How to Fix Wood Slats on a Door

The wood slats on a door, particularly if it is an exterior door, are subject to abuse. Temperature and humidity changes as well as general wear and tear can cause small cracks to form in these slats. Not only are these cracks unsightly, but they can also reduce the home's heating and cooling efficiency by letting in cold or hot air. Most cracks can be easily repaired and will not require replacing the entire door. Keep in mind, however, that the door will need to be painted to hide the patched spot.

Fine-grit sandpaper
Medium-grit sandpaper
Chisel
Putty knife
Wood putty
Primer
Paint

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the surface of the crack down with a medium-grit sandpaper. This will remove any splinters or debris around the crack.
- 2
  Widen the crack with a chisel if it is less than a quarter-inch wide. Widening the crack will help the putty create a better seal.
- 3
  Smooth wood putty onto the surface of the crack with a putty knife. You can use pre-mixed putty or you can buy the type that needs to be mixed with water. Choose a putty that is as close to the color of the door as possible. Scrape the putty on with the flat of the knife, and remove any excess putty with the edge of the knife. Let the putty set until it is hard to to the touch.
- 4
  Sand the wood putty down with fine-grit sandpaper. The wood putty will be rough to the touch after applying it. Smooth this surface down and sand off any ridges left behind by the putty knife.
- 5
  Prime the door. If it is an exterior door, use an exterior latex primer. Roll on the primer with a small roller for the best coverage. Let the primer dry for at least four hours.
- 6
  Paint the door with latex paint in the desired shade. Roll on one coat. Let it dry for four hours. If necessary, apply a second coat.

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