Gap Filling Adhesives

About Gap Filling Adhesives

Gap filling adhesives are versatile bonding solutions designed to tackle one of the most common challenges in construction and renovation work: joining materials whilst simultaneously bridging gaps and uneven surfaces. Unlike standard adhesives that require close contact between surfaces, these specialised formulations contain fillers that allow them to span voids up to 25mm or more, making them indispensable for fitting skirting boards, architraves, coving, panels, and countless other building applications where traditional fixing methods fall short.

These high-performance adhesives combine powerful initial grab strength with excellent gap-filling properties, eliminating the need for mechanical fixings in many applications and significantly speeding up installation times. Modern formulations like Everbuild's PinkGrip range and Evo-Stik Gripfill have revolutionised how tradespeople approach fixing tasks, offering solvent-free options that are safer to use and comply with increasingly stringent VOC regulations. Whether you're working with timber, plasterboard, concrete, metal, or plastics, gap filling adhesives provide a reliable bond that accommodates the natural expansion and contraction of building materials.

At TooledUp, we stock trusted brands including Everbuild, Evo-Stik, and Sealey, offering everything from standard grab adhesives to ultimate strength formulations like Stixall. Available in cartridges for skeleton gun application or hand-applied tubes, these products deliver professional results for both tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts tackling demanding projects.

Jargon Buster

Grab Adhesive

A high-tack adhesive that provides immediate holding power, allowing vertical applications without temporary supports. Initial grab occurs within seconds, though full cure may take 24-48 hours.

MS Polymer

Modified Silane polymer technology offering exceptional bonding with low odour and no solvents. These adhesives can be overpainted and offer excellent UV resistance and flexibility.

Solvent-Free

Formulations that contain no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making them safer for enclosed spaces and compliant with environmental regulations. Ideal for occupied buildings and sensitive applications.

Initial Tack

The immediate holding power of an adhesive before it fully cures. High initial tack means components can be positioned and released without sliding or requiring temporary support.

Gap Bridging

The maximum void size an adhesive can effectively span whilst maintaining bond strength. Quality gap filling adhesives typically bridge gaps from 5mm to 25mm depending on the formulation.

Cure Time

The period required for an adhesive to reach full strength. Surface cure (skin formation) occurs within minutes, whilst complete cure throughout the adhesive thickness may take 24-72 hours depending on gap size and conditions.

Who Uses Gap Filling Adhesives?

Gap filling adhesives are essential tools across numerous trades and applications:

• Joiners and Carpenters - Installing skirting boards, architraves, dado rails, decorative mouldings, and panelling without pin holes
• Shop Fitters - Rapid installation of display units, wall panels, and fixtures in retail environments
• Dry Liners - Bonding plasterboard, insulation boards, and coving to uneven walls and ceilings
• Kitchen and Bathroom Fitters - Securing plinths, end panels, splashbacks, and worktop upstands
• Builders and General Contractors - Wide-ranging applications from window board installation to temporary and permanent fixings
• Shopfitters and Signage Installers - Mounting panels, displays, and signage to various substrates
• Facilities Maintenance Teams - Quick repairs and installations in commercial and industrial settings
• DIY Enthusiasts - Home improvements, renovations, and repair projects requiring professional-quality results

How to Choose the Right Gap Filling Adhesives

Selecting the appropriate gap filling adhesive depends on several key factors:

Application Environment: Consider whether you're working indoors or outdoors, and if ventilation is limited. Solvent-free formulations like Everbuild PinkGrip Solvent Free are ideal for occupied spaces, whilst traditional solvent-based products like Evo-Stik Gripfill offer faster initial grab in well-ventilated areas or external applications.

Substrate Materials: Identify what you're bonding. Universal adhesives like Everbuild Stixall work across virtually all materials including metals, glass, and plastics, whilst standard grab adhesives excel with porous materials like timber, plasterboard, and masonry. For specialist applications, MS polymer adhesives like Sika Multi Stick offer superior flexibility and weather resistance.

Gap Size and Load: Assess the void you need to bridge and the weight being supported. Standard grab adhesives typically handle gaps up to 15mm, whilst heavy-duty formulations manage 25mm or more. For structural applications or heavy components, consider products with enhanced load-bearing capabilities.

Cure Requirements: If you need immediate positioning without props, select high-grab products like Everbuild Instant Nails. For applications where clamping is possible, standard cure times are perfectly adequate and often more economical.

Finishing Requirements: If the adhesive will be visible or requires painting, choose overpaintable formulations. Some products also offer colour options - Everbuild's PinkGrip being easily distinguishable from timber for precise application.

Application Method: Most gap filling adhesives come in standard 310ml or 350ml cartridges requiring a skeleton gun, though some products are available in smaller hand-applied tubes for minor repairs or precise work.

Popular Accessories

• Skeleton Guns and Sealant Applicators - Essential for dispensing cartridge-based adhesives with control and precision
• Professional Caulking Guns - Heavy-duty options from brands like Everbuild and Sealey for frequent use
• Nozzles and Applicator Tips - Various profiles for different bead sizes and application patterns
• Adhesive Remover and Cleaners - For removing excess adhesive and cleaning tools
• Surface Preparation Products - Degreasers and primers to ensure optimal adhesion
• Masking Tape - Creating clean lines and protecting adjacent surfaces during application
• Spirit Levels and Laser Levels - Ensuring accurate positioning whilst adhesive sets
• Temporary Props and Supports - Supporting components during initial cure period
• Work Gloves and Hand Protection - Essential PPE when handling adhesives

Safety Information

When working with gap filling adhesives, observe proper safety precautions to protect yourself and others:

Ventilation: Even with solvent-free products, ensure adequate ventilation when working indoors. Solvent-based adhesives require particularly good airflow and should never be used in confined spaces without proper extraction.

Personal Protection: Wear appropriate gloves to prevent skin contact and potential sensitisation. Safety glasses protect against splashes during application, particularly when working overhead. Refer to product-specific COSHH data sheets available from manufacturers.

Skin Contact: If adhesive contacts skin, remove immediately with appropriate cleaners - never use solvents on skin. Some formulations can cause allergic reactions with repeated exposure, so barrier creams and gloves are recommended for regular users.

Storage and Disposal: Store cartridges in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and direct sunlight. Partially used cartridges can often be resealed for future use. Dispose of empty cartridges according to local authority guidelines - many contain residual materials requiring proper waste handling.

Fire Safety: Solvent-based adhesives are flammable. Keep away from naked flames, sparks, and heat sources. Follow HSE guidance for storage quantities on site, particularly in occupied buildings or near hot works.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between grab adhesive and gap filling adhesive?

The terms are often used interchangeably, as most grab adhesives inherently possess gap-filling properties. Gap filling specifically refers to the adhesive's ability to bridge voids and uneven surfaces whilst maintaining bond strength, typically handling gaps from 5mm to 25mm depending on formulation.

Can I use gap filling adhesive instead of mechanical fixings?

In many applications, yes - modern gap filling adhesives provide sufficient bond strength to replace screws, nails, and other mechanical fixings for items like skirting, architrave, and panelling. However, for structural applications, heavy loads, or safety-critical installations, always follow building regulations and manufacturer guidance which may require mechanical fixings.

How long before I can paint over gap filling adhesive?

This depends on the specific product. Most paintable gap filling adhesives can be overpainted within 24 hours, though some rapid-cure formulations allow decoration sooner. Always check the manufacturer's technical data sheet, and ensure the adhesive has fully skinned over before applying paint to prevent solvent interference.

Will gap filling adhesive work on damp surfaces?

Standard gap filling adhesives require dry surfaces for optimal adhesion. However, some specialist formulations like certain MS polymer products tolerate slightly damp conditions. For genuinely wet environments or underwater applications, you'll need specific moisture-tolerant or underwater adhesives rather than standard gap fillers.

What's the shelf life of gap filling adhesive cartridges?

Unopened cartridges typically have a shelf life of 12-18 months when stored correctly in cool, dry conditions. Once opened, most products remain usable for several weeks if the nozzle is sealed properly between uses. If the adhesive has skinned over in the cartridge or become stringy and difficult to dispense, it's past its usable life and should be replaced.