A good article on putties, fillers, etc.    While oriented toward trim carpenters and painters, still some decent advice.

I've used all sorts of stuff depending upon phase of project, size of damage, and visibility criteria -- putty, Bondo, stick epoxy ("tootsie rolls",  hard waxes, soft waxes, burn-in sticks, glue and sawdust, and "water putty"     What's your favorite?  Do your  best, putty the rest?

I’ve used dry wall compound 

1 minute ago, lew said:

I’ve used dry wall compound 

The pre-mixed or "setting compound"?    I like the latter because it doesn't shrink or come off if wet.   Unless you want to wipe to level unless sand.

 

I am like you depends on various factors.  I will use premix drywall compound on inside projects that get painted.  Other fillers as needed if stained, or natural finish is used.

For years, I thought that fillers and putties were the same.  I have used the tootsie rolls at work.  Thanks, Keith.  I learned something beneficial.

1 hour ago, kmealy said:

The pre-mixed or "setting compound"?    I like the latter because it doesn't shrink or come off if wet.   Unless you want to wipe to level unless sand.

 

The Pre-mix. It is convenient 

I had always kept a can of Bondo around for all sorts of stuff, and I've used Behlen's Rock Hard as well, bit only on painted projects. I then learned about the JB Weld Wood Epoxy, and it's now my goto.  But I've still not found anything I really think is perfect for the stuff that doesn't get painted. I've not rried Timbermate and it gets a lot of good press, I may have to give it a try.

Is that JB Weld a putty product?   I've only used their metal filler a couple of times.

It is indeed a putty product (both parts, resin and hardener).

Two thumbs up for Timbermate, @Fred W. Hargis Jr. Easy application, water based, easily sanded, takes stain, mixable for that just right color, not too hard on the wallet. 

I do a lot of resin work with mesquite. Some voids are fairly deep. To save $$ (resin ain't cheap) some Behlen's Rock Hard fills the bill...and the holes.

Edited November 20, 20196 yr by Gene Howe