Can You Put Wood Veneer on Garage Door?

Can You Put Wood Veneer on the Garage Door?

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Are you tired of the bland, uninspiring appearance of your garage door? If you’re looking for a way to give it a more stylish and sophisticated look, one option you might be considering is wood veneer.

Wood veneer is a thin layer of wood that can be applied to various surfaces, including garage doors. But can you put a wood veneer on a garage door, and is it a good idea?

Can You Put Wood Veneer on the Garage Door?

Yes, you can put a wood veneer on a garage door. Wood veneer is a thin layer of wood that can be applied to various surfaces, including metal and plastic. This makes it a good option for garage doors, often made of metal or composite materials.

There are a few ways to apply wood veneer to a garage door, including contact cement or a peel-and-stick product. However, it’s important to properly prepare the garage door’s surface before applying the wood veneer, including cleaning and sanding the door and applying a primer.

Ultimately, while wood veneer can be a good option for upgrading the appearance of a garage door, it may not be as durable or strong as a solid wood door. 

Step-By-Step Method On How To Apply Wood Veneer To A Garage Door

It’s important to be very careful when applying wood veneer to your garage door as making a mistake can ruin the look you’re looking for. Here’s a step-by-step method for applying wood veneer to a garage door:

Step 1: Prepare The Garage Door

Before applying the wood veneer, it’s important to prepare the door’s surface properly. This includes cleaning the door thoroughly and sanding it to create a rough surface to which the veneer can adhere.

It’s also a good idea to apply primer to the garage door surface to help the wood veneer bond better.

Step 2: Cut The Wood Veneer To The Garage Door Size

Measure the garage door’s surface and use a blade or saw to cut the wood veneer to the appropriate size. Remove the backing from the veneer if you’re using a peel-and-stick product.

Step 3: Apply The Wood Veneer

After cutting the wood veneer to the garage door size, the next step is to apply it to the garage door. There are several methods for applying wood veneer to a garage door. One option is to use contact cement, a strong adhesive that bonds the veneer to the garage door.

To use this method, apply a thin layer of contact cement to the door and a thin layer to the back of the wood veneer. Allow the cement to dry for about 20 minutes, then carefully align and smooth the wood veneer on the garage door, pressing down firmly to ensure a good bond.

Another option is to use a peel-and-stick product with a backing that can be peeled off to reveal a sticky adhesive surface. Simply place the wood veneer on the garage door and press down firmly to ensure a good bond.  

Step 4: Trim Any Excess Veneer

After applying the wood veneer on the garage door, trim off any excess veneer that extends beyond the edges of the garage door with a knife or saw.

Step 5: Finish The Door

Once the wood veneer is applied, you can finish the garage door with a clear sealant or wood finish to protect it from weather and wear.  

Ultimately, it’s important to be careful and precise when applying wood veneer to a garage door, as any bubbles or wrinkles will be visible once the veneer is applied. 

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Applying Wood Veneer To Your Garage Door? 

Wood veneer can be a popular choice for covering a garage door because it gives the appearance of a solid wood door without the higher cost. Wood veneer is a nice way to give your garage door a new and stylish look. Here are some pros and cons of applying wood veneer to your garage door. 

1. Cost-effective

Wood veneer is much cheaper than solid wood, making it a cost-effective option for upgrading the appearance of your garage door. This makes it a budget-friendly alternative for changing your garage door’s look. 

2. Easy To Maintain

Wood veneer requires less maintenance than solid wood, as it’s less prone to warping or fading. This means you won’t have to worry about maintaining the finish of your door or repairing any damage that might occur over time. It’s also easy to clean, so you won’t spend much time and effort maintaining it. 

3. Easy To Install 

Wood veneer is also relatively easy to apply, making it a project that most DIY enthusiasts can tackle independently. This means you can save on labor costs and be satisfied with it yourself. If you’re handy and enjoy tackling home improvement projects, applying wood veneer to your garage door is a project you might enjoy.

4. Adds A Beautiful Look To Your Garage Door 

Wood veneer can give your garage door a stylish and sophisticated look, enhancing the overall appearance of your home. If you’re tired of your garage door’s bland, uninspiring appearance, wood veneer is a good way to give it a fresh, new look. Many different wood veneer options are available, so you can choose a color and finish that best suits your style.

5. Durability 

Wood veneer is not as durable as solid wood. It’s made from thin layers of wood bonded together, making it more prone to damage. In a garage setting, the door is likely to be subjected to a range of weather conditions and potential impacts from other objects, which can cause the veneer to peel, crack, or become damaged in other ways. 

Tips On How To Properly Put Wood Veneer On Your Garage Door

If you’re considering applying wood veneer to your garage door, here are some tips to help you do it properly:

  • Ensure the garage door is clean and dry before applying the wood veneer. Sand the surface lightly to create a rough texture to help the veneer adhere.
  • Measure and cut the wood veneer to fit your garage door. Use a straight edge and a sharp knife to get a clean, precise cut.
  • Spread a thin layer of wood glue or contact cement onto the garage door’s surface using a paint roller or brush. Apply the adhesive evenly and thinly to avoid excess drips or pooling.
  • Place the wood veneer onto the adhesive, aligning it carefully with the edges of the door. Use a roller or a rubber mallet to smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles, working from the center of the veneer toward the edges. 
  • Use a sharp knife or a router to trim the excess veneer from the edges of the door. Be careful to follow the contours of the door and avoid cutting too deeply.
  • Once the veneer is attached, you can apply a finish to protect it and enhance its appearance. Options include varnish, polyurethane, or a wood stain. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
  • It’s important to take your time and be precise when applying wood veneer to your garage door. 

Factors To Consider When Applying Wood Veneer To Your Garage Door

There are several factors to consider when applying wood veneer to your garage door:

1. Climate 

The type of wood veneer you choose and the finish you apply will depend on the climate in your area. Some types of wood are more resistant to moisture and extreme temperatures than others, so choosing a suitable veneer for your climate is important.

2. Budget 

Wood veneer can be more expensive than some other options. So it’s important to consider your budget when applying veneer to your door. Additionally, the cost can increase if you’re paying someone to fix it. 

3. Maintenance 

Wood veneer may require more maintenance than other materials, such as regular refinishing or resealing to prevent it from peeling. Be sure to factor in the time and cost of ongoing maintenance when deciding whether a wood veneer is the right choice for your garage door.


Conclusion

Wood veneer is a nice way to beautify your garage door. It can be a great way to add a natural rustic look to your garage door. However, it’s important to remember that wood veneers may require more maintenance and may not be as durable as other materials.

We’ve included the pros and cons of using wood veneer for your garage door and a step-by-step explanation of how to fix wood veneer on your garage door. Following the instructions in this article, you should be able to make an informed decision on using wood veneer on your garage door. 

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Written by Timothy Amin

Timothy is a seasoned expert when it comes to garage doors. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, John has installed, repaired, and maintained countless garage doors of various types and styles.