Which Wood Filler? Multi-Purpose vs High-Performance
For small holes and minor cosmetic repairs, a ready-to-use multi-purpose wood filler is a practical starting point. For deeper repairs that need a hardener-mixed filler, consider a high-performance product. Check the depth, condition of the timber and intended finish before choosing.
This guide compares Ronseal Multi Purpose Wood Filler with Ronseal High Performance Wood Filler. Other brands can have different mixing, drying and application requirements.
Compare the two options
| Feature | Multi Purpose | High Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Typical starting point | Minor wood repairs | Deeper holes and rebuilding damaged areas |
| Preparation | Ready-to-use filler | Mix filler with its supplied hardener |
| Depth guidance | Apply in layers up to 5mm | Manufacturer states it can fill to any depth |
| Published drying time | About two hours | About 30 minutes |
| Location | Suitable interior and exterior wood repairs | Suitable interior and exterior wood repairs |
Start with the repair, not the largest pack
Make a short list of the damage: a few nail holes, a chipped edge, or a deeper missing section. Photograph the area before shopping and note whether it will be painted or left with a visible wood finish. That makes it easier to compare products without paying for more filler than the job needs.
For smaller jobs, compare Ronseal Multi Purpose Wood Filler 100g and the 250g pack. For deeper repairs, compare High Performance Wood Filler 275g with the 550g pack.
Check whether the wood is sound
Filling over soft, deteriorated material is not a sound starting point. Ronseal's high-performance instructions call for removing soft wood and treating the repair with wood hardener where appropriate. Ronseal Wet Rot Wood Hardener is a separate preparation product, not the mixing hardener supplied with the filler.
If the damage affects a load-bearing component or leaves little sound timber, get the repair assessed. A filler described as suitable for deep holes is not automatically a structural repair system.
Choose the colour for the final finish
If you plan to stain or varnish the wood, make a trial repair in an inconspicuous place. Ronseal notes that filler can take a stain differently from the surrounding timber. A shade name alone cannot guarantee an invisible repair.
If you plan to paint, focus first on repair suitability and the preparation required by your chosen paint system. Do not choose a smaller or less suitable repair product simply because its colour looks closer on screen.
Plan the working time
With a two-part filler, follow the pack's mixing ratio and prepare manageable batches. Do not treat the quoted drying time as unlimited working time. For multi-purpose filler, allow each layer to dry as directed before adding another. Check the actual repair before sanding or finishing.
Common questions
Can filler replace wood glue? No. Ronseal advises using the appropriate adhesive to reattach a broken piece, rather than using filler as glue.
Can I fill gaps between floorboards? Ronseal advises against using these fillers in the gaps between boards. Repairing damage within a board is a different job.
Ready to choose? Compare the linked pack sizes and colours, then check the instructions for your exact repair before ordering.
Checked on 1 November 2026 against Ronseal's Multi Purpose Wood Filler and High Performance Wood Filler guidance. Follow the label on the pack supplied.