When you install oak doors in your home, you are adding to its curb appeal, decor, and value. These doors add a natural beauty to your home that is hard to achieve in any other way, and because of the high quality of the material, you will be able to enjoy the benefits of these doors for years to come.
It is important to have an oak door maintenance plan in place to ensure that you enjoy the versatility and beauty of your oak doors for as long as possible. Follow these tips to ensure that you get the most out of your oak doors.
Oak Door Maintenance Tips and Tricks
- Regular Cleaning
Keeping your oak doors clean is the first step to proper maintenance. To do this, regularly wipe the door surface with a lint-free cloth to remove dust and debris from the door. Using a clean, soft cloth ensures that you will not damage the paint or stain with any grit or grime from the cloth. Also, take the time to wipe clean the hardware and hinges to remove any residue or built-up dirt. Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on any oak door.
- Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is necessary to protect your doors from the ravages of regular wear and tear. This means checking the hinges and hardware for sticky or worn-out parts, repairing and painting any chips and regularly greasing the hinges with the appropriate lubricant. Also, use a soft cloth and a high-quality wood polish to ensure a long-lasting shine.
- Protecting Oak Doors from Damage
Protecting your oak doors from damage can be done in a number of ways.
- Do not install oak doors in environments where they do not belong. Make sure to use exterior doors where necessary.
- Make sure that you have the proper stain or paint on your oak doors to protect them from the surrounding environment.
- As much as possible, ensure that your oak doors stay clean and dry.
- Re-stain your doors when it is appropriate to do so.
- Treating Oak Doors with Oil
Your oak doors may need to be oiled over time. To ensure this is done properly, follow a few simple rules.
- Before adding an oil finish, you must clean and wipe the door to remove dirt and debris.
- Next, sand down any worn or splintered areas to allow the stain to be evenly applied to the entirety of your wooden door.
- Finally, apply the oil of your choice according to the manufacturer’s directions.
- Seasonal Tips
In the spring and summer, make arrangements to check and clean your doors more often. This is important in the months of high humidity. In the fall and winter, you may want to consider additional polishing and protection measures to help protect from the harsh elements.
- Long-Term Preservation Tips
Have a professional who is familiar with working on solid oak doors come and inspect your doors yearly. They can make suggestions and show you tricks on how to maintain the beauty of your oak doors over the long term and repair any current problems.
Oak Doors: Worth the Effort
Maria from DoorsGalore says “Maintaining your oak doors is well worth the investment because, with the proper care, they can serve you and your family in your home for decades to come.”
