Choosing a French Door Threshold Replacement
Thresholds are essential to fill in gaps that are uneven at the bottom of doors. They also provide all-year-round protection from water, draughts and bugs. A threshold that is lower is safer for pushchairs, wheelchairs or prams, and also connects interior and outdoor spaces more easily.
When you are advising your customers about the options for their french door thresholds it is essential to be aware of the different options that are available.
Weathered
The threshold of an exterior door is an essential feature of any door system. It provides protection from the elements and an effortless transition between indoor and outdoor space. When selecting the threshold for an external door system it is essential to strike a balance between safety and design. While french door lock repairs are essential to protect your home from weather thresholds also play a crucial function in ensuring safety for the user. They stop people from falling and limit accessibility to those who have mobility issues. There are many threshold options that allow customers to pick the one that is suitable for their home.
A threshold that is weathered provides excellent weather protection for doors on the outside. It also creates a solid barrier that keeps out water as well as wind and draughts. This kind of threshold can be recessed/sunk into the floor, leaving an upstand of 14mm, which reduces the dangers of tripping while providing an effective seal against the elements. Weathered thresholds should be utilized for all doors that are external as they provide greater security against weathering than other types of. The higher elevation of weathered thresholds can make them unsuitable to some users, especially those with wheelchairs and pushchairs/prams.
Unweathered thresholds are typically shorter in height, with some only a few millimetres above the ground, which means they are less likely to pose any tripping risks. They also provide a more seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing you to connect the two in an open and connected way. Although they may not be as weatherproofed as a weatherproof option, they are ideal for homeowners who want to improve the aesthetics of their home without sacrificing security or practicality.
If your French doors are currently fitted with an unweathered threshold or planning to replace the threshold, a new threshold is a do-it-yourself task that can smooth the gaps that are uneven at the bottom of doors, and also protect against drafts and water ingress. The old threshold must be removed before a new one can be fitted to the existing sill. To remove the old threshold, stick an uncut bar (aka pry bar) between it and the subsill and carefully pull up the middle section. If the ends of the threshold have been nailed in place then use a hammer or chisel, to break them off from the jambs. After removing the threshold then sand it and clean off any mortar remnants. Before reinstalling the threshold it's recommended to squirt expanding foam sealant underneath it to secure it in place. Also, make sure to plug any air gaps.