How to Remove and Install a New Threshold

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Measure all dimensions of the old threshold

   Use these measurements to purchase material for your new threshold.
2. 2

   Step 2: including length

   Remove any weatherstripping that is attached to the threshold. , The blade should be at least as long as the depth of the old threshold. , Be careful not to cut the flooring.
   
   Stop the saw as soon as you feel the blade cut through the entire thickness of the threshold. , If you can't remove the entire threshold in one piece, use a hammer and a chisel to split the threshold and remove each piece. , Examine the wood underneath for signs of decay or other damage. ,, Be sure to follow the instructions on the borate packaging. , The flashing should be a few inches wider than the sub-sill.
   
   Leave enough overhang on the front edge of the sub-sill to cover the top of the toe kick. , Mark that length on the back right-hand corner of the new threshold along the back edge of the threshold. , Beginning at the same corner, mark the measured distance to the end of the threshold.
   
   Draw a perpendicular line from each mark using a square until both lines intersect. , Finish cutting with a handsaw. ,, Sand the threshold with 120-grit sandpaper.
   
   Spray the threshold with borate solution. , Use a hammer and a wood block to tap the threshold into place. , Do not place shims under the horns.
   
   Position the pairs of shims so that the thin end of one shim rests against the fat end of the other shim so that the threshold will lift but won't tilt when you tap on the fat end of the shim. , Snap off the shim ends so they will be flush with the sub-sill. ,, Screw the toe kick to the sub-sill. ,,
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   Step 3: and thickness.

4. 4

   Step 4: Remove the storm door.

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   Step 5: Insert a wood-cutting blade into a reciprocating saw.

6. 6

   Step 6: Cut the old threshold 10 inches (25.4 cm) from each door jamb.

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   Step 7: Place a flat bar between the threshold and the sub-sill beneath it and pry the center section of the threshold up and away from the sub-sill.

8. 8

   Step 8: Use the flat bar to pry the exterior board below the threshold

9. 9

   Step 9: called the "toe kick"

10. 10

    Step 10: away from the sub-sill.

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    Step 11: Sweep the area thoroughly to remove pieces of wood

12. 12

    Step 12: and any other debris.

13. 13

    Step 13: Replace any damaged wood and spray the entire area with a borate solution to prevent rot and deter termites.

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    Step 14: Cut a piece of self-adhering flashing to fit between the door jambs with the adhesive side facing down on the sub-sill.

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    Step 15: Measure the width of the right-hand side of the casing.

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    Step 16: Measure the width of the jamb and stop.

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    Step 17: Use a jigsaw or circular saw to cut along the layout lines.

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    Step 18: Repeat the process in reverse for the other end of the threshold's back edge.

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    Step 19: Cut the "horns" of the new threshold so they are flush with the casing edges.

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    Step 20: Place the notched threshold in position under the door stops.

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    Step 21: Once the threshold is in place and lays tightly on the sub-sill

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    Step 22: slide pairs of shims under the center and both ends of the threshold.

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    Step 23: Check to be sure that the threshold fits tightly against the door stops and casing.

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    Step 24: Apply foam sealant underneath the threshold to secure it in place and seal any air gaps.

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    Step 25: Place the toe kick tightly against the underside of the threshold under the flashing.

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    Step 26: Apply a thin line of foam sealant between the threshold and each of the door stops.

27. 27

    Step 27: Paint the new threshold with deck paint or several coats of spar varnish.

Detailed Guide

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