Entrance Door: Re-skin, Veneer, Stain, Paint, or Replace?

[Jack Pinkham]

Our wood flush entrance door is looking pretty shabby with various discolorations gained during the past 35 or so years. I believe that the skins are Luan mahogany. Looking for a frugal way to increase it's curb appeal. It's sheltered from rain by a porch and a storm door. This weather protection made me wonder if the same veneering process used in cabinet refacing couldn't be used. Or can replacement skins be purchased as replacements for the originals? There is probably a varnish finish which could be sanded off for re-staining. The coarse grain of Laun should probably be filled and sanded if we paint.

Any ideas?

Thanks!

[John TenEyck]

I'd say the most frugal thing would be to sand it down, stain or glaze it, and re-varnish it. Painting it might be about the same cost, but you might spend more time at it if you want a smooth finish since Luan is pretty grainy and would require filling. If you go that route, Bondo works really well.