HOW TO CHOOSE THE PERFECT PRO GAPS FILLER FOR YOUR PROJECT
Soudal’s extensive range of Pro Gaps fillers means the perfect solution is always at hand – the trick is knowing which one to choose and understanding the finer points of difference between them.
Trade professionals can choose from Pro Gaps Light Speed (new to New Zealand), our Pro Gaps range of flexible fillers (Fill & Paint, Exterior and Quick Dry), and Gorilla Bog for those tough exterior repairs. These fillers are all easy to use, easy to clean up, and paintable. But each has their own unique advantages depending on what you’re trying to repair, how much time you’ve got, and what finish you’re after.
So before launching into your next job, take a moment to read through this quick guide so you can zero in on the right filler and work efficiently to deliver a flawless result.
COMPARING PRO GAPS FILLERS BY TEXTURE AND WEIGHT
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
This lightweight spak filler has a mousse-like feel and delivers an exceptionally smooth finish.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
These are medium-weight, flexible, acrylic fillers that cure to produce a permanently elastic finish.
BOG
This two-part epoxy filler is a heavyweight filler designed to deliver maximum strength, providing a more solid and rigid fill.
BEST PRO GAPS FILLERS FOR DIFFERENT HOLE DEPTHS
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
Ideal for filling shallow areas such as nail or screw holes (maximum 5-6mm deep). You can also fill larger holes (up to 10mm) but it may need a top up to combat shrinkage.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
Great for fine holes and small gaps to create a continuous seal. You can also fill larger holes (up to 10mm or thereabouts) but again, you may need to top it up.
BOG
Because there is no shrinkage, you can bog areas up to 15mm deep at a time in a single layer. Once cured, you can continue layering to fill whatever size gap needs repair.
PRO GAPS FILLERS SHRINKAGE COMPARISON: WHAT TO EXPECT
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
The low moisture content means there is very little shrinkage. And the incredible speed at which it cures means you can top it up within minutes, if necessary, and carry on. This lack of shrinkage makes it very easy to sand in line with the rest of your wall.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
You can expect 7-10% shrinkage to occur with these flexible fillers (which is considerably less than many competing products).
BOG
Shrinkage is not an issue with bog. Fill once, sand once and you’re ready to paint. Easy.
SANDING PRO GAPS FILLERS: EASE AND FINISH QUALITY
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
The quickest and easiest filler to sand because it’s so lightweight. Use 120-200 grit sandpaper to achieve a silky smooth finish in just 5 minutes.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
In most instances, you can simply tool these flexible fillers off and achieve a smooth finish without sanding. If you do sand, use a light touch.
BOG
Will be ready to sand in 20 minutes and will need some serious effort either by hand or using a mechanical sander. Depending on the finish you’re after, use 80-200 grit sandpaper.
PRO GAPS FILLERS CURING TIMES AND APPLICATION PROCESS
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
This acrylic filler cures as moisture in the product evaporates. As the name suggests, this process happens in a flash and you’ll be ready to sand and paint within 5-10 minutes.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
These flexible fillers also cure as moisture evaporates and can take anywhere from 30 minutes to half a day depending on the depth and size of the hole you are filling. Note our Pro Gaps Quick Dry filler is instantly paintable with gloss, semi-gloss and low sheen paint even though curing is still occurring. Flat and ceiling paints can be applied after 10 minutes.
BOG
When the resin and hardener are mixed at the correct ratio, chemical curing will occur in 20 minutes. Heat is a byproduct of this curing process so it’s important to fill one layer at a time (15mm maximum depth) and allow it to dry before applying additional layers.
IDEAL APPLICATIONS FOR SOUDAL PRO GAPS FILLERS
PRO GAPS LIGHT SPEED
This is your ‘go to’ filler for small defects in plasterboard or timber (e.g. nail, pin, screw holes, dents, breaks, gouges). You can also fill defects in timber substrates that are going to be painted or papered over. If using on exterior surfaces, multiple paint coats are required for weather protection to maintain durability.
PRO GAPS FLEXIBLE FILLERS
Use this range to fill cracks, gaps, seams and joints especially between two different surfaces that are subject to movement (e.g. doors, windows, cabinetry/walls, ceiling/walls). Also great for filling nail and screw holes. Pro Gaps Exterior offers superior UV resistance and is ideal for weatherboards, bricks, aerated concrete, natural stone and aluminium surfaces.
BOG
Great for filling deeper holes and major exterior repairs. Fill knot holes, dents and breaks in timber, create a seamless finish by removing knot holes on plywood, fill large gaps around window sashes and frames, repair areas of rotten timber, and rebuild concrete, masonry, brick and block-work features.
No matter what job you face, Soudal has an expert solution to help you achieve a flawless paint finish. If you’re not 100% sure which filler to choose, feel free to contact our technical team and we’ll figure out the best option for you.
For technical advice please contact us on 0800 70 10 80 or info@soudal.co.nz.
If you’re ready to buy, Pro Gaps fillers are available through stockists across New Zealand. Use our store locator to find your nearest Soudal supplier and get the right product for your next project.
FAQs
What is the difference between Pro Gaps Light Speed, Flexible Fillers and Bog?
Pro Gaps Light Speed is a lightweight spak filler designed for small holes and fast repairs. Pro Gaps Flexible Fillers are acrylic, permanently elastic fillers ideal for cracks and joints that move. Bog is a two-part epoxy filler built for deep, structural repairs where maximum strength and zero shrinkage are required.
Do Pro Gaps fillers shrink when they dry?
Pro Gaps Light Speed has very little shrinkage due to its low moisture content. Pro Gaps Flexible Fillers may shrink by approximately 7–10%. Bog does not shrink, allowing you to fill once, sand once and paint.
How long do Pro Gaps fillers take to cure?
Pro Gaps Light Speed cures in 5–10 minutes and is ready to sand and paint quickly. Pro Gaps Flexible Fillers can take 30 minutes to half a day depending on the depth of the repair. Bog chemically cures in around 20 minutes once the resin and hardener are mixed correctly.
Which Pro Gaps filler is easiest to sand?
Pro Gaps Light Speed is the quickest and easiest to sand due to its lightweight texture. Flexible Fillers often require little to no sanding if tooled off correctly. Bog requires more effort and may need mechanical sanding depending on the finish required.