Several factors can affect the performance of solid timber doors that have been used as exterior doors. This article discusses some of those critical factors. Use this information to take the necessary steps to prolong the service life of your newly installed exterior solid timber doors.

Density of the Timber Specie

An exterior solid timber door that is made from denser species of trees, such as Ebony, may be better able to resist moisture ingress when compared to timber species that aren't so dense, such as Douglas fir. Consequently, the denser timber is likely to last much longer in an environment where exposure to moisture is prevalent.

The Nature of Edges

Some solid timber doors have sharp edges. Others have round edges. These two types of edges hold paint differently. Sharp edges can easily allow stress points to develop in the paint that has been applied on the exterior door. Those stress points can eventually cause that paint to fail. Round edges don't allow the same amount of stress to form on them as the door is used. You may therefore have to repaint a timber door with sharp edges more frequently than you would repaint a door with round edges. Any delay to perform the needed maintenance may expose the timber to agents of wear, such as insect damage and moisture ingress.

Presence of Knots

Knots in solid timber doors predispose those doors to cracking when the ambient temperature keeps changing. Such a door can also develop stains easily. Apply knotting varnish on any knots that you see in your exterior door so that you forestall any problems that may arise. You may also implement any recommendations given by the manufacturer of that door.

Sapwood Vs Heartwood

Sapwood is the outermost part of a tree trunk from which timber is harvested. Heartwood refers to the innermost segments. Staining products will appear more attractive on heartwood than they will on sapwood. You may therefore be better off painting your door if it was made from sapwood. Get the information on the type of wood used from your timber door supplier.

Surface Texture

Exterior doors that are smooth will hold paint better than those whose surface is coarse. You should bear this factor in mind when you are considering a different finish for your doors. For instance, you could sand the coarse doors before you paint them.

Keep the factors above in mind as you look for different ways to get the best performance from exterior solid timber doors. Seek for expert help in case you encounter an issue that you are unable to deal with on your own.