How to apply wall filler to get the best paint job results
Before starting to paint walls or ceilings, you must prepare your surfaces to get a smooth finish. Old walls and ceilings that need redecoration might have hairline cracks or holes created by picture hangings or wear and tear. To get the best paint finish, you could use wall filler to plug and seal these imperfections without having to re-plaster. Here is everything you need to know about wall filler and our step-by-step guide on how to apply wall filler for the best results.
Table of contents
- How to use filler on a wall
- How to apply wall filler
- How to smooth wall filler
- Can you paint over the wall filler?
- Does wall filler provide a long-lasting finish?
How to use filler on a wall
Firstly, you need to know that there are various types of wall filler. If you have chosen a ready-to-use polymer filler, you can use this directly on the wall. However, if you have a powder filler, follow the instructions on the packet to mix it correctly.
There are also roll-on fillers like the Everbuild Filler Coat, which is easily painted on like regular emulsion but is thicker and will fill thin hairline fractures and cover up stains and dark paint colours all in one, preventing you from using multiple layers of emulsion.
Wall fillers are an easy-to-use substitute for traditional and challenging plastering and are significantly more versatile. If you only have a few small holes to fill to get the perfect finish, there is no need to go through the hassle of plastering. Some ready-to-use wall fillers can fill 75mm deep and 50 mm wide holes in one application. But products like Ronseal Big Hole Filler can reach even further for large holes.
Furthermore, plaster has a time limit from when you mix it until it becomes hard and unusable, whereas tub filler will be good to use for 24 months.
Who can use wall fillers?
As well as a DIY decorator, wall filler can also be an excellent tool for plumbers, electricians, joiners and general builders as they can use it to coat or patch small repair jobs, for example, over recessed cable trunking or around wall holes where they install piping and sockets without the need for a plasterer.
Where can you use wall fillers?
You are also not limited to filling plaster. With wall filler, you can also fill brick, stone, wood, render, advantages, concrete and render, internally and externally, depending on the brand. However, please note that you cannot use wall fillers on plastic or metal. These materials require specific fillers.
How to apply wall filler
Our step-by-step guide shows you how to apply wall filler and all the tips and tricks to achieve a smooth finish.
- Firstly, ensure your walls are clean, dry and free from dust and grease. Dirt will prevent the wall filler from fusing well with the wall.
- Also, make sure you have the correct wall filler for the job. You can use some wall fillers inside and outside, but some are interior fillers only, so check the filler type before you start the job.
- Always apply wall filler between 5°C and 30°C, as freezing temperatures can damage the filler.
- If using wall filler externally, don’t apply it when rain is imminent, as the moisture will affect its drying and setting capabilities.
- Also, don’t use wall filler in an area you know continually gets submerged with water.
- If using ready-mixed filler, use a spatula or spreader knife to use the wall filler directly from the tub and apply it to the hole or crack.
If you are using a wall filler brand like Tetrion or Everbuild, you will have to let the filler dry for two hours before it’s dry to the touch, and if you wish to paint over it, you will have to let it dry for 24 hours. However, if you want to fill and start painting on the same day, use One Strike Quick drying multi-purpose filler, as it’s ready to paint after 30 minutes of drying.
How to smooth wall filler
Creating a smooth surface takes practice. Luckily, wall filler is forgiving and easier to use than plaster. If you’re using a filling knife, it’s easy to press on and spread to create a smooth surface. If there are some lumps and bumps, you can effortlessly sand them off with a piece of grit sandpaper. Our Gyproc sanding paper is ideal for sanding walls. When sanding, always wear the appropriate dust mask so you don’t inhale the dust particles.
Can you paint over the wall filler?
Most wall fillers dry white, so you can paint over it with either a primer or sealer if there is a stark contrast to the rest of the wall when fully dried. Or paint your colour directly over it.
Does wall filler provide a long-lasting finish?
As well as filling in holes and cracks in the walls to get the most professional paint job possible, wall filler will dry hard but flexible, meaning that if the temperature changes during the year, it will expand and contract naturally with the wall without cracking or shrinking.
Also, you won’t get recurring hairline cracks or cracks within the wall filler. Nor will it sag, even if you use it on the ceiling. Additionally, you can drill through the dried filler to redrill holes for hanging pictures as it dries strong.
Wall filler at Build & Plumb
Wall filler is essential for any DIY enthusiast or a professional tradesperson. So, if you’re about to embark on a redecoration project, why not browse our selection of wall fillers to suit your needs and complete your job to a professional standard? We offer a range of premium brands that provide the best finishes for all types of walls and ceilings.
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