Problem with Flexible Gap Polyfilla

[Andy Kirkham]

I have tried using Flexible Gap Polyfilla to fill a gap between a door frame and the wall. The gap is 6-8 mm wide, and I stuffed the cavity behind it with bubble wrap.

The problem is that the filler doesn't seem to set properly. After twelve days, it is still soft enough to make a permanent indentation in it with my fingernail.

I enquired about this to the manufacturers, who say that it is supposed to be fully cured in a week

Furthermore, I had made a practice run filling a gap in an old wooden bookcase, which after a week I put outside in the garden. After a heavy downpour of rail, that filler appears to be dissolving. Yet this product is advertised as being suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

Is this generally thought to be a reliable product? Can anyone recommend something better, or suggest how I might be using it wrongly?

Perhaps I should mention that I am not an experienced DIY-er, and this is the first time I have visited this newsgroup.

Andy Kirkham

[stuart noble]

Possibly there is dampness getting behind the filler. I'd use ordinary sand/cement mortar with pva. If a gap develops next to the wood, fill that with something flexible

[The Natural Philosopher]

Sounds like acyrlic flexible caulk to me. It does set eventially, but is always soft.

Unless there is movement, uou wouldn't want to use flexible. Beter off with plaster.