Finishing – filler

Lacquer-Based Fillers
- Composition: Made from wood dust mixed with lacquer.
- Drying Time: Typically dries quickly.
- Odor: Has a strong odor due to the lacquer.
- Use: Ideal for small gaps and cracks on hardwood floors.

Epoxy Fillers
- Composition: Comes in two separate components that must be mixed before use.
- Drying Time: Fast-drying and very durable.
- Application: Suitable for larger gaps and cracks, especially on engineered or laminate floors.
- Advantages: Provides a strong, long-lasting repair.

Water-Based Fillers
- Composition: Made from water and various fillers.
- Drying Time: Generally dries faster than lacquer-based fillers.
- Odor: Odorless and easier to clean up.
- Application: Works well on a variety of floor types, including hardwood, softwood, and laminate.

Preparation
- Clean the Gaps: Ensure that all gaps and cracks are free from dust, dirt, and debris. Use a vacuum or a brush to clean the area thoroughly.
- Dry Surface: Make sure the surface is completely dry before applying filler.

Filling Technique
- Small Gaps: For narrow gaps or small cracks, apply the filler directly and smooth it out with a putty knife.
- Wider Gaps: Fill in wider gaps in layers. Start with a small amount, let it dry, and then add more filler as needed.
- Large Holes: For large holes, fill in small amounts at a time, allowing each layer to dry before adding more.

Smoothing
- Leveling: After applying the filler, use a putty knife or a similar tool to level it with the surrounding surface.
- Sanding: Once the filler is dry, sand it down to achieve a smooth, flush finish with the rest of the floor.

Matching Filler to Wood
- Wood Species: Not all fillers match every wood species perfectly. For a better match, consider mixing premixed fillers or using a product like wood dough.
- Tinting: You can use universal tints to adjust the color of the filler. Add a small amount of tint to achieve a color closer to the wood.
- Special Fillers: Use specialized fillers like ebony fill for knots or other irregularities.

Draft Prevention
Sealing Gaps: Floor fillers can help seal gaps to prevent drafts and improve room insulation.
Encapsulation
Refinished Floors: When refinishing floors, fillers can encapsulate or neutralize old waxes, cleaning agents, and finishes, ensuring a clean and smooth surface for new treatments.

By choosing the appropriate type of floor filler and applying it correctly, you can effectively repair and maintain your floors, ensuring they look their best and perform well over time.