To use wood filler on paneling, you apply the filler to the imperfections, varying the technique and tools depending on whether you are filling joints, flat surfaces, or corners.
Applying wood filler helps repair damage, fill gaps, and create a smooth surface on paneling before painting or finishing. The method depends on the location of the imperfection.
Filling Joints and Gaps
For the joints between the panels and the wall, the process involves applying the filler directly into the gap.
- Run the filler down the joint between the panels and the wall. This ensures the filler gets into the full length of the gap.
Repairing Holes and Cracks on Flat Surfaces
When dealing with holes and cracks located on the flat, main surface of the paneling, a specific tool is used to work the filler in.
- Use a filling knife to push the filler into the holes and cracks on the flat surface. This action helps to compact the filler and ensure the void is completely filled.
Handling Corner Gaps
Repairing gaps in corners requires a different tool and technique to achieve a smooth transition between the two surfaces meeting at the corner.
- If the hole or gap is in a corner, use a putty knife instead of a filling knife.
- Push the filler into the gap with the putty knife.
- Work to achieve a smooth finish between the surfaces that form the corner.
Following these steps, adapted to the specific location of the defect, allows you to effectively use wood filler to prepare paneling for subsequent finishing.
