All natural timber products are influenced by climatic conditions and will expand and contract when moisture loss or absorption occurs. It is therefore essential that the panels, which are manufactured to "float" within rebated areas of the door frames, are not restricted in any way.

Several common forms of restriction occur. For example, if the panel is used as a support area for drawers in kitchens and furniture and is attached by screws or glue to the drawer structure, or where sealants and finishes are applied heavily to the junction of the rail/stile panel area, resulting in an adhesive action.

All finishes should be evenly applied on all six sides as they are not completely impervious to water (at molecular level) and it is the "build" or number of coats which governs the rate at which water can transport through the finish. Examples of 3 coats on the front and one on the rear of a panel can result in cupping or splitting of a panel and also cause the panel to shrink, leaving an unfinished strip down each side, which demonstrates the panel working as designed, by being allowed to move.

Cabinet doors are manufactured from kiln dried timber. Quality door manufacturers usually present stock size doors in a plastic wrapping to maintain residual moisture content. They should be quickly prepared for sealing and finishing after being taken from this closed environment and should not be left overnight, in a draft or a wet area, as they may gain or lose moisture very quickly resulting in warping, twisting or splitting.

If in a wet area, the door may take on moisture and expand and this may compromise the mechanical integrity of the product. Experience has shown that solid timber cabinet doors can be used over a wide range of climatic conditions. Listed below are a number of methods for sealing and finishing as supplied by the manufacturers of sealants and finishes, to the timber industry.

Lacquer Finishes

Most manufacturers recommend a pre-catalyzed lacquer be applied over a sanding seal. Because lacquer "flattens" out when drying at least three coats over a sanding sealant should be applied to all surfaces. In areas of extreme dryness an extra coat of lacquer plus a finishing coat of bees wax can be extremely beneficial. On timbers which are "resinous" a bleed seal is recommended before the above.

Two Part Adeze Polyurethane

This product is used by both the handyperson and the tradesperson, as a Brushing Grade is available in addition to the normal Spraying Grade. Three levels of gloss are available i.e. High Gloss, Semi Gloss and Oiled type finish - which is just a glow above matt. Benefits are ease of application and fast curing times. However, the main benefit is the long-term durability of the finish.

Adeze

Will beautify the timber - bringing out the natural colours and beauty of the grain and yet provide a long wearing surface to protect the timber and resist most materials found in a kitchen or bathroom. Normally only two coats are required on all surfaces of the door. In extreme conditions, and with some timbers, a third coat should be applied.

Single Pack Polyurethane

This particular product is an air drying type and can be used as a clear finish, providing sufficient coats are applied. Experience has shown that the application of 1 coat of a sealer such as Danish Oil first, followed by a minimum of 2 coats of polyurethane, will give a satisfactory finish.

In areas of climatic extremes, a coat of Bees Wax will help seal the product and add lustre.

Water Based Finishes Oil Finishes

These particular finishes have the advantage of ease of use and the ability to "seal" timber and give a lasting finish.

The oil should be applied as per manufacturers recommendation and will give a soft flat appearance enhancing the grain and natural features of the timber.

Pigmented Paint Finished

These finishes are not recommended.