Plywood doors' cost, toughness, and adaptability make them a popular option for homes in the UK. These doors provide a smooth surface that is perfect for custom finishes, whether they are used internally or as part of bespoke joinery. A door made of raw plywood, however, won't have the polished appearance that most homeowners like. Finishing is necessary to genuinely improve its appearance and shield it from damage.
The good news is that plywood offers a wide variety of finishing choices. You may customise your door's appearance to fit any interior design, whether it's with a striking coat of paint, a deep wood stain, or even a high-end veneer.
The three primary methods of finishing plywood doors—painting, veneering, and staining—will be covered in this guide, along with detailed instructions, professional advice, and suggestions for the finish that could be most appropriate for your house.
Why Finish Plywood Doors?
Before looking at specific finishing techniques, let’s understand why finishing plywood doors is so important:
-
Protection: Plywood is strong but still vulnerable to scratches, moisture, and stains. A proper finish seals the surface.
-
Aesthetic appeal: Finishes can transform plain plywood into something elegant, rustic, or modern.
-
Durability: Finishing extends the lifespan of the door, keeping it looking new for longer.
-
Customisation: Paints, stains, and veneers allow you to match the door to your interior design.
Preparation: The Key to a Great Finish
Regardless of whether you choose paint, stain, or veneer, surface preparation is crucial.
Step 1: Sanding
-
Start with 120-grit sandpaper, moving to 220-grit for a smooth finish.
-
Sand in the direction of the grain.
-
Remove any factory markings, glue spots, or rough patches.
Step 2: Cleaning
-
Wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove dust.
-
Allow to dry fully before applying any finish.
Step 3: Filling Gaps
-
Use wood filler to repair small cracks or imperfections.
-
Sand smooth once dry.
Option 1: Painting Plywood Doors
Painting is the most popular choice for finishing plywood doors in modern UK homes. It provides a sleek, customisable look and can hide imperfections.
Benefits of Painting Plywood
-
Wide choice of colours (ideal for matching décor).
-
Provides strong protection against moisture.
-
Affordable and relatively quick to apply.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting Plywood Doors
-
Prime the surface: Apply a primer designed for wood or plywood. This ensures better adhesion and prevents paint from soaking unevenly.
-
Sand lightly after priming: This removes raised fibres.
-
Apply the first coat: Use a high-quality wood paint (satin, gloss, or matt depending on preference). A roller ensures a smooth finish, while a brush works for edges.
-
Allow to dry: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times.
-
Apply a second coat: Two coats are typically sufficient, but three may be needed for darker colours.
Pro Tip: For a flawless result, consider spraying the paint rather than brushing, especially on large, flat panels.
Best Paint Types for Plywood Doors
-
Acrylic latex paint: Durable, water-based, and easy to clean.
-
Oil-based paint: Provides a hard-wearing surface but takes longer to dry.
-
Chalk paint: Great for a rustic, shabby-chic finish.
Option 2: Veneering Plywood Doors
Veneering involves applying a thin layer of real wood to the surface of your plywood door, giving it the appearance of solid hardwood without the cost.
Benefits of Veneering
-
Premium finish with natural wood grains.
-
Cost-effective alternative to solid wood doors.
-
Wide range of veneers available: oak, walnut, maple, ash, and more.
Step-by-Step Guide to Veneering Plywood Doors
-
Choose your veneer: Available in sheets or rolls, veneers come in a variety of species and finishes.
-
Cut veneer to size: Leave a slight overhang for trimming later.
-
Apply adhesive: Use veneer glue or contact cement. Apply evenly to both the veneer and the plywood door surface.
-
Press veneer in place: Use a veneer roller or press to ensure a flat, bubble-free application.
-
Trim edges: Once set, use a sharp blade or trimmer to remove excess veneer.
-
Seal the surface: Apply a clear varnish or oil to protect the veneer.
Pro Tip: Veneered plywood doors are ideal in luxury kitchen or living room settings where you want a high-end wood finish without the price tag.
Option 3: Staining Plywood Doors
Staining is perfect if you want to enhance the natural grain of plywood rather than cover it.
Benefits of Staining
-
Highlights the natural character of the wood.
-
Available in a wide range of tones, from light oak to dark walnut.
-
Easy to apply and maintain.
Step-by-Step Guide to Staining Plywood Doors
-
Test the stain first: Apply to a scrap piece of plywood or an inconspicuous area.
-
Apply pre-stain conditioner: This ensures even absorption and prevents blotching.
-
Brush or wipe stain: Work with the grain for a consistent look.
-
Wipe off excess: After a few minutes, remove any extra stain with a clean cloth.
-
Apply a second coat if needed: Darker finishes often require multiple applications.
-
Seal with polyurethane or varnish: This protects the stained wood and adds a glossy or satin sheen.
Pro Tip: If your plywood door has a less attractive grain, use a gel stain, which sits on top and provides more even colouring.
Comparing Finishing Options: Painting vs Veneering vs Staining
| Feature | Painting | Veneering | Staining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low to Medium | Medium to High | Low |
| Durability | High (with sealer) | Very High | Medium |
| Look | Customisable, colourful | Premium, natural wood | Natural enhancement |
| Skill required | Beginner-friendly | Moderate to Advanced | Beginner-friendly |
| Best for | Modern, bold interiors | Luxury or classic styles | Rustic or natural décor |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Skipping primer on plywood before painting — leads to patchy finishes.
-
Applying veneer without proper adhesive — causes bubbling or peeling.
-
Skipping a topcoat on stained doors — leaves wood vulnerable to scratches.
-
Not sanding between coats — results in a rough surface.
-
Using the wrong stain type — plywood absorbs differently than solid wood.
Cost Breakdown in the UK
-
Painting a plywood door: £25–£80 (including primer and paint).
-
Veneering a plywood door: £100–£300 (depending on veneer type).
-
Staining a plywood door: £20–£60 (including stain and sealer).
Note: Professional labour costs can double or triple these prices.
FAQs About Finishing Plywood Doors
1. Can you paint plywood doors without priming?
No — plywood is porous, and primer is essential for a smooth, even finish.
2. Is veneer durable on doors?
Yes, high-quality veneer with a protective seal can last decades.
3. What’s the best stain for plywood?
Gel stains often work best as they provide even coverage.
4. Can I mix finishes on the same door?
Yes — for example, you could veneer the main surface and paint the edges.
5. How do I maintain a veneered door?
Wipe with a damp cloth and avoid harsh chemicals. Apply oil or polish occasionally.
Conclusion
A great method to turn an inexpensive material into a fashionable, long-lasting, and completely personalised feature for your house is to finish plywood doors. Every technique has its own advantages, whether you choose veneering (luxurious and natural), painting (contemporary and colourful), or staining (rustic and warm).
Your financial situation, preferred style, and amount of time invested will all influence your decision. However, meticulous preparation and sealing are essential for a long-lasting, expert finish, whatever of the technique you select.
To put it briefly, plywood doors don't have to appear boring or unfinished; with the correct technique, they can look just as beautiful as any high-end product available.
For more information about our interior or exterior doors or door accessories, give us a call at 01603 622261 and speak to a member of our expert team today, or email us at sales@doorsuppliesonline.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.