How to replace a threshold

How do you replace a front door threshold? Tools REMOVE THE EXISTING THRESHOLD. How to install an exterior door threshold? Begin by removing your existing threshold from your door.

MEASURE THE OPENING FOR NEW THRESHOLD. Carefully measure the opening for the new threshold , and cut to fit. SECURE THE NEW EXTERIOR THRESHOLD. Measure the length, width, and thickness of the old threshold , and have a replacement with a similar pro­file on. Remove the Old Threshold.

Fit a wood-cutting blade, at least as long. If your threshold is in rough shape, replace it. Thresholds come in wood and metal, both of which come with a rubber gasket for sealing out the cold. Most exterior thresholds also have a sill beneath them. If the threshold is rotte the sill probably is too.

The sill is beveled on one side to drain water away from the house. If you are replacing it cut the old one out. It may have screws at each end that attach it to the door frame. You may have to pry it out,(take the screws out of the floor first).

Test-fit new threshold in doorway. If necessary, cut it in two and pry out the pieces. Be careful not to cut or pry against. Mark and cut the replacement threshold to fit. You may be able to use the two sections of the old threshold to help.

Cut the replacement. Follow the same steps when installing an aluminum threshold. Using a hacksaw with a fine-toothed blade to cut it to the desired length.

Use a metal file to smooth the rough edges. The new threshold should match the old threshold in width, thickness and profile as closely as possible. Using a reciprocating saw with a blade at least as long as the threshold is deep, cut the threshold in two places, each about inches in from each jamb. Open the door to expose the threshold.

Use a heavy item to prop the door open while you work, and remove the. Put on your safety glasses and cut the threshold in half using a reciprocating saw. Rotten wooden casings and the riser may need to be replaced as well. Most thresholds are simply installed and just as simply remove whereas others have been in place so long and repaired and adjusted so many times that it is difficult to know what is holding them in place.

Insert the end of a pry bar behind the casings and gently tug them free. Set them aside for later. Use a circular saw to cut the threshold into three pieces.

Once I started specializing in finish work, especially doors, I had to come up with a system that would get the job done right the first time. Use pressure treated or rot resistant wood when replacing door sill. Older wood doors usually rely on a non-adjustable threshold to keep the weather out.

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