Filler

This article is all about common fillers used for DIY applications.

Decorating filler

The classic example of this is "Polyfiller" a powdered plkaster like filler that is mixed and applied. Sets to a hard long lasting finish that may be sanded to achieve a very smooth finish.

• Does not shrink much as it dries
• Sands well
• Takes paint and other finishes well
• Not flexible
• Not waterproof

Decorators Caulk

A ready mixed acrylic water based filler that is ideal for filling difficult corners and cracks when decorating. Easy to work, and good for joints that may be subject to vibration and movement (e.g. along skirtings, door frames, into corners etc). Can be used to hide slight gaps between some sheets of wallpaper.

• Dries quickly and can be overpainted
• Can be removed with damp sponge while wet
• remains slight flexible to accommodate movement.
• Can't be sanded - must be tooled smooth when wet
• Shrinks a bit on curing, so not good for filling holes in walls.