How to Install a Commercial Door Threshold

A door threshold can be sealed by using a silicone caulk when installing the threshold. The caulk needs to be a continuous bead across the entire length of the threshold, and be generous enough to cover any gaps in the surface you are planning to seal against. Doing this will allow you the best energy efficiency as this will seal any draft that could normally come in underneath the threshold. This method of sealing is also highly recommended for rainy areas where water can easily seep under the threshold and inside your building. Please see below for a step by step procedure of sealing a threshold

Sealing a door threshold should take anywhere from 15-30 minutes to complete and can be done before or after the threshold has been installed on the floor.

Tools Required

• Tape Measure
• Writing utensil
• Hacksaw or alternative
• Screwdriver
• Drill motor with drill bit
• Caulking gun (optional - some caulking comes in a tube and don't require a caulking gun to use)
• Silicone caulk or alternative weather resistant type caulking

Installation Procedure

Step 1: Measure

Measure your door opening or wherever you plan to install the threshold. Measure any notches or areas that will be in the path of the threshold. Typcially when installing a threshold for a door, you have to measure out the height and width of the rabbet to notch the threshold accordingly.

Step 2: Mark and Trim

Mark your cut-outs. Transfer your measurements onto your threshold and trim off the ends of the threshold so it will fit properly in the desired position.

Step 3: Drill

Drill mounting holes. Set your threshold in position and drill pilot holes through your pre drilled holes in your threshold. If you are mounting to concrete, be sure to use a concrete bit and anchors to secure the threshold to the ground.

Step 4: Secure

Fasten and secure the threshold to the opening using the proper hardware. If you are mounting on concrete, you may have to remove the threshold to insert anchors before using fasteners to secure the threshold.

Step 5: Seal

Seal the threshold. Use a silicone sealant to caulk ends of the threshold and down the full length of the front a rear of the threshold. This is important for sealing and moisture control for exterior doors. Caulking all ends of the threshold is the only way to ensure you have a proper seal across the threshold

Step 6: Check

Check your work. If the threshold is mounted between door jambs, operate the door several times to make sure the threshold is adjusted properly and not preventing the door from self closing and or latching. Also verify the perimeter of your threshold has a good seal and no gaps. If everything checks out your threshold install is completed.


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