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When it comes to home improvements, internal doors rarely get the same level of attention as kitchens, flooring or furniture, even though they’re among the hardest-working features in any property. With over 70 years spent helping homeowners improve their properties, we’ve seen just how much difference the right internal doors can make. The good news is that keeping them in great condition doesn’t require specialist skills or expensive products. A handful of simple door hacks can go a long way, keeping them looking and performing at their best for even longer. Let’s take a closer look!
One of the easiest ways to extend the life of your internal doors is through regular cleaning. Over time, fingerprints, dust, cooking residue and general wear can build up on the surface, particularly around handles, edges and areas that are touched most frequently. Left unchecked, these marks can gradually dull the appearance of even the most attractive door.
When it comes to finding the best way to clean internal doors, the approach depends largely on the finish. Laminated doors are particularly popular because they’re straightforward to maintain and are designed to cope well with busy households – simply use a soft cloth, warm water and a small amount of mild detergent.
Oak veneer doors benefit from a slightly gentler approach. Because the surface contains a layer of real wood, it’s best to avoid excessive water and abrasive cleaning products. A lightly damp microfibre cloth followed by a dry cloth will usually do the job while helping to preserve the natural beauty of the grain.
In our experience, one of the biggest mistakes people make when cleaning internal doors is reaching for harsh chemical cleaners unnecessarily. In most cases, gentle products are perfectly adequate and far less likely to damage the finish over time.
It’s a sound every homeowner knows – the loud squeak that seems to echo through every room. Fortunately, learning how to fix a creaky door is usually one of the simplest maintenance jobs around. In most cases, the culprit is a hinge that’s become dry or collected dust and debris over time. Applying a suitable lubricant directly to the hinge and opening and closing the door afterwards to work it in often resolves the issue within minutes.
If this doesn’t fix it, it may be worth removing the hinge pin and cleaning it thoroughly before reapplying lubricant. It’s also worth checking that all screws are fully tightened. Loose hinges can create movement that places additional strain on the door and frame, leading to unnecessary wear and persistent noises.
Regular maintenance is important, but not every internal door project starts with a problem to solve. In many cases, you might simply want to refresh a feature that’s seen years of daily use. A room doesn’t need a complete makeover to feel enhanced – updating an internal door can have a surprisingly noticeable impact, especially if the existing finish has become a little worn or no longer suits the overall décor.
If you’re planning to repaint a door, preparation is where the real work happens. We recommend taking the time to remove handles, hinges and other ironmongery wherever possible. This creates a much neater finish and avoids the frustration of trying to paint around awkward edges.
Before any paint is applied, you should thoroughly clean your door to remove dust, grease and everyday grime, which can affect adhesion and result in an uneven finish. Light sanding can also help create a smoother surface. Once complete, make sure any sanding dust is removed before moving on to primer, paint or varnish. Work in thin layers and give the door plenty of time to dry in between coats. Remember: if you’re considering updating a laminated door, always check the manufacturer’s guidance before you start to make sure the products you’re using are suitable.
Finally, one of our top door hacks isn’t about cleaning, repairing or updating your doors at all. Instead, it’s about protecting them from everyday wear before problems have the chance to develop.
Repeatedly allowing doors to swing into walls can lead to scuffs, dents and chipped paintwork, not only on the door itself but also on surrounding walls and skirting boards. With door stops, you can preserve multiple surfaces around your home while avoiding minor repairs further down the line. It’s a simple solution, but one that can make a noticeable difference over time, particularly in busy households where doors are opened and closed countless times each day.
We’ve covered plenty of ways to care for your existing doors, but sometimes a fresh start makes the most sense. If your doors are showing their age, have suffered years of wear or simply no longer fit the look of your home, choosing the right replacement can be one of the most effective door hacks of all.
Whether you’re looking for the practicality of a modern laminated door or the natural charm of an oak veneer design, our extensive collection offers options for every home. As one of the UK’s leading stockists of internal doors, we’re proud to combine premium-quality products with affordable prices, backed by decades of experience and unbeatable customer service from start to finish.
Interested? Give us a call on 0345 0268 799 to learn more, or pop into one of our stores to discuss your project in person. We’re here to help!
