Metal Door Threshold

When installing new flooring, a transition piece called a "threshold" is normally used. The threshold may be a nice piece of wood or, just as common, a metal strip. Metal thresholds are often used in high-traffic areas as they are sturdy and resist wear better than wood.

Metal threshold
Items needed:
Hacksaw
Screw starter
Drill and concrete bits
File
Center punch & hammer
Metal threshold
Door sweep
Safety Suggestions and Tips
Cut even amounts from each end of threshold. 
File rough metal edges.
Level of difficulty


Time Required:
 1 hour

Steps

Trim door molding at height of threshold
Trim door molding at height of threshold

Step 1:

The first step is to trim door jamb molding to allow the threshold to extend between the door jambs. Use a chisel or carefully use a small saw to remove the bottom-most 1/2" piece of trim.

Cut and arrange threshold
Cut and arrange threshold

Step 2:

Next, place measure the inside distance between the door jambs.  Mark the cuts, one from each end equidistance from the edges. Using a hacksaw, cut the threshold to length. File off metal burrs and sharp edges.   If needed, drill new hole approximately 2 inches from the edge in the center of the threshold.  Using a hammer and center punch, make a depression for the screw head.

Slide gasket in groove on base of threshold.
Slide gasket in groove on base of threshold.

Step 3:

Add the gasket strip to the bottom of the threshold by sliding it in the groove.  A little soapy water will help.  

Drill concrete for screw anchor
Drill concrete for screw anchor

Step 4:

Because this threshold is over a concrete floor, the normal brass screws included were not used.  Purchase special concrete screws, like those from Tapcon. You will need a masonry bit to drill through the concrete.

Tapcon concrete screw
Tapcon concrete screw

Step 5:

The Tapcon screw is specially designed to quickly anchor into concrete without the use of plugs and has a special corrosion resistant finish. 

Use screw starter tio pilot the holes
Use screw starter tio pilot the holes

Step 6:

With the threshold in pace, close the door and mark the holes for the door sweep. 

Secure sweep with brass screws
Secure sweep with brass screws

Step 7:

Using screws provided, screw the sweep in place.

Concrete door stop
Concrete door stop

Step 8:

The door stop also need to be secured into the concrete floor.  

Drill holes in concrete for screw and pin
Drill holes in concrete for screw and pin

Step 9:

Drill holes using masonry bit and screw in place.