As a professional decorator, wood filler is something I use on a regular basis, whether it be internally or externally. However, it was only when I started experimenting that I realised how much difference in quality there is between the different brands. In this blog, I’m going to talk about Ronseal Wood Filler as a whole, and I’ll be brutally honest in my findings.
Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler Review
This is a two-part timber repair product consisting of a filler and an activator, which you add to make the filler turn rock hard. It is designed to cope with the swelling and contracting of external timber but can also be used inside. Available online by clicking here, you can buy this filler in different shades to suit the colour of the finish you are trying to achieve. Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler can be painted or varnished over.
I may as well start by saying I don’t like this filler, but that might be because I have been spoilt in the past with better products like HB42 and Oxera. The Ronseal version contains styrene, which is something I’d rather avoid where possible. This filler also slumps when you’re trying to use it, and it dries grainy.
One of my bugbears with Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler is its claim that it is “suitable for any size hole”. In my experience, I don’t think this is realistic for every external timber repair. Yes, it does flex with the timber, but only to a certain point. If you use too much on one repair, I’ve found that the repair is more likely to fail over time.
I would suggest paying a little bit more for HB42 if you just need a normal two-part filler for general use. Available online by clicking here.
If you aim to use filler outside and you want something that is going to last, then go for Oxera. It is expensive, but the Rebuild range comes with a 10-year guarantee. It’s a million times better than Ronseal, or anything like it. Available online by clicking here.
Ronseal Multi-Purpose Wood Filler
From a product I don’t like to one I do. Ronseal Multi-Purpose Wood Filler is a pre-mixed filler available online in different shades. You can even buy it in tubs, mastic tubes and squeezy dispensers to help with ease of application.
Ronseal Multi-Purpose is a water-based wood filler, so don’t expect it to handle deep repairs. But, provided you know its limitations, you’ll get on well with this product.
It is easy to apply, easy to shape and can be used in pinholes or even as a caulking system. It sands down well and takes on stain or varnish as well as, or even better than, the timber around the repair.
Ronseal Wet Rot Wood Hardener Review
This is a cool product. It’s a clear liquid you add to rotten timber to make it sound before you make your repair. It’s very thin, so it penetrates deep into the timber. It doesn’t work on severe rot, so you still need to dig all that out first, but it does help make a solid base for your Ronseal Wood Filler.
You don’t need to use Ronseal Wet Rot Wood Hardener, but if it helps you make a long-lasting repair, I don’t see why you’d skip this step. Available online by clicking here.
Brand Summary
Ronseal Wood Filler Review - Decorator's forum UK
A range of wood fillers that can be used to make both interior and exterior repairs.
Product Brand: Ronseal
2.3
Pros
- Can be painted.
- Can be varnished.
- Available in different colours.
- Readily available.
- Reasonably priced.
- The wood hardener is a good product.
Cons
- The two-part filler contains styrene, so wear a mask when sanding and avoid getting it on your skin.
- Can slump.
- There are better fillers on the market.
FAQs
How long does Ronseal Wood Filler last?
This depends on a couple of things. Repairs made inside can last for decades. Repairs made outside with Ronseal Wood Filler can last for years if the repair is made properly, you don’t push the boundaries of the filler, and the wood doesn’t rot around the repair.
Is Ronseal wood filler epoxy?
No, Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler is a two-part polyester resin-based filler containing styrene. It’s not a true epoxy filler like Oxera, which uses an epoxy resin system.
What are the side effects of Ronseal wood filler?
Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler contains styrene, and exposure to its vapours can cause symptoms such as headache, dizziness, fatigue and drowsiness. You should follow the safety instructions on the product and take appropriate precautions when using or sanding the filler.
What is an alternative to Ronseal wood filler?
HB42 Ultimate Wood Filler is a great alternative two-part filler. It doesn’t contain styrene, and it’s finer when you sand it. Oxera fillers are more expensive, but I find the epoxy system makes them far superior.
Can I use Ronseal Wood Filler without hardener before?
Yes. The wood hardener is used to stabilise and strengthen rotten wood before you make your repair. If rot isn’t an issue, then you can use Ronseal Wood Filler without using the wood hardener first.
Why is my wood filler showing through stain?
Some wood fillers take stain well and change colour like the wood around them. Others aren’t porous enough, so the wood changes colour more than the filler.
It fills ok, but the stink is unbelievable and lingers for days as it fully cures. Brewers do a better product that’s cheaper and doesn’t come in a half empty tin like this stuff – despite saying “33% Extra Free”. Avoid.