How to varnish your exterior doors and windows
Proper preparation is key before varnishing exterior doors and windows. When we do exterior painting in Dublin, we realise the importance of proper preparation in order to do a really nice job on exterior windows and doors.
How to do proper preparation before varnishing exterior doors and windows
Firstly, strip off the old product. You do this in a number of ways, using a heavy-duty scraper (used by drawing the scraper along the grain removing old material). It is very important when working with wood this way to determine the direction of the grain and work in the same direction. You will also need varnish stripping solution and wire wool – medium grade.
What the scraper does not remove, you paint with stripping solution. This is done with a dabbing motion using a paintbrush. Do one small section at a time by covering a section and waiting 15 minutes, then cover another section and start removing the first section with a scraper and wire wool.
When this is done you dab another section and start on the second section and so on. So you always have a section waiting, ready for you when you finish the one you are on.
When all is finished it is important to neutralise the effect of the stripper by using a mixture of water and vinegar then clean with white spirits.
How to oil your exterior doors and windows after you’ve finished the preparation
Now you are ready to apply your product. Oiling the wood is an option if you do not want to use a varnish, it is very effective, and it brings out the natural beauty of the wood. This is done by saturating the wood with oil using a brush and lint-free cloth. Apply oil (Danish oil or a good deck furniture oil will do) liberally with a brush. Wait a few minutes and wipe off the access with your cloth. When the window is dry repeat the process till the oil is no longer being absorbed.
How to varnish your exterior doors and windows after you’ve finished the preparation
For a varnish, there are many to choose from. In the example below, we chose a Sadoline antique pine varnish. Simply apply a coat using a good quality brush. When dry, rub with wire wool and repeat. We then used a fine emery paper or wire wool to rub down the wood between coats. We recommend a minimum of two coats to ensure a top-class finish.
Would you like your exterior doors or windows varnished or painted?
If you would like your exterior doors or windows varnished or painted then give Paul at Impressions Painting and Decorating a call on 087 270 4879 or fill in the contact form and we’ll call you back.