Chances are, if you’ve ever taken on a DIY home improvement project, you’ve had to use either caulk or filler (or both).
But what’s the difference between these two seemingly similar materials? Let’s find out.
Caulk vs Filler, What’s The Difference?
Caulk
Caulk is a pliable substance that’s used to fill in cracks and gaps around things like windows, doors, and molding.
It can be made from silicone, latex, or acrylic, and it comes in both tubes and cartridges.
Caulk is applied with a caulking gun, and it can be smoothed out with your finger (or a putty knife, in the case of silicone caulk). Once it dries, caulk is pretty much permanent.
Filler
Filler, on the other hand, is a little more versatile. It can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects, and it comes in a number of different varieties (wood filler, joint compound filler, vinyl spackling paste, etc.).
Fillers are used to fill in holes and cracks—just like caulk—but they can also be used for things like leveling out uneven surfaces.
Unlike caulk, filler isn’t applied with a caulking gun; instead, you use a putty knife to apply it and smooth it out.
And once it dries, filler can usually be sanded down so that it’s completely flush with the surface around it.
So, Is Caulk The Same As Filler?
No Caulk and filler are not the same but they are similar.
Caulk is a pliable substance that’s used to fill in cracks and gaps around things like windows, doors, and molding.
Filler, on the other hand, is a little more versatile. It can be used for both indoor and outdoor projects, and it comes in a number of different varieties (wood filler, joint compound filler, vinyl spackling paste, etc.).
So there you have it—the great caulk vs. filler debate! Now that you know the difference between these two home improvement staples, you’ll be able to choose the right one for any project you tackle.
And who knows? Maybe you’ll even impress your friends and family with your newfound knowledge. 😉
