Wood – Improve the look and durability of wood siding

stainingwood

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How can i improve the look of the above piece of wood near the door step? I am new to wood work so would appreciate the steps to be carried out and materials to be used for the job.

Below is another piece thats inside the house and needs work.
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Best Answer

The wood appears solid, near as I can tell, and I don't see signs of peeling of the old finish. I'd simply apply a quality siding/fence stain that's tinted dark enough to mask the varying hues in the board and that coordinates with your home's exterior. I wouldn't attempt to scrape it due to the likelihood of damaging the grain, but maybe hit it gently with a nylon bristle brush to remove any loose material.

Note that "stain" is a broad term, and by specifying a siding/fence stain I'm implying that the product is also a sealer. Interior stains, by contrast, are not intended as a sealer or finish coat.