Creating Attractive Finishes to Your Wooden Windows and Doors

Amy Wells
It is always important for one to protect an investment that deals with upgrading the type of finishes that are applied to windows and doors of a house. If this is not done well, it would mean regular repairs that may end up costing more than the installation alone. For one to protect this investment, then the following steps can be of great help:

a) Make a decision on the type of finish - One of the people who can advice on this is the paint store expert. Each particular area has a certain kind of finish that matches. The expert should advise on this and should keep in mind the environmental conditions of the area you stay in, including humidity and temperature conditions.

One of the recommended types of finish is a penetrative oil/wax based sealer that has a long lasting finish for timber on the outside.

There are a wide variety of wood colors that can be used. This can be added to UV absorber that may prolong the life of the timber.

End grains, joints and exposed areas of wood must be covered so that the wood will not warp, crack or rot. The paint that is chosen should be the blocking type.

When going for an interior finish, one should choose wood primer and compatible paint. One should allow for curing of paint before windows and doors are closed.

b) Wood surface preparation: One of the first things that may be required to happen is light sanding so that roughness is removed or eliminate residue that may have accumulated from construction. Steel wool should be avoided as much as possible. If there is glass that has been put in place, it should not be touched by the sandpaper. The glass can be protected from scratches by a sanding block. Protective equipment should be used at all times when sanding so that sawdust is not inhaled.

c) Glass Cleaning: Mineral spirits should be used to remove any impurities on the glass. The glass should be washed with high quality glass cleaner using soft, lint free towel.

d) Installation: Manufacture's instructions should be followed to the letter. Make sure that the instructions given, whether on a manual or on the website are understood and well implemented.

e) Maintenance: If one carries out at least some form of maintenance annually, then the window and door finishes can give you the aesthetic beauty that you so much desire.

Your wooden doors and windows can look fantastic and up to date with just a little care done on a regular basis. Don't neglect these important parts of your home, and they will pay dividends toward a well-kept environment.

Published by Amy Wells

Amy Wells lives in the Los Angeles area with her husband and two cats. A former English teacher, she enjoys writing about a variety of consumer topics  View profile

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