Before You Begin

• Whether painting or staining, the surface must be clean, dry and free from dust, dirt, mildew and other contamination.

• The door should be machined for the hinges and lock set, and properly sized before you begin the finishing process.

• Under no circumstances should a lacquer-based toner or any other lacquer-based finish be used.

• All surfaces, door ends (top and bottom) and edges must be sealed before hanging.

• Doors should not be allowed to remain unfinished when hung nor should one side be finished when the other is not.

• Finishes on exterior doors may deteriorate due to exposure to the environment. In order to protect the door, it is recommended that the condition of the exterior finish be inspected at least once a year and refinished as needed. Avoid using dark finishes. A dark door can reach a surface temperature of over 120 degrees if exposed to direct sun, especially if a storm door is used. This may cause the door to warp.