Do you have any unsightly cracks, holes, and other signs of damaged wood? A stainable wood filling can be used to repair these.
There are many stainable wood fillers on the market, but our experts are here to help you choose products with just the right consistency and dry rates. Here are some of the best wood fillers for interior and exterior applications.
Reviews of the Top Stainable Wood Fillers
1. FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler
FamoWood 40022126 filler is among the best stainable wood filler in the market, and a better alternative for epoxy wood fillers. In fact, it is one of the most versatile and stainable formulas being sold. This latex wood filler comes in various types of colors and tones that you don’t need to sand, stain or paint.
Aside from that, this latex filler does not have any strong smell and odor as it is solvent-free. It is also ideal for massive repair, project, and wood furniture.
It’s fast-drying, and within 15 minutes you can prepare the formula nice and firm. You won’t have to worry whether it would shrink or crack.
What We Like
- No need to paint or stain simultaneously as you can choose from different colors and available tones
- It sets fast but does not shrink and crack in the long run
- It can be used to fill and repair enormous gouges and holes of both furniture and surface
- Highly recommended for outdoor use
- Very affordable
What We Don’t Like
- Does not have a long shelf life
- It can easily dry out when not closed properly
2. J-B Weld 40007 Wood Restore Epoxy Putty Kit
J-B Weld 40007 Epoxy kit is a heavy-duty epoxy wood filler. It comes in a 2-piece resin and hardener which is mixed and blended using a putty knife. Just keep in mind that you need to be quick as it dries up fast, quicker than most wood fillers.
Make sure to apply the epoxy to your wood project or for repair areas within 10 minutes before it starts curing. After an hour, it will set. Leave it for another day so it will be ready for staining and for paint. Right after, you can mold and sand it down the way you like, similar to natural wood.
What We Like
- Heavy duty and strong
- It does not shrink
- Structural strength to rotted wood
- Contains no solvents
- Easy to use
- Can be sanded, tapped in 60 minutes
What We Don’t Like
- It dries up fast; it can’t be manipulated once cured
- Wood filler comes with an expensive price tag
3. Elmer’s E887Q Stainable Wood Filler, 3.25-Ounce
The Elmer’s E887Q is very easy to use as this filler comes in a plastic container which allows you to access the filler easily. It is a creamy formula that lets you mix everything without a hassle. You can just squeeze out the product and fill any holes such as a stripped wood screw hole, or cracks and any damaged wood.
Another good thing about Elmer’s E887Q Stainable Wood Filler is it creates a less bumpy wood when it dries out. You won’t notice the filler that has been applied. This wood filler epoxy formula is recommended for both indoor and outdoor projects as it obtains an ability of water resistance. For more options, check the top-quality epoxy wood fillers here!
What We Like
- Elmer’s does not shrink over time
- A filler perfect for staining
- It dries up within 15 minutes or less
- Solvent-free
- Applicable for both indoor and outdoor use
- It flattens when applied to any cracks or holes
- Works best for personal or DIY projects
- Easy to handle due to creamy consistency
What We Don’t Like
- It comes in a small tube which means it only has a small amount
- Can dry up fast even when the cap is secured
4. Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler, 16 ounce
Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler works flawlessly, be it oil-based or water-based. The wood filler (16 ounce) can be used on virtually every material, and not just on wood.
You can rely on Minwax whether it’s exterior or interior applications. There’s no long waiting time as well since it dries up fast within at least 15 minutes.
However, when it comes to fast-drying, this stainable wood filler is mostly recommended for small projects. Since the filler is easily cured, using it on bigger projects won’t give you enough time to manipulate the formula.
What We Like
- Minwax filler is very easy to sand
- Wood filler is good for repairing both outdoor and indoor furniture or any wood surfaces
- Dries within 15 minutes or less
- It will not shrink or crack
- Good consistency
What We Don’t Like
- It is not recommended for repairing a big project or furniture
- Can clump on application
5. Bondo All-Purpose Putty
Another best stainable wood filler in the market is 3M Bondo All-Purpose Putty, which is a polyester putty product. When it comes to repairing, this type of formula promises a same-day result as you can complete the whole process within 30 minutes. Just mix the filler and hardener and sand the filler for about 15 minutes. Afterward, the formula will be ready for sanding and staining unlike any other type of wood filler that takes up to 24 hours to be cured.
However, since it sets very fast, you must be accurate because you can’t manipulate the formula. It would be much better to plan before applying this type of wood filler.
What We Like
- Ideal for a heavy-duty repair, project, or enormous furniture
- It can be used to fill real wood issues such as cracks, holes, gouges, and more
- It won’t shrink in the long run
- Extremely durable and strong epoxy
- It can be used to fill other types of material
What We Don’t Like
- It won’t allow you a lot of working time as it dries up very fast
- Color change when mixing is not distinct
6. Goodfilla Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler
This Goodfilla Water-Based Stainable Wood Filler is an affordable choice that does not shrink or crack. You only need to apply it once on surfaces, and then it does the job with any wood stains or finishes. Application is easy and so is mixing with any stains and pigments, regardless if you are a professional or a seasoned woodworker.
The stainable filling can also be kept on your shelf for a long time. Besides being able to reconstitute with water, it doesn’t freeze during colder seasons. The stainable wood filler is also a time saver because it is easy to sand. Moreover, Goodfilla is non-toxic and has zero waste.
What We Like
- Has excellent adhesion
- Promises unlimited shelf life because it reconstitutes with water
- Easy to sand
- Green product: non-toxic and has zero waste
- Made in the USA
- Refundable up to a year
What We Don’t Like
- Not as absorbent as desired
- The smell can be overpowering
7. Timbermate Wood Filler
The best stainable wood filler is easy to use, just like this Timbermate filling. Our woodworkers can count on it for any project and any material, be it maple, pine, or beech. It works quickly without shrinking, cracking, or falling out, but you also have time before applying finish and making it permanent.
This product promises zero waste [1]. Just scoop up the filling that’s left unused back into the container. If you’re not happy with your application, removal is easy as watering it down. Timbermate Wood Filler does freeze, but you can thaw it by putting it in the microwave.
What We Like
- Easy to use and prepare
- Can be used for all sorts of repairs
- Dries fast
- Zero waste
What We Don’t Like
- The wood filler freezes
- Can react with tools that are not plastic or stainless steel
Stainable Wood Filler Buyers Guide
Wonder how we came up with our list of best wood fillers? Here are some factors to consider.
Purpose/Use
To effectively address larger holes or cracks in your project, it is advisable to use wood filler available in bulk packaging. Opting for small containers may not provide sufficient coverage for extensive repairs. Purchasing in larger quantities saves you time and offers cost-saving benefits.
However, it still depends on where and what you will use it for. If you intend to only use it for a one-time repair or to fill a small hole, then small containers are ideal. But for heavy-duty projects and emergency purposes, it’s better to purchase the massive ones.
Type of Stainable Wood Filler
There are two types of wood fillers: water-based and solvent-based wood fillers.
Water-based wood fillers use water as their primary base. This type of stainable wood filler is composed of wood fibers, gypsum, and cellulose. It has a long shelf life, is non-toxic, and is very safe to use. It does not produce a strong odor which makes it ideal for indoor use.
On the other hand, solvent-based wood fillers can be easily noticed by their strong and overpowering smell. But compared to water-based filler, this type of filler has stronger resistance when it comes to humidity and temperature. This is why our experts suggest this filler for use in the outdoors.
Choosing the type of filler really depends on where you intend to use it. Just consider all the factors and probabilities that come along with it.
Versatility
One characteristic of the best wood filler is its capability to adapt a stain and paint. Most experts evaluate a wood filler and consider it as a good product based on its staining or painting rate. It is a big factor when it comes to choosing the right formula as through its stain or paint, you can depend and expect better outcomes.
Another factor to consider when selecting the best stainable wood filler is the drying time of the wood stain . People often think that fast drying solutions are always better since they won’t accumulate longer waiting times. However, there are other things to factor in.
When working on a massive project, you should opt for the slow-to-dry fillers so you can still have the opportunity to manipulate the formula once applied. Only use the fast drying filler when you intend to use it for small projects and repairs.
Aside from the stainable ones, you can also opt for drillable fillers in wood for added versatility.
Wood Putty or Wood Filler?
To our professionals, there’s a big difference when it comes to comparing a wood putty to a wood filler. Wood putty is an oil-based formula, often used in furnished wood, and can be used in any type of surroundings and conditions.
Wood fillers can be water-based and solvent-based which is ideally used indoors and sometimes outdoors.
If you intend to use a product to fill in big holes, smoothen unfinished lumber, flatten out a porous surface, and repairs that need a quick turnaround, then wood filler is the best choice.
But if you are thinking of using it on a varnished surface or furniture, wood putty is an efficient alternative. Just by using a putty knife or even your finger, you can easily dab the formula to fill or cover the intended area. It has a lot of available shades as well that can easily match the stain of the surfaces.
How To Use Stainable Wood Filler
STEP 1 – To apply wood filler, squeeze out enough, spread it to the intended area, and gently press it using a putty knife.
STEP 2 – Intentionally fill up until above the surface to allow sanding. Remove excess when done.
STEP 3 – Allow the fillers to dry up completely. Leave it for a few hours.
STEP 4 – Smoothen out the surface by sanding and remove sand residue once finished.
STEP 5 – Before the filler dries up, clean and rinse your hand by using soap and water.
After it dries up, you will have to stain the filler. Pick a stain that matches the color and tone to achieve a brand new-looking platform. To avoid mistakes, test out the stain on scrap wood.
Once you get the perfect shade of stain, apply a protective clear finish for a long-lasting result.
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FAQ
Does a stainable wood filler work?
Yes, wood fillers are widely used as a primary formula for repairing imperfections. Some wood fillers are appropriate for large holes and gaps, while others are only appropriate for small holes and gaps. It dries up fast and does its job perfectly without compromising the quality.
Are wood fillers as strong as wood?
There are instances that the wood filler is stronger than the real ones, take softwoods like pine for an example.
How are wood fillers prepared?
Most often, these fillers come in a kit. You will only need to mix the wood particles with the binder until it is blended evenly.
Our Top Pick For a Stainable Wood Filler:
FamoWood 40022126 Latex Filler
The FamoWood 40022126 latex filler stains the best compared to others, and is also very versatile as it comes with different shades and tones. It lasts long and is very durable. Also, there are no strong odors because it is water-based. This wood filler’s drying time might be fast but our team suggests it for both outdoor and indoor use.
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