The Process of Restoring Antique Doors: A Step-by-Step Guide
Bringing Back the Grand Entrance
A historic door isn’t just a way in and out—it’s a statement. These bold, beautiful, and often intricate wood portals were built to last and often tell the story of your home’s original craftsmanship. If your antique door is looking more haunted house than historic charm, don’t worry. Restoring a historic door is easier than you think with a bit of elbow grease and professional know-how.
Step 1: Assess the Condition
Check for:
Cracks and splits in panels or rails.
Rot at the base (where moisture typically sits).
Flaking or alligatoring paint.
Loose or missing hardware.
If the door is still structurally sound, restoration is a smart move.
Step 2: Strip Old Paint
Historic doors often have many layers of old, lead-based paint. Strip using:
Infrared heat tools (gentle on wood).
Safe chemical strippers for detailed moldings.
Avoid sanders—they can round off crisp historical detail faster than you can say “heritage loss.”
Step 3: Repair & Reinforce
Historic doors often have many layers of old, lead-based paint. Strip using:
Infrared heat tools (gentle on wood).
Safe chemical strippers for detailed moldings.
Avoid sanders—they can round off crisp historical detail faster than you can say “heritage loss.”
Step 4: Sand & Smooth
After repairs, give everything a light sand to prep for paint or stain.
Step 5: Refinish with Style
Use historically appropriate paint colors or wood stains, and always choose exterior-grade, breathable paint or marine varnish for longevity.
Step 6: Hardware Tune-Up
Polish, re-oil, or replace original brass locks, knobs, and hinges. If the hardware is missing, try to find architectural salvage that matches the period.
Step 7: Weatherproof It
Install modern weatherstripping that fits snugly but doesn’t crush or compromise the door’s movement.
