How to fill large gap above front door?

arieller

  

Hello, I’m renovating my first home and have removed some old panelling from above my front door (internal). I think the gap was there previously but I will admit I hadn’t looked above the framing of the door. The gap is  large (1 inch wide and probably around a similar depth). I’m not quite too sure how to fill a gap of this size. Would a gap filler, spakfiller, or even expanding foam be best for this gap? 

MitchellMc

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @arieller. It's splendid to have you join us and many thanks for your questions on filling gaps.

That’s a great question, and it’s actually quite common to find gaps like that once old trim or panelling is removed.

 

Was there originally a timber trim piece covering that area? If so, it’s not unusual to find voids behind it because builders often leave those spaces and simply cover them with trim later.

 

It really depends on what you’re planning to do next. Are you planning to add another trim piece, or do you want the area to be a clean, finished surface? If you’re just worried about blocking the gap for insulation or to stop insects getting in, you could simply fill it with a bit of expanding foam to take up the space.

 

If the area will be visible and you want a neat finish, you could glue in a small piece of timber to fill most of the void, then use a timber filler over the top. Once it’s dry, sand it back smooth and paint over it for a seamless look.

 

It really comes down to how that area will be finished off, whether it will be covered by trim or left exposed. Do you have plans to install a new trim above the door?

 

Please let me know if you have any questions.

 

Mitchell