Solid Wood Door Restoration

Door Restoration is a Cheaper Alternative to Door Replacement in Many Cases

By Mark J. Donovan

In many cases it makes more sense to restore a door to its original beauty than to throw it out. Though there is some work required in a door restoration project, there is nearly as much in replacing a door. As a matter of fact, replacing a door can involve more as the existing doorframe frequently needs to be removed and replaced.

Solid wood door restoration begins with an orbital sander and some 60 grit sandpaper. Sand all of the flat surface areas of the door including the raised panels and the door rails and stiles. Sand the door down to bare wood.

Next, using 60 grit sandpaper and/or a foam sand block sand all the corners of the door, in the raised panel area.

Repeat the process again, but use 120 grit sandpaper instead to achieve a smooth finish.

Once you have completed sanding the door wipe it down thoroughly with a rag to remove any dust.

Then apply a single coat of a pre-stain to it to ensure an even application of stain. Wipe any excess pre-stain off after 5 minutes.

Next, apply a single coat of stain to the door. Again, after applying the stain wait a few minutes and remove any excess with a rag. I find a foam brush works best for actually applying the stain.
After the stain has fully dried apply two coats of polyurethane to the door. Make sure you allow the polyurethane to fully dry between coats, and lightly wipe down the door with fine steel wool prior to applying the second coat of polyurethane. Also, make sure to wipe the door down with a dry rag after using the steel wool on it and before applying the second coat of polyurethane.

For the final step apply a coat of butchers wax over the door. This will help to create a smooth and silky finish.

To learn more on door restoration see the below video where I show and discuss how to do a door restoration project.