painting woodwork
 

my house is six years old, I won't be moving any time soon. But, I really want white woodwork. Will painting my oak woodwork lessen the value of my home/

Very interesting question and the answer is it depends...upon where you live and the status of "oak" as a decorator item. On the West Coast Oak was used quite a bit in the 70's/80's so if you are on the West Coast, painting the Oak (molding) will not hurt the value of the home as molding in almost all new homes is now painted. In addition, I am a REALTOR who also has been a Carpenter and DIY'er for years. Interestingly enough, my accent wood in my home is all Oak and yes it makes the house look dated. We have considered painting it but I do not like the way that paint lays on hardwoods, it never seems to stay even. As a Realtor, I would tell you to paint if you are ready to sell, if you are planning to stay in the home I would make the choice based upon how the finished product will look; buy a sample of Oak and paint it the color you are considering. If you do decide to paint, make sure you use steel wool (at the minimum) to break the surface; I would recommend a finish sander. If you don't, you are going to be sorry you painted.

Please read the thread "wood trim" that is down the page a bit- same question.
Also i have to comment on steel wool- don't use it for anything that will be finished with a waterborne paint. Anything left will rust.
As a pro I find almost no use for it- get a sanding sponge- works better and easier.

I never like to see oak painted............looks worse than the worn out clear coats that cover the oak.......I say DON'T DO IT!

I think it will be better if you go for some other option.