How to Install a Hardwood Floor Reducer Strip

You've finished installing your new hardwood floor and all that's left is to install the reducer strip. The problem is, you have no clue what to do with the thing. A hardwood reducer strip is used to slope the final piece of hardwood to meet a transitional type of flooring (typically vinyl) to give a finished look without the hard edge of a threshold. With a few basic tools, you'll have it installed in minutes.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Miter saw and box
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Silicone sealant
• One 1/2 inch finish nails
• Hammer
• Eye protection

Instructions

1. Measure the height of the transition to be sure you have the correct reducer size. Hardwood to vinyl is typically a three-quarter to one-eighth transition; if you have a higher subfloor under the vinyl it may be less of a reduction and you will need a corresponding reducer.

2. Mark the length you need to reduce, recheck your measurements and cut the reducer with a miter saw and box.

3. Sand and seal any cut edges, making sure you stain to match the floor if needed.

4. Apply a bead of silicone to the bottom of the edge that will meet the vinyl; vinyl floors are typically cleaned with water and this will prevent seepage under the hardwood.

5. Insert the tongue edge of the reducer strip into the groove of your hardwood floor, tapping into place with a rubber mallet to fit tightly.

6. Nail the reducer strip into place, using a finish nail 6 inches from the end and 10 inches apart along the rest of the piece, ending no closer than four inches from the opposite edge.

Tips & Warnings

• Ceramic and carpeted floors do not use reducer strips as a finished edge.

Resources

• The National Wood Flooring Association