How to Install Thresholds
Whether you've just put on a new addition, or you want to replace a threshold that has been scratched and worn over the years, proper installation is necessary for the aesthetics and safety of your home. While there are stone thresholds, and metal thresholds, most are made of hardwoods.
Wood presents unique challenges of its own. Do the wood grains match? Have you allowed the wood room to expand and contract?
Thresholds can be installed in less than an hour.
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Things You'll Need
- Hammer
- 1 1/2-inch finish nails
- Nail punch
- 1/16 inch drill bit
- Cordless drill
- Tape measure
- Coping saw
- Sand paper
- Wood chisel
- Wood plane
- Stain/lacquer
Instructions
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1
Measure your threshold. The threshold serves as a transition point between one room and another. The threshold will fit between the door jambs. Measure the length and the width of your threshold.
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2
Select a piece of stock that matches the grain of your floor. If the floor is carpeted, select a piece whose grain appeals to you aesthetically. Cut the piece to the dimensions you've measured for. Use a coping saw and a wood chisel to cut the piece to fit between the door jambs.
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3
Using the 1/16-inch drill bit, drill pilot holes for your finish nails. Thresholds are often made of incredibly hard wood, such as oak. Drilling the pilot holes will reduce the chance of splitting your threshold and the aggravation of bending nails.
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4
Test fit the threshold. Does it sit flush with the flooring it transitions from? Does it fit beneath the door itself? Use a wood plane to trim the threshold as needed by planing the bottom of the piece. Shim the threshold if it sits too low.
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5
Sand your threshold. Begin with 60 grit and progress to at least 120. A palm sander will work as well as a hand block. Stain or lacquer the piece as appropriate.
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6
Nail the threshold into place. Hammer the finish nails through the pilot holes into the subfloor. Use a properly sized nail punch to drive the nails even with the top of the threshold.
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Tips & Warnings
Allow the wood to acclimate to your house. Temperature and humidity can affect the final fit of the piece.
Make sure the subfloor is clean of debris before you begin your installation.
Always wear safety goggles when drilling or cutting wood.
Don't miss the nail head. Thresholds are made of hard wood, but a hammer will still leave a dent if you don't hit the nail on the head.
References
- Photo Credit colourful doorway image by rrruss from Fotolia.com
