Any woodworking and wood finishing experts out there?

[EdT82SC]

Hey Guys,

Four years ago during a major home remodel we had a new front door put in. We chose a door out of a catalog the contractor suggested, but never specified what kind of wood. He ordered a Douglas Fir door, but we didn't realize that at the time or even think about it.

When it was stained and finished with lacquer it looked fabulous. Less then a year later the lacquer started to peel, and the original finishers came out, and re-did it free of charge. Then again in less then a year it started to peel again. This time we paid someone else to re-finish it, and he used a marine varnish. The varnish lasted about a year and a half before it started showing signs of cracking.

The front door does get a lot of afternoon sun, and I am guessing that the wood is expanding in the heat, and then moisture starts to get in. Is there anything that could be done to make the finish last longer? If I were to replace the door would a different kind of wood help, or am I better off with some other material? Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

[MikeSid]

I can't think of a better material for a front door than kiln dried Doug Fir. I think the problem lies elsewhere than in the choice of wood. Sorry, I know that's not terribly helpful.

[slodave]

Wood doors that are subjected to the sun, do take a beating and need periodic maintenance. Was it sealed correctly and was a UV varnish used?

Milt should have the answer for you...

Dave

[EdT82SC]

I don't know enough about wood finishing to say it was sealed correctly. The finisher said he used a coat of sealer that he mixed the stain in, and then two coats of marine varnish. I should also add that the bottom of the door where the sun hits first, and gets the most exposure is the worst cracking/peeling part of the door. The top third of the door where the sun only hits in the later evening looks perfect still.

[speedracing944]

I have used a good heavy spar varnish on outside wood with good results. It does need yearly maintenance though.
My MO is to start with good sealer and then 5-6 coats of spar (buy from a wooden yacht restorer).
Every year lightly sand the coat and reapply a new coat or 2 always keeping what looks to be 5 coats on top of the wood.

Speedy

[blk911]

Check the top and bottom of the door. All six sides of the door must be sealed in order for any finish to perform as design. I used to sell building materials and can't tell you how many expensive doors I have seen ruined because the painter did not finish/seal the top and the bottom. Also a good UV inhibiting varnish should help. You could always strip and try an oil finish, but it will not be maintainance free, will probably take frequent applications of additional oil to maintain a good finish. Good luck

[anthony 911]

d fur is a bleeder tree...aka sap that is why it is doing that.