Preparation
1. Remove door from frame and lay flat for best performance.
2. Sand the entire door lightly, using #180 grit sand paper (heavy veneers). Always sand in direction of the grain.
3. Thoroughly remove all dust prior to applying finish. A tack cloth is recommended - be sure to follow tack cloth manufacturers instructions.
4. DO NOT USE COMPRESSED AIR to blow off door as moisture in air will cause water spotting on stained finishes.
Staining
Use a recommended OIL BASED prestain or conditioner prior to staining.
1. Apply OIL BASED semitransparent stain or clear under coat as recommended for exterior or interior application.
2. Apply three coats of clear top coat varnish or polyurethane and lightly sand between coats. Exterior finishes must have Ultra Violet (UV) inhibitors. For glazed doors, allow top coat to lap onto glass to protect from moisture.
Painting
DO NOT USE WATER BASED PRIMER OR PAINT. WATER BASED FINISHES WILL VOID ALL WARRANTIES. An exterior grade paint must be used on all exterior doors. Water based or latex paint may be used on primed doors.
1. SELECT A HIGH-QUALITY OIL BASED PIGMENTED PRIMER (water based finishes may raise grain).
2. Cover all surfaces evenly. BE SURE TO SEAL TOP AND BOTTOM of doors as well as all sides.
3. APPLY A MINIMUM OF TWO TOP COATS - sanding between coats. For glazed doors, allow top coat to lap onto glass 1/16” to protect from moisture.
4. DO NOT USE BLACK OR DARK COLORED TOP COATS on doors that will be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time throughout the daylight hours.