With doors and windows, paint in a logical order and finish with parallel strokes in the direction of the grain. It helps to use a paint guard and an angled window brush to help avoid marking windows with excess paint.

For a panelled door use a good quality 2” or 3” paint brush - start with the recessed panels and finish with the outer edges. For flat doors, a gloss mini roller is an ideal alternative to a brush, offering a faster technique with a smoother finish. For windows, paint closest to the glass first and finish with the outside frame.

Take special care with door edges and door handle holes or window catches. Always brush towards these areas; as if you brush away from them runs can form from paint build up.

If you wish to stain wood rather than paint it, then this should be completed before the surface is varnished or waxed. When applying a stain always brush in the direction of the grain, and try to work quickly to avoid any part becoming dry before finishing. Varnish can be applied using a roller or brush; however, care must be taken to ensure uniform coverage of the area.

For a clean edge it can be useful to use masking tape and remove when touch dry, or within 24 hours to avoid leaving a residue.