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Painting & Decorating

Varnishing new oak veneer doors

Anonymous user 01/03/2024 - 2.49 PM

I am having 7 Wickes oak veneer doors fitted but will be varnishing them myself. The door instructions say that immediately after they have been trimmed to size and cut out for hinges etc, the doors should be laid flat and 3 coats of water based varnish applied. I've done lots of gloss and emulsion but never vanish before so have a few questions: - could I get away with 2 coats if I used a decent brand of varnish (Sadolin?)? - do all coats need to be applied flat or could I do the first coat flat, covering cut outs etc. then have the doors hung and apply other coat(s) upright? - I don't want to change the appearance of the doors, would clear, satin varnish be the best bet (Wickes say can't use Wax or Danish oil)? Any advice much appreciated.

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1 Answer

J Lawson Decorating

Rating: 5 out of 5

Jarrow

Hi you don't have to lay the doors flat but you may find it easier. Water-based varnish is the best bet if you want to keep as near as poss the original colour, it also does'nt yellow but bear In mind it is not as good a finish as traditional varnish.The more coats you put on the better they will look. Hope this is of some use to you.

Answered25 March 2014