Last Updated on December 22, 2023
Plywood is a versatile material used in a wide range of woodworking projects. It's popular for its strength, durability, and attractive appearance. However, plywood can have imperfections and gaps that need to be filled before painting or finishing. Choosing the right wood filler is crucial for achieving a professional and seamless result. If you're planning to work on plywood projects, it's important to do your research and find the best wood filler that suits your needs. The right wood filler will not only fill in gaps and imperfections but also bond well with the plywood and provide a smooth surface for painting or staining. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 best wood fillers for plywood projects, helping you make an informed decision and achieve outstanding results in your woodworking endeavors.
Comparison Table Chart for Best Wood Filler For Plywood
Give your plywood projects a professional touch with the top 10 best wood fillers. From dents to cracks, these fillers provide the perfect solution for a flawless finish.
| No | Product | Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carpenter's Wood Filler, Interior Only | 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 2 | DAP 211442 Plastic Latex Based Wood Filler | 9.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 3 | Elmer's E868 Carpenter's Wood Filler | 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 4 | Famowood 40002126 Latex Wood Filler Natural | 9.6 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 5 | Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler | 9.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 6 | Guardsman Wood Repair Filler Sticks - 5 Colors Plus Sharpener | 8.8 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 7 | DAP 00585 Latex 6oz | 8.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 8 | FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler - Pint | 8.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 9 | FamoWood 40022118 Latex Wood Filler - Pint | 8.4 | Check Price on Amazon |
| 10 | Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler - Maple/Beech/Pine - 8 oz By Goodfilla - Replace Every Filler & Putty - Repairs | 8.2 | Check Price on Amazon |
Top Picks for the Best Wood Fillers for Plywood
Finding the perfect wood fillers for plywood can be a challenge. Let us make it easier for you with our curated list of the top 10 products on the market. Check out our top recommendations for the best wood fillers designed explicitly for plywood.
1. Carpenter’s Wood Filler
- Elmer’s #E849D8 PT Ind/Out Wood Filler
- ELMER’S PRODUCT INC
- Craft
- This is an aftermarket of generic part
2. DAP 211442 Plastic Latex Based Wood Filler
- Low odor formula
- Will not shrink or crack
- Easily clean with only water
- Purpose of use for hardware, wood-fill
3. Elmer’s E868 Carpenter’s Wood Filler
- Paintable and sandable
- Sands easily to a smooth finish
- Resists shrinking and cracking
- Easy water clean-up
- This is an aftermarket of generic part
- Paintable and sandable
- Sands easily to a smooth finish
- Resists shrinking and cracking
- Easy water clean-up
- Resealable tube great for small jobs
4. Famowood 40002126 Latex Wood Filler Natural
- Dries in 15 minutes
- Won’t crack or shrink
- Can be sanded, drilled or planed
- Stainable and paintable
- Interior/exterior use. Temperature Range 45 Degrees to 85 Degrees F
5. Minwax 42853000 Stainable Wood Filler
- Ideal for repairing cracks, small gouges, nail holes, knot holes and other defects in all types of unfinished indoor and outdoor wood surfaces.
- Stainable Wood Filler is specially formulated to accept Minwax penetrating wood stains
- It is designed for use with oil-based and water-based wood stains
- Wood filler
- Stainable and paintable
- Interior and exterior use
- Fast drying
- Sands easily
6. Guardsman Wood Repair Filler Sticks – 5 Colors Plus Sharpener
- A no-mess, instantaneous way to maintain your wood furniture’s natural beauty.
- Fills and conceals gouges that penetrate the wood finish.
- Wood filler material won’t shrink, dry out, discolor, or rub off.
- Included colors are matched to the most popular wood finishes – – black, white, light brown, medium brown and dark brown.
7. DAP 00585 Latex 6oz
- A high-performance, solvent-based wood Filler that hardens to give a repair that is 3X stronger than the wood itself (compared to White Pine).
- This professional-grade, heavy duty wood Filler contains real wood fibers so it looks and acts like real wood.
- It can be sanded, cut, drilled, screwed, planed, stained, varnished, painted, or Lacquered
- It provides strong nail and screw anchoring without splitting
- DAP plastic wood professional wood Filler dries fast and hard, and is shrink and crack resistant
8. FamoWood 40022126 Latex Wood Filler – Pint
- Dries in 15 minutes
- Won’t crack or shrink, solvent free – low odor and easy water cleanup
- Can be sanded, drilled or planed
- Stainable and paintable
- Interior/exterior use
- Solvent free, professional quality wood filler
- Takes stains and paints like real wood
- Dries in 15 minutes with no signs of shrinkage, cracking or crumbling
- Great for indoor/outdoor use
9. FamoWood 40022118 Latex Wood Filler – Pint
- Water-based
- Has all benefits and handling properties of solvent-based wood filler and is free from solvent fumes
- The upc of the product is 076818221180
- Solvent free, professional quality wood filler
- Takes stains and paints like real wood
- Dries in 15 minutes with no signs of shrinkage, cracking or crumbling
- Great for indoor/outdoor use
- Solvent free, professional quality wood filler
- Takes stains and paints like real wood
- Dries in 15 minutes with no signs of shrinkage, cracking or crumbling
- Great for indoor/outdoor use
10. Water-Based Wood & Grain Filler – Maple/Beech/Pine – 8 oz By Goodfilla - Replace Every Filler & Putty - Repairs
- HIGH QUALITY & MONEY SAVING: Save time and money with this wood filler that does not shrink, sink, or crack, and has excellent adhesion.
- DESIGNED FOR PROFESSIONAL WOODWORKERS: This is the most innovative, easy-to-use, water-based wood filler in the WORLD.
- HARDY & CONSISTENT: As any woodworker will tell you, they throw hardened wood filler out all the time.
- MADE FOR EVERY HANDY-PERSON & WOODWORKER: Whether you have furniture to repair, a floor to finish, a craft to complete or an instrument to design, this is YOUR product.
- USA MADE & 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE: Your experience with this product is our number one priority.
How to Determine the Best Wood Filler for Plywood Project
Choosing the best wood filler for a plywood project involves considering many factors, such as the type of project, the size of the gaps or imperfections you need to fill, and the finish you plan to apply. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you determine the best wood filler for your plywood project:
Assess the Project
Consider the type of plywood project you're working on. Is it an indoor or outdoor project? Will the plywood be painted or stained? Is it a small repair or a larger surface area that needs filling? Understanding the project's specific requirements will help you choose the right wood filler.
Types of Wood Fillers
There are different types of wood fillers available, each with its characteristics. The most common types include:
Water-based wood fillers: Suitable for indoor use, easy to clean up, and can be painted over. Solvent-based wood fillers: More durable and water-resistant, suitable for outdoor projects, but require proper ventilation when using. Epoxy wood fillers: Extremely durable and water-resistant, ideal for outdoor use, but can be more challenging to work with and may require mixing.Consider the Plywood Finish
Determine whether you plan to paint, stain, or leave the plywood with a natural finish. Some wood fillers are better suited for painting, while others are designed to accept stains or remain natural. Read the product labels to ensure compatibility with your finishing plans.
Filling Depth and Size
Assess the depth and size of the gaps, cracks, or imperfections in the plywood. Some wood fillers are better for shallow, small repairs, while others can fill deeper gaps. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for maximum filling depths.
Application Ease
Consider your experience level and the ease of application. Some wood fillers are more forgiving and easier to work with for beginners, while others may require more skill and experience.
Drying Time
Different wood fillers have varying drying times. Some dry quickly, allowing you to move on with your project sooner, while others may require more time to cure. Choose a wood filler that aligns with your project timeline.
Standability
Ensure that the wood filler can be sanded to a smooth finish. Standability is especially important if you're working on a project that requires a flawless surface, such as furniture or cabinetry.
Paintability and Stainability
If you plan to paint the plywood, make sure the wood filler is compatible with the paint. If you intend to stain the plywood, choose a filler that accepts stain evenly and matches the wood's color.
Durability
Consider the durability requirements of your project. If the plywood will be exposed to moisture, sunlight, or heavy wear and tear, opt for a wood filler that offers good durability and resistance to these elements.
Test on Scrap Plywood
Whenever possible, test the selected wood filler on a scrap piece of plywood before applying it to your actual project. This task will allow you to assess how well it performs and ensure it meets your expectations.
FAQs:
1. Can I use any wood filler for plywood, or should I look for specialized products?
Answer: While you can use general-purpose wood fillers for plywood, it's often better to choose specialized products designed for plywood repairs. These fillers are formulated to work well with the unique properties of plywood, such as its layered structure and potential for voids. They typically offer better adhesion and compatibility, making them a more reliable choice for plywood projects.
2. What is the best way to apply wood filler to plywood surfaces?
Answer: To achieve the best results, start by cleaning the plywood surface thoroughly and removing any loose particles or debris. Then, apply the wood filler generously to the damaged area using a putty knife or a similar tool. Ensure the filler is slightly raised above the surface to account for shrinkage during drying. After it dries, sand the filled area to achieve a smooth and even finish that matches the surrounding plywood.
3. How long does it typically take for wood filler to dry on plywood?
Answer: The drying time for wood fillers on plywood can vary depending on the product and environmental conditions. In general, most wood fillers will dry to the touch within 15-30 minutes. However, complete drying may take several hours or even overnight. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific product you're using and consider factors like temperature and humidity that can influence drying times.
4. Can wood fillers for plywood be stained or painted to match the plywood's appearance?
Answer: Yes, many wood fillers for plywood are designed to be stainable and paintable. After the filler has fully dried and been sanded smooth, you can apply wood stain or paint to match the surrounding plywood's color and finish. Be sure to choose compatible products and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for best results.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best wood filler for your plywood project will depend on your specific work and preferences. By considering these factors and doing some research, you can make an informed choice and achieve the desired results for your project.