The Ultimate Guide to Refinishing Interior Wood Doors

Refinishing interior wood doors is a great way to give your home a fresh, updated look without spending a fortune. Whether your doors have faded over time, have scratches, or just want a new color, refinishing is a do-it-yourself project that anyone can tackle. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step, using simple language so that anyone, even an 8th grader, can understand. Let’s get started!

Why Refinish Your Interior Wood Doors?

Over time, interior wood doors can lose their original shine and appeal. Exposure to sunlight, everyday use, and changes in temperature can cause the wood to fade, chip, or wear down. Refinishing your doors not only makes them look new again but also adds a protective layer that helps them last longer. It’s a smart way to keep your home looking its best without needing to replace the doors entirely.

What You Will Need

Before you start, gather the following materials:

  • Sandpaper (120-grit and 220-grit)
  • A sanding block or electric sander
  • Wood stain or paint
  • Wood filler (for cracks or deep scratches)
  • Paintbrushes or staining clothes
  • Painter’s tape
  • Screwdriver (for removing door hardware)
  • Drop cloth (to protect the floor)
  • Safety goggles and mask (to avoid inhaling dust)

Step 1: Remove the Door and Hardware

First, remove the door from its hinges. You can do this by unscrewing the hinges with a screwdriver. Lay the door flat on a sturdy surface, like a pair of sawhorses or a large table, for easier sanding and staining. Be sure to remove the doorknob and any other hardware. Use painter’s tape to protect areas you don’t want to refinish, such as windows or metal parts.

Step 2: Sand the Door

Sanding is one of the most important steps in refinishing interior wood doors. Start with 120-grit sandpaper to remove the old finish, varnish, or paint. You can sand by hand using a sanding block or use an electric sander for faster results. Make sure you sand evenly to avoid leaving any rough spots.

After the first round of sanding, switch to 220-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Be sure to sand the entire surface of the door, including the edges. This step will prepare the door to absorb the new stain or paint evenly.

Step 3: Clean the Door

Once the sanding is complete, wipe down the door with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris. It’s important to get the door completely clean so that the new finish can go on smoothly. Let the door dry fully before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Apply Wood Filler (If Necessary)

If your door has any cracks, holes, or deep scratches, now is the time to fill them with wood filler. Use a putty knife to apply the filler, making sure to smooth it out so it’s level with the surrounding wood. Let the filler dry completely, and then sand over the area to ensure it’s smooth.

Step 5: Stain or Paint the Door

Now for the fun part—choosing your stain or paint! If you want to keep the natural wood look, choose a stain that matches your desired color. If you prefer a more modern, painted look, opt for a wood-safe paint in your favorite shade.

Using a paintbrush or staining cloth, apply the stain or paint in long, even strokes, following the grain of the wood. It’s better to apply several thin coats than one thick coat, as this will prevent streaks and allow the wood to absorb the color more evenly. Be sure to let each coat dry fully before applying the next.

For a more durable finish, consider adding a protective top coat of polyurethane or varnish after the stain or paint has dried. This will help protect your door from wear and tear and give it a polished, professional finish.

Step 6: Reattach the Door

Once your door is fully dry, it’s time to put it back in place. Reattach the hardware, such as the doorknob and hinges, and hang the door back on its frame. Check that the door opens and closes smoothly and admire your hard work!

Maintaining Your Refinished Door

To keep your newly refinished door looking its best, clean it regularly with a soft cloth and avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the finish. If the door starts to show signs of wear, you can always lightly sand and reapply a coat of finish to keep it looking fresh.

When to Call a Professional

While refinishing a door can be a rewarding DIY project, sometimes it’s best to call in the pros. If your door has severe damage, like deep cracks or water damage, or if you’re working with intricate designs that require careful handling, a professional refinisher can ensure the job is done correctly. Plus, a professional can save you time and effort, especially if you have multiple doors to refinish.

Call Our Professional Refinishing Service Today!

If refinishing interior wood doors sounds like too much work, or if you simply want the best results possible, we’re here to help! Our expert refinishing service takes the hassle out of the project, ensuring a beautiful, long-lasting finish. Whether you’re looking to restore a single door or all the doors in your home, our team has the skills and experience to get the job done right. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and bring your interior doors back to life!