Caulk or Pollyfilla

MisterNick

Hi, would you use builders caulk or pollyfilla (self mix type) on the gap between plasterboard and door lining / architrave?

I've got a fuji tool kit for the job.

Mant thanks in advance

koalakoala

I would say Caulk

MisterNick

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81985020#Comment_81985020

Thanks for the response. Any particular reason?

vacheron

Caulk, as it remains flexible when set.

Polyfilla sets hard, but that means that it is brittle. Whenever that door is opened or closed the frame will vibrate and flex a little relative to the wall which could cause cracking. Wood also expands and contracts with humidity changes and the caulk will accommodate that.

WIAWSNB

Caulk makes sense, for precisely the reason given.

Bear in mind, tho', that caulk isn't sandable, so you need to get it right first time.

It also dries quickly, so you need to work quickly.

If that gap it sizeable, as it appears to be, it may require filler first, forced well into that gap, and levelled off flush with the wall using a filling blade. Once dry and sanded, then a tiny bead of caulk where it touches the architrave to protect the joint.

Stubod

..caulk…no brainer….just watch one of the (many) youtubes on how to apply it…..

bjorn_toby_wilde

Caulk. Definitely.

I also wouldn’t use Polyfilla (the brand) unless it’s the quick drying version, if you need that.

There are much better fillers available now.

No Nonsense caulk is surprisingly good as emulsion doesn’t seem to crack over it.

MisterNick

Many thanks for all your answers - Ill go with the caulk.

MisterNick

Can I assume that you would use Pollyfilla in the screw and nail holes in the skirting and architraving.

Also, I have a box of Polyfilla to use up, but what brand should I look for after. ( Bjorn_toby_wilde's post) I have only used Pollyfilla in the past.

bjorn_toby_wilde

Polyfilla is absolutely fine if that’s what you have, and very good for screw and nail holes.

I didn’t mean to put you off it, but if you’re filling holes and cracks in plaster then there are better fillers that are easier to sand and don’t flash through the paint. Toupret and Gyproc Easifill are favourites.

Flashing happens if the filler is more absorbent (porous) than the surrounding paintwork, causing emulsion to dry flatter or sometimes shinier.

MisterNick

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81985557#Comment_81985557

Many thanks