The overlay on the front door is used for decorative finishing of its surface. Various options for textured execution, a variety of colors and shades make it possible for even the most demanding owner to choose an option for himself.
Metal doors, as a rule, are decorated with overlays. This is a simple and convenient way to give the finished product a presentable look and at the same time close all the bumps and flaws that have arisen during the manufacturing process.
Requirements
Overlays on the doors, in addition to decorativeness, must also have sufficient mechanical strength, resistance to temperature extremes, high humidity. It is good if, in addition, they increase the heat and sound insulation of the room. It would be great if the pads were durable and had an affordable reasonable price. It is desirable that they can be mounted without the involvement of third-party specialists and do not require special care and maintenance costs.
MDF board overlays are considered the mostthe best option for finishing the door leaf. This material consists of wood fibers, suitably processed and compressed to the required density. The treatment of the outer surface with a laminate of various textures and shades or fine wood veneer creates a resemblance to natural material.
Solid wood can also be used as a door lining. The price of such a finish will be higher, but the impression at the entrance to the dwelling from the appearance will change accordingly.
Variants
Currently, you can purchase ready-made door linings made according to standard designs, or order their production in specialized workshops.
Owners who have the ability and tools can make a decorative panel to their liking from a solid MDF board with their own hands. It is cut according to the idea and processed on a milling machine. Blanks are finished in various ways: painted, varnished or PVC film.
The option of hand-carved panels will cost an order of magnitude more expensive. For this finish, thicker overlays are chosen so that the three-dimensional carving looks in all its glory.
An even more sophisticated finishing option would be the installation of an overhead double-glazed window with a protective openwork grille. However, this work involves removing the doors from the hinges.
Installation
The attachment of standard door trims does not require special equipment. This process can be carried out with your own hands, howeverit is still better to turn to professionals.
If it is possible to remove the doors from the hinges and lay them in a horizontal position to install the overlays, the work can be done faster and better. In this case, the overlay panels can be fixed with liquid nails. Before applying them, the surface is cleaned of peeling coating and degreased.
In a horizontal position, the lining on the door is fixed with self-tapping screws. To mount the inner panel along the perimeter of the door leaf, holes are drilled through its entire thickness to form a hidden recess under the screw head. Its length is calculated in such a way that there is no exit of the tip to the front surface.
The outer lining on the metal door is attached to the sides with short self-tapping screws. Their hats are usually closed with a sealing rubber gasket that protects against drafts. For reliable fastening connections, self-tapping screws can be duplicated with liquid nails.
Care
Decorative overlay on the front door, lined with PVC film, does not need special care. Its surface is dirt-repellent.
If necessary, you can wash the pads with a neutral detergent that does not contain abrasive and chlorine. For washing use flannel or other soft material. Grease stains are removed with mild soapy water.
Do not use gasoline, alcohol, acetone and other types of solvents for cleaning, as well as materials impregnated with these substances. Should be used whenever possiblespecial care products for the corresponding type of coating.
They not only remove dirt well and protect against aggressive environments, but also contain additives that add flavor and shine to the surface.
Surface fittings
When using decorative MDF panels for decoration, you should be prepared for the fact that handles, viewing eyes and, possibly, locks will have to be changed.
Slips on doors, especially massive carved ones, have a significant thickness. If they are installed on both sides, then the total thickness of the door leaf will increase significantly. Standard fittings, as a rule, do not fit in this case, they need to be changed, or fasteners of a different size need to be replaced.
When choosing new pens, you should pay attention to the quality of the material and the compatibility of colors and shades. Chrome plated door trims are well protected against corrosion and tend to fit most surfaces. Doors with such fittings look rich and aesthetically pleasing, emphasizing the style.
