Fitting a wooden threshold bar involves measuring, cutting, drilling pilot holes, testing the fit, and securing it firmly to the floor.
Fitting a wooden threshold bar, also known as a door bar or transition strip, is a practical DIY task that enhances the look of your flooring and bridges gaps between different room surfaces. These bars provide a smooth transition, prevent tripping hazards, and can even help reduce draughts. Installing them correctly ensures longevity and a professional finish.
Essential Tools and Materials
Before starting, gather the necessary tools and materials:
| Tool/Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Wooden Threshold Bar | The main component |
| Measuring Tape | For accurate measurements |
| Pencil | For marking cuts and drill points |
| Coping Saw or Chop Saw | For cutting the wooden bar |
| Drill | For drilling pilot holes and fixing |
| 1/16-inch Drill Bit | Specific bit size for pilot holes |
| Countersink Bit | To recess screw heads |
| Screws or Wood Adhesive | For fixing the threshold |
| Sandpaper | For smoothing edges |
| Wood Filler (Optional) | To fill small gaps or imperfections |
| Sealant, Varnish, or Oil | For finishing and protection (matches floor) |
| Safety Glasses | Personal protection |
Step-by-Step Guide to Fitting Your Wooden Threshold
Follow these steps for a successful installation:
Step 1: Preparation and Measurement
Begin by clearing the doorway area and removing any existing threshold or debris. Ensure the floor surfaces on both sides are clean and level where the threshold will sit.
- Get the measures of your threshold.
- Measure the width of the door frame at the point where the threshold will be fitted.
- For external doors, consider if the threshold needs to extend slightly beyond the frame width to shed water.
- If joining two different floor types or heights, measure the gap width the threshold needs to cover.
Step 2: Precise Cutting
Mark the measured length onto your wooden threshold bar. Use a square to ensure your cut line is straight.
- Cut the piece of hardwood according to your measurement using a coping saw or chop saw.
- A chop saw is ideal for straight, clean cuts on standard rectangular bars.
- A coping saw or jigsaw may be needed if the threshold requires intricate cuts to fit around door frames or architraves. Always cut slightly on the waste side of your line.
Step 3: Drilling Pilot Holes
Drilling pilot holes prevents the wood from splitting when you insert screws and guides them accurately.
- Drill pilot holes on the hardwood using a 1/16-inch drill bit.
- Space the pilot holes evenly along the length of the threshold bar, typically every 12-18 inches.
- If using screws, follow up with a slightly larger drill bit or a countersink bit to create a recess for the screw heads to sit flush or slightly below the surface.
Step 4: Test Fit Before Fixing
Before applying any adhesive or inserting screws, place the cut and drilled threshold bar in position.
- Test fit the threshold.
- Check that it fits snugly between the door frame or walls.
- Ensure it covers the gap between the two flooring types effectively.
- Verify that doors can open and close freely over the bar.
- Make any minor adjustments needed at this stage.
Step 5: Securing the Threshold Bar
Once you are happy with the test fit, it's time to fix the threshold permanently.
- Screwing: Align the threshold with the drilled holes over the floor. Drive screws through the pilot holes into the subfloor or floorboards below. Ensure screws are tightened enough to hold the bar securely but not so much that they damage the wood.
- Adhesive: Apply a suitable wood or construction adhesive to the underside of the threshold bar. Press the bar firmly into place on the floor. You may need to weigh it down or tape it while the adhesive sets according to the product instructions. This method is often used when screwing isn't possible or desired (e.g., over concrete floors where drilling is difficult).
Step 6: Finishing Touches
After the threshold is securely fixed, the final steps complete the installation.
- Fill any visible screw heads with wood filler that matches the wood colour, if desired.
- Lightly sand the threshold bar to smooth any rough edges or marks from installation.
- Apply a protective finish such as varnish, sealant, oil, or paint to match your door frame or flooring. This protects the wood and helps it blend seamlessly.
By following these steps, including the crucial stages of measuring, cutting, drilling pilot holes, and test fitting, you can effectively install a wooden threshold bar for a clean and functional transition.
