Wood Filler vs Wood Putty: What to Use for Gaps in Wood

The choice depends on whether the wood is unfinished or already finished.

• Wood filler is best for unfinished wood. It’s designed to fill gaps, holes, and cracks, and can be sanded and stained once it hardens, making it ideal for wood that's still being worked on.

• Wood putty, on the other hand, is used on finished wood surfaces. It remains more flexible and is suitable for minor repairs where sanding and staining are not possible.