Wood fillers can be used for various repairs; you can even hide these fillers by painting over them. But without proper research, you may end up buying the wrong kind and destroying the material instead of repairing it.
So, to save you the headache and hours of research, I’ve personally tested some of the best wood fillers for painting.
Reviews of the Top Wood Fillers for Painting
1. Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler
The Minwax 42853000 wood filler is incredibly versatile, compatible with both water and oil-based stains. This allows for a lot of flexibility in choosing a color that best complements the wood I’m working on.
I like that this Minwax 42853000 filler only takes 15 minutes to dry after application. After that, it’s just as workable as natural wood; I can paint it, drill into it, stain it, sand it down, and even nail into it.
I also appreciate the convenience of Minwax’s latex-based formula, which saves me the hassle of mixing different components before diving into my project. Some of the many interiors and exterior projects benefit from Minwax’s versatility: furniture, fences, windows, baseboards, frames, and decks. Also, this is one of the best wood fillers for doors.
What I Like
- Easy to use, I didn't struggle with application
- I like the convenience of the pre-mixed formula; it saves me from measuring and mixing myself
- It can be painted, stained, drilled, and sanded
- Another plus is its compatibility with both water- and oil-based stains, making it useful for a variety of projects
What i Don't Like
- I noticed it takes a bit longer to dry, which could slow down project timelines
- Given its formula, I found it to be better suited for smaller repairs rather than large-scale jobs
2. FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler
This latex-based wood filler from FamoWood 40022126 comes in a convenient bulk bag, making it ideal for projects like basement finishing or fixing up old hardwood floors.
It’s easy to apply, and resistant to breaking and shrinking as this 24-ounce bucket of stainable wood filler is made from a latex-based formula. Since there are no solvents in this filler, there’ll be no unpleasant scents throughout the application process.
FamoWood filler has several uses inside and outside the house. Whether I’m restoring a piece of furniture, patching up holes in the fence, or touching up baseboards, this filler holds up well. The fact that it’s malleable enough to be treated with dyes, stains, drills, screws, and even sandpaper makes it an indispensable item in my toolbox.
(Also Read: The Best Drillable Wood Filler)
What i Like
- It's resistant to cracking and shrinking so it holds up well over time
- I found it malleable after application, which is helpful when adjustments are needed
- I was relieved to discover that the formula is solvent-free, meaning no strong odors during the application
- Quick drying time is a definite advantage; it let me move on to the next step of my project faster
- Dries hard
What I Don't Like
- Opening the container gave me a bit of trouble; it's not as user-friendly as it could be
- I noticed the consistency is on the thicker side compared to other wood fillers
3. Elmer's E892 Stainable Wood Filler 32 oz
Elmer’s Carpenter’s E892 Stainable Wood Filler is great for novice DIYers who dread having to guess when the wood filler is dry enough to sand.
This unique composition is a water-based, no-mix filler that first appears purple but dries to a natural color, making it suitable for painting, staining, and sanding.
I was particularly impressed with how quickly the filler dried, and to my relief, it didn’t shrink as it cured. In fact, once sanded, the finish was up there with some of the best I’ve tested. The texture was a bit on the thicker side during application, but that ended up being a good thing. It packed tightly into the wood holes and sanded down to a smooth finish effortlessly. It’s water-based and doesn’t require any mixing, which made the whole application process a breeze.
What I Like
- What stood out to me was its natural color when dry; it blended seamlessly with the wood
- I noticed very little shrinking after it dried, keeping the repair intact
- No cracking occurred, which is usually a concern with other wood fillers
- The finish quality is excellent, making the repair hardly noticeable.
- The filler can be altered easily, offering some room for customization if needed.
What I Don't Like
- Keep in mind it's best suited for indoor applications; I wouldn't use it for outdoor repairs
- I did find the consistency to be a bit thick, so it may require some extra effort to spread smoothly
4. Abatron WoodEpox Epoxy Wood Replacement Compound
Abatron WoodEpox, an epoxy-based wood filler, prevents water damage to any deck. What sets this epoxy-based wood filler apart is its resistance to water, mold, mildew, and rot. That means I don’t have to worry about the patches becoming a haven for pests.
This epoxy is packaged in two separate containers– each containing half of the filler needed to fill 12 ounces. I appreciated that because it allowed me to control the consistency better.
Once this wood filler has dried, it will be permanently attached to the surrounding wood and will not expand or contract with the seasons or the weather. I also found that the cured filler was incredibly workable, allowing for sanding, painting, or staining to achieve the exact finish I was aiming for.
What I Like
- Moisture-resistant
- It can be painted, sanded, and stained
- It does not shrink or crack
What I Don't Like
- A bit expensive
- It is not pre-mixed
Wood Fillers for Painting Buyer’s Guide
Filler Type
Cellulose-based, gypsum-based, vinyl-based, and epoxy-based are the four primary formulations of wood fillers you can paint over.
The packaging of cellulose-based fillers will state that they’re made with genuine wood pulp. These wood fillers are less expensive than fillers made from latex or epoxy.
Stainable wood fillers made of gypsum are commonly used for indoor repair work, including filling gaps in baseboards and walls.
Stainable wood fillers based on latex are frequently utilized for outdoor applications since they require less prep work than epoxies. They harden in under an hour and are waterproof almost immediately after application.
(Also Read: The Best Exterior Wood Filler for Outdoor Applications)
The most lasting and resistant wood fillers are epoxy-based, but they need the greatest priming before you can use them.
Drying Time
Dry periods vary significantly between the various wood fillers. It is essential to carefully review the drying time indicated on the product packaging to ensure it aligns with your specific project requirements, allowing you to achieve the desired results efficiently and effectively.
This can be a game changer if you’re trying to meet a strict deadline. The wood filler should be allowed to dry for hours before sanding, regardless of the instructions on the container. If you start rubbing before the wood filler fully dries, you’ll have uneven coverage and other application problems.
FAQ
Should I use a wood filler before painting?
You should use a wood filler before painting over holes or wood cracks. However, after the wood filler has dried, you should sand it first, apply a primer, and then finally paint over it.
How do you stop fillers from showing in the paint?
To stop fillers from showing in paint, you must smooth and level off any areas where the filler is. The filler needs to be primed before painting so that the paint doesn’t soak in too quickly.
My Top Pick For a Wood Filler for Painting: Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler
After trying out multiple options, I have to say Minwax 42853000 stands out as the best wood filler for painting. The composition in this water-based filler is created from actual wood fibers [1], so the patch it leaves behind is strong and long-lasting.
Whether I’m working on an indoor or outdoor project, this filler has me covered. Plus, the ability to paint and stain it after it dries adds to its versatility.
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.
