Proper finishing is critical to protect your new wood door and maintain its beauty and durability. All exposed surfaces — including the top, bottom, side edges, and hardware cutouts — must be stained and sealed within 30 days of installation.
Before finishing, it’s important to carefully remove all debris, oils, or materials the door may have been exposed to during handling and installation. This is best achieved by having a professional sand the entire door using proper techniques to avoid any visible sanding marks.
When staining, it is essential to follow all manufacturer instructions regarding application methods and sanding techniques between clear coats to ensure an even appearance and lasting stain coverage. All exposed surfaces — including the top, bottom, sides, and hardware cutouts — must be properly sealed to protect against moisture and environmental damage.
It is imperative to use a high-quality exterior-grade stain or clear topcoat that contains UV inhibitors. Using a product intended for interior use only, or a product without UV protection, will void the warranty.
To achieve the proper finish, exterior surfaces must receive at least three (3) coats of a good-quality, exterior-grade topcoat with UV inhibitors. This includes the top, bottom, and side edges of the door.
Please note that dark opaque stains or dark colored paints — especially when used in installations with high sun exposure — are not covered under warranty. Dark colors absorb excessive heat and UV rays, which increases the risk of cracking, splitting, and warping. In particular, staining or painting the door black or other dark colors will void the warranty.
Most exterior finishes will naturally deteriorate over time due to exposure to the elements. To maintain the protective stability of your door’s finish, we recommend inspecting the condition of the topcoat at least once a year and reapplying as needed.
For more detailed guidance on proper finishing, we encourage you to review the following articles: