How to Cut Under a Door Trip to Lay Linoleum

Measure the existing T-molding transition piece so you know what length to cut the new piece. Remove the existing transition piece with a crowbar. Do not remove the transition track piece. You will reuse it to insert a new T-molding transition piece.

Use a blow dryer to blow away all residual wood chips and dried glue so you have a clean surface for installing the linoleum and the new T-molding piece. Sweep up excess and discard. Chips, residue and debris will prevent the T-molding from being level and prevent the linoleum from adhering smoothly to the subfloor material.

Install the linoleum up to the track piece on both sides of the doorway. Leave a 3/8-inch expansion gap on sides that meet and join with door framing materials. Use glue the linoleum manufacturer recommends to adhere the linoleum to the subfloor.

Cut away excess with a razor knife. If you are installing self-adhesive linoleum, firmly press the linoleum onto the subfloor material. Apply weights to the linoleum and allow the glue to cure for 24 hours to insure that the linoleum adheres to the subfloor.

Lay the new T-transition piece on top of the track to see if you will need to make any adjustments on the ends. If so, make the cuts with a jigsaw. Allow a 3/8-inch expansion gap between the bottom of the door frame jamb or other molding material and the top of the T-transition piece. Also, allow a 3/8-inch expansion gap on the left and right sides of the T-transition piece. Do not install the T-transition piece flush against the door frame. This can cause the transition piece to buckle and warp over time.

Center the transition piece above the track and lower and snap it into the track. Use a rubber mallet to tap on the piece so it snaps in firmly to complete your linoleum door trip installation project.