Which Furniture Repair Product Should I Use?
Choosing the right furniture repair product can make the difference between a neat, discreet repair and one that remains noticeable.
Different types of furniture damage require different solutions. A product designed to disguise a surface scratch will not necessarily fill a deep chip, while a wax filler intended for holes and larger damage is usually unnecessary for a light surface mark.
The key is to identify the type of damage before choosing the repair product.
Surface Scratches, White Rings and Heat Marks
For light surface marks where timber is not missing, Tibet Almond Stick can be a simple first option.
It is particularly useful for:
- Surface scratches and blemishes
- White rings
- Some heat marks
It is designed for surface marks rather than deep scratches, gouges or missing timber.
Scratches Where Raw Timber Is Showing
If a scratch has gone through the existing finish and exposed the timber underneath, a Scratch Fix Pen can help add colour back into the damaged area.
The aim is not to fill the scratch. Instead, the pen helps reduce the contrast between the pale exposed timber and the surrounding finished surface.
Choose the closest available colour and always test it somewhere inconspicuous first.
Fine Splits, Small Cracks and Nail Holes
For small areas where material actually needs to be added, Furniture Repair Crayons are often a better choice.
They are suitable for repairs such as:
- Fine scratches
- Small splits
- Minor cracks
- Small nail holes
Repair crayons are designed for relatively small damage. Larger holes and chips generally require a more substantial filler.
Chips, Knot Holes and Larger Damage
For deeper damage, Wax Putty Bricks or Beeswax Filler Sticks provide a heavier filling option.
They are particularly useful for:
- Holes
- Chips
- Knot holes
- Larger areas of missing material
The wax can be colour matched to the surrounding timber to help make the repair less noticeable.
Wax Putty Bricks are not intended for every type of damage. For example, they should not normally be used to repair severe corner damage or large flat tabletop areas where a professional repair technique may be more appropriate.
Scratches on White Furniture
White furniture creates a different problem because exposed scratches can be very noticeable against the surrounding surface.
The Ultra Mark White Pen is designed to colour worn edges and scratches on suitable white surfaces.
Again, it is important to remember that this is primarily a colouring product rather than a filler for missing material.
Protecting a Completed Repair
Some filled or coloured repairs may benefit from a protective topcoat.
The Ultra Bond Finish Marker, available in satin or gloss finishes, can be used where appropriate to help seal and protect a completed repair.
The finish should be selected to complement the existing furniture surface.
Start by Identifying the Damage
Before reaching for a repair product, ask yourself four simple questions:
- What type of damage am I repairing?
- Is raw timber visible?
- Is any material actually missing?
- Do I need to colour, fill or protect the damaged area?
Answering these questions makes choosing the correct furniture repair product much easier.
And whatever product you choose, always test it on an inconspicuous area first to check colour compatibility with the existing finish. Make sure the surface is also clean and dry before beginning the repair.
The downloadable Aussie Furniture Care Repair Product Guide provides a quick reference you can use whenever you are unsure which product is most appropriate for the job.