ᐅ How can I optimize Ikea PAX doors for use in a hallway?

Keatondra schrieb:
It’s best to remove the doors first, then lightly sand them with fine grit sandpaper (220 to 320 grit) – this helps the paint adhere better.

Thank you, that sounds reasonable. Are there any durable protective coatings that can be easily applied and also provide some protection against impacts and scratches? I was thinking of something like clear varnishes, but I’m unsure if they are scratch-resistant enough for a hallway or if I should consider another option.

Here is a more detailed overview:

If you want to protect the Pax doors in your hallway, your idea of using clear varnish is basically correct, but it greatly depends on the quality of the varnish and the application process.

1. Preparation is crucial: remove the doors, gently sand them (grit 320 for fine sanding), and clean off all dust.
2. Choice of varnish: polyurethane varnishes are very durable and scratch-resistant, as well as water-repellent. An alternative is epoxy resin varnishes, but these are more difficult to apply.
3. Application: apply several thin coats, sanding lightly in between to achieve a smooth surface.
4. Drying: allow to dry thoroughly, at least 48 hours before re-installing the doors.

Real impact resistance is only achieved with thicker protective panels or acrylic glass, which may not suit the look of every hallway. So, if you want additional mechanical protection, you could consider clear protective panels that you stick to the inside of the doors.

How exactly are the doors used in the hallway? Are they often slammed open with full force, or is there perhaps a stroller or sports equipment blocking the way?

kulau schrieb:
How is the hallway used specifically? Are the doors often opened with full force, and is there sometimes a stroller or sports equipment in the way?

Good question, thanks for following up. In fact, we often use the PAX sliding doors in the hallway. There is frequent foot traffic—both children and adults move through here. Sometimes the doors are pushed open quickly when entering or exiting, occasionally with a bit more force. A stroller is usually positioned to the side, but smaller items (e.g., shoes, sticks) are sometimes leaned against the doors.

So, I want the doors to be durable and not break or chip easily. Also, cleaning should not be too time-consuming.

Sounds like a real challenge. I had similar PAX doors in the hallway and tried something: instead of frequently removing the doors completely, I covered them with a special scratch-resistant film. Then I applied a matte clear coat over it, which shows fewer fingerprints.

Dabartosz schrieb:
I want the doors to remain durable, not to break or scratch easily.

The combination of film plus clear coat has surprisingly held up well in everyday hallway use for me. It’s important to apply the clear coat in thin layers and allow sufficient drying time, as kulau described.

At first, we had to be a bit patient during application, but it was worth it. At the same time, the look now appears somewhat more premium than the original PAX surfaces.

As an additional tip: make sure to choose durable hinges and opening mechanisms, especially if there is high foot traffic.

Soft-close mechanisms are a good option to extend the lifespan of the doors. They reduce wear on the edges and prevent slamming.

If protective films or clear coats are applied, regularly check the surface and promptly repair any small areas to prevent larger damage from developing.

Another consideration is to clean the doors more often, as dust and sand particles can wear down the finish faster. When selecting cleaning products, choose mild, non-aggressive options, because some cleaners can damage clear coats.