Wood door panels in Rome have lasted more than 1500 years with its intricate carvings and details because it is properly preserved and maintained. There is no reason why your wood front door would not be able to the same, with just the proper maintenance. In this article, we will try to answer the question, “How do you maintain a wood front door?”
Why should you maintain your wood front door?
Wood front doors, especially those in period houses, are made to last. Apart from the heritage brought on by the classic panelled door, its material is specifically stronger than those used today. That is why it is better to maintain them than to replace them, which can even save you from the cost of a new front door.
You might also want to check out: How Do You Repaint A Worn-Down Wood Door?
How do you maintain a wood front door?
The answer is very simple: refinishing your front door. The finish of your front door helps keep it from decaying or developing cracks on the surface. This is because the finish it uses serves as protection from the harsh weather conditions it is constantly exposed to, as well as the humidity that goes along with it.
Here is how to refinish your wood front door:
- Remove your door from its hinges. Detaching your door from its frame will make the job easier. Remove it from its hinges and place it on sawhorses for better accessibility.
- Remove all hardware that is not wood. Unfasten the doorknobs, latches, Matisse plate, etc. This is to expose all the wood that you need to work on.
- Clean your door. Use a sponge and soak it in warm soapy water. The warm temperature of the water can help easily remove the dirt in your door. Clean every nook and cranny of your door. Afterwards, use a dry cloth to help dry your door.
- Sand your door down. Make sure the uneven surfaces are sanded down. Use medium-grit sandpaper for this task. Check every surface of your door; do not rush. You can remove the previous finish or paint by sanding it down, but you can also use a chemical stripper to help remove the paint. Remember to always wear a mask and gloves especially when handling chemicals. Dust off your door after. You can gather the sawdust for a later process.
- Apply the finish. When choosing a finish, select the one that is the same as the previous finish. If you are not aware, just simply use the same finish for your regular refinishing schedule. Use one that can also protect your door from ultraviolet rays, to make sure it is not easily susceptible to cracks. Use the sawdust you have and combine it with epoxy or glue to fill in cracks or dents on your surface. Afterwards, you are ready to apply your topcoat.
You have now finished maintaining your door! You can also opt to polish your metal fixtures for a better look. Remember to maintain your door every 3 to 5 years to ensure your door can last you your lifetime.
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Pieter Boyce
Wooden Window and Door Specialist
This article was written on behalf of Fortis & Hooke by Pieter Boyce. Pieter has an intense passion for English Architectural history and has been specialising in the conservation of original wooden windows and doors for decades. His exceptional knowledge of timber windows and doors, both listed or non-listed, is attributed to his hands-on approach to learning all aspects of the complete restoration of original features as well as having personally surveyed thousands of items throughout his long tenure as a head surveyor for one of the largest window and door restoration companies in the UK. He now runs a boutique wooden window and door consultancy and fervently champions the retention of original windows and doors. To learn more of Pieter’s services, visit his website at www.boultonboyce.co.uk.