The touch test is one of the most effective ways to determine the status of
your door. Rub your fingers over the inside surface of your door. You will
notice that the surface feels smooth or even glassy. This is because there
is very little surface deterioration and the condition of this surface is
very close to new. There is limited deterioration because the inside of your
door is not exposed to high levels of UV radiation.
Now, run your fingers over the outside surface of the door, especially in
the lower third. If the outside surface feels dry or rough it is time for a
maintenance. What you are feeling is the micro-cracks in the finish. These
are small cracks that could only be seen with a microscope but you can feel
with your fingers. A surface maintenance at this point will seal the micro-cracks
and renew the UV inhibitors (sunscreen) in your
door's finish. The touch
test does not work as well if the inside of the door is painted instead of
stained.
Visual inspection of the high wear portions of your door
is also helpful. The lowest horizontal trim piece (the raised molding) on each
panel of your
door is usually the location of the highest wear. This is especially true on
panels in the lower third of your door. It doesn't matter whether the
panel is glass or wood.
Using a damp sponge or rag, wipe the dirt off of the bottom pieces of trim
on each panel of your door and let them dry. Then examine those pieces. If
the color is faded or gray or if the wood feels dry or possibly a little rough
it is time for maintenance. (Compare the color to the color at the top of your
door.) If the finish is chipping in these areas, it is past time for a maintenance.
If chipping is occurring on more than just the trim of your door, it is probably
time for a full refinishing of your door.
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