A Guide to Protective Internal Door Finishes

Key Takeaways

Have you just invested in a set of beautiful new internal doors but find yourself overwhelmed by the myriad of door finishes available? You're not alone. The choice between protection oils, base coats, and various sheens can be daunting. This guide will help you navigate the world of door finishes, ensuring your new doors not only look great but also stand the test of time.

Top Tip: All unfinished doors need a protective coating before installation. This means you'll need to stain, varnish, wax, or paint them to your desired specifications.

Popular Internal Doors for Finishing

Before we dive into finishes, let's look at some popular internal door styles that are perfect for custom finishes:

The Augusta Pre-Finished Oak Door: Classic style with a smooth surface for easy finishing

The Mexicano Modern Veneer Oak Door: Contemporary design perfect for modern finishes

The Suffolk Cottage Style Oak Door: Traditional look ideal for rustic or elegant finishes

What to Consider When Choosing a Door Finish

When selecting the perfect finish for your internal doors, keep these three key factors in mind:

1. Type of Finish: Oil-based paints are often the most durable and traditionally used for wood.
2. Finish Sheen: Satin and gloss paints are typically best for internal doors. They're washable, allowing for easy stain removal. Many homeowners prefer high gloss for its superior durability.
3. Colour: This is entirely up to your personal preference and interior design scheme. For wooden panel doors, you can either preserve their natural look or paint them to complement your decor.

Understanding Door Finishes

The Protective Coating

Unfinished doors require a protective coating to shield them from moisture and wear while enhancing their appearance. This crucial step ensures the longevity of your doors.

Hardwax Oils

Three brands stand out for their door oils:

• Treatex
• Impranol
• Osmo

These oils are popular for internal doors, typically blending oil and wax to penetrate the wood surface and provide a durable wax layer. They come in various shades and finishes:

• Satin: Offers a silky smooth finish, reflecting more light to create a bright, airy atmosphere.
• Matt: Conceals surface imperfections and is easy to touch up when needed.
• Semi-gloss and Gloss: Provide high moisture resistance, ideal for kitchen and bathroom doors.

Finishes by Shades

Door finishes are available in various shades to complement different wood types:

• Clear
• Light
• Medium
• Dark

Staining & Varnishing

Wood stains and varnishes offer a wide range of colour options. You can dilute stains to achieve lighter shades that better match your preferred colour. Remember that colours may appear different on various wood types, so always test before applying.

Top Tip: Always apply stain in the direction of the wood grain for best results.

Conclusion

Choosing the right finish for your internal doors is crucial for both aesthetics and protection. By considering the type of finish, sheen, and colour, you can enhance the beauty of your doors while ensuring their longevity. Whether you opt for hardwax oils, stains, or varnishes, remember to always apply a protective coating to unfinished doors before installation.

If you're still unsure about the best door finish for your needs, don't hesitate to reach out to us for expert advice tailored to your specific situation.

FAQs

1. Q: How often should I refinish my internal doors?

A: Generally, internal doors should be refinished every 3-5 years, depending on wear and tear.

2. Q: Can I change the finish of my doors without replacing them?

A: Yes, most doors can be refinished. Sand the existing finish, clean thoroughly, and apply your new chosen finish.

3. Q: Are water-based finishes suitable for internal doors?

A: While oil-based finishes are traditionally preferred, many high-quality water-based finishes are now available that offer excellent durability for internal doors.

4. Q: How do I maintain the finish on my internal doors?

A: Regular dusting and occasional cleaning with a damp cloth are usually sufficient. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the finish.

5. Q: Can I use exterior door finishes on internal doors?

A: It's best to use finishes specifically designed for internal use, as exterior finishes may contain chemicals unnecessary for indoor applications.

Ready to give your internal doors a fresh new look? Explore our range of door finishes and treatments to find the perfect solution for your home. Whether you're looking for traditional or contemporary styles, we have options to suit every taste and interior design scheme.