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Best Clear Finish For Exterior Wood Doors (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a way to enhance the beauty and durability of your exterior wood doors, a clear finish may be just what you need. However, with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to consider several factors before making your purchase.

First, consider the climate in which your doors will be exposed. If you live in a humid area, a finish with mold and mildew resistance may be necessary. Additionally, look for a product that provides UV protection, as sunlight can cause fading and damage to the wood over time. Finally, consider the level of maintenance required. Some finishes require regular reapplication, while others offer superior longevity.

Are you tired of replacing your exterior doors every few years due to weather damage? Do you want to enhance the natural beauty of your wood doors while protecting them from the elements? With a clear finish designed specifically for exterior wood doors, you can achieve both. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which one is right for your needs? By considering factors such as climate, UV protection, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision and ensure your doors look beautiful for years to come.

10 Best Clear Finish For Exterior Wood Doors

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for providing a durable, glossy finish on surfaces that require high performance and protection from the elements.
2
This outdoor wall light fixture is ideal for illuminating exterior spaces around a house, porch, patio, deck, garage, or garden.
3
The product is ideal for closet and bedroom sturdy doors with a solid panel frame, clear glass lites, and white silk finish.
4
This product is ideal for outdoor areas in need of bright, motion-sensing lighting with a sleek and rustic design.
5
It is ideal for outdoor lighting in areas such as the garage, doorway, and entryway.
6
The product is ideal for interior bedroom use due to its solid wood and clear glass design with a sliding door function.
7
This product is ideal for a stylish and durable interior door option with clear glass, wood solid panel frame trims, for closets or bedrooms.
8
The product is ideal for setting up a large and durable above-ground pool with a sand filter pump.
9
Ideal for illuminating and adding a rustic ambiance to outdoor areas such as porches, patios, decks, garages, front doors, and yards.
10
This product is ideal for adding stylish outdoor lighting to your house, porch, patio, deck, garage, yard, or front door.
This product is ideal for providing a durable, glossy finish on surfaces that require high performance and protection from the elements.
This outdoor wall light fixture is ideal for illuminating exterior spaces around a house, porch, patio, deck, garage, or garden.
The product is ideal for closet and bedroom sturdy doors with a solid panel frame, clear glass lites, and white silk finish.
This product is ideal for outdoor areas in need of bright, motion-sensing lighting with a sleek and rustic design.
It is ideal for outdoor lighting in areas such as the garage, doorway, and entryway.
The product is ideal for interior bedroom use due to its solid wood and clear glass design with a sliding door function.
This product is ideal for a stylish and durable interior door option with clear glass, wood solid panel frame trims, for closets or bedrooms.
The product is ideal for setting up a large and durable above-ground pool with a sand filter pump.
Ideal for illuminating and adding a rustic ambiance to outdoor areas such as porches, patios, decks, garages, front doors, and yards.
This product is ideal for adding stylish outdoor lighting to your house, porch, patio, deck, garage, yard, or front door.

1. Rust-Oleum 250041h Ultimate Spar Urethane Water Based, Quart, Gloss Finish

Protect your outdoor wood surfaces such as furniture, doors, windows, fences, trim and more with this highly durable and protective poly. The low-odor, water-based formula is easy to apply and clean up with soap and water. It dries to the touch in just 30 minutes, and each quart covers up to 87 sq. ft. with the possibility of recoating after 2 hours.

This topcoat is both weather and UV-resistant, ensuring that it will not yellow over time and protecting against mold and mildew. The crystal-clear, gloss finish creates a polished and clean look that will make your wood look brand new. The non-yellowing formula of this product keeps your wood looking great longer, while the outstanding UV and weather resistance ensures that it will last for years to come. Additionally, this product has no brush strokes, providing you with a smooth and perfect finish. With extra-fast drying, you can apply 3 coats in a day, making your outdoor wood surfaces ready for use in no time.

Pros

  • Provides highly durable and protective coating for outdoor wood surfaces
  • Low odor and water-based formula
  • Dries to the touch in 30 minutes
  • Weather and UV-resistant topcoat that does not yellow and protects against mold and mildew
  • Crystal-clear, gloss finish creates a polished and clean look
  • Non-yellowing formula keeps your wood looking great longer
  • Outstanding UV and weather resistance
  • No brush strokes
  • Extra-fast drying, apply 3 coats in a day

2. Rustic Farmhouse Outdoor Lantern By Possini Euro Design.

The Brawley Rustic Outdoor Wall Light from Possini Euro Design is a perfect addition to any outdoor space. This light fixture has a height of 13 1/2 inches and a width of 6 1/2 inches. It extends 7 3/4 inches from the wall and has a square backplate that measures 4 3/4 inches wide and 3/4 inches deep. The mounting point to the top of the fixture is 5 1/2 inches. It weighs 8.36 lbs., making it sturdy and durable.

This outdoor wall light is designed to use one maximum 60 watt standard-medium base bulb (not included). It is made of steel, which ensures its strength and longevity. The bronze and wood grain finish adds a rustic touch to the design, making it perfect for outdoor spaces. The clear seedy glass of the light fixture adds an elegant touch to the overall look and feel of the product. This light fixture is perfect for porches, patios, and other outdoor spaces that require ample lighting.

Overall, the Brawley Rustic Outdoor Wall Light from Possini Euro Design is a great addition to any outdoor space. Its sturdy construction, elegant design, and clear seedy glass make it perfect for providing ample lighting while adding a touch of style and sophistication to your outdoor decor.

Pros

  • Sturdy and durable construction
  • Elegant design with a rustic touch
  • Clear seedy glass adds an elegant touch to the overall look and feel

Cons

  • – Bulb not included

3. Stylish French Double Doors With Clear Glass

Upgrade the look of your home with this set of 2 white doors with lites, measuring 36×80 each, and featuring clear glass. The trims have a width of 2.95 inches, and the frames are suitable for walls up to 5 1/2 inches thick. The set includes non-mortise hinges, passage satin nickel square door handles/knobs, and all the necessary parts for hanging the doors.

These doors are not pre-attached to the frame, but the set includes everything required for easy installation. The frames can be connected before installation, and the hinges do not require slots for installation. You can cut the handle within 5 minutes for added convenience.

The doors are made of solid pine wood and covered with eco-veneer for enhanced durability, scratch and stain resistance, and easy cleaning. The doors are pre-finished, eco-friendly, and of high quality and stability.

These doors can be customized to your desired size; they can be trimmed up to 3/4 inches on the top and bottom, and 3/4 inches on the left and right sides. You can also request many styles of lever/knob for added customization.

You can choose from a full range of hardware options, and every part can be customized according to your preference. You can contact the seller to get a sample of the door color, and the hardware can be delivered separately.

Pros

  • Made of solid pine wood and covered with eco-veneer for enhanced durability, scratch and stain resistance, and easy cleaning
  • Can be customized to your desired size and style
  • Comes with all the necessary parts for easy installation
  • Hinges do not require slots for installation

Cons

  • – None

4. Industrial Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light – John Timberland

Enhance your outdoor lighting with the John Timberland Industrial Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light. The fixture stands 15 1/2" high and is 6 3/4" wide, with a backplate that measures 6" high x 4 1/2" wide. Mounting distance to the top of the fixture is 3 1/4". The product weighs 4.8 lbs. and requires a maximum 60 watt standard-medium base Type-A light bulb (not included). The fixture has a clear glass Edison filament bulb that provides a clear view of the bulb. The John Timberland brand features a Dual Brite feature that brightens bulb output when motion is detected. This fixture has a stunning finish in dark faux wood and black, with metal construction that ensures durability. It is vertically installed and can be installed with the light pointing down, making it an ideal look for patios and porch lighting.

Illuminate the exterior of your home with the John Timberland Industrial Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light. With its clear glass, this fixture provides ample lighting and adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. The product has a Dual Brite feature that brightens the bulb output when motion is detected, ensuring that you have a clear view even in the dark. The product is constructed with high-quality metal that provides durability, ensuring that it withstands harsh weather conditions. The product is easy to install and can be installed with the light pointing down, making it an ideal look for patios and porch lighting.

Add a touch of elegance to your outdoor space with the John Timberland Industrial Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light. The product is designed to provide ample lighting while adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. The product has a Dual Brite feature that brightens the bulb output when motion is detected, ensuring that you have a clear view even in the dark. The product is constructed with high-quality metal that provides durability, ensuring that it withstands harsh weather conditions. The product is easy to install and can be installed with the light pointing down, making it an ideal look for patios and porch lighting.

Pros

  • Dual Brite feature brightens bulb output when motion is detected
  • Clear glass allows the bulb to be seen
  • Ideal for patios and porch lighting
  • Easy to install
  • Constructed with high-quality metal that provides durability

Cons

  • – Bulb not included

5. Smeike Wood & Black Outdoor Sconce

Enhance the exterior of your home with the Simple Retro Design outdoor wall sconce. The clear glass is perfectly shaped and the metal frame is finished in matte black and wood, providing a modern yet timeless look that will brighten up your porch, patio, balcony, front door, entryway or corridor.

Crafted with high-quality die-casting aluminum, this outdoor wall lantern is anti-rust and waterproof with an IP65 rating. It can effectively withstand any outdoor environment, making it completely weather resistant and able to withstand rain or snow.

Installing this outdoor wall sconce is a breeze with its open bottom design that allows for easy bulb replacement. Its dimensions are 6.5" x 8" x 11.43" (L x W x H).

This outdoor wall sconce uses one E26 light bulb and is fully compatible with incandescent, LED, CFL, and halogen bulbs with a maximum wattage of 60W. Please note that the bulb is not included.

The manufacturer stands behind their product and provides a high-quality after-sales service. If you encounter any problems, please contact them and they will provide you with a satisfactory solution within 24 hours.

Pros

  • Clear glass and matte black and wood finish provide a modern yet timeless look
  • High-quality die-casting aluminum construction is anti-rust and waterproof with an IP65 rating
  • Easy installation with an open bottom design for easy bulb replacement
  • Fully compatible with incandescent, LED, CFL, and halogen bulbs

Cons

  • – Bulb is not included

6. Felicia French Double Pocket Doors – Complete Kit

Make the most of your living space with this Set of 2 White Doors with Clear Glass. Each door measures 36×80 inches and comes with all the necessary hardware, including trims, pocket frames, door hangers, steel tracks, floor guides, stops, round pocket pulls, and screws. The door can swing when sliding, as there is no wood part at the top and bottom – only glass. Please note that a groove for the floor guide needs to be drilled, and the door comes without any holes for the hardware.

Pocket doors are a great solution for space-saving and can also solve problems in tight spots. For instance, a pocket door can be used in a small half-bath that doesn't have enough space for a door to swing in or out. This way, the use of a pocket door can eliminate the need for building an oversized bathroom or stealing space from an adjacent closet or similar area.

The door is made of solid pine wood and covered with eco-veneer, which is pre-finished, eco-friendly, high-durable, cleanable, stable, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant. The door can be trimmed up to 3/4 inches on the top, bottom, left, and right sides. Pocket hardware for a 2×6 wall can be provided upon request.

The set includes a full range of hardware, which can be customized according to your requirements. You can choose from a lot of sizes and finishing, and even request a sample of the door color. The hardware can be delivered separately for your convenience.

Pros

  • Set includes all the necessary hardware
  • Pocket door saves space
  • Made of solid pine wood and covered with eco-veneer
  • Pre-finished, eco-friendly, high-durable, cleanable, stable, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant
  • Customizable size and hardware

7. Lucia Matte White French Double Doors

Upgrade your home with this set of two white doors with lites. Each door measures 24×80 inches and comes with clear glass, 2.95 inch trims, frames for walls up to 5 1/2 inches, non-mortise hinges, and passage satin nickel square door handles/knobs. The doors are made of solid pine wood and are covered by eco-veneer, making them pre-finished, eco-friendly, durable, easy to clean, stable, scratch-resistant, and stain-resistant.

This set of doors is like a pre-hung door, but the door is not pre-attached to the frame. All the necessary parts for hanging the door are included, and the frames connect before the installation. The hinges do not require slots for installation, and the cut for the handle can be made within 5 minutes. The door can be trimmed on 3/4 inch on the top and bottom, and 3/4 inch on the left and right side, making it customizable to fit your desired size.

You can also customize every part of the door hardware to your liking. There are many styles of lever/knob provided per request, and a full range of hardware is available. If you want to see a sample of the door color, please contact the seller. The hardware can also be delivered separately.

Pros

  • Made of solid pine wood and covered by eco-veneer for durability, stability, and resistance to scratches and stains
  • Set includes all the necessary parts for hanging the door, making it easy to install
  • Customizable size and hardware to fit your preference

Cons

  • – May require additional trimming for a perfect fit

8. Intex 26355eh 18ft X 9ft X 52in Ultra Xtr Pool Set With Sand Filter Pump

Enjoy summertime fun and beat the heat with the Intex 18Ft x 52In Steel Frame Above Ground Pool Set. This pool set has been designed to provide strength and durability, making it perfect for ages 6 and up. The gray outer liner and blue tile-print inner liner provide a classic and clean look to the pool. The pump is equipped with Hydro Aeration Technology that improves circulation, filtration, and water clarity while also increasing negative ions for a safer and cleaner pool experience. The durable frame is made of high-quality, galvanized steel with a precision-engineered locking system that ensures a sturdy and secure pool structure. The encapsulating inner and outer powder coating prevents rusting, extending the life of the pool. The pool can be set up quickly and be ready for water in just 60 minutes. This package comes with a pool ladder, ground cloth, sand filter, and pool cover. Note that installation may require wood or concrete pads under each leg for support on dirt or soft surfaces. Pump voltage is 110-120V, and the water capacity is 4,545 gallons at 90%. The manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty for this product. Before purchasing, please review your HOA rules and restrictions, as not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools.

Pros

  • Hydro Aeration Technology improves circulation, filtration, and water clarity while increasing negative ions for a safer and cleaner pool experience.
  • Durable frame made of high-quality, galvanized steel with precision-engineered locking system ensures a sturdy and secure pool structure.
  • Quick set up and ready for water in just 60 minutes.
  • Encapsulating inner and outer powder coating prevents rusting, extending the life of the pool.
  • Comes with a pool ladder, ground cloth, sand filter, and pool cover.
  • Manufacturer provides a 2-year warranty.

Cons

  • – Installation may require wood or concrete pads under each leg for support on dirt or soft surfaces.
  • – Not all housing agencies permit private above-ground pools, so review HOA rules and restrictions before purchasing.

9. Rustic Motion Sensor Wall Light For Outdoors

Upgrade your outdoor lighting with the Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light by John Timberland. This fixture boasts a rustic modern style that is perfect for porch lighting, patio areas, or garage lights. It has a height of 15 1/2" and a width of 6 3/4". The backplate measures 6" high x 4 1/2" wide x 1" deep, and the fixture extends 7 1/2" from the wall. Mounting point to the top of the fixture is 3", and it weighs 4.8 lbs. This outdoor light requires one maximum 60-watt standard-medium base bulb (not included) and can accommodate dimmable LED bulbs. The fixture comes with a clear glass Edison filament bulb that adds charm to its overall design.

The Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Light has a dual-bright feature that turns on at dusk to 25% brightness and goes to full bright when motion is detected. Its gray faux wood finish trim with black finish accents and metal construction adds durability and elegance to the design. The clear ribbed glass allows the bulb to be seen, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The fixture is wet location rated, making it perfect for areas that get full exposure to rain and weather. Install this outdoor light to your home to add style and security to your outdoor spaces.

Pros

  • Rustic modern design adds elegance to outdoor spaces
  • Dual-bright feature provides additional security
  • Wet location rated for areas that get full exposure to rain and weather
  • Clear ribbed glass adds to the overall aesthetic appeal
  • Comes with a clear glass Edison filament bulb

Cons

  • – Bulb not included
  • – Requires wiring for installation

10. European Outdoor Wall Light With Hammered Glass

Add a touch of sophistication to any outdoor space with the Casa Marseille collection by John Timberland. This large traditional outdoor wall light is a perfect blend of style and functionality. Measuring 31" in height and 12 3/4" in width, this wall light extends 15" from the wall and weighs 17 lbs.

The backplate of the wall light is 23" high and 8" wide, and the distance from the mounting point to the top of the fixture is 16". It uses four maximum 40 candelabra base bulbs, which can be incandescent, LED, or CFL. Please note that bulbs are not included with the product.

Crafted from sturdy die-cast metal construction, this wall light is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. It is wet location outdoor rated, making it a durable and reliable lighting solution for your outdoor spaces. The textured black finish adds a touch of elegance to the wall light, making it a perfect addition to any outdoor decor. The double scroll arms of the wall light feature acanthus leaf detailing, which adds to the overall traditional design of the product. The clear hammered glass completes the look of the wall light, providing a warm and welcoming glow to your outdoor spaces.

If you are looking for an elegant and functional outdoor lighting solution, the Casa Marseille collection by John Timberland is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

  • Sturdy die-cast metal construction ensures durability and reliability
  • Wet location outdoor rated, making it perfect for harsh outdoor conditions
  • Clear hammered glass provides warm and welcoming glow to your outdoor spaces
  • Textured black finish adds a touch of elegance to the wall light
  • Double scroll arms with acanthus leaf detailing add to the traditional design of the product

Cons

  • – Bulbs not included with the product

Best Clear Finish For Exterior Wood Doors FAQs

Can a clear finish be reapplied over an existing finish on an exterior wood door?

Yes, a clear finish can be reapplied over an existing finish on an exterior wood door. However, it is important to properly prepare the surface before applying a new finish. This involves cleaning the door thoroughly and sanding it to remove any dirt, debris, or loose bits of the old finish. It is also important to ensure that the existing finish is not peeling or cracking, as this can affect the adhesion of the new finish. Once the door is clean and smooth, a clear finish can be applied using a brush or sprayer, following the manufacturer's instructions. It is recommended to apply at least two coats of the clear finish to ensure adequate protection against the elements. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and recoating every few years, can help prolong the life of the finish and protect the wood door from damage.

How do I properly prepare my exterior wood door for a clear finish application?

Preparing your exterior wood door for a clear finish application is essential to ensure that the finish adheres properly and lasts longer. Here are the steps you can follow to prepare your door:

1. Clean the door: Use a mild detergent and warm water to clean the door surface. Scrub the surface with a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt, grime, and any previous coatings.

2. Sand the door: Use fine-grit sandpaper to sand the entire door surface. Sanding helps to remove any rough spots, blemishes, or scratches on the wood surface. Make sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain and wipe the door with a clean cloth to remove any dust.

3. Fill the gaps: If there are any gaps or cracks in the wood surface, use wood filler to fill them. Allow the filler to dry completely and sand the surface again to achieve a smooth finish.

4. Apply the finish: Now, you can apply the clear finish to the door surface. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and apply the finish in thin coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.

By following these simple steps, you can prepare your exterior wood door for a clear finish application and ensure that it looks beautiful for years to come.

How often should exterior wood doors be resealed with a clear finish?

Exterior wood doors are a beautiful and functional addition to any home or building. However, they are also exposed to harsh weather conditions that can cause damage and deterioration over time. To maintain the beauty and durability of your exterior wood doors, it is important to reseal them with a clear finish regularly.

The frequency of resealing your exterior wood doors with a clear finish depends on various factors such as the type of wood, climate, and level of exposure to the elements. In general, it is recommended to reseal your wood doors every two to three years. However, if you notice signs of wear and tear such as cracking, fading, or peeling, you should reseal them immediately.

It is important to use high-quality clear finish products that are specially designed for exterior wood doors. These products protect the wood from moisture, UV rays, and other environmental factors that can cause damage over time. By resealing your wood doors regularly, you can extend their lifespan and keep them looking beautiful for years to come.

What is the expected lifespan of a clear finish for exterior wood doors?

The lifespan of a clear finish for exterior wood doors can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. Generally, a high-quality clear finish can last anywhere from 2-5 years before it begins to show signs of wear and tear. However, there are a number of factors that can affect the lifespan of the finish, including exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes.

For example, if the door is exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time, the finish may begin to fade and crack more quickly. Similarly, if the door is exposed to moisture on a regular basis, the finish may begin to peel and flake off over time. Temperature changes can also affect the finish, causing it to expand and contract, which can lead to cracking and other damage.

To extend the lifespan of a clear finish for exterior wood doors, it's important to choose a high-quality product and to apply it properly. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and reapplication of the finish as needed, can also help to keep the door looking great for years to come.

What types of clear finishes are best for protecting exterior wood doors?

When it comes to protecting exterior wood doors, it is essential to choose the right clear finish that can withstand harsh weather conditions and protect the wood from damage. There are various types of clear finishes available in the market, but not all of them are suitable for exterior wood doors.

One of the best clear finishes for exterior wood doors is polyurethane. It is a durable and long-lasting finish that provides excellent protection against water, sunlight, and other environmental factors. Polyurethane comes in both oil-based and water-based formulas, and both are equally effective in protecting wood from damage.

Another popular clear finish for exterior wood doors is varnish. Varnish is a transparent coating that forms a hard and protective layer on the wood surface. It is an ideal choice for doors that are exposed to direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions.

Lastly, epoxy is another clear finish that can protect exterior wood doors from damage. Epoxy is a two-part coating that forms a thick and durable layer on the wood surface. It is resistant to water, sunlight, and other environmental factors, making it an excellent choice for exterior wood doors.

In conclusion, polyurethane, varnish, and epoxy are the best clear finishes for protecting exterior wood doors. Each of these finishes offers excellent protection against different environmental factors and can help extend the life of your wood doors.

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