What order to install a new timber door and frame?

[jorjmorris]

 

I am installing a new timber front door and door frame. What is the best order to install + stain.

Do I do a coat of stain before installing the frame itself to protect it or can it be coated once installed by the builder?

Do I stain the door before installing my door handle?

[JacobZ]

Hi @jorjmorris,

Thank you for your question about the order in which you approach the installation of your new door frame and door.

I can't think of any reason that you couldn't apply your stain to the door and door frame before installation. Any work you can do before installation will certainly make it easier to finish afterwards, as right now you'll have the best access to the door and door frame of any point in the job.

There will still be some touch-up work to do after installation, but if you stain the door and door frame before installation, it will just be touch-ups, not the whole job.

Assuming your builder is installing the door frame and door, I'd just make sure you communicate this with your builder beforehand. If I was installing things, I would be happy to have it done, but they may have some reason that they'd prefer it is done after installation.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[jorjmorris]

What would you recommend sanding it back with as it is just a timber veneer?

[JacobZ]

Hi @jorjmorris,

If the surface is nice and smooth, which is pretty common with veneers, then you might not need any sanding. If you run your hand over the surface and can't feel any furriness or roughness, I'd just skip the sanding and give it a wipe down with a lightly dampened cloth to remove any dust on the surface.  

If you find any roughness or furriness, use a fine-grit sandpaper like 240 Grit and only sand it very lightly. After sanding, again wipe the surface to remove any remaining sawdust before proceeding.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob