Fillers and putties are essential tools for filling gaps, imperfections and cracks to create a smooth surface for painting, decorating or reinforcing surfaces and sealing leaks.Filling holes and cracks is an important part of painting the surface, and we all know how important it is. A stunning finish on painted surfaces - including walls, woodwork, and furniture - relies on the uniformity of the surface underneath. With paint applied, any holes, cracks, or gaps will be even more evident, and despite how good the paint is, it won't fill them.Besides being visually pleasing, filling gaps and holes serves as a protective measure for the building material, especially exteriors, owing to the fact that water and weather eventually weaken paint systems, leading to peeling, bubbling, and even rotting. Those are the areas in which putties and fillers are needed.
Fillers And Putties
Putty and gap fillers are designed for filling gaps, cracks and holes on and between surfaces.Whitening and linseed oil are used to make putty, a type of filler that is both old and popular. The material can be used to install glass into window frames as well as to fill cracks and nail holes.The product is relatively simple to use and once dried a primer can be applied.In the case of nail holes that need to be covered up, putties made from linseed have the ability to be tinted to complement the varnish or stain of the wood.It also has the advantage that it generally won't require much, if any sanding. Very clean and easy to use for a wide range of jobs.
Types of filler & putty
Epoxy Metal PuttyEpoxy putty is a 2 part compound of a clay-like consistency which is quick-drying, extremely tough and durable with exceptional adhesion. It's great for repairing small items made from various materials, including metal.Metal epoxy putty performs in a similar manner to other epoxy repair putties. To use, cut a small piece off the stick, knead it until it gets soft, and then apply it with your hands. Filling holes and cracks is easy with it since it is soft, to begin with.Unlike other fillers, epoxy putty can be moulded into any shape you require. Once cured the filler can be drilled, tapped, machined, stained and painted and is a versatile and cost-effective way of carrying out repairs.There are many advantages of using epoxy putty, as it benefits from excellent moisture and chemical resistance, and is impact resistant. The putty has increased mechanical and fatigue strength and good electrical properties, and there is low shrinkage during cure. Commonly supplied in tub or stick (for metal epoxy putty) form.Firestop PuttyFirestop putty is a form of filler that can be easily moulded into a firestop to seal holes and gaps in openings or complex fire safety systems. The filler should be mouldable and conformable to ensure the seal can offer insulation against fire and smoke in a variety of environments. Firestop Putty can be used to restore the original fire rating for specific penetrations in fire-rated walls or floors, to seal connection joints between different construction materials and aid in mechanically fixing and insulating interior and exterior window frames and entrance door linings.Plumbers PuttyPlumbers putties are low cost, soft pliable sealing compounds used to make watertight seals in plumbing, particularly in sink fixtures and drain. It can be easily removed if it needs to be replaced. It is not an adhesive, which means it is a better choice than caulk. It is more pliable than silicone and is denser so is a better filler for wider gaps. These are most commonly used when fitting new fixtures or replacing older ones or as a sealant to repair a leak.