A wooden garage door is a great addition to any home. The beauty of natural wood enhances curb appeal in a way that cannot be replicated with man-made materials. However, timber garage doors will need some routine maintenance to ensure they retain their beauty for years to come.
Finishing
Unfinished doors should be protected with a good quality, weather resistant finish as soon as possible. This can be done with either film finishes (like varnish or paint) or penetrating finishes (like oils or stains). Both will protect wooden garage doors but, over time, stress caused by the movement of the door can cause film finishes to crack and flake. Cracks in the surface of a finish can allow water to penetrate the door, causing further damage. Penetrating finishes are more flexible and will hold up better over time.
Cleaning
Prior to finishing wooden doors, they should be thoroughly cleaned. If they are not cleaned, dust and debris can get trapped underneath the finish, causing unsightly results. Any loose paint or varnish from previous finishes should be removed with a sander. Any patches of mildew should be removed with a dedicated cleaner. The door can then simply be washed down using a garden hose. Avoid using a power washer as they can damage softer woods. After washing, let the door dry completely before applying a finish. Depending on how warm the weather is, this could take several days.
