Hyde Job Guides

How to Fill Nail Holes in Painted Trim

Fill empty nail, brad and pin holes in painted interior trim with a flexible putty knife. Fill, strike, feather, prime and repaint so the repair disappears.

What you need

• Model 02005Black & Silver® 3/4” Flexible Putty Knife/Scraper $9.44 each$6.42 each at 100 or more

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• Model 02000Black & Silver® 1-1/4” Flexible Putty Knife/Scraper (High Carbon Steel) $7.01 each$4.77 each at 100 or more

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• Model 02100Black & Silver® 1-1/2” Flexible Putty Knife/Scraper $7.17 each$4.88 each at 100 or more

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• Model 040601-1/8" Value Series Putty Knife $2.53 each$1.72 each at 100 or more

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• Model 041011-1/2" Flexible Value Series Putty Knife $2.61 each$1.77 each at 100 or more

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• Model 061011-1/2" Flexible Pro Project Putty Knife $5.96 each$4.05 each at 100 or more

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• filler made for painted trim
• primer or sealer
• matching topcoat
• fine abrasive if the filler maker calls for it

Steps

1. Look at the trim under raking light. Make sure each mark is an empty hole, not a raised nail head or a crack.
2. Clean off dust and polish. Do not sand, scrape or widen the hole unless the filler instructions say so.
3. Take only enough filler for one hole, on the front of the knife.
4. Press it straight into the hole instead of dragging a wide film across the trim.
5. While it is workable, draw the knife across the repair with light pressure to strike off the surplus.
6. Feather the edge with lighter passes and keep the repair small.
7. Let the filler reach the cure the maker gives. Level it only if needed, then prime and topcoat.

Tips

• Use the narrow 3/4" (02005) or 1-1/4" (02000) knife on small holes and tight profiles. The 1-1/2" (02100) suits flat trim.
• Use a flexible 1-1/4" or 1-1/8" blade on molded trim to keep the profile.
• Do not add water, paint or sawdust to the filler unless the maker allows it.
• For the best match, repaint the whole face or run of trim to a natural break.

Watch out

Questions about the right tool for your job? Email cs@hydestore.com or call 508-916-6442.