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Wall & Wood Fillers, Putty & Repair Solutions product guide

AI Summary

Product: Wall & Wood Fillers, Putty & Repair Solutions Brand: Selleys Category: Wall fillers, wood fillers, putty, and specialty repair solutions Primary Use: Repairing cracks, holes, and surface damage on interior and exterior walls, timber, concrete, and decorative plasterwork for professional and DIY applications.

Quick Facts

Common Questions This Guide Answers

  1. Can I use interior filler outdoors? → No — interior fillers are not formulated for moisture, UV exposure, or temperature movement; always use an exterior-rated product outside.
  2. How long before I can paint over Selleys filler? → Generally 2–4 hours under normal conditions; deeper repairs or humid conditions will extend drying time.
  3. Why does my filler keep cracking after it dries? → Most commonly caused by applying too thick a layer in one coat, insufficient surface preparation, or using an interior product in moist or high-movement conditions.

Wall & Wood Fillers, Putty & Repair Solutions

Get professional results every time with Selleys' trusted range of wall and wood fillers, putty, and repair solutions. Whether you're a seasoned tradie or tackling your first home repair, Selleys delivers the performance you need to get the job done right the first time.

Why choose Selleys for filling and repair?

With over 80 years of experience, Selleys has built its reputation on one simple promise: if it's Selleys, it works. The range covers everything from minor surface imperfections to major structural repairs. When the result matters, professionals and DIYers alike reach for Selleys.

Wall fillers & repair solutions

Interior wall repair

Cracks, holes, and surface damage don't stand a chance against Selleys' interior wall repair range. These high quality formulations bond firmly to plaster, render, and plasterboard surfaces, delivering smooth, paintable finishes that look as good as the original surface — or better.

What Selleys interior fillers deliver:

Whether you're patching a small nail hole or repairing a significant crack, Selleys has the right product for the job.

Exterior wall repair

Outdoor surfaces take a constant beating — rain, UV exposure, temperature swings, and structural movement. Selleys exterior repair solutions are built to handle all of it. Formulated for flexibility and weather resistance, these products hold their integrity season after season, protecting your surfaces and keeping them looking sharp.

Key performance outcomes:

When you need exterior repairs that last, Selleys delivers. No second guessing. No redoing the job next season.

Wood fillers & putty

Wood repair that holds

Wood surfaces need a filler that bonds with strength, accepts stain or paint evenly, and stands up to everyday use. Selleys wood fillers and putty are built for exactly this — delivering a hard, durable repair that works with the wood, not against it.

Selleys wood fillers are designed for:

Whether you're restoring a feature timber floor, repairing outdoor decking, or finishing joinery work, Selleys wood repair products give you the confidence to achieve results you're proud of.

Putty for a precision finish

For glazing, fine surface work, and detailed finishing tasks, Selleys putty delivers the workability and reliability that tradespeople demand. Smooth application, dependable adhesion, and a finish that holds — that's what Selleys putty brings to every job.

Specialty repair solutions

Some repair jobs call for something more specific. Selleys' specialty repair range meets those demands with targeted solutions for particular surfaces and situations.

Specialty applications include:

Choosing the right filler for your job

The right product makes all the difference between a repair that lasts and one that needs redoing. Here's how to match the product to the task:

Job Type Surface Recommended Solution
Small cracks and holes Interior plaster/plasterboard Interior wall filler
Large cracks or damaged sections Interior walls Patching compound or setting compound
Exterior cracks and damage Render, masonry Exterior flexible filler
Wood holes, knots, gouges Timber (interior/exterior) Wood filler or wood putty
Concrete damage Paths, slabs, walls Concrete repair product
Decorative plaster Cornices, ceiling roses Fine finishing compound
Glazing and window work Timber frames Glazing putty

Not sure which product suits your specific repair? The Selleys team is always ready to point you in the right direction — because getting it right the first time starts with using the right product.

Application tips for professional results

Selleys products are straightforward to apply, but following these steps will get you the best possible outcome every time.

Surface preparation

This is where professional results are won or lost. A well-prepared surface means the filler bonds properly, shrinks minimally, and holds for the long term.

  1. Clean the area — Remove all loose material, dust, grease, and contaminants from the repair zone
  2. Undercut cracks — For larger cracks, undercut slightly to create a key for the filler to grip
  3. Dampen porous surfaces — Wet plaster, masonry, and timber surfaces lightly before applying filler to prevent rapid moisture absorption that weakens adhesion
  4. Prime if required — Some surfaces benefit from a primer or bonding agent before filling, particularly on highly porous or previously painted substrates

Application

  1. Use the right tool — A flexible filling knife gives you control over application and feathering. For larger repairs, a wider blade speeds up the process
  2. Apply in layers for deep repairs — Don't try to fill deep holes or cracks in a single application. Build up in layers of no more than 6–10mm, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next
  3. Overfill slightly — Apply the filler proud of the surface. This accounts for any minor shrinkage and gives you material to sand back flush
  4. Feather the edges — Blend the filler smoothly into the surrounding surface to minimise the amount of sanding required

Finishing

  1. Sand when fully dry — Always wait for the filler to reach full cure before sanding. Sanding too early can drag the filler and leave an uneven surface
  2. Work through grits — Start with a coarser grit to level the repair, then finish with a finer grit for a smooth, paint-ready surface
  3. Prime before painting — A coat of primer over the repaired area ensures even paint absorption and a consistent finish across the entire surface
  4. Inspect in raking light — Hold a light source at a low angle across the repaired surface to reveal any remaining imperfections before you paint

Frequently asked questions

How long should I wait before painting over filler? Drying times vary by product, repair depth, and environmental conditions. Always check the specific product instructions. As a general guide, most interior fillers are ready to sand and paint within 2–4 hours under normal conditions. Deeper repairs or humid conditions will extend this time.

Can I use interior filler outdoors? No. Interior fillers are not formulated to handle moisture, UV exposure, or temperature movement. Always use a product specifically designed for exterior use on outdoor repairs. Using the wrong product means the repair won't hold — and you'll be back doing the job again.

My filler keeps cracking after it dries. What's going wrong? Cracking after drying is usually caused by one of three things: applying too thick a layer in a single coat, insufficient surface preparation, or using an interior product in an environment with moisture or movement. Apply in thinner layers, prepare the surface thoroughly, and make sure you're using the right product for the conditions.

Can I stain over Selleys wood filler? Yes — Selleys wood fillers are formulated to accept stain. Keep in mind that the filler may absorb stain at a slightly different rate to the surrounding timber. Always test on an inconspicuous area first, and consider using a pre-stain conditioner for the best colour match.

How do I repair a large hole in plasterboard? For holes larger than approximately 50mm, a backing support is recommended before applying filler. Use a plasterboard repair patch or a timber backing piece secured behind the hole, then apply filler in layers, allowing each layer to dry fully before proceeding. This gives the filler the structural support it needs for a lasting repair.

Is Selleys filler sandable? Yes. All Selleys wall and wood fillers are designed to sand cleanly to a smooth finish. Allow the product to reach full cure before sanding for the best result.

The Selleys commitment

Every Selleys filler, putty, and repair product is built on the same foundation: high quality formulations that deliver professional results, every time. From the first application to the finished surface, Selleys products are designed to perform — giving you a repair you can be proud of and a result that stands the test of time.

That's what over 80 years of innovation and expertise looks like in practice. Reliable. Proven. Selleys.

Browse the full Selleys range of wall fillers, wood fillers, putty, and repair solutions to find the right product for your next job.

Frequently Asked Questions

What brand makes these wall and wood fillers: Selleys

How many years of experience does Selleys have: Over 80 years

Does Selleys have a brand promise: Yes, "if it's Selleys, it works"

Who are Selleys products suitable for: Both professional tradies and DIYers

Can Selleys interior fillers be used on plaster: Yes

Can Selleys interior fillers be used on plasterboard: Yes

Can Selleys interior fillers be used on render: Yes

Can Selleys interior fillers be used on masonry: Yes

Do Selleys interior fillers shrink significantly: No, minimal shrinkage

Are Selleys interior fillers paintable: Yes

Are Selleys interior fillers sandable: Yes

How long before interior filler is ready to sand and paint: Generally 2–4 hours under normal conditions

Does humidity affect drying time: Yes, humid conditions extend drying time

Does repair depth affect drying time: Yes, deeper repairs take longer to dry

Can interior filler be used outdoors: No

Why can't interior filler be used outdoors: Not formulated for moisture, UV, or temperature movement

Are Selleys exterior fillers weather resistant: Yes

Are Selleys exterior fillers UV resistant: Yes

Are Selleys exterior fillers flexible: Yes

Why do exterior fillers need to be flexible: To move with the structure

Are Selleys exterior fillers paintable: Yes

What surfaces do exterior fillers adhere to: A wide range of exterior surfaces

Can Selleys wood fillers be painted: Yes

Can Selleys wood fillers be stained: Yes

Can Selleys wood fillers accept clear finish: Yes

Are Selleys wood fillers sandable: Yes

Are Selleys wood fillers suitable for exterior timber: Yes

Are Selleys wood fillers suitable for interior timber: Yes

What types of wood damage can Selleys wood filler repair: Knots, cracks, gouges, and nail holes

Will stain absorb the same on filler as on surrounding timber: No, absorption rate may differ slightly

What should you do before staining over wood filler: Test on an inconspicuous area first

Should a pre-stain conditioner be used over wood filler: Yes, for best colour match

What is Selleys putty used for: Glazing, fine surface work, and detailed finishing

Is Selleys putty suitable for tradespeople: Yes

Does Selleys offer concrete repair products: Yes

Are Selleys concrete repair products high strength: Yes

Does Selleys offer render repair products: Yes

Are Selleys render repair products flexible: Yes

Are Selleys render repair products weather resistant: Yes

Does Selleys offer cornice and plaster repair products: Yes

What type of compound is used for cornice repair: Fine, workable compound

Does Selleys offer multi-surface repair products: Yes

What filler is recommended for small interior cracks: Interior wall filler

What is recommended for large interior cracks: Patching compound or setting compound

What is recommended for exterior render cracks: Exterior flexible filler

What product is recommended for concrete path damage: Concrete repair product

What product is recommended for decorative plaster: Fine finishing compound

What product is recommended for glazing and window work: Glazing putty

What tool is recommended for applying filler: A flexible filling knife

Should you use a wider blade for larger repairs: Yes

How thick should each layer of filler be for deep repairs: No more than 6–10mm per layer

Should you let each layer dry before applying the next: Yes

Should filler be applied flush or proud of the surface: Proud of the surface

Why should filler be applied proud of the surface: To account for minor shrinkage

Should you feather the edges of the filler: Yes

Why should edges be feathered: To minimise sanding required

Should filler be fully cured before sanding: Yes

What happens if you sand filler too early: It can drag and leave an uneven surface

What grit should you start sanding with: A coarser grit first

What grit should you finish sanding with: A finer grit

Should you prime before painting over filler: Yes

Why prime before painting over filler: Ensures even paint absorption

How should you inspect the repair before painting: Using raking light at a low angle

What does raking light reveal: Remaining surface imperfections

Should surfaces be cleaned before applying filler: Yes

What should be removed during surface preparation: Loose material, dust, grease, and contaminants

Should cracks be undercut before filling: Yes, for larger cracks

Why should cracks be undercut: To create a key for the filler to grip

Should porous surfaces be dampened before filling: Yes, lightly

Why dampen porous surfaces before filling: To prevent rapid moisture absorption weakening adhesion

Should a primer be used before filling on some surfaces: Yes

When is a bonding agent recommended: On highly porous or previously painted substrates

What causes filler to crack after drying: Applying too thick a layer in one coat

What else causes filler to crack after drying: Insufficient surface preparation

Can interior filler crack if used in moist conditions: Yes

What is the minimum backing support hole size for plasterboard: Approximately 50mm

What backing is recommended for large plasterboard holes: A plasterboard repair patch or timber backing piece

Should filler layers be fully dry before adding the next for plasterboard repair: Yes

Label Facts Summary

Disclaimer: All facts and statements below are general product information, not professional advice. Consult relevant experts for specific guidance.

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