Heritage renovator Greg Penn, also known as ‘Man With a Hammer’, recently revealed how he transformed the entrance to his Georgian townhouse using Owatrol Oil paint conditioner.
His project at Admirals House in Plymouth is a masterclass in combining modern paint technology with traditional craftsmanship.
Bringing Life Back to a Plymouth Landmark
Greg’s home, Admirals House, is a vast ex-Naval Georgian property in Plymouth, Devon. Once a grand residence for naval officers, it had fallen into disrepair before Greg took it on. With more than 30 rooms to restore, it’s an enormous task – but one he’s embraced with passion.
The front door restoration may seem like a small part of this historic building, but in Georgian architecture, doors carry huge significance. Their bold colours and symmetrical designs are an important feature of period homes.
For Greg, reviving the front door wasn’t just a cosmetic choice – it was about restoring the home’s character and charm.
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Why Owatrol Oil is a great Paint Conditioner for Wooden Doors
When it came to repainting, Greg opted to use Owatrol Oil – a professional-grade paint conditioner that delivers superior results. This choice was crucial for achieving the smooth, long-lasting finish he wanted for his Georgian front door.
Benefits of Owatrol Oil for Exterior Woodwork:
✅ Flawless finish: Owatrol Oil extends the drying time, significantly reducing brush and roller marks
✅ Deep penetration: It improves adhesion on weathered wood – helping paint to grip where it would normally struggle
✅ Durability in harsh weather: Plymouth’s coastal climate can be tough on exterior paint, but Owatrol Oil will reduce peeling, cracking and flaking
✅ Preserves paint quality: Unlike paint thinners, Owatrol Oil doesn’t compromise the integrity of the paint – on the contrary, it actually enhances its performance
For anyone restoring period properties, Owatrol Oil is an invaluable tool for things such as doors, windows, joinery and railings.
A Perfect Blend of Heritage and Modern Craft
By using Owatrol Oil on his Georgian front door, Greg demonstrated how modern products can protect and enhance traditional features. The result is a door that looks elegant, feels authentic and will withstand the test of time.
This approach reflects Greg’s wider philosophy: ‘don’t cut corners with heritage restoration’. With patience and the right materials, you can respect the past while ensuring durability for the future.
Follow Man With a Hammer
Although Greg started this project 6 years ago, with him being a one-man-band – there’s still plenty more to see! To watch his journey at Admirals House, be sure to follow ‘Man With a Hammer’ on his Instagram and Facebook page.
All images credit to Gregg Penn.
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