FAQ
Facts about filler
How much filler do I need to apply?
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. As a rule, you can apply a layer that is 3–6 mm thick using all fillers. If you need to fill holes or joints deeper than 10 mm, use Dalapro DM20, 40 or 60, which is a hardening powder filler that can be applied in layers up to 50 mm.
How much filler do you need?
For joint filling on plasterboard: approx. 0.3 litres/metre. For fine smoothing with a 1 mm layer thickness: approximately 1 litre/m².
What kind of sandpaper should be used?
Grain size 150–220 = for walls to be painted. Grain size 180–220 = for joinery. Grain size max. 150 = when wallpapering, do not use a coarser grain size, as there would then be a risk that scratches may be visible through the wallpaper.
Can you use filler that has been frozen?
No, in that case it must be scrapped (recycled).
How should you store filler?
Filler has a limited shelf life and is date-marked. Unopened packaging can be kept in a dark place, free from frost, for up to 12 months. Containers that have been opened must be sealed well.
Hand filling
How thick a layer should you apply when using hand filler?
A layer of 1–3 mm is usually sufficient, but low shrinkage filler can take more.
Can I use ready-mixed hand filler indoors in all rooms?
Yes, hand filler is ideal for indoor use and is basically suitable for all rooms. It is important that the substrate is clean, dry and firm. In wet rooms, however, you should follow special recommendations and use products that are approved for humid environments.
Which ready-mixed filler should I choose?
To choose the right filler, you need to consider the substrate, the scope of the project and the end result you want to achieve.
Hand filler is often best for smaller jobs and details, while roller or spray filler is an effective choice for larger surfaces. Then choose the type of filler based on the area of application, with different options to choose between, for example low shrinkage filler, all-round filler, joint filler, wet room filler, wood filler, design filler and outdoor filler.
Roller filling
Why use a roller to apply filler to a wall?
To save time, but also because it is a more ergonomically beneficial method compared with hand filling. Our time studies show that you can save up to 40% in working time compared with traditional hand filling.
Why use roller filler instead of applying hand filler?
To save time, but also because it is a more ergonomically beneficial method compared with hand filling. Our time studies show that you can save up to 40% in working time compared with traditional hand filling.
Which roller should I use for roller filler?
Choose a filler roller, it has been specially developed for roller filler. This provides the best distribution and end result.
How much roller filler do I need?
It depends on the substrate and thickness. 1 litre is generally sufficient for 1 sq.m. (at 1 mm thickness).
Can you use roller filler on wallpaper?
Yes, roller filler is an ideal choice for levelling out uneven areas before painting or applying new wallpaper.
Spray filling
How many sq.m. can I spray before I have to smooth the filler?
One good indicator is that the filler has become matt. That is when you can start to smooth the filler. Try not to start smoothing too soon. This will just create a lot of waste and also result in a poorer filling capacity.
How many litres per minute can an Airless machine spray?
It depends a little on which product you are using, but you can reckon on 4-8 litres/minutes on average.
How many sq.m. can you apply in a day if you use spray filler?
Between 500 - 1000 sq.m.
What is spray filler used for?
Spray filler is used for the fast, efficient smoothing of walls and ceilings in new construction and renovation projects. It is also suitable for joint filling on plasterboard panels, embedding corner reinforcements and texturing.
Is spray filler a good method for applying filler?
Yes, spray filler is often seen as a very efficient alternative for large surfaces. It is both ergonomic and time-saving, for example on walls and ceilings, as you can quickly create a consistent layer of filler without needing to fine smooth by hand. Many professional decorators and builders prefer spray filler precisely because it produces a consistent result and gets the job done quickly.
Pinholes and blisters
Why do pinholes occur?
Pinholes/blisters occur when applying filler on non-absorbent substrates, e.g. previously painted surfaces or hard substrates. This is due to the fact that water and air in the filler cannot be absorbed in the substrate, but seep out and stay on the surface after a couple of minutes.
How can you avoid pinholes and blisters?
The longer you wait to perform final smoothing of the filler, the fewer problems you have with pinholes/blister formation.
Paper Tape
Is paper tape the only approved solution for plasterboard joints?
Yes, only paper tape is approved. It is much stronger than a glass fibre tape. Even on butt joints You must use paper tape on plasterboards. Always follow the National guidelines and recommendations when finishing plasterboard.
Which filler should be used with paper tape?
Always use a filler with CE-marking in accordance with EN 13963. When using paper tape, joint filler is recommended as it provides good adhesion. Recommended options include the Dalapro Joint range and the specialist product Dalapro Edge. The Dalapro Nova range, which is an all-round filler, also works.
Why should I use Joint Tape?
Paper tape, also referred to as filler tape, is used to reinforce the joints between plasterboard panels so that the surface remains strong and free of cracks over time. Plasterboard panels are natural weak points that move when walls and ceilings expand or are subjected to load. Without tape, there is a high risk that joints will crack. Scanspac Joint Tape is CE-marked in accordance with EN 13963.
Drying time
How quickly does the filler dry?
The drying time depends on the external circumstances, such as temperature, humidity and layer thickness. Different kinds of substrate also have different drying times. As a general rule, the filler should be dry after 12–24 hours.
How can you affect the drying time of the filler?
Good ventilation and a dehumidifier. That is really the only way to affect the drying time. Avoid high temperatures, as this initially increases humidity and extends the drying time.
Environmental documents and labels
What is an EPD?
When a product has an EPD document, you as a customer can rest assured that the product’s environmental impact has been examined and documented in several stages of its life cycle. An EPD will tell you, among other things, the product’s carbon footprint. Having an EPD for a product can also earn points in certain environmental assessment systems.
Why is it important for me as a user or dealer to know what an EPD is?
In January 2022, the Swedish National Board of Housing introduced a requirement for buildings to have a climate declaration. This means that the construction market must gather information about the environmental impact of products. EPDs will be used as supporting documentation. The requirement will apply in the first instance for larger elements of a building, such as floors and frame structures.
How much progress has Scanspac made in its EPD work?
We are prepared! Scanspac has been working for several years to produce EPDs for products in our range. We have a number of products with an associated EPD.
Why does it say EN 15824 and EN 13963 on packaging items?
EN 15824 and EN 13963 are standards providing guidelines on which filler should be used for each application. You can find the code on the reverse side of the packaging in the CE-marking.
What does EN 15824 mean?
EN 15824 = Approved for the fine smoothing of ceilings and walls, but is also excellent for texturing ceilings.
What does EN 13963 mean?
EN 13963 = Approved for use in plasterboard joints together with paper tape, but also for mounting corner reinforcement.
Subsequent work
How do you clean tools and where should you dispose of used buckets?
Remove as much filler as possible from the tools before cleaning them in water. Filler residues must not be poured down the drain, but taken to the local waste disposal centre. Empty packaging completely and recycle it.