Overheard a guy at the paint counter say filler is obsolete

Was grabbing supplies at Napa in Denver and heard some kid telling his buddy that body filler is completely outdated now. He was pushing for straight metal work on everything. I've been in this trade 15 years and used filler on dozens of rust repair jobs with zero comebacks - what do you all think, is there still a place for it?

2 comments

2 Comments

reese55011d ago

You say it's not going anywhere but I'm leaning the other way. I've had filler crack out on me after a couple Colorado winters, and that's with good prep. Straight metal work is slower but it lasts forever. More shops should be pushing for it instead of taking shortcuts.

olivia57312d ago

Nah, that kid's full of it. Filler isn't going anywhere, especially on daily driver repairs where you're dealing with rust holes and dents that are too deep for hammer and dolly work. Done a handful of jobs where straight metal was the only option, like on a classic car fender, but for most of us working on regular trucks and sedans, filler is still a lifesaver. The trick is knowing when to use it and not being lazy about the prep. Sand it down proper, use a quality brand, and you'll get years out of it. That kid probably hasn't dealt with a rusted-out wheel well on a 2000s Chevy yet, he'll learn.