Saturday 16 July 2016

Renovation project - How to restore an old wooden front door

Renovation project - How to restore an old wooden front door
We have decided to keep the old main front door for a number of reasons,
  1.  It is an odd size so would cost a fortune to replace
  2.  I do not want the hassle of applying for planning permission
  3. We like it

However it will need a lot of work doing to it, it has been painted and the paint is flaking off. I scrape all the loose paint and scrub the window panels to see where the actual wood is and where there are bits missing (very old dirt can hold windows in place!)
how to restore an old wooden front door

how to restore an old wooden front door
John then uses a paint stripper and a heat gun too remove all the old paint. This leaves a wonderful wood finish; unfortunately it is not an even colour.
how to restore an old wooden front door

how to restore an old wooden front door

how to restore an old wooden front door
Putty is added to the bits that are missing making the window panels safer and covering all the gaps in the wood panels.
We then have no choice but too stain the door a slightly darker colour. But once finished and varnished it has been restored to its former glory.
how to restore an old wooden front door

Top tips
  • ·         If you are doing a renovation on a budget, check to see where you can make do and mend.
  • ·         The result can look like a new door for a fraction of the cost

6 comments:

  1. Didn't put a cloth down to catch the drips then John ? Looks really good, we had Windows like that on our back door and they opened like a sort of barn door but it was all one piece

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    1. ha ha luckily we are having a new floor so it made the job much easier not having to be too careful. Our windows don't open on the door, but I know the sort you mean

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  2. We are loving these frequent posts on DIY. Your blog is so inspiring and last year I went back to read it from the beginning. I do wish we had John here in our large Victorian house!
    Wendy (Wales)

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    1. thank you, I am happy that I have John here, it really does make life easier. I ope your house is coming along well

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  3. Lots of hard work with gorgeous results. Sending a thanks to Blondie Blue Eyes for mentioning your blog. I've really enjoyed reading about your renovation project new home. :)

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    Replies
    1. thank you and thank you Blondie Blue Eyes :) I'm glad you're enjoying it

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