It’s time to re-stain your front door. Doors that are stained tend to fade and need to be re-stained more frequently than door that are painted. It is recommended that you re-stain a front door every 3-5 years depending on how long it is exposed to direct sunlight during the day. Also, be vigilant in looking for chips and worn spots in the wood. The longer you wait, the more damage to the door. With proper upkeep, a stained door makes for an elegant and inviting entryway into your home.
WHAT’S INVOLVED
When staining your front door, there are only 3 main steps involved, however, it requires a number of products and tools. If you are going to DIY it, make sure you have the required items handy so you don’t have to run to the store every few minutes. Also, be sure to allot for the time needed between step. Once you have decided on the perfect stain color, it’s time to get going!
STEP ONE – CLEAN AND SAND THE DOOR
You can remove the door from the hinges and either tape or remove hardware. However, may homeowners choose to leave the door up and put a drop cloth underneath. If there are any windows, tape them off . Wipe the door down with a wood cleaner and also putty any knicks or holes.
Wait for the door to dry and then it is time to sand. If the door is in relatively good shape, a light sanding should do the job. This can be done by hand or with and appropriate electric palm sander. It is important to have a clean and smooth surface area for the new stain and finish. NOTE: If the door needs to be stripped completely a chemical remover may be required.
BEFORE SANDING AND STAINING
STEP TWO – APPLY THE STAIN
Applying your chosen stain color is the next step in getting your door stained correctly. Start at the top of the door and work your way down. If you are doing the job yourself be sure to read any instructions on the can. There are several ways to apply the stain, but generally speaking you can apply the stain with a brush, rag or staining pad. Just be sure to apply the stain evenly and wipe off any excess as you go. The longer the stain sits, the darker it gets. Stand back and make sure there are no areas that need attention before you allow it to dry. If a second coat is needed, lightly sand the door after the first coat has dried and apply the next coat.
STEP THREE – APPLY VARNISH OR TOPCOAT
The next day the topcoat should be applied to protect your beautiful new finish from the elements. It is important to use an exterior varnish for maximum protection. The drying time and number of coats can vary from product to product, so make certain to read the directions to ensure a perfect outcome!
BEFORE AFTER
MAINTENANCE
After your door has been newly refinish you will want to maintain it every few months. Applying wax to the finish will help preserve it. While a wide variety of products can be used, a product called SunShield (we do not sell or endorse this product for profit) is specially formulated to protect against UV rays. If you care for your door regularly you should not have to re-stain it for years to come.
AT YOUR SERVICE
If you have any other areas that need to be stained – your deck, dock, porch or fence – it is cost effective to get them all done at the same time! So, if your time is precious or DIY just isn’t in your DNA, give us a call at ColaTown Painting. We are dedicated to making every part of your painted home – interior or exterior – a perfect reflection of who you are. Call Britt 803-603-6486 for a free, no-obligation estimate on any project you have. You’ll be glad you did.
Recent Comments