What is the Best Finish for Oak Interior Doors?

Key Takeaways

Key Elements of Choosing a Finish for Oak Interior Doors

• Desired appearance (natural vs. glossy)
• Expected usage and wear of the door
• Ease of maintenance and repair
• Durability of the finish
• Application method and expertise required

Oak interior doors are not just accessories but integral elements of your home's design. After choosing the perfect style, the next crucial decision is selecting the best finish. Let's explore the options and their pros and cons.

Ledge and Brace Door

Mexicano Door

Victorian Style Door

Lacquer Finish

Lacquer finishes gained popularity due to their ease of application and maintenance.

Pros:

• Can be applied at the factory or on-site
• Modern lacquers can emulate a natural oil appearance
• Available in matt or high gloss finishes
• Simple to maintain initially

Cons:

• Sits on top of the wood rather than being absorbed
• Scratches are easily visible, especially on high gloss finishes
• Repairs often require sanding and refinishing the entire door
• Professional expertise may be needed for repairs

Hardwax Oil Finish

New formulations of hardwax oils, like Treatex, offer an excellent alternative to lacquer.

Pros:

• Absorbed into the wood for a natural, warm look
• More resistant to abrasion and wear
• Easy to apply and maintain
• Localized repairs possible without refinishing the entire door
• No specialist attention required for maintenance

Cons:

• May require slightly more frequent maintenance

Conclusion

While lacquer finishes have their merits, modern hardwax oils like Treatex offer a superior combination of appearance, durability, and ease of maintenance for oak interior doors. They provide a warm, natural look while allowing for simple upkeep and localised repairs.

For those seeking a balance between aesthetics and practicality, hardwax oil finishes are an excellent choice for oak interior doors.

Ready to enhance your oak doors? Explore our range of oils and waxes or browse our collection of internal oak doors. For personalised advice, don't hesitate to contact us.