External wooden doors are an excellent way to add a stylish touch to your home. They are also durable and can be easily maintained. Nevertheless, the correct maintenance and care is key to ensure the longevity of your door.
The best way to protect a wooden door is by keeping it clean and dry. Wiping it down regularly will help to keep it in top condition. It is also worth checking that all the hardware is in good working order. This includes handles, locks and draught excluders. If they are not, the door is not functioning as it should and could be damaged or even ruined.
It is also a good idea to install a canopy to deflect rain. A canopy is a simple solution that can provide added protection for your door.
When it comes to wood doors, the biggest advantage is the warm feel they can give. This is especially true if they are solid timber doors. These can be re-finished or re-painted as required.
Choosing the best external wooden door is an important decision. Whether you want a traditional style or modern designs, there are a number of factors to consider. For example, you will have to decide whether you want a door made from a natural or engineered wood. In general, engineered timber is more resistant to damage than other types of material. However, it is still possible to damage a wooden door by using the wrong techniques.
An effective method of keeping a wooden door protected is to build a porch or canopy. You can also apply foil sheets or masking tape to the glass to protect it. Depending on the size and shape of your door, you may need to add extra protection.
You can also paint your door before you hang it to give it an extra layer of protection. Some paints also seal the wood. Even a thick coat is usually enough to create a waterproof finish.
You can also use a wood filler to repair minor defects. Be careful when applying any type of filler though as it is easy to end up with a mess.
Similarly, the best method of finishing a wooden external door is probably to use a varnish or lacquer. Varnish is the best of the three and will provide the most weatherproof seal. Using a lacquer won’t have quite the same visual appeal as a coat of paint, but will give your door a long-lasting protective layer.
Regardless of which technique you choose, you should make sure that the door is properly finished before installing it. This will prevent problems like sagging or warping. Also, be sure to check your doors once a year to make sure it is working as it should. Often, a door that doesn’t get its fair share of maintenance will need replacing much sooner than one that receives a little love.
Taking the time to select and maintain your external wooden doors will pay off. This will also improve the longevity of your property and increase its value.