How to Replace an Entry Door Threshold

An entry door threshold can become damaged or worn over time. If the only problem is that the rubber seal no longer provides a tight seal on the door, you may be able to replace the rubber seal, rather than replacing the entire threshold.

Replacing an Entry Door Threshold

Remove Old Threshold: Remove the rubber strip on the existing entry door threshold, unscrew the screws holding the threshold in place, and remove the old threshold.

Cut New Threshold to Size: Remove the rubber seal from the top of the new threshold, and cut the threshold to fit with a hacksaw using the old threshold as a pattern.

Fit Threshold to Door: Trial fit the threshold to make sure it provides a snug fit against the bottom of the door. If it doesn’t, you may need to adjust the door or slightly shim the threshold.

Attach New Threshold to Floor: Screw the new threshold to the floor. If the floor is concrete, use a carbide tipped masonry bit to drill holes for either masonry screws or plastic anchors.

Install Rubber Seal: Cut the rubber seal to length with a utility knife, and insert it into the grooves in the threshold.

Check Threshold Fit: Close the door and check to make sure the threshold fits snugly against the bottom of the door.

Watch this video to find out more.

Further Information

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT
Danny Lipford: Replacing a door threshold may be necessary because the old one is worn or simply not doing its job. A good replacement unit will have rubber seals on both the top and bottom to prevent moisture and air from moving over or under it.

Most models require you to remove the top seal before you cut the unit to fit the exact width of your doorway. This job can be done with a hacksaw.

If you are installing the threshold on concrete, as we are here, you’ll need a masonry drill bit and masonry screws to secure it in place. Otherwise, galvanized or coated screws will work.

Once the metal threshold is in place, the top rubber seal is threaded back into the channel and you’ve got a brand new seal for the door.

16 COMMENTS

  1. I just replaced the rubber seal on the threshold of our front door. It was a nightmare trying to get that seal to stay in place until I utilized a dead blow hammer. The trick is to insert the one side that you can reach and readily push into the groove then gradually insert a couple of inches of the opposite side of the seal into the groove then smack the area with the dead blow hammer. Working in small increments, move down the strip, inserting and smacking and before long it is installed. The best side to insert first is the one toward you as you can get a better grip on the rubber and push it into the groove. Don’t believe the instructions, which say to install one side then the other will “snap in.” Did not happen for me. It was a perfect fit once I finished.

  2. Where can I find a rubber insert for an aluminum door threshold. I have looked in many places and have not found one.

  3. Lin Robinson gave an excellent tip on how to install the rubber seal. There was no way it would “snap in.” The dead blow hammer was the perfect approach. Thank you Lin!

  4. getting a replacement seal into these is near impossible. the only way to get it in effectively is to thread it in from the end, which requires removing the threshold pier. and of course, the screws to attach it back to the floor are underneath it now. the dead blow hammer trick only serves to destroy the threshold. and the rubber strips last 6 months, tops. How in the world has the building industry not come up with a better solution than this?

  7. No problems with entry door UNTIL we replaced the rubber seal in the threshold. Now the door will not close. Trimmed ends, especialy at hinged side. Thanks

  8. I have an outside door coming from the garage into my kitchen. The seal is missing from the threshold.
    Do I have to replaced the entire threshold or can I replace only the seal?
    If is only the rubber seal on the threshold how do I know what seal to purchase or do I have to replace the entire threshold / rubber seal. The door is metal and I do not know the name the door.
    Doug B.

    • Hi, Doug!
      You can purchase a rubber seal replacement, cut it to size with a utility knife, and insert it into the threshold.
      Just check product availability at your local home center. Inserts are also available for purchase online.
      Good luck!

  10. Lin, you nailed it. I have never had so much trouble replacing a treshold rubber strip. I am sure we all wish the designers would do a better job. It took me an hour searching the web and watching videos saying to just snap it in.

    Thanks again, Lin.
    Bobby Whiteskis

  12. Danny Lipford; I have been in construction all my life but have a friend with a threshold problem I have never seen. the threshold is attached to the bottom of the door and has a hard rubber or plastic strip on the inside edge of the threshold. it isn’t the typical strip and none of the local stores carry one. I don’t want to cut out the old one and replace it if I don’t have to.

    • Hi, Albert — great question!
      We’re always looking for homeowners to call into our radio show and ask questions directly to Danny and Joe.
      We’ve reviewed your question and shared it with our radio producer.
      Take care. 🙂

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