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Initial Sanding and Hardware Removal

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Front door restoration. #wooddoors #frontdoor #antiquedoor #mahoganydoor #hardwood #frogtape

What happens here

Begin by placing the wooden door on a stable work surface, such as sawhorses, in a well-ventilated outdoor area. Use an orbital sander with medium-grit sandpaper to start removing the existing finish from the door. Pay attention to the main flat surfaces first. After initial sanding of the main panels, carefully remove any door hardware, such as handles and lock mechanisms, using a screwdriver. This ensures full access to the wood for thorough sanding and finishing.

Goal: Prepare the door surface by removing old finish and hardware

Tools and materials

  • Dust Mask — Protecting respiratory system from inhaling sawdust
  • Orbital Sander — Removing the old finish from the door
  • Safety Glasses — Protecting eyes from flying debris and dust
  • Sandpaper — Abrasive for removing finish; start with a medium grit (e.g., 80 or 100) and move to finer grits
  • Sawhorses — Providing a stable elevated surface to work on the door
  • Screwdriver — Removing door handles, lock mechanisms, and other hardware