Fitting a brand new door threshold is a relatively easy process, but there are various different ways to approach the job, depending on your individual preferences and circumstances. Here is a step-by-step guide to fitting a door threshold from Door Furniture Direct, breaking the process down into easy to follow stages.
Remove the Old Threshold
If you need to remove an old threshold before fitting your new one, this should be as simple as removing the screws, cutting through any old silicone caulking, and lifting it out of place. However, you may find that the threshold has been glued down, or secured into the door jambs. In this case, you may have to cut through the middle of the threshold and prise it out of the jambs on either side. Try to cut into the threshold at a slight angle (around 15 degrees) as this will make it easier for you to lift up and remove each half
Prepare the New Threshold
Your new threshold will probably be too long to fit directly into the door frame, so you will have to cut it down to the correct size. Measure up how much of the door threshold needs to be removed, divide the amount by two, and remove this from either end of the threshold. Cutting the threshold in this manner, rather than removing the total amount from one end, will preserve the screw placings.
Cut the Threshold
How you go about cutting your door threshold will depend on the material it is made from. For example, soft metals such as aluminium and brass can be cut much easier than stainless steel, so a hack saw would be too rough on these metals. Always ensure that you choose a blade most suitable for cutting your chosen material. Protect the finish of your threshold by using paper masking tape during the cutting, and filing down the rough cut edges for a smooth finish.
Drill the Threshold
Some thresholds may be pre-drilled and countersunk, while others may require you to do this yourself. When drilling metal, using cutting oil will prevent the drill bit from becoming blunt and burning the surface of the threshold. Additionally, plenty of masking tape on the threshold will help to avoid drill skid. You should countersink the drill holes so that the screws will sit flush with the surface, and if fitting in a damp area, try to use screws made of the same material as the threshold to prevent electrolytic corrosion.
Fit the Threshold
There are three possible ways to fit your new threshold; screwing into place with countersunk screws, gluing in place with a sealant, or using a combination of the two. It is up to you which method to use, but for thresholds that may need to be removed occasionally (e.g. for intensive cleaning) then screwing into place would be best. If the area underneath the threshold is damp, choose an all-weather sealant to help provide a watertight seal. If using a sealant, be sure to clean away loose dust from the area first, apply masking tape to either side of the joint, then wet a spatula with soapy water and use this to smooth down the threshold. Be sure to remove the masking tape before the sealant sets.
Following these steps will, in the vast majority of cases, be a straightforward process that produces the required results. But as always, if you are unsure about anything, or you need more information about fitting a new door threshold, be sure to get in touch with a qualified tradesman for professional advice.