Should I Oil My Mahogany Doors?

Mahogany wood is durable and strong as well as beautiful. Custom wood doors are made of living material and will need care and maintenance, especially if they are exterior doors exposed to the elements. With proper care, mahogany doors will age beautifully and last for years. How to care for the wood will depend on whether the doors are interior or exterior.

Interior doors suffer less from the elements, but still weather from the drying effects of heaters and climate changes. Regular dusting and cleaning will keep the doors looking good and help maintain the mahogany surface by removing any substances that can stain the wood. Wipe down the doors with a damp cloth regularly. Oiling doors is not recommended. It may dull the finish by causing a buildup on the surface. Wood doors expand during moist seasons and shrink during dry seasons, so it is advisable to check the door for cracks and loose hinges.

Doors directly exposed to weather will need more care than doors under overhangs or interior doors. Exterior mahogany doors are stained and sealed when installed. Oiling an exterior door will not be necessary because of the sealant. Harsh weather and long exposure to sun and wind will dull and wear down the finish. Regular inspections will reveal when to resurface the door. Stripping and refinishing an exterior door periodically will extend the life of the door and keep it looking great.

All doors need care to maintain the natural beauty of the wood. Some of the signs of environmental wear to look for are cracks, dullness, changes in color and texture of the finish. These are all signs that it is time to refinish the door. When refinishing an exterior door, follow the manufacturer's instructions or hire a professional to strip and lacquer the door. Well-maintained doors add style and beauty to any home.

According to the USDA's "Wood Handbook," finishing the exterior surface of mahogany (or any wood) door "is to protect the wood surface, help maintain a certain appearance, and provide a cleanable surface." Whether the door is interior or exterior, unfinished wood is more difficult to clean and prone to color changes and erosion over time. Mahogany doors are an investment that adds beauty and value to your home.