Best Nail Hole Filler in 2024 | Top 11 Picks by an Expert

Nail holes always ruin all your expensive decorations and also catch attention. It can cause many other problems if not covered or treated properly. However, with the right nail hole filler, you can easily cover up any unsightly blemishes.

There are different nail hole fillers that can do the job. So it is very tough to decide which one to buy. In this article, we are going to review the best nail hole filler on the market to help you make a decision.

We have chosen every product by considering the features, performance, and quality. So you can be assured that these nail hole fillers are worth your penny.

Top 11 Recommended Best Nail Hole Filler on The Market

Filling or fixing gaps and holes in different surfaces with nail hole fillers is possible. It comes in different colors and textures. There are many brands on the market, and finding a suitable one for your needs can be daunting. So, we have compiled a list of the 11 nail hole fillers you can buy today.

1. 3M Small Nail Hole Filler

If you need to cover nail holes, 3M is the name you can trust for quality products, performance, and quality. It comes in a convenient bottle that is the perfect size for small jobs. You can use it on stucco, plaster, and drywall to repair holes up to 3 inches in diameter.

This 4-in-1 tool is great for filling gaps in a wood surface. The Spackling and Primer allow for fast repairs and is perfect for getting that great finish for a quick job.

3M Small Nail Hole Filler makes repairs 3 times faster than a traditional vinyl spackling. You’ll be able to repair scratches and nail holes quickly and easily. This fast-acting repair compound forms a hard putty with no sagging or cracking.

The innovative bottle has a built-in sanding pad, putty knife and primer enhanced spackle. For quick fixes, this filler is a great addition to the junk drawer or the painting kit.

It is ideal for repairing damaged surfaces. This hole filler is also lightweight. The combination of all these features allows it to be the best nail hole filler on the market.

Highlighted Features:

• Allows to fill up to 3 inches diameter hole
• Lightweight and easy to apply 
• Comes with spackling and primer at the same time
• 3 times faster than a traditional vinyl spackling
• Not prone to shrinking, sagging or cracking

2. Elmer’s Nail Hole Filler

These carpenters’ wood fillers work like magic to enhance the look of any project. It is made for all interior surfaces that can be painted, including walls, ceilings, and furniture. These little tubes are perfect for filling nail holes in molding strips or in wood flooring.

Carpenter’s wood filler is a high-quality, durable, resealable product that is easy to sand to a smooth finish. You can paint the wood filler after filling the nail hole. The wood fillers are available in six convenient colors.

Simply fill the hole or gap with a bit of this wood filler and let it dry, then sand smooth with a power sander. Elmer’s Nail Hole Filler dries in about 12 to 24 hours and does not shrink or crack when painted. 

Best of all, there’s no need to mess up the surrounding area with harsh solvents. If you need to remove the filler, clean it up with water. This is the best wood filler for smaller jobs.

Highlighted Features:

• Perfect for all interior use
• Resealable and easy to use
• Available in six convenient colors
• Dries in about 12 to 24 hours
• Can be painted after filling the nail hole
• Does not shrink or crack when painting

3. Erase-A-Hole Putty for Nail Holes

The wood putty for small nail holes is designed with the DIYer in mind. It seals nail holes, so no more dealing with plaster, wood trim, painted trim, drywall cracks, wall, or ceiling. This wood putty will help you get that perfect finish on anything you are working on.

It’s great for covering up holes left behind when hanging items on the wall and it has enough strength that you can sand it down when you need to re-paint or redecorate.

The Erase-A-Hole Putty For Nail Holes is the perfect gift for that DIY lover in your life, or for someone just starting out in their own property. It’s even great for college students who are in and out of their rooms often, or for anyone else who has to move their furniture around frequently.

With no preparation required, it is easy to use when you need it most. The wood putty can also be painted any color so you can match your room perfectly!

The compact size will fit easily in any tool belt or painter’s pants and ensure that this handyman product is close by when needed. It is thick, durable wood putty designed to patch screw and nail holes properly.

Highlighted Features:

• Easily accessible and quick to use
• No tools are required
• Not susceptible to shrinking and cracking
• Quickly dries after application
• Painting and sanding are both possible

4. DAP White Nail Hole Filler

If you want a white wood filler that appears to be real wood, this product is perfect for you. The fibers in it give it the appearance of real wood.

Using this wood filler, you can cut, stain, drill, and plane wood to reduce cracks. In addition, you can sand and paint the wood surface. It is a low-odor white wood filler that dries fast and hard, so there’s no need to worry about shrinkage or cracking.

You can use this product on the surface where you want to patch up split pieces of wood in furniture, cabinets, windows, and doors. Besides, you can also use it on plastic, plywood, molding, and painted surfaces.

It is a solvent-based wood filler that keeps screws and nails anchored without splitting. It also provides three times more strength than wood itself.

The DAP White Nail Hole Filler is easy to use and clean up. Apply a small amount of the product and allow it to dry. You can also wipe the filler with water. 

Highlighted Features:

• Looks like real wood after drying
• Provides three times more strength
• Low-odor formula for easy use
• No need to worry about shrinkage or cracking
• Professional-grade and heavy duty filler

5. Minwax Wood Putty

This innovative wood putty by Minwax allows for fast, efficient and effective filling of nail holes to ensure your paint and other finishes will stay strong and last longer.

It is a pre-mixed putty to upgrade screw holes and cover other minor imperfections in stained wood, bare wood, painted trim, and finished wood. The product is easy to work with and does not require sanding or other finishing.

As it is non-hardening, it remains soft for easy application and easy blending into the surrounding surface. Once dried, it bonds well and remains permanent.

Minwax wood putty keeps your wood looking its best, with just the right touch of color matching to Minwax wood finish stains. Depending on the wood trim and finish, the wood putty can also be purchased in other colors. It comes with a 3.75-ounce tube for smaller jobs.

Highlighted Features:

• Dries without shrinking or cracking
• Blends well with colors
• Does not require sanding
• Bonds well and remains permanent
• Can cover minor imperfections

6. Red Devil Hole Filler for Wall

Professionals have trusted red Devi all over the world for manufacturing high-quality nail hole fillers. Whether it’s for repairs or refinishing a home or office, this spackling compound will be your right choice.

You can use this innovative filler to repair cracks, holes, and other damage in your home’s indoors, and outdoors. Red Devil Hole Filler For Wall comes in a bucket that contains 236.59 milliliters of filler, enough to cover up any small areas.

It dries quickly for a professional appearance. You can paint it within minutes for a seamless finish that will last a long time.

The filler can be used on plaster, drywall, stucco, wood, and other surfaces. Simply apply the RED DEVIL Hole Filler to the surface with a putty knife and let it dry. Once the spackling compound has dried, it remains permanent and does not chip or peel.

Highlighted Features:

• Easy to use and apply
• No sanding is needed
• Easy to paint in minutes
• Provides a professional appearance
• Won’t shrink or crack after drying

7. Saint-Gobain Wall Nail Hole Filler

If you are looking for a good filler to use, you can also consider this one. Saint-Gobain Fix It Fast is a professional quality all-in-one compound, and it includes an applicator and spreader.

A professional joint compound formula is used to ensure you get the most out of any wall repair project. It is a one-handed tool and designed for interior use only. 

Using the compound, you can fill holes less than 2″. It is possible to repair scratched or cracked walls fast caused by screws or nails. Sanding is not necessary. Just apply, allow to dry, and touch up as necessary.  

The flexible tubing makes it easy to fill a small hole without having to move the compound. The item weighs only 5.6 ounces.

For future use, you can reseal this filler after the completion of a project. Simply pop it back on and continue with your project. Saint-Gobain wall nail hole filler allows you to repair many different types of problems, such as nail pops, screw holes in drywall, or plaster.

Highlighted Features:

• All-in-one compound and come with an applicator and spreader
• Can fill holes less than 2″
• Sanding of the surface is not necessary
• Resealable filler after using

8. Mohawk Nail Hole Filler Stick

Mohawk Filler Stick is here to eliminate pesky screw holes, scratches, or other marks from your furniture before they become larger.

This compound is easy to use, fast, and completely mess-free! Mohawk filler sticks come in multicolor, giving you some variety when it comes time to repaint your living room wall.

Expertly repair wooden furniture with these wax sticks so you don’t have to worry about splinters. It’s the perfect filler for your cabinet door. 

The wood filler is ideal for indoor applications since it does not require heat or expensive tools to use. Mohawk Nail Hole Filler Sticks can be used to touch up scratches on picture frames and plastics.

If necessary, you can remove any leftover wax using a plastic leveling card, credit card, spatula, or cloth. It’s made from a semi-hard wax stick, so it won’t bleed or fade.

For small coats, this filler works well. It can be coated with tone finish aerosols or other coatings. When the topcoat is cured, the fillers in the Fil-Stik will become more durable, and the topcoat will provide protection to last long. 

Highlighted Features:

• Comes in a variety of colors
• Requires no heating or particular tools
• Provides permanent, fade-proof colors
• Can be applied to wood and plastic
• Ideal for indoor use

9. Homax Nail Hole Filler Patch

Homax Nail Hole Hub is the most suitable solution for any restoration project you may want to undertake on drywall, painted trim, paneling or wood trim in your home. With its handy squeeze tube, this filler patch outperforms other products on the market.

You can also use it to fill in cracks and gouges in walls and ceilings. It works well for nail and screw holes. It dries in an hour, so you can use the area again the same day, and it should be paintable afterward. If you need to fill a nail gap quickly, it is the best nail hole filler.

This filler is made of high-quality shrink-resistant spackle and comes in a white color that works well with most room décor schemes. It comes with an EZ-Dab applicator that makes the application very precise without getting too messy.

One of the top reasons homeowners prefer Homax nail hole filler patch is that it does the job well without requiring you to trowel or sand.

With 5.3 oz of spackling compound, this product should last for a significant amount of time. Overall, it is a reliable filler for any household with a lot of drywall work to do.

Highlighted Features:

• Can be used on drywall, paneling, and trim
• Dries in an hour
• Comes in White color with 5.3 oz
• Easy to clean up with water
• Requires no sanding or troweling

10. Dap Nail Hole Filler

If you’re the type of person who enjoys DIY projects and fixing things up around the house, then this type of filler could be perfect for you.

Dap Nail Hole Filler is the most convenient way to repair nail holes in drywall and wood. It is a unique filler that can be used either inside or outside, with an easy-to-use squeeze tube and patented dry time indicator.

Just apply filler, and it will change color when it has reached optimum dry time. When the product is applied, its color will be pink. Once it has hardened, it will turn white.

This filler has been specially formulated to provide a smooth surface that can be sanded. As it comes with 5.5 oz of compound, it will be enough for filling a small hole in the wall.

Highlighted Features:

• Indicator for optimum dry time
• Initial color is pink and dries white
• Sanding can be done once it has hardened
• Usable both inside and outside of home

11. SAISZE Nail Hole Filler Drywall

This drywall repair kit is perfect for fixing up any small holes or cracks in your wall. The putty is non-toxic and safe to use, so you don’t have to worry about your family or pets coming in contact with it.

It’s also really easy to use. Just fill the small hole or crack with the putty, let it dry, and then sand it down until it’s smooth.

For those concerned about the state of their walls, SASIZE wall mending agent is a perfect solution. The agent can be used on a variety of surfaces, including walls, doors, cabinets, windows, and ceilings. It’s also great for indoor furniture. You can use it to repair cracks or holes in your wall, and it is easy to use.

SAISZE Nail Hole Filler Drywall is an excellent option for people who are looking for a safe and environmentally friendly way to fill in nail holes.

This kit includes everything you need to make a seamless, professional-grade repair, including two wall repair pastes, two nozzle extenders for precision application, and two scrapers to help you get the job done right. 

Whether your walls have been damaged by a hole, a dent, or just normal wear and tear, this kit can help you make them look good as new.

Highlighted Features:

• Non toxic and safe to use
• Easy to use
• Great for indoor furniture
• Made of natural resin and carbonate
• Safe, environmentally friendly way to fix walls
• Fills in nail holes, cracks, and wrinkles on surfaces

These are the best 10 nail hole fillers that are currently available on the market. Before making your purchase, keep in mind their features and specifications to know what will work best for your purpose.

Factors to Consider When Buying The Best Nail Hole Fillers

Only reading the reviews of hole fillers will not be enough to give you the best product. It is important that you consider some factors before choosing a nail filler for your needs. Try to match your requirements with the features offered by these hole fillers. Here are 4 points that you should take into consideration:

Types of Repairing Material:

Around the house, there are different materials you need to repair. There may be wood, drywall, metal, and even plastic. To avoid buying the wrong wood fillers, be sure to identify the type of repairing material you will be using. The best nail hole filler is multi-purpose and can be used for different types of materials.

Types of Filler:

There are different types of fillers for each material. For wood, you have putty and wood filler. Drywall has multiple types of fillers such as spackle, joint compound, wood filler. So be sure to know the type of material you are repairing so that you can purchase the best filler for it.

Pre-Mixed Or Not?

Some wood fillers come in a pre-mixed form, while others come as a compound. If you’re not good at mixing things, then you might want to consider the pre-mixed type. On the other hand, if you’re confident in mixing things, you can also use the compound form.

Amount of Filler:

Different wood fillers come with different amounts of the compound. If you need to repair small nail holes, then you need to buy a small amount of filler. On the other hand, if you have a lot of small holes to repair, then a larger hole filler would be more convenient.

Color:

Color is another factor to consider. Nail wood filler comes in different colors, so you must know the color scheme of your room before buying one. Some wood fillers turn into other colors after they have hardened. So if you’re looking for a specific color, you might want to consider this feature.

Prepared Hole Size:

Most fillers are designed to fix a specific size of a hole. Before purchasing the filler, you need to know the size of the hole you want to repair. When the hole is larger than the recommended size of the application, then the wood filler will not work.

Time of Drying or Hardening:

This is an important factor, especially if you’re in a hurry. Some nail and gap hole fillers take 12-48 hours to harden. The best nail hole filler usually takes less time to dry. So choose a filler that is easy to work with and will not slow you down.

Indoor or Outdoor Use:

Some hole fillers are specifically designed for indoor use while others are for outdoor use. If you want to use the filler outside, you must buy a filler resistant to the weather.

Sandable:

Sandable filler is especially great for drywall repair. Some nail hole fillers cannot be used with a sanding sponge or sandpaper since they have a strong bond with the surface of the wall. If it is difficult to remove from the wall, then your hole will not look natural anymore. So try to choose the best wood filler that is sandable.

Paintable or Not:

Some hole fillers can be painted, and some cannot. This is also something that must be taken into consideration before buying a wood filler. If you want to paint your walls or whatever material you’re repairing, it is better to buy a product you can paint.

Ease of Apply:

Applying some wood fillers requires the use of specific tools. If you’re not familiar with the tools, it will be difficult to use the filler. So try to find a filler that is easy to apply and does not require special tools. The good news is that some wood fillers can be applied with fingers and do not need a putty knife.

Durability:

The durability of the wood filler is also important to consider before buying one. The best wood filler usually lasts for a long time. It would be a waste of money to buy a filler that will not last for long. So try to find a durable product that can be used for different materials.

Cleaning Method:

The best screw hole filler is easy to clean. Some come with a brush or a stick, while others come with their own cleaning method. If you do not want any mess, then choose a filler that is easy to clean and does not require too much effort on your part.

Price:

The last thing to consider before buying a wall or wood filler is the price. Some hole fillers are more expensive than others considering the features and the amount of the compound. Always look for a filler that fills your needs.

These are the factors you need to consider when choosing one of the best nail hole fillers. With these points in mind, it will be easier for you to find a great filler for your needs.

Types of Wood Filler for Nail Holes:

Wood is a material that we have to repair for a lot of reasons. Whether you have a hole in your wood floors or a crack on your wall, a wood filler can help to fix the problem. 

There are different types of wood filler that are designed to fill a specific hole size. There are 2 main types of wood filler that you can choose from: water-based and solvent-based. Each type has its own specific properties, so you need to know your needs before using it.

1. Solvent-Based Wood Fillers:

If you have small holes or gaps in your wall or furniture, then a solvent-based filler is the best option. This type of wood filler is easy to use. It also comes in different colors, so you can choose the one that matches your décor. Most of the solvent-based fillers are water-resistant and can be used with paints.

You can use it on different surfaces, including plaster, vinyl, plastic etc. Some of the solvent-based wood fillers are easy to sand, while others do not require sanding.

2. Water Based Wood Fillers:

If you have a small hole or crack in your wood, then a water-based wood filler is another option. This type of wood filler is easy to mix and spread. It also comes in a variety of colors. You can apply water-based wood filler to a wide variety of surfaces, such as metal, plastic, and plaster.

Both types of wood fillers have their own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to know the difference before using one. You can also purchase this wood filler at an online store.

How to Use Wood Filler on Nail Holes?

When it comes to repairing your walls, you need to use the right tools and materials. This section discusses the appropriate method to use.

Step 1. Know the Type of Wood Filler You’re Using:

The first thing you need to do is know the type of wood filler you’re using. As we stated earlier, there are 2 types of wood filler: solvent-based and water-based. Each type has its own specific properties that you need to know before using it.

Step 2: Measure the Size of the Holes:

The next step is to measure the size of the hole that you want to fill. This will help you to choose the right amount of wood filler.

Step 3. Clean the Area:

The next step is to clean the area where you will be applying the filler. Make sure that the surface is free of dust, dirt, and other debris. You can use a damp cloth to clean the area.

Step 4. Fill Nail Holes with Wood Filler:

Once the area is clean, you can start applying the wood filler. Use a putty knife or your fingers to apply it to the hole. Make sure that you apply it in a thick layer.

Step 5. Allow it to Dry:

Allow the wood filler to dry for about 24 hours. Do not touch or move the filler until it is completely dry.

Step 6 Sand the Area:

Once the wood filler is dry, you can start sanding it. Use a cloth or fine-grit sandpaper for sanding the area. Be sure to sand in the same direction as the wood grain.

Step 7. Paint the Area:

The final step is to paint the area. You can use a primer or paint of the same color as the wood.

The steps above will help you to use wood filler on a nail and gap hole properly. If you follow these steps, you will be able to get a smooth and seamless finish.

What are the uses of Wood Filler?

The uses of wood filler are almost unlimited. It is a versatile material that can be used on different materials, including plastic, metal, concrete, etc. Here are some common ways that you can use a wood filler:

Filling Holes:

If you have a hole in your wall, then you can use wood filler to fill it. Wood filler is easy to use and comes in a variety of colors. You can also use it with different paints.

Filling Gaps:

You can use wood filler to fill small gaps between your wall and floor or between two pieces of wood. Wood filler is easy to use and comes in a variety of colors.

Wood Filler for Dents:

If you have dents or scratches on your furniture, then you can use wood filler to make them smooth again.

Smoothing Wood Grain:

You can use wood filler to smooth out the wood grain on your furniture. This will give your furniture a more polished look.

As a Wood Glue Alternative:

Sometimes, you don’t have wood glue with you. If you are looking for an alternative to wooden glue to repair less pressured joinery, it is a good option. Remember, it is not as strong as wood glue, but it is preferred to fix normal splits.

FAQs:

How Long to Wait Before Sanding Wood Filler for a Nail Hole?

The answer depends on the wood filler that you’re using. Some wood fillers require a lot of time to dry, and others can be in just a few minutes. It is better to wait around 30 minutes to sand the wood filler to get a smooth and even finish.

How to Cover Nail Holes in Wood Trim?

You can use a wood filler to cover the nail hole in wood trim. You can use a putty knife or your fingers to apply it to the hole. Make sure that you apply it in a thick layer. Allow it to dry and sand the area and then paint it with a primer or paint of the same color as the wood.

How to Fill Nail Holes in Drywall?

The process for filling nail holes in drywall is similar to the process for filling them in the wood trim. You will need to use a wood filler. Apply it to the screw hole, wait to dry, and then lightly sand it using fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge. You can then paint the area with primer or paint of the same color as the drywall.

How to Preserve Wood Filler for Nail Holes?

When the wood filler is exposed to air, it will start drying. You have several options for preserving the wood filler. After using the filler, you have to close the lid tightly.

You can also transfer the wood filler into a plastic container or a bag and then seal it so that the filler does not dry out. It will help to keep the filler moist and workable.

Can you Thin out Wood Filler?

Yes, you can thin out wood filler. However, it is important to note that the consistency of the wood filler will be affected when it is thinned out. In most cases, it is best to use the wood filler in its original form so that it can provide the best results. If you need to thin out the wood filler, you should use water.

NOTE: Always make sure to test out your thinned filler in a small, hidden area to ensure that the consistency and color are right for your project. This way, you can ensure that you’re happy with it before applying it to a visible section of your project.

How to use Wood Putty to Fill Holes?

Wood putty should be used to fill in small dents, holes, and cracks in wood before painting or staining. You can find it in a variety of colors to match the color of your wood.

Use a putty knife to scoop out the wood putty and spread it over the holes or dents. Let it dry until it can no longer be scraped with your finger. Use fine-grit sandpaper (220) and wet sand the area until smooth before painting or staining.

What is Wood Grain Filler?

A grain filler is a kind of paste wood filler used to fill in wood pores. This will help to give a smooth finish and will also block out any stains or dyes that you may want to use in the future. It is available in a variety of colors to match the color of your wood.

Conclusion

The nail wood filler works well when your nail is missing, and the hole left behind needs to be filled so that it does not show on the wall. Filling these holes is important so that the walls look good and they’re ready to be painted or stained.

However, you should always use the best nail hole filler for the job at hand. We hope that now you are able to choose and use wood filler with a great deal of confidence.