Best Wood Floor Filler for Seamless Repairs: 2025 Expert Review
DR Joinery
Expert Joiner & Craftsman
Gaps, cracks, and old fixings are part and parcel of wooden flooring, especially in the older properties we see here in York. Whether it is draughty gaps in Victorian pine boards or a gouge in a new hardwood floor, choosing the correct filler is the difference between an invisible repair and an unsightly patch.
Many homeowners grab the first tub of 'wood filler' they see, only to find it cracks out or stains a completely different colour to the timber. As a joiner, I know that floorboards move with the seasons, and the filler needs to be chosen carefully to suit the specific type of repair.
In this review, I've selected three distinct products: a budget-friendly option for general prep, a professional two-part system for durable structural repairs, and a versatile kit for cosmetic touch-ups on finished surfaces.
Live in York?
Thinking about restoring your floors or fitting new hardwood?
Get a free quote from our local team.
Specs vs. The Real World
The Spec: "'Stainable' Claims"
"Manufacturers often claim their filler will take a stain exactly like natural wood."
Filler lacks grain and porosity. It almost always absorbs stain differently to the surrounding timber (usually darker). Always test a small patch first or use a coloured filler that matches the final finish.
The Spec: "Flexibility vs. Hardness"
"One filler works for everything."
Floors vibrate and expand. Very hard two-part fillers are excellent for repairing chunks before sanding, but for gaps between boards, they may crack as the wood moves. You must choose the right type for the specific defect.
My Top 3 Recommendations
Three options to cover different needs and budgets
Bartoline Ready Mixed Wood Filler White 500g
Bartoline
This is a straightforward, no-nonsense filler that is ideal for general prep work before painting. Whilst I wouldn't use standard white filler for a clear-lacquered oak floor, it is perfect for repairing painted skirting boards or architraves that meet the floor.
The Good
- Exception value for money
- Easy to sand down smooth
- Perfect for painted woodwork or skirting gaps
The Bad
- White colour stands out on natural timber finishes
- Not as structurally strong as two-part fillers
- Can shrink slightly in deep holes
Installer Tip:
If you are using this on a floor you intend to paint, overfill the hole slightly. As the water evaporates, it will shrink back. Let it dry fully before sanding it flush for a seamless finish.
Priced at £2.99 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonEverbuild 2 Part High Performance Wood Filler
Everbuild
This is what we use on site when we need a repair that is as hard as the wood itself. It is a two-part chemically curing system (like car body filler) that bonds aggressively and dries rapidly. Ideally suited for repairing rot (after treatment), knot holes, or damaged edges before sanding the whole floor.
The Good
- Extremely durable – sets rock hard
- Can be drilled, screwed, or planed once dry
- Rapid drying times allow work to continue quickly
The Bad
- Strong chemical smell during application (requires ventilation)
- Short working time once mixed (work fast!)
Installer Tip:
Mix this on a scrap piece of board rather than in the tin. You only have about 5-10 minutes of working time before it goes rubbery, so mix small batches. It's fantastic for anchoring loose screws in old floors—fill the hole, let it set, then drill a new pilot hole.
Priced at £11.80 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonWood Furniture Repair Kit, Colour Touch Up Filler
Cncedi
Sometimes you don't need a structural repair; you just need to hide a scratch or a small dent on a finished floor. This kit is excellent for cosmetic touch-ups. With multiple colours, you can mix shades to match the specific grain of your oak or laminate flooring without needing to sand the whole room.
The Good
- Allows for custom colour mixing to match grain
- No sanding required—ideal for finished floors
- Includes scraper tool for smooth application
The Bad
- Not suitable for large structural holes
- Cosmetic only—won't restore structural integrity
- Takes time to get the colour blend perfect
Installer Tip:
Start with a lighter shade and gradually mix in darker pigment. Wood is rarely one solid block of colour; sometimes slightly marbling the filler can hide a scratch better than a perfect solid match.
Priced at £5.79 at the time of writing
Check Price on AmazonFrequently Asked Questions
Can I use wood filler for gaps between floorboards?
How do I match the filler colour to my floor?
What is the difference between wood putty and wood filler?
Why does my filler crack after a few weeks?
Do you provide professional floor restoration services?
Need Professional Hardwood Flooring Installation?
Our team at DR Joinery specialises in Hardwood Flooring Installation across York.
Get a free quote for professional installation.
View Our Hardwood Flooring Installation Service