Best Wood Filler for Frames: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Site Specialist
Choosing the right wood filler for frames is not as straightforward as grabbing the cheapest tub from the merchant. In York, where our older properties suffer from damp and movement, a poor filler will simply crack or fall out within months.
There is a significant difference between cosmetic filling—getting an architrave ready for painting—and structural repairs on an external door frame where you might need to re-drill a hinge screw.
In this review, I will compare three different fillers I keep in the van: a budget ready-mixed option for fine internal work, and two heavy-duty two-part systems for when the timber needs a structural repair that will stand up to the Yorkshire weather.
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Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "Stainable Claims"
"Manufacturers often claim fillers absorb stain exactly like natural timber."
In my experience, even 'stainable' filler rarely matches the grain of the surrounding wood perfectly. It absorbs stain at a different rate, often appearing darker or flatter. For clear finishes, always test a small patch first.
The Spec: "Drillable & Screwable"
"You can screw directly into the dried filler."
Whilst two-part fillers are very strong, if you are hanging a heavy hardwood door, I always recommend splicing in new timber (a Dutchman repair) rather than relying solely on filler for the renovation of hinge positions.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Bartoline Ready Mixed Wood Filler White 500g
Bartoline
This is a staple for decorators and finish joinery. It is excellent for filling pin holes in architraves or minor hairline cracks in internal door linings before painting. However, do not use this for structural repairs or deep rot.
The Good
- Excellent value for money
- Very easy to sand down to a glass-smooth finish
- Perfect for cosmetic imperfections and pin holes
The Bad
- Not suitable for deep holds (will shrink and crack)
- Zero structural strength – cannot hold screws
Installer Tip:
Use this strictly for 'face filling'—covering nail heads and shallow scratches on internal timber. If you apply it too thick, it will sink as it dries, requiring a second coat. Apply slightly proud and sand back for a perfect finish.
Priced at £2.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonRonseal 35304 High Performance Wood Filler - Natural 550g
Ronseal
When dealing with wet rot in window sills or damaged external door frames, this is the industry standard. It is a two-part system that chemically cures to become as hard as rock. It does not shrink, making it ideal for large voids.
The Good
- Extremely tough – sets harder than some softwoods
- Can be drilled, screwed, and planed once cured
- Does not shrink or crack in deep holes
The Bad
- Strong chemical smell (styrene)
- Sets very quickly – you have to work fast
Installer Tip:
This filler uses a hardener bean size amount. Mix it thoroughly on a board until the colour is uniform. On a cold day in York, warm the tin slightly before use, or it will be stiff to mix. Overfill the hole slightly and pare it back with a sharp chisel just before it goes fully rock hard to save on sanding time.
Priced at £14.47 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonEverbuild 2-Part High Performance Wood Filler – 500g
Everbuild
Similar to the Ronseal option but often preferred for its slightly faster setting time and excellent range of colours (like Pine) which helps if you are planning to stain rather than paint. It is incredibly weatherproof, making it perfect for external frames.
The Good
- Very fast setting – ideal for site work
- Available in specific timber tones (Pine, Oak, etc.)
- Chemical cure ensures weatherproofing
The Bad
- Short working time – mix small batches
- Requires good ventilation during use
Installer Tip:
If you are repairing a frame edge, insert screws into the timber first to act as 'rebar' reinforcement, then build the filler up around them. This Everbuild filler bonds exceptionally well to metal screws, creating a composite repair that is unlikely to snap off.
Priced at £12.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Can I screw into wood filler?
How do I stop wood filler from cracking?
Should I use wood hardener before filling?
Can I use internal filler outside if I paint it?
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