Ph: 800.903.6786
Fax: 630.566.7443
hcm@harvestcreek.com
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Solid Wood Door Finishing
Exterior Finishing
Exterior finishing of woods follows the same steps as used for interior woods, but one must protect against the elements. Wood does not like water and sun light.
Penetrating sealers are good but not suitable on their own. One needs to protect the surface of wood. The penetrating sealers are absorbed into the wood and form a layer of protection under the surface of the wood. One still needs a surface treatment. There are many available. Sikkens has an excellent combination product, Cetol 1 and 23, but it will color the wood. A high grade of spar varnish or Urethane with a UV inhabitant is good but needs regular maintenance.
If one is not prepared to protect an exterior door or maintain it, do not use a wood exterior door.
Signs That Surface Finish Has Failed
- Grain raising. If the surface of the wood appears rough or cracked where it had previously felt smooth, it is a sign that moisture has been absorbed by the wood through the surface.
- Discoloration of the wood. If the wood has taken on a gray hue, or discoloration other than would naturally occur in some species of wood when exposed to the light (cherry will go deep red, walnut will darken), the wood has oxidized due to exposure to moisture.
- Flaking or cracking of the finish. If any cracks in the finish of the varnish or other product occur, the moisture will penetrate into the wood.
PO Box 29067
St. Catharines, ON
L2R 7P9
Ph: 800.903.6786
Fax: 630.566.7443