How to Treat Internal Oak Doors
How to Treat Internal Oak Doors
Do internal oak doors need treating? Yes, they really do. Whether you have solid oak doors or oak veneer doors inside your home, treating them to keep them looking good, lasting long, and working well over time is essential.
If you want to save time and effort, use pre-finished oak doors. They come pre-coated, usually with a clear AC lacquer, so you can install them immediately. You just need to finish off trimmed edges and hardware cuts. Our pre-finished internal oak doors are one of our best sellers because they are low maintenance and have a 10-year guarantee. But if you go for unfinished oak doors, doing it yourself means you can tailor the end finish to suit your room.
Why Treat Internal Oak Doors
Oak is a natural material that needs proper care to prevent it from warping, shrinking, or splitting. Like leather, oak needs "nourishment" - good oil for oak doors or protective varnish - to keep in good condition. Oak soaks up water and dirt if untreated, causing permanent damage.
If you are fitting oak veneer interior doors or solid oak, the treatment process helps to:
- Keep safe from water and wetness. Seal the surface against fingerprints, dirt, and grease
- Enhance the texture and natural appearance of the wood.
- Prevent discolouration and damage from everyday wear and tear
Oak Door Treatment Options
The most commonly suggested finishes include Osmo Door Oil 3060, water-based sealers, and hard wax oils. These finishes seal the wood against moisture and show the natural look of the wood. Never use thin penetrating oils, wax, or anything unsuitable for veneered surfaces. In case of doubt, consult your door manufacturer's instructions prior to applying treatment to your door.
Some brands suggest the use of a microporous wood finish or base sealer prior to the application of oil or varnish, while others enable you to paint over oak surfaces. Just make sure anything you choose is suitable for veneered or engineered wood. Don't use different products on a single door (e.g., paint on one side and oil on the reverse side).
One advantage of selecting an unfinished oak door is that you can select a stain, varnish, or paint to match your decor. This provides greater styling possibilities than already finished doors.
Step-by-Step: How to Treat Your New Oak Door
If you have a new door that has been recently delivered, follow these steps for a fine finish:
- Check your doors for any damage or problems within 48 hours of their delivery.
- Set up a clean, dry atmosphere free of dust and moisture (do not treat near newly plastered surfaces).
- Lay the door flat on a firm surface like a table.
- Lightly sand all surfaces and edges with fine sandpaper (avoid using wire wool or iron-based sanders).
- Vacuum or use a clean cloth to wipe away all the dust.
- If recommended, apply a sealant coat to condition the surface.
- Apply your chosen oil or varnish according to the manufacturer's instructions. Remember to coat all cut-outs and cut edges.
- Sand lightly between coats if directed and ensure proper drying time between coats.
- Let the door dry thoroughly in a dry, clean area before hanging.
Maintenance Tip: Certain treatments may have to be reapplied every few years to maintain their protection and appearance.
Dos and Don'ts of Treating Oak Doors
Do:
- Apply a suitable oil for oak doors or a wood finish appropriate for engineered or veneered doors.
- Protect all edges and sides, even if they are cut or drilled.
- Apply equal coats to all surfaces to prevent uneven drying and warping.
- Use masking tape to shield any glass from damage during treatment.
Don't:
- Use steel wool or iron-based sanding products.
- Do not use penetrating oils, waxes, or dyes intended for veneered surfaces. Instead, employ thinned paints or blended chemical dyes.
- Apply various finishing products on opposite sides of the same door.
Choosing the Right Finish for Your Internal Oak Doors
Oak veneer or solid doors require regular maintenance to look good and last for many years. Pre-finished interior oak doors are simple to maintain, but unfinished oak doors allow you to choose a finish to complement the style of your house. Search our collection of internal oak doors for inspiration!
If you are unsure what treatment your door needs or you just want some guidance on which to use, oil or varnish, don't hesitate to contact our team. With proper care, your interior oak doors will last a long time and continue to look great.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do oak veneered doors need treating?
Yes, both solid and veneered oak doors require treatment to protect against moisture and damage.
Can you paint an oak door?
You can paint oak doors, but if you plan to use paint over stain or oil, consider starting with primed internal doors for a smoother result.
Can I finish my doors after hanging them?
It’s possible, but treating them flat reduces the risk of drips and ensures better access to all edges. However, hanging them first can help avoid damage to the finish during fitting.
How long is the drying time?
While surface drying may occur within hours, full drying time, especially for oils or varnishes, can take several days to a week to harden fully.
