Before a floor is finished, filling gaps and small imperfections gives a smoother, more even surface for the lacquer or oil to sit on — this range covers both resin fillers for larger jobs and colour-matched putty for quick touch-ups.
Which type you need mostly comes down to the size of the job and whether you're filling before or after the floor has been finished.
Resin Fillers for Structural Repairs and Gap Filling
For standard gap filling between floorboards or repairing larger areas of damage, a two-part resin filler is the usual choice, mixed with fine sanding dust from the floor itself to create a close colour match. The Jenkins Resin Joint Wood Floor Filler and Morrells Induro Mix & Fill Resin both work this way, as does the Osmo Wood Putty Resin Filler — all suited to jobs where a stronger, more permanent fill is needed rather than a quick cosmetic patch.
Colour-Matched Putty for Small Repairs
For nail holes, small chips, or minor surface marks, a ready-mixed putty filler is quicker to work with than a resin. Osmo's wood floor filler range comes in White Oak, Medium Oak and Antique Oak shades, letting you pick a tone close to the existing floor without mixing anything on site.
FAQs
What's the difference between a resin filler and a putty filler?
A resin filler is typically mixed with sanding dust for a closer colour match and stronger repair, and suits larger areas or gap filling. A ready-mixed putty, like the Osmo range here, is quicker to apply and better suited to small chips or holes.
Should I fill gaps before or after sanding?
Filling is usually done after an initial sanding, so the filler bonds to bare wood and any dust mixed into a resin filler matches the floor. The area is then given a final light sanding before finishing.
Will the filler match my floor colour exactly?
A resin filler mixed with your own floor's sanding dust will usually blend closely. Ready-mixed putty, like Osmo's oak-toned options, gets you close but is worth checking against an offcut or hidden area first.
Is gap filling always necessary on a wood floor?
Not always — some gaps are left intentionally to allow for natural wood movement. Where filling is done, it's usually for aesthetics or to reduce draughts and debris collecting between boards.
Can I use these fillers on both solid and engineered wood floors?
Most are suitable for both, but always check the specific product page, as some resin fillers are better suited to solid wood repairs than thinner engineered boards.
