The thresholds are sometimes imperceptible. Not all doors have them and the ones that do don’t always stand out. Thresholds can be a nice addition to a door though, especially if the flooring on either side is distinctly different from your neighbor and you need a separation barrier rather than meeting abruptly.
They can also be good at stopping drafts or preventing air, whether hot or cold, from escaping or entering.
But what kind of maintenance do interior thresholds need?
There are several things to consider, such as staining, sealing with urethane, or painting. Each one is a possibility but the final decision is up to you. The truth is that a threshold needs some type of coating to prevent it from getting dirty, marked or damaged.
If you have hardwood floors you could stain the threshold:
1. Lightly sand the threshold leveling it on all sides.
2. Prepare the stain.
3. If you want to match the color of your hardwood floor, apply stain slowly in layers.
4. Once finished, apply a sealer giving it several coats for extra protection.
If you want to paint the threshold:
1. Lightly sand the threshold leveling it on all sides.
2. Prepare the paint. It should be oil based for the best shine and longest wear.
3. Apply at least two coats, allowing it to dry in between.
4. Once finished, apply a sealer giving it several coats for extra protection.
If you like the color of the wood on the threshold, you can leave it in its natural state. In that case, you should still give it a varnish to protect it from foot traffic.
1. Lightly sand the threshold leveling it on all sides.
2. Prepare oil-based varnish.
3. Apply at least two coats, allowing it to dry in between.
Finally, add some caulk around the edges of the sill to prevent dirt from getting trapped in the open spaces. After all, the threshold will be crossed by many feet carrying all kinds of gook that may stay if given the chance.