How to paint over varnished laundry door?

[ososbg]

Hi all,

A noob here. I've a laundry door that's natural wood with varnish as per attached, the varnish started to fade and the timber started to show, any recommendations how to repaint it and store it to the original color, do I need to sand the door first before I apply the varnish or can I pain over it or is there's another way of doing this.

Thanks,

Osama

[EricL]

Hello @ososbg 

Thanks for sharing your question about re-varnishing your laundry door. I'm afraid the original sealer of your door is almost gone and what we're seeing is the actual timber door surface. If you were to wait longer the door would gradually start turning grey as the timber fibres at the top begin to deteriorate. I recommend sanding the door and door frame to remove any lingering sealer that is still attached to the surface. I suggest using a detail sander such as the Ozito 200W Detail Sander to reduce the sanding time. The kit comes with a set of sandpaper that will be enough to sand and finish your door frame and door. 

In regards to the sealer, I propose looking at Cabot's 500ml Clear Satin Exterior Timber Finish. However, if you are after a stain and varnish, I suggest visiting your local store and looking at the stain and varnish sample board. 

Here is a handy step-by-step guide:  How to stain and varnish a timber door 

I also suggest having a look at these discussions - How to restain a front door? by @Bandit-DIYDad and Varnish advice for exterior doors and windows by @Schur.

Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles, and a mask when working on your door. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ososbg]

Hi @EricL ,

Thank you for your reply. So for me to make sure I understand this correctly, I don't want to change the color, I want it clear to keep the grain look of the natural timber, but protect it from Melbourne weather (mainly rain, UV, etc).

In this case, is https://www.bunnings.com.au/cabot-s-500ml-clear-satin-exterior-timber-finish-500ml_p1520265 the right product ?

Thanks.

[EricL]

Hello @ososbg 

When timber gets wet there is perceptible change in its appearance. The same thing applies when a clear coat is applied to sanded timber, it will change its appearance, by how much depends on the absorption rate of the timber. If you wish to see what the clear coat will look like on the sanded surface of the door, I propose testing a small section first so that you can see how the timber will react. If you are satisfied with the finish, you can then commit the entire door. 

The Cabot's 500ml Clear Satin Exterior Timber Finish is a marine-grade polyurethane that provides protection and shine without hiding the grain. It provides resistance against weathering and moisture damage and contains the latest ultra-violet absorber technology to maximise gloss, performance and durability. There are other brands available, but I mentioned Cabot's as an example as it is a product that is designed for outdoor use. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ososbg]

Thanks so much @EricL , one more question and excuse my noob questions appreciate your patience. I've an Orbital sander (just purchased recently), will it work?

[EricL]

Hello @ososbg 

It's perfectly alright, you can ask any question you like. An orbital sander will work just fine, but you'll need to manually sand the small channels and corners of the door. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[ososbg]

Thanks so much, appreciate your help, @EricL 

I've got enough information for me to start, will circle back if I've more questions.