Fillers

About Fillers

Fillers are essential preparation products used by decorators, builders and DIY enthusiasts to repair damaged surfaces and achieve smooth, professional finishes. From filling nail holes and hairline cracks to repairing substantial voids in walls and ceilings, the right filler ensures surfaces are perfectly prepared for painting or wallpapering. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including ready-mixed tubs for convenience, economical powder fillers for larger projects, and specialist formulations like flexible fillers for joints and deep-gap products for substantial repairs.

The filler category at MyToolShed features trusted brands including Polycell, Everbuild, Ronseal and Tetrion, each offering distinct formulations for specific applications. From quick-drying one-strike fillers that minimise sanding time to fine surface fillers for ultra-smooth finishes, modern filler technology delivers superior results across interior and exterior projects. Whether you're a professional decorator working to tight schedules or a homeowner tackling weekend repairs, choosing the appropriate filler type ensures durability, ease of application and flawless results.

Applications

• Painters and decorators – preparing walls and ceilings before painting, filling cracks and imperfections
• Plasterers – making good after plastering work and repairing minor surface defects
• Builders and general contractors – conducting repair work and making good on construction sites
• Carpenters and joiners – filling nail holes, gaps and joints in woodwork and timber surfaces
• Electricians and plumbers – making good walls and ceilings after installation work
• Property maintenance professionals – undertaking repairs across residential and commercial properties
• DIY enthusiasts – household repairs, crack filling and surface preparation before decorating
• Landlords and letting agents – maintaining rental properties between tenancies

Choosing The Right Fillers

Repair Size and Depth: Match filler type to the job. Fine surface fillers suit hairline cracks and small imperfections, general-purpose fillers handle holes up to 20mm deep, whilst deep-gap formulations accommodate substantial voids without excessive shrinkage. For very deep repairs, apply in layers allowing each to dry thoroughly.

Format Preference: Ready-mixed fillers offer immediate convenience for smaller jobs, whilst powder fillers provide economy for larger projects and professional use. Powder variants also offer adjustable consistency and extended shelf life when stored correctly in dry conditions.

Drying Time: Consider project timescales when selecting products. Quick-drying and one-strike fillers allow same-day decoration—essential for time-sensitive work—whilst standard formulations may require 2-4 hours and deep-gap products potentially need overnight curing.

Flexibility Requirements: Areas subject to movement, such as joints between different materials or around door frames, require flexible fillers that won't crack. Rigid fillers suit stable surfaces like solid walls where minimal movement occurs.

Interior or Exterior: Exterior-grade fillers contain weather-resistant compounds that withstand rain, frost and temperature changes. Interior products prioritise smooth finishing and ease of sanding but will deteriorate when exposed to weathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I can paint over filler?

Drying times vary by product and application depth. Quick-drying formulations may be ready within 30-60 minutes, whilst standard fillers typically require 2-4 hours. Deep fills may need 24 hours or longer. Always ensure filler is completely dry—most change colour when cured—and lightly sand before painting for best adhesion and finish.

Why does filler keep cracking in deep holes?

Cracking typically occurs when filler is applied too thickly in a single application. Build up deep repairs in layers no more than 10-20mm thick, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. For areas subject to movement, use flexible filler formulations rather than rigid products.

What's the difference between powder and ready-mixed filler?

Ready-mixed filler comes pre-prepared in tubs, offering convenience and consistent texture straight from the container—ideal for occasional use and smaller repairs. Powder filler requires mixing with water but provides better economy for larger projects, adjustable consistency for different applications, and longer shelf life when stored properly. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks both formats across leading brands.