Easy fill plaster: What is it and when should you use it?

Easy fill plaster offers quick repairs, but understanding when and how to use it properly makes all the difference for achieving professional-quality results. Whether you’re a homeowner tackling DIY repairs or a property developer maintaining multiple properties in Kent, knowing which easy fill product to choose and how to apply it can save time and deliver a smooth, paint-ready finish.

What is easy fill plaster?

Easy fill plaster is a specialist repair product that bridges the gap between traditional finishing plaster and basic household fillers. Unlike multi-finish plaster used for entire walls, easy fill products are specifically formulated for repairs, patches, and filling imperfections. These products come in both gypsum-based powder forms that require mixing and convenient ready-mixed options.

The fundamental difference between easy fill and traditional finishing plaster lies in composition and intended purpose. Easy fill products contain additives that promote faster setting times, reduced shrinkage, and easier sanding. This makes them ideal for quick repairs but less suitable for creating the ultra-smooth, large-area finishes that professional plasterers achieve with proper skim coats.

Most easy fill products are designed to be more forgiving than traditional plaster, making them accessible to DIY enthusiasts and homeowners. They typically offer longer working times in their powder forms, whilst ready-mixed versions eliminate the guesswork of achieving the correct consistency. For Kent homeowners looking to maintain their properties between professional plastering jobs, these products provide an invaluable middle ground.

The main types of easy fill products available

The Gyproc EasiFill range dominates the UK market for repair fillers, offering solutions for virtually every patching scenario. From ultra-fast setting compounds for emergency repairs to ready-mixed tubs for convenience, the range addresses different repair challenges. Understanding which product suits your specific needs prevents frustration and ensures professional-looking results, even for those without extensive plastering experience.

Understanding the different Gyproc EasiFill products

Choosing the right easy fill product depends on three key factors: the size of your repair, how quickly you need to complete the work, and whether convenience or cost-effectiveness matters more. Each product in the Gyproc range has been engineered for specific applications, and using the correct one significantly impacts your final results.

Gyproc EasiFill 60: For larger repairs and joint finishing

Gyproc EasiFill 60 is the workhorse of the range, offering a generous 60-minute working time that suits more extensive repairs. This gypsum-based powder filler excels at bulk filling and finishing plasterboard joints, making it the go-to choice when you need to patch larger damaged areas. The extended working time means you won’t feel rushed, allowing for careful application and smoothing.

The product delivers high coverage and low shrinkage, which means fewer coats are required to achieve a flush finish with surrounding surfaces. Once fully cured, EasiFill 60 is easy to sand smooth, creating a paint-ready surface that blends seamlessly with existing plasterwork. For property developers in Kent managing multiple units, this product offers the perfect balance between professional results and DIY-friendly application.

EasiFill 60 is particularly valuable when repairing damage from removed fixtures, filling gaps around door frames, or addressing cracks that have opened up due to settlement. The 60-minute window provides ample time to mix, apply, and smooth the filler without the panic that faster-setting products can induce in less experienced users.

Gyproc EasiFill 20: For quick small patches

When time is of the essence, Gyproc EasiFill 20 delivers rapid results with a setting time of just 10-20 minutes. This fast-acting powder is perfect for small patches on plaster, plasterboard, or even timber surfaces. The quick setting characteristic makes it ideal for rental property maintenance where turnaround time between tenancies is critical.

Despite its rapid set, EasiFill 20 allows quick sanding after brief drying, so you can complete minor repairs and have walls ready for painting within hours rather than days. This makes it invaluable for emergency repairs or when preparing a property for viewing. The trade-off for speed is the limited working time, so only mix what you can apply in approximately 10 minutes.

Kent homeowners often keep EasiFill 20 on hand for those unexpected repairs that crop up before guests arrive or when minor damage needs immediate attention. It’s particularly useful for filling screw holes, small dents, or hairline cracks that don’t require the extended working time of EasiFill 60.

Gyproc Easifiller: Ready-mixed convenience

Gyproc Easifiller eliminates mixing entirely, offering a ready-to-use multi-purpose solution for holes and cracks. Available in convenient 1L and 2.5L tubs, this product is perfect when you need to make quick repairs without the mess and hassle of mixing powder. Simply open the tub, apply with a filling knife, and you’re done.

The ready-mixed formula maintains consistent quality without the risk of incorrect water-to-powder ratios that can compromise powder-based fillers. Easifiller applies quickly and sands fine once cured, making it an excellent choice for minor cosmetic repairs. The sealed tubs also store well, so you can keep one in your maintenance kit for months without deterioration.

For interior designers and homeowners in Bromley who value convenience and reliability, ready-mixed Easifiller represents the easiest entry point into wall repair. It’s ideal for filling picture hook holes, minor surface damage, and small cracks that appear in new plasterwork as properties settle.

Gyproc Easifiller Light: For deep holes without shrinkage

Gyproc Easifiller Light uses innovative light spheres technology to create an ultra-lightweight formula capable of filling deep holes up to 25mm without significant shrinkage. This ready-mixed product solves one of the most frustrating problems in repair work: the sinking filler that requires multiple applications to build up to the surface level.

The lightweight formulation means no sanding is typically needed, as the product can be smoothed during application and dries with minimal surface imperfection. The lack of slumping during application allows you to fill deep holes in a single application, dramatically reducing repair time. This makes it perfect for holes left by removed pipework, electrical boxes, or substantial impact damage.

Property developers managing renovation projects across Kent find Easifiller Light particularly valuable when dealing with properties that have had extensive alterations. The ability to fill deep voids in one go, without waiting for multiple coats to dry, accelerates project timelines and reduces labour costs significantly.

When should you use easy fill plaster?

Understanding the appropriate applications for easy fill plaster is crucial to achieving professional results. These products excel in specific scenarios but can disappoint when used outside their intended purpose. The key is matching the product to the repair requirement, recognising when easy fill is the perfect solution and when traditional plastering methods are necessary.

Ideal uses for easy fill products

Easy fill products shine in repair and maintenance scenarios where small to medium imperfections need correction. They’re engineered specifically for these applications and deliver superior results compared to attempting the same repairs with traditional finishing plaster.

• Filling cracks and holes in walls and ceilings caused by settlement, impact damage, or removed fixtures
• Repairing damaged plasterboard joints where tape has failed or corners have been knocked
• Patching imperfections before painting, including divots, dents, and surface irregularities
• Quick repairs in rental properties between tenancies to maintain presentation standards
• Preparing walls in kitchens and bathrooms for tiling by filling old screw holes and smoothing surfaces
• Correcting DIY plastering mistakes where small areas need refinishing without re-skimming entire walls
• Filling gaps around architectural features such as coving, architraves, and skirting boards

For homeowners in Kent managing property maintenance, the EasiFill range provides solutions that deliver paint-ready finishes without requiring professional plastering skills. The products are particularly valuable when preparing properties for sale, where presentation matters but full replastering isn’t justified by the return on investment.

When NOT to use easy fill plaster

Recognising the limitations of easy fill products is equally important as understanding their strengths. Using these products inappropriately leads to disappointing results and potentially wasted time and materials.

Easy fill is not suitable for full skimming or as a skim replacement across entire walls or ceilings. The grain structure differs fundamentally from finishing plaster, and the final appearance will never match a proper skim coat. Attempting to use easy fill as a skimming alternative results in a surface that looks patchy, may show trowel marks more prominently, and lacks the smooth flow of properly skimmed plaster.

The products are designed for patches and repairs, not building up thick layers across large areas. Whilst multiple coats are possible for filling deep imperfections in localised areas, trying to build up entire wall surfaces is impractical and won’t deliver professional results. Easy fill also softens with a damp sponge, which aids in achieving smooth finishes but means it’s unsuitable for permanently damp areas.

If you’re considering full wall renovation, kitchen replastering, or bathroom ceiling work in your Kent property, easy fill products won’t provide the flawless finish that professional plastering delivers. In these scenarios, contacting experienced plasterers ensures the quality finish that adds genuine value to your property and provides the perfect canvas for decoration.

How to apply easy fill plaster properly

Achieving professional-quality results with easy fill plaster depends less on innate skill and more on following proper preparation and application techniques. Even experienced DIY enthusiasts can achieve disappointing results if they skip essential steps or rush the process.

Preparation is key

Successful repairs begin long before you open the filler tub or mix the powder. Proper surface preparation ensures adhesion, prevents future cracking, and creates the foundation for a seamless repair that blends with surrounding surfaces.

Remove all loose material first from the damaged area by scraping with a filling knife or old screwdriver. Any loose plaster, paint, or debris will prevent proper adhesion and cause the repair to fail prematurely. For cracks, widen them slightly with a scraper to create a clean edge that the filler can key into effectively.

Clean the repair area thoroughly, removing all dust with a brush or vacuum. Dampen deep holes or porous surfaces with a wet brush or sponge before application, as this prevents the substrate from drawing moisture out of the filler too quickly. This simple step dramatically improves adhesion and reduces the likelihood of cracking as the filler cures.

Mixing powder-based easy fill

Correct mixing technique separates smooth, workable filler from lumpy, unusable paste. The process requires patience and attention to achieve the consistency that spreads easily and finishes smoothly.

Always add powder gradually into cold water, never the reverse. Start with approximately two-thirds of the estimated water quantity in a clean bucket, then sprinkle powder into the water whilst stirring continuously. This method prevents lumps from forming and creates a smoother, more homogeneous mixture.

For EasiFill 60, you have 60 minutes of working time, so you can mix larger quantities for more extensive repairs. With EasiFill 20’s rapid 10-20 minute setting time, only mix what you can comfortably apply within that window. It’s better to mix a second batch than to waste material that sets before you can use it.

Application technique

The application method significantly impacts final results. Professionals achieve smooth finishes not through magic but by following a systematic approach that builds up repairs gradually.

Apply the first coat thinly, pressing the filler firmly into the repair with a filling knife to ensure complete contact with the substrate. Don’t attempt to fill deep holes in one application—this risks cracking and shrinkage. Allow this first coat to dry completely before proceeding.

Apply a thicker second coat if needed, building up to slightly proud of the surrounding surface. Sand between coats using medium-grit sandpaper (around 120 grit) to create a key for subsequent layers and remove any high spots. The final coat should finish flush with the surrounding wall.

For an ultra-smooth finish, gently soften the final pass with a damp sponge once the filler has firmed up but not fully hardened. This technique eliminates minor trowel marks and creates a surface that requires minimal sanding. The fast-setting nature of easy fill products means you can often overcoat within hours rather than waiting overnight.

Achieving a paint-ready finish

The goal of any repair is invisibility—the patched area should disappear completely when painted. Achieving this requires attention to the final finishing stages that many DIY enthusiasts rush.

Once the filler has fully dried (drying time varies by product and environmental conditions), sand smooth using progressively finer grits. Start with 120-grit paper to flatten the repair, then finish with 180 or 240-grit for a smooth surface. Use a sanding block rather than just paper in your hand to maintain a flat profile.

Always prime repairs before painting. Unprimed filler absorbs paint at a different rate than surrounding plaster, creating visible patches even with multiple paint coats. A coat of diluted emulsion or proper primer sealer ensures uniform paint absorption and invisible repairs. Multiple thin coats of filler always produce better results than attempting to fill deep imperfections in one thick application.

Easy fill plaster vs traditional finishing plaster

Understanding the distinction between easy fill products and traditional finishing plaster helps you choose the right material for each project. Both have their place in property maintenance and renovation, but they serve fundamentally different purposes.

Key differences in composition and use

Easy fill is engineered for repairs and patches, containing additives that promote faster setting, easier sanding, and reduced shrinkage in small applications. Traditional finishing plaster (multi-finish or board finish) is formulated for applying thin skim coats across entire walls and ceilings, creating the smooth, monolithic surface that characterises professionally plastered rooms.

The grain structure differs between the two products, which affects both working properties and final appearance. Finishing plaster can be burnished to a polished sheen and creates that distinctive plastered look. Easy fill, whilst capable of smooth finishes, never quite achieves the same flow and surface quality across large areas.

Easy fill products are available in small 1kg bags or convenient tubs, making them practical for homeowners who need to make occasional repairs. Traditional finishing plaster typically comes in 25kg bags, which is excessive for minor repairs but economical for full rooms. This packaging difference reflects their intended use cases perfectly.

Cost and convenience considerations

For small repairs, ready-mixed easy fill options eliminate mixing time and the mess of working with powder products. You simply open the tub and start filling, which makes repairs accessible even to those with no plastering experience. This convenience comes at a premium price per kilogram compared to powder products.

The faster setting times of easy fill products enable quicker project completion. Where traditional plaster might require overnight drying before decoration, some easy fill products can be painted within hours. For property developers in Kent working to tight schedules, this time saving can justify the additional material cost.

However, for whole-room plastering or significant renovation work, traditional finishing plaster applied by skilled professionals delivers superior results at lower material costs. The labour cost of professional application is offset by the dramatically better finish quality and longevity that proper plastering provides.

Common mistakes to avoid with easy fill plaster

Even straightforward products like easy fill plaster can deliver disappointing results when common errors occur. Learning from others’ mistakes saves time, materials, and frustration whilst improving your repair outcomes.

Using the wrong product for the job

Product selection mistakes are perhaps the most common error. Choosing fast-setting EasiFill 20 for a larger repair that requires extended working time leads to rushed application and poor results. Conversely, mixing EasiFill 60 for tiny repairs wastes material when ready-mixed Easifiller would be more practical.

The most significant mistake is attempting full wall skimming with easy fill products. This never delivers professional results and wastes both time and money. If your project involves entire walls or ceilings, proper plastering is the only route to quality finishes. Kent homeowners should recognise when professional plastering services are the appropriate solution rather than attempting unsuitable DIY repairs.

Poor surface preparation

Skipping preparation steps causes more repair failures than any other factor. Failing to remove loose material means repairs detach from the substrate within weeks or months. Not dampening porous surfaces causes rapid moisture loss from the filler, preventing proper curing and leading to weak, crumbly repairs.

Applying filler over dust, grease, or other contaminants prevents adhesion. A few minutes spent cleaning and preparing surfaces properly makes the difference between repairs that last years and those that fail within months. This is particularly important in kitchens where grease accumulation is common.

Application errors

Mixing too much material for the available working time wastes product and money. With fast-setting EasiFill 20, this mistake is particularly costly. Start with smaller batches until you understand how much you can comfortably apply within the setting window.

Applying filler too thickly in a single coat is perhaps the most common application error. Thick applications increase shrinkage and cracking risk, whilst thin multiple coats build up repairs with better stability and less shrinkage. Patience in building up repairs gradually is rewarded with superior results.

Not sanding between coats creates poor adhesion between layers and prevents the smooth, invisible finish that’s the hallmark of quality repairs. Finally, rushing to paint before filler has fully cured leads to adhesion problems and visible patches that show through paint. Most fillers require 24 hours minimum drying time before decoration, regardless of how dry they appear on the surface.

Easy fill plaster: The verdict for Kent homeowners and property professionals

Understanding when easy fill plaster makes sense for your project separates successful DIY repairs from frustrating failures. The Gyproc EasiFill range provides excellent solutions for repairs and patches, with products tailored to different repair scenarios—from quick 10-minute patches with EasiFill 20 to larger 60-minute joint work with EasiFill 60.

These products excel within their intended purpose: filling holes, cracks, and imperfections to create paint-ready surfaces. They’re ideal for property maintenance, rental turnarounds, and preparing walls for decoration. The ready-mixed options offer unmatched convenience, whilst powder products provide cost-effectiveness for more extensive patch work.

However, it’s crucial to recognise that easy fill products are designed for patches and repairs, not full skimming replacement. They cannot replicate the smooth, flowing finish that professional plastering delivers across entire walls and ceilings. Attempting to use them for applications beyond their design parameters leads to disappointing results and potentially wasted investment.

For Kent homeowners maintaining properties, easy fill products provide valuable tools for addressing minor damage between professional plastering services. Property developers managing multiple units benefit from the quick turnaround these products enable

Sources

[1] https://www.british-gypsum.com/products/plaster-products/gyproc-easifill-60
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TU7DphjkNrE
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OD5OKVwERrA