Doors are one of the essential parts of your home. Doors provide a solid foundation for supporting other woodwork in your house.
One of the most popular choices for interior doors is Oak. There are numerous internal oak doors styles and sizes to choose from.
Similarly, you can find many different kinds of oak finishes that you can apply to your home.
Choosing a door finish is not an easy task. There are many other options available, each having its advantages and disadvantages. This article will help you list and choose the right type of finish for your door.
1. Oil Finish
If you are looking for a durable finish, then this is the finish you should get. It is the most common type of finish applied to oak doors. It involves using oil-based stains with a brush or roller. After which, the door gets sealed with a clear coat. This type of finish is resistant to water and humidity, making it ideal for indoor use. However, it tends to be more expensive.
2. Wax Finish
Also called beeswax finish, wax finish can last up to 20 years if properly maintained. The main advantage of this type of finish is that it does not require any maintenance. It is perfect for outdoor use as well. However, it is less resistant to moisture than oil-based. You need to apply the wax mixture using a brush or roller onto the surface of the door. Then, seal it with a clear coat.
3. Polyurethane Finish
Up next on our list of the best finish for oak internal doors is polyurethane. This finish is a popular choice among homeowners who want to keep their doors looking new for a long time. You need to mix polyurethane resin with paint to create a coating that seals the door’s surface and protects it from water damage. Heat is the preferred mode to cure the polyurethane finish. It has excellent resistance to scratches and dents, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
4. Epoxy Resin
Epoxy resin is an alternative finish option available for those who don’t like wax or oil stains. You need to use epoxy resin mixed with acrylic latex to create a protective layer over the door’s surface that prevents moisture from penetrating the wood.
5. Acrylic Lacquer
Acrylic lacquer protects wooden surfaces and provides a smooth glossy appearance. It requires minimal maintenance and can withstand high temperatures.
6. Enamel Paint
Enamel paint gives a shiny look to the door’s surface without affecting its durability. You can also use enamel paint to cover old and worn-out doors. It allows light to pass through but blocks water penetration. It is easily cleaned and doesn’t require much maintenance.
7. Shellac
Shellac is also known to be flexible and waterproof. Shellac is a natural product that comes from the lac insect. Resin and beeswax are the composites used in making shellac. When applied to the door’s surface, it creates a durable and beautiful finish. Shellac is therefore often used to protect furniture.
8. Lacquer
Lacquer is a clear coating that gives a glossy appearance to the door. It is created by proportionally mixing shellac with alcohol. After application, it dries quickly and provides a hard but attractive finish.
9. Wood Stain
Wood stain is the most affordable option on this list available for finishing your wooden doors. Wood stain is a dark colorant mainly applied manually. It penetrates deep into the wood’s pores and makes it look darker than its original color.
10. Varnish
Varnishes protect wood surfaces from scratches and fading. Varnish is a thin liquid applied to the door’s surface using a brush, and they come in various finishes, such as satin semi-gloss. Varnish has a high gloss finish and protects against moisture penetration.
Conclusion
You can get these finishes at your local hardware store. Make sure that you buy them from reputable sources. Also, make sure that you follow all the instructions provided with the products before you start using them. The above information will help you decide what finish would suit your needs. Do remember to consult with some professionals before finalizing a decision. You could also consult an expert at your local hardware store. They will help you choose the best finish based on your needs and preferences.
