[tom31415926]

We are having some remodeling done and I have temporarily replaced our front door with a cheap one that can get banged up. I want to take advantage of this time to re-finish the door. The door is made from alder, and was last finished with Varathane water-based urethane spar varnish. The door is not exposed to direct sunlight and is sheltered from weather. The finish on the outside of the door was not in good shape after about six years.

The decision I'm facing is whether to re-finish with water-based or oil-based clear finish. I have sanded the door, somewhat aggressively on the exterior side and sort of scuff-sanded on the interior. I have not started to re-finish yet so I can sand more if needed.

I have read that oil-based is more flexible so that it will resist cracks and protect better/longer. I'm not opposed to using it, but I suppose I would need to sand the interior of the door to remove all old water-based finish?

I have read that oil-based over water-based is OK if the water-based is fully cured, which it should be after six years. I am concerned, however, about the oil-based finish looking uneven if parts of the door have more or less remaining water-based finish.

I'm looking for recommendations on how to proceed. Oil- or water-based? Brand recommendations?

Thanks,

Tom

 

[PRP]

I'd remove all the existing coating and put 6 coats of Epifanes (oil) on it.

 

[tom31415926]

Thanks for the advice. I have read about Epifanes. It seems that some people have trouble applying it; more specifically, they have trouble keeping a wet edge and it "pulls and tears". It seems that the right mixture with thinner is required. I'm in Sacramento CA where the humidity is low and the temperature is high so it seems I'd have to get this right.

Is there any alternative that is easier to apply? (I guess I'd have to expect some loss in quality?)

Tom

 

[PRP]

Thanks for the advice. I have read about Epifanes. It seems that some people have trouble applying it; more specifically, they have trouble keeping a wet edge and it "pulls and tears". It seems that the right mixture with thinner is required. I'm in Sacramento CA where the humidity is low and the temperature is high so it seems I'd have to get this right.

Is there any alternative that is easier to apply? (I guess I'd have to expect some loss in quality?)

Tom

Helmsman oil or another brand will work. Reduction may be necessary with any of them but since you'll have the door off and can do it in the basement/garage that will help with ease of application because of a more balanced environment. The key is plenty of coats. Treat it like a boat and plan on a maintenance cleaning and a coat every year or 2 depending on exposure.

 

[ToolSeeker]

I would defiantly use oil, have not found a decent water based yet. Look into marine finishes. Being in Cali they may be the only oil you can get. And they cost more but will last longer.

 

[tom31415926]

Thanks to everyone!
I am sanding now, we will go with oil-based finish.
will try to post picture!

Tom