allows for painting over the filled area.
- It can be sanded easily
- Extremely effective at filling small nail holes
- It's rffortless to use.
- It's one of the best putty for nail holes I've tried.
- It can hold screws and nails securely.
What I Don't Like
- The thickness of the product can make it difficult to extract from the container.
- The applicator may become clogged or difficult to use if not adequately cleaned after each use.
2. Mohawk Finishing Products Fill Stick Putty
The Mohawk Fill Stick Putty is my preferred solution for fixing small imperfections like nail holes, scratches, and cracks. The product comes in a stick form as a semi-hard putty and is available in various colors to match different finishes.
Using the Fil-Stik is a straightforward process. Try to apply it to the damaged area and remove the excess with a putty knife. This product is ideal for most wooden surfaces, like cabinets that don’t receive frequent use.
Additionally, there is no need for additional tools, and the product comes with protective paper to prevent dirt from getting onto my hands. This filler features a color that is resistant to fading.
What I Like
- It's easy to use and apply to wood surfaces.
- It provides a long-lasting and durable repair
- Available in a wide range of colors
- One of the best wax stick filler
- Features permanent colors that are fade-resistant
- This is perfect for small nail holes
What I Don't Like
- Not ideal for use on heavy use surfaces.
- Requires some manual effort to apply and smooth out the putty.
3. Godfilla Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler
This Godfilla Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler is money-saving and high-quality. It doesn’t crack, shrink, or sink, and it has superb adhesion. This implies that you just have to use it one time, and it will seamlessly receive any kind of stain or finish.
It is versatile and suitable for various projects, including instrument design, crafting, floor finishing, and furniture repair. It can be used for tasks such as sealing knots, filling, priming, tinting, staining, and sanding.
Additionally, it’s an environmentally friendly product that is non-toxic, produces zero waste, and has zero VOC. It’s also very easy to sand, which can save you a lot of time.
What I Like
- Packaging is of high quality and well-designed
- It dries rapidly
- One of the best grain fillers on the market
- It absorbs stains effectively
- It spreads evenly and smoothly
- This filler is very simple to use
- It's versatile, perfect for many applications
What I Don't Like
- Not suitable for use in outdoor settings
- Has a thick consistency
4. Elmer's E855 Carpenter's Wood Filler
Elmer’s E855 Carpenter’s Wood Filler seems a popular choice among DIY enthusiasts and professionals. Its sandable and paintable formula makes it versatile for repairing and restoring all types of wood surfaces, from furniture to molding and trim.
One of the standout qualities of this wood filler is its remarkable resistance to cracking and shrinking, making it an invaluable asset for achieving durable and seamless repairs that stand the test of time.
It also sands easily to a smooth and even finish, allowing for a professional-grade outcome with minimal effort. It is easy clean-up with water is another notable aspect of this product, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer eco-friendly and hassle-free solutions.
What I Like
- Will not shrink or crack over time
- It contains no solvents
- Best painters putty for nail holes
- It can be painted and sanded after drying
- Easy to clean up with water.
- Provides a smooth finish
What I Don't Like
- The tube may become clogged after it is opened.
- It can dry out if not stored correctly.
5. DAP 12346 Drydex
DAP 12346 Drydex is a popular spackling compound that claims to change color when it dries, making it easier to tell when it is ready to sand and paint.
The color-changing feature is undoubtedly the most impressive aspect of this spackling compound. The pink color of the wet compound changes to white when it is dry, indicating that it is ready to sand and paint.
One aspect of this product that stands out prominently is its rapid-drying formula, facilitating repairs and finishing touches within the same day—a convenience that I, as a professional, find incredibly valuable. The compound’s user-friendly nature and smooth spreadability further enhance the ease of application.
However, it’s worth noting that it might not be the best fit for addressing deeper holes or undertaking larger repairs. In my expert opinion, for such extensive tasks, one might need to explore other alternatives.
What I Like
- It is very simple to use
- It is suitable for both interior and exterior use
- It can be sanded when hardened
- It has an optimal dry time indicator
What I Don't Like
- Not suitable for larger repairs or deeper holes
- Difficult to squeeze the product out of the bottle.
6. Minwax 448530000 Color-Matched Filler Wood Putty
For those with multiple projects involving wood, Minwax 448530000 Color-Matched Filler Wood Putty is an excellent option. This dependable product has a no-sand formula that fills in gouges, nail holes, cracks, and other blemishes in unfinished or finished wood.
Utilizing this wood filler is a breeze; even novices will find the process straightforward. All you have to do is apply a layer over the area in need of repair, give it a mere five minutes to settle, and then gently wipe away any surplus with a damp cloth. The simplicity of not having to sand afterwards is a feature I particularly appreciate, saving both time and effort.
Another advantage of this product is that it’s solvent-free and comes in a range of wood grain colors and plain white. When finished with your project, it can be cleaned up with water and soap.
What I Like
- Dries with a natural look
- Comes in various hues
- No need for sanding or specialized equipment
- Easy to utilize
What I Don't Like
- Takes a bit longer to dry
- The size of the tube tip may make it difficult to apply the putty precisely
7. Erase-A-Hole The Original Drywall Repair Putty
The Erase-A-Hole The Original Drywall Repair Putty is an excellent solution for fixing cracks in walls and nail holes, and it’s much easier to use than traditional putty. You can swipe the putty over the damaged area, wipe off any excess, and paint over it. This made the process straightforward.
The putty itself is a good consistency and was easy to work with. It’s thick enough to fill small holes and cracks but doesn’t feel heavy or clumpy. It also dries quickly and blends in seamlessly with the surrounding area.
After applying paint, the repair seamlessly blends in, becoming indistinguishable from the surrounding area. For individuals striving to attain a finish that exudes professionalism, this aspect is paramount, especially when the end goal is a result that stands up to the scrutiny of the most discerning eyes.
What I Like
- Comes in a convenient, easy-to-store container
- Made from non-toxic materials, making it safe for household use
- Can be sanded and painted over once dry
- Dries quickly, often in under an hour
- Does not require a putty knife
- Easier to apply than most wall putty
- Best putty for repairing drywall
What I Don't Like
- The product can be messy during the application process, which may require extra clean-up time and effort.
- The lack of a putty knife may make achieving precise application in certain areas difficult.
8. Homax Nail Hole Patch Spackling
This Homax Nail Hole Patch Spackling compound comes in a convenient squeeze tube with an EZ-Dab applicator, which makes it easy to apply the product precisely wherever needed. It’s an excellent choice for filling screw holes, nails, gouges, and cracks in ceilings and walls.
The shrink-resistant properties of this spackle guarantee a durable and enduring repair, a quality I find absolutely essential in my work. What truly sets it apart, though, is the fact that it eliminates the need for sanding or troweling, significantly cutting down on time and labor.
Having used this product on numerous occasions, I can personally vouch for its rapid drying time, with the compound setting completely within just an hour—making it an incredibly efficient solution for quick repairs.
And when it comes to clean-up, it couldn’t be simpler; a bit of water is all that’s needed to remove any residual spackle, ensuring a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
What I Like
- Will not shrink or crack after drying
- Provides a professional finish
- Quick drying time (minutes)
- Best easily paintable spackling
- No need for sanding
- Easy application process
What I Don't Like
- It is not waterproof
- The container size is small, which may not be enough for larger projects
9. Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler
First off, the two-part formula of this wood filler is fantastic as it chemically bonds with the surface, ensuring a permanent adhesion. This means any repairs made using this filler are quick, durable, and non-shrinking.
The Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler is water-resistant, paintable, and stainable, making it versatile for different projects. It worked great on doors, decks, window sills, sliding, wood trim, and furniture.
I highly recommend using the Bondo Home Solutions Wood Filler alongside the Bondo Rotted Wood Restorer to repair softwood or rotting fully. Together, these products make a great combination for any DIY enthusiast or professional.
What I Like
- It is suitable for use on a wide range of wood-based items
- The filler is paintable, stainable, and water-resistant
- The repairs made are permanent, non-shrinking, and can be sanded within 15 minutes.
- It works well on most interior and exterior wood-based surfaces.
- It can effectively and rapidly repair damaged or rotted wood.
- The two-part formula creates a strong chemical bond with the surface, ensuring permanent adhesion.
What I Don't Like
- Some users may find the filler difficult to work with, particularly if they lack experience with two-part fillers.
- Proper product application requires additional items like 3M sanding sponges/sheets, rubber gloves, and a Bondo spreader.
10. Saint-Gobain ADFORS FDW9098-U Fix it Fast Wall Hole Filler
As someone who’s always on the lookout for an easy and efficient way to fix wall holes and imperfections, I was excited to try the Saint-Gobain ADFORS FDW9098.
The first thing that caught my attention was the fact that it’s an all-in-one compound, spreader, and applicator. This makes it convenient and easy to use, especially if you’re not very experienced with DIY repairs.
The filler is designed to fill holes under 2 inches, scratches, or other imperfections caused by nails and screws on your walls. Another great feature is the resealable top, which allows you to use the product multiple times. Also, for smaller repairs, there’s no need for sanding.
What I Like
- Dry quickly, often within an hour
- Does not need sanding, simplifying the repair process
- Comes with an inbuilt putty knife
- Perfectly blends into your wall, making it virtually invisible once dry
- Comes in a resealable pack
- Easy to use, even for those with limited DIY experience
What I Don't Like
- It is not as durable as other wall repair products, making it less suitable for high-traffic areas
- The product may dry out or become unusable if not stored properly
11. J-B Weld Tan KwikWood Wood Repair Epoxy Putty
This product’s shear strength of 500 psi ensures that the repair is strong and long-lasting. It’s also great that can withstand a maximum temperature of 250 degrees F.
One of the best features of the J-B Weld Tan KwikWood Wood Repair Epoxy Putty is it’s hand-mixable. This makes it easy to use, and you can quickly and efficiently apply it to any wood surface.
The putty also dries to a tan color, which is great if you’re looking for a natural wood color. It’s easy to sand down and shape to match the surrounding wood. J-B Weld does work on wood, and the fact that it can be painted, sanded, and filed after curing is a huge bonus.
What I Like
- It is easy to use.
- It adheres well to a variety of surfaces.
- Once cured, it mimics the characteristics of wood.
- It sets and cures rapidly.
What I Don't Like
- It is not suitable for use in indoor applications.
- It is only suitable for small-scale projects.
12. DURHAM'S Rock Hard Water Putty
One of the standout features of the DURHAM’S Rock Hard Water Putty is its versatility. It can be used to make long-lasting repairs in various materials, including concrete, tile, stone, drywall, plaster, wood, and more.
I found that the water putty was incredibly easy to use. It just needs to be mixed with water. It has excellent bonding strength, and it never shrinks.
Another great feature of this water putty is that it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, although it must be painted if used outdoors. The 4-pound size of this water putty is generous and offers great value for money, and you can use it for multiple projects.
What I Like
- Provides an excellent surface for staining and painting
- Suitable for sanding
- Easy to clean
- Long-lasting storage capability
- Simple to apply
What I Don't Like
- May experience slight shrinkage upon drying
- Be careful in mixing to get the right mixture.
13. Loctite Epoxy Putty All Purpose Repair
I recommend Loctite Epoxy Putty to anyone looking for a versatile, fast-setting, and reliable adhesive. It’s a go-to product for anyone who needs to make quick, emergency repairs. This can be mixed by hand and molded for fixing small emergency repairs.
It can stick to moist surfaces and can even set when submerged underwater. The adhesive comprises an epoxy resin putty and a hardener putty. When these two parts are blended, they form a strong, long-lasting, and waterproof bond.
Additionally, the adhesive doesn’t shrink and can withstand most solvents. It is highly resistant to impacts, and drilling into it won’t cause it to crack.
What I Like
- High impact resistance
- Fast and easy to use
- Appropriate for a variety of surfaces
- Can be molded to fit various shapes
- Forms strong bonds
- Dries rapidly
- Can be used effectively underwater
What I Don't Like
- Requires some manual effort and skill to mix the two parts of the adhesive.
- May have a strong odor during use.
14. FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler
FamoWood 40022126 is a professional quality wood filler that is solvent-free, has low odor, and easy to clean up with water. It is perfect for interior and exterior use and can be used on various surfaces such as wood, metal, and concrete.
One of the best features of this product is its quick drying time of just 15 minutes. It won’t shrink or crack, which is essential for long-term durability.
Another great thing about FamoWood 40022126 is that it can be planed, sanded, or drilled, making it easy to achieve the perfect finish. It also takes paints and stains just like genuine wood.
What I Like
- Easy to clean up with water
- The formula is high-strength and does not crack or sag.
- Does not emit any unpleasant odors.
- Can be painted and sanded with ease.
What I Don't Like
- The product may dry out quickly if not used within a certain period, so it's important to use it promptly once opened
- The container can be challenging to open.
15. COCONIX Wood Restore PRO Repair Kit
This COCONIX Wood Restore PRO Repair Kit is highly versatile and effective in addressing various issues that may arise with wooden surfaces. Whether it be blemishes, scratches, holes, cracks, or chips, this repair kit can handle them all, regardless of the type of material
One of the major advantages of this repair kit is that it comes with all the necessary components to get the job done. So you won’t need additional tools or products.
The repair compound provided in the kit is all required to achieve a professional-looking finish. Moreover, this kit is available in a variety of colors to ensure that you can perfectly match the surrounding material.
What I Like
- No additional tools or products are required for use
- Easy to use for repairing
- Comes in a range of colors
- Ideal for concealing scratches on both floors and furniture.
What I Don't Like
- May not be suitable for very deep or large holes or damage
- Dries at a slow rate.
Wood Filler Types to Use for Nail Holes
Solvent-Based
Solvent-based wood fillers are a type of filler that can be easily applied and come in different colors. They are known for their ability to withstand water, making them a great choice for outdoor projects or anywhere exposed to moisture.
They also work well with wood stain and paint, allowing you to customize your project. Solvent-based fillers are also effective at filling nail holes, providing a smooth surface for your final finish.
Water-Based
Putty
Putty is a type of wood filler that is recommended for beginners due to its ease of use. It comes in different forms, including epoxy [1] and polyurethane putty, and is consistent with plastic.
This texture allows it to be easily molded and shaped to fill holes and gaps in wood surfaces. Putty is also known for its quick-drying properties, which means that it can be sanded and painted over within a short amount of time.
Fillers
Fillers are made up of wood fibers and sawdust. They are typically used for interior projects and are especially popular for filling nail holes and other small imperfections in wood surfaces.
Because they are made from natural materials, fillers can be easily stained or painted to match the surrounding wood. They are also known for their ability to blend seamlessly into the surrounding wood, providing a smooth and even surface.
Wood Spackle
Wood spackle is a wood filler with a hardening formula. Initially, it is pink, but once it dries, it turns white. Wood spackle is ideal for indoor application, as it can easily fill in nail holes, cracks, and other imperfections in wood surfaces. But how long does it take for spackle to dry? Find out next!
Its unique pink-to-white formula makes it easy to see where it has been applied, ensuring it is used only where necessary. But how wood spackle compares to wood filler? Find out next!
Putty for Nail Holes: Buyer’s Guide
Amount and Coverage
When purchasing the best putty for nail holes, it’s important to consider the size of the project to determine the amount of filler needed. Fillers come in different sizes, and choosing a size that is appropriate for the size of the repair is essential.
For smaller holes and imperfections, opting for a smaller filler is recommended. This is because smaller fillers are easier to handle and more precise when filling small gaps.
On the other hand, for larger repair jobs that involve filling in bigger holes or cracks, a larger filler container may be necessary to ensure enough material is available to complete the repair.
Type of Filler
The type of filler appropriate for a particular job depends on the material being repaired. For instance, putty and wood filler are often used when working with wood surfaces.
On the other hand, wood filler, join compound, and spackle may be used when repairing drywall surfaces. It is crucial to clearly understand the material being worked on to choose the appropriate filler.
Using the wrong type of filler can result in a substandard repair job that may require rework in the future. Therefore, it is important to identify the material being repaired and choose the suitable filler accordingly to ensure the best results.
Color
To achieve an even better match, purchasing a wood filler that can be stained to match the nearby surfaces is recommended.
This can help create a seamless finish that blends in with the rest of the woodwork, making it difficult to tell that there was ever a repair in the first place.
By choosing a wood filler that can be stained, you can customize the color to match the surrounding woodwork, creating a professional-looking finish. Selecting the right filler color is crucial for a professional-looking repair that complements the surrounding decor.
Adhesion
Different fillers have varying degrees of adhesion depending on the roughness or smoothness of the surface.
For instance, non-hardening fillers are suitable for finished wood surfaces because they have a better adhesive quality that sticks well to a smoother surface. In contrast, hardening fillers are ideal for rough surfaces as they fill gaps and provide a solid finish.
Selecting the right filler adhesion is crucial for achieving a high-quality repair job. Consider the surface texture of the repaired area to help you choose the best filler for the job, ensuring that it adheres correctly.
Drying Time
The drying time of a filler is an important factor to consider when working. Some fillers can dry quickly, sometimes within hours or just minutes, while others, like wood putty, may dry completely for several days.
Choosing a filler with an appropriate drying time according to your wood project’s requirements is essential. Opting for a fast-drying filler would be ideal for finishing your project swiftly.
On the other hand, if you have the time to wait for a slower-drying filler, it may be worth choosing one that provides a more durable repair.
Material to Repair
To ensure you have the right filler for different repair tasks, I recommend purchasing a flexible filler for various materials. This way, you can tackle different repair projects without worrying about having the right filler.
Flexible fillers can be used on different surfaces, such as plastic, drywall, metal, and wood, making them an ideal choice for those tackling multiple repair tasks. It’s important to select a flexible filler that can be used on various materials to make your repair work more efficient and effective.
Pre-Mixed or Regular?
Regarding fillers, two options are available – pre-mixed or ones requiring mixing before use.
If you choose a pre-mixed filler, you will not need to spend time mixing it yourself, making it a convenient option for those who want to save time. However, pre-mixed fillers may not provide the same level of customization as the ones you mix yourself.
On the other hand, fillers that require mixing give you more control over the final result. You can create a custom mixture that meets your needs, such as adding substances to improve durability or making small adjustments to achieve the desired consistency.
Mixing the filler yourself can also be cost-effective, as it is often less expensive than pre-mixed options.
If you prioritize convenience, pre-mixed fillers may be the better option. However, if you value customization and the ability to modify the mixture, then self-mixed fillers may be the way to go.
Hardening or Non-Hardening Filler?
The two main types of fillers are non-hardening and hardening fillers. When selecting a filler, it’s important to consider which type will work best for your project and your working style.
Non-hardening fillers remain malleable after application, giving you more time to work with the material. These filters are ideal for those who want to take their time and make changes as needed before the filler sets.
In contrast, hardening fillers dry to a rock-hard consistency after a specified period. While this filler is less malleable, it provides a more durable repair that is less likely to crack or break over time.
Hardening fillers are better suited for projects where durability is a priority, and the final finish needs to be solid and long-lasting.
How Do You Prepare Your Wood Putty or Filler?
Wood putty or filler is useful for filling gaps, cracks, and holes in wooden surfaces. Here are the materials and steps to prepare your wood putty:
Materials:
- Wood glue
- Craft stick
- Tack cloth
- Electric sander, rasp, or file
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Scrap wood or cardboard
- Putty knife
Steps:
- Collect sawdust from the same type of wood as the surface you’re filling. The sawdust should be fine and dry.
- Pour an appropriate amount of wood glue into a mixing container. The amount of glue should be enough to fill the hole or gap you want to repair.
- Add sawdust to the glue while stirring with a mixing tool until you get a thick paste.
- Add sawdust and stir until the mixture has a thick, dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add more glue. If it’s too wet, add more sawdust.
- Apply the mixture to the gap or hole with a putty knife or tool. Press the putty firmly into the gap or hole, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Allow the putty to dry completely. Drying time will depend on the amount of putty used and the temperature and humidity in the room. Generally, it can take several hours or overnight to dry completely.
- Once the putty is dry, sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to achieve a smooth finish.
How to Apply the Wood Putty on the Nail Holes
Materials:
- Putty knife or scraper
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Water-based wood filler
- Damp cloth
Steps:
- Choose the appropriate color of wood putty that matches the color of the wood you’re working on.
- Scoop out a small quantity of wood putty onto your putty knife or scraper. You can use your finger to apply filler if the nail holes are small.
- Apply the putty to the nail hole, ensuring it’s slightly higher than the surrounding surface.
- Use the putty knife or scraper to flatten the putty and remove excess.
- Allow the putty to dry completely. The drying time will depend on the type of putty and the thickness of the application.
- Once the putty is dry, use fine-grit sandpaper to gently sand the surface of the putty until it’s smooth and flush with the surrounding wood.
- Wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove dust or debris.
- To clean the surface, it’s advisable to utilize a fresh or sticky cloth. However, using a tack cloth and rubbing it excessively may result in the wax getting trapped on the surface. Once you’ve cleaned the surface entirely, it’s time for stain, paint, seal, or primer.
FAQ
Is wood putty or caulk better for nail holes?
Wood putty or caulk is good for filling nail holes. But wood putty is the better choice if you have small nail holes in wood surfaces. If you have larger gaps or holes in non-wood materials or need a flexible material, caulk may be the better option.
See Also: Can You Use Caulk Instead of Wood Filler?
What is the most recommended method for filling nail holes in trim?
First, put a small quantity of filler on your index finger, ensuring not to apply too much. Next, insert the filler into the small hole and use your finger to spread it around, ensuring that the hole is filled. Repeat this process as needed until the gap is filled.
What wood filler should I use for screw holes?
The recommended method for filling screw holes is a wall joint compound or spackling with a putty knife. After application, allow the area to dry before gently sanding it. For larger holes, it is advisable to first use a bridging material for added strength before applying the patch.
Which is better, wood filler or spackle?
Each has its own purpose and is better suited for certain locations. For corners, it is recommended to use caulk. For flat surfaces, use wood filler, and for drywall, use spackle. Although they may work temporarily, using the appropriate material will provide better results.
Which spackle should I use for nail holes?
The ideal spackle for filling nail holes should have a consistency similar to toothpaste, allowing it to fill even larger holes up to six inches. Additionally, it must dry quickly, taking no more than thirty minutes to ensure the repair work is completed in no time.
My Top Pick For a Putty For Nail Holes: 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair
The 3M High Strength Small Hole Repair stands out as my top pick for the best putty for nail holes due to its remarkable performance, user-friendly application, and lasting results.
Regardless of whether you’re a homeowner dealing with minor fixes, a DIY aficionado immersed in a creative project, or a professional on the hunt for a trustworthy solution, this product is designed to surpass your expectations.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
