Tips on Making Thresholds for Hardwood Floor Doorways

About Thresholds For Hardwood Floors

• Homeowners can choose from a variety of materials for hardwood floor thresholds, such as metal, stone and matching wood. Each of these materials offers certain advantages and looks for the room. The choice depends on how much you wish to spend, how long you want the threshold to last and what effect you wish to create. Some of these materials may not be available in the size you need, which can mean additional cutting or polishing of the material.

Making Wood Thresholds

• The manufacturer of your hardwood flooring may offer thresholds in matching woodgrains. These thresholds are moldings with notched surfaces that fit neatly over the wood edge to join other flooring surfaces. Other moldings and trims are also available for areas that require special transitions, such as T-moldings for joining two wood surfaces and reducers to join thinner surfaces, like vinyl and/or low-pile carpeting according to the Shawfloors website.

Making Metal Thresholds

• Metal thresholds are generally the least expensive threshold material you can find. These thresholds can vary widely in appearance, with some very functional in appearance and others with more refined finishes, such as brass and brushed nickel. These thresholds are very easy to install with simple screws. Metal thresholds may not be the best choice when there are large variances in the height of the two materials being transitioned, such as a hardwood floor going to an exterior doorway. This type of transition may require the use of an additional wood molding, according to the FastFloors website.

Making Stone Thresholds

• Thresholds made of granite or marble provide the most elegant effect for room thresholds. These materials may form the transition piece from hardwood floors to stone flooring, or they may be used between two rooms with hardwood floors for an elegant effect. Marble thresholds, however, are available in a few standard sizes. These thresholds may need to be cut to fit specific doorways in your home. Cutting stone requires tile cutters or special saw blades. After cutting, edges must be polished for a smooth and attractive appearance. Goggles, gloves and respiratory protection should be worn when cutting stone materials.