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If you've ever repaired the same crack more than once, you'll know just how frustrating it can be.
You fill it, sand it, paint it... then a few months later it's back again.
In most cases, that isn't because you've done anything wrong. It's because the crack is caused by movement, and unless the repair can move with it, it'll eventually reopen.
I was recently chatting with the team at Toupret, and they shared a really interesting application tip for their product Fill-Flex that I thought was well worth passing on because it's one of those little things that makes complete sense once someone explains it.
Before you reach for the filler...
It sounds completely backwards, but before you reach for the filler, you actually want to rake the crack out.
Using something like the Axus Stainless Steel RUT, remove any loose material and widen the crack slightly.
I know it feels wrong. You've taken a small crack and made it look much worse.
But by opening it up, you're giving the filler much more surface area to bond to, while also allowing it to reach the part of the crack where the movement is actually happening.
It gives the filler much more to grip onto, helping to create a stronger, longer-lasting repair.
Why Fill-Flex is different
Traditional fillers dry hard.
That's perfect for repairing holes or damaged plaster, but recurring cracks are a different story.
They're usually found around plasterboard joints, ceilings, skirting boards, door frames, window frames and exterior masonry, all areas that naturally experience a small amount of movement throughout the year.
Toupret Fill-Flex has been designed specifically for this. Once cured, it remains flexible, allowing it to move with the surface rather than cracking as soon as that movement returns.
The finishing tip most people don't know
This was the part that really stood out to me.
Rather than filling the crack completely flush, leave around 1mm at the surface.
Personally, I find the tube version makes this much easier because you have much more control over exactly how much product you're applying.
Once the Fill-Flex has cured, finish that final 1mm with Toupret Fine Surface Filler.
The reason for doing this is simple.
Fill-Flex contains reinforcing fibres that give it its flexibility, so it isn't really intended to be sanded smooth.
By leaving the final skim for Fine Surface Filler, you get the best of both worlds. The Fill-Flex underneath is doing all the heavy lifting by accommodating movement, while the Fine Surface Filler gives you a beautifully smooth finish that's quick and easy to sand before painting.
The difference is all in the technique
Sometimes it's the smallest changes that make the biggest difference.
If you've got a crack that keeps coming back, don't just repair what's visible on the surface.
Prepare it properly, let Fill-Flex do the job it was designed to do, and finish the repair with the Toupret Fine Surface Filler.
It's a simple technique, but one that can make a huge difference to how long your repair lasts.
If you're not sure whether Fill-Flex is the right product for your repair, we're always happy to help. You can message us on WhatsApp, drop us an email, or reach out on Facebook, Instagram or TikTok before you get started.
Happy decorating,
Helen x
