Choosing the correct filler from such a wide range is not easy for the beginner or even for those who have used fillers in the past. Different fillers are used for different surfaces or substrates and the main types are:

• Metal Fillers

• Fibreglass Fillers

• Plastic Fillers

• Galvanised Fillers

• Aluminium Fillers

• Fine Fillers and Stoppers

Always make sure you purchase the correct filler for the appropriate repair. In some instances you may need to use a very fine filler (known as a stopper) to fill any minor imperfections in the base filler. Our substrate chart below should help you with your decision. However, should you still be unconfident in your choice please e-mail us with details of your questions/dilemma and we will get back to you. We want you to choose the most appropriate product for your repair and to achieve the best results possible.

What are you filling? Holes, dents, scratches, minor imperfections in mild steel, fibreglass, plastic, aluminium, zinc, galvanised steel… the list goes on.

All fillers are supplied with the correct amount of hardener. Please ensure that you mix the filler and hardener in the correct ratios (as per the Technical Data Sheet). This is extremely important as most hardeners contain peroxide and, if too much hardener is used, the peroxide can bleed from the filler into the paint and cause the finished paint colour to become lighter.

Always degrease (panel-wipe or clean) the panel before applying the filler. Most fillers are sanded with P40-P80-P120 production paper with P80 being the most popular. The Technical Data Sheet for your chosen product will give you the precise instructions as to which grit of abrasive will give you best results.

Fine Fillers and Stoppers will require finer sanding – again, please sand as per Technical Data Sheet instructions.

Substrate Chart

Stoppers

When are Stoppers used?

Stoppers are generally used for minor imperfections, small scratches, body filler pin holes and also after priming if you still need minor corrections of your repair.

Applying Fillers and Stoppers

Plastic spreaders and Metal spreaders are used for applying fillers. The one you use is down to personal preference as both are equally as good at doing the job.

Stoppers are often applied using stopper rubbers.

Why Use Mixing Boards?

A Mixing Board (or Onion Board) provides a clean, hard, uncontaminated surface on which to measure and mix the correct ratio of filler and hardener. We stock an onion board containing 100 tough, impermeable sheets which can be torn off and discarded to reveal the next clean sheet for your next filling task.

Tips:

• Using sanding blocks with your abrasive sheet will help give an even finish – you do not want finger ridges in your pride and joy. We have a large selection of flatting blocks for dry or wet sanding.

• When filling deeper holes it is advisable to apply 2 or 3 coats of filler rather than one layer to ensure that the filler dries throughout. A thick layer of filler may look dry on the surface but will remain soft underneath and cause sinkage.

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