Frequently Asked Questions About Exterior Door Thresholds
Frequently Asked Questions About Exterior Door Thresholds
1. Are exterior door thresholds adjustable?
Exterior door thresholds come in both fixed and adjustable versions.
Our thresholds are adjustable, with cap heights ranging from 1 3/8" to 1 5/8".
2. What is the best way to fasten an exterior door threshold?
The most effective method is using construction adhesive on the bottom, ensuring proper placement with the cap directly under the door.
An alternative method:
-
Remove the composite cap to expose the base
-
Drill pilot holes through the base into the floor
-
Secure with screws appropriate for your flooring
-
Snap the cap back into place afterward
3. What’s the difference between inswing and outswing thresholds?
-
Inswing thresholds: Used for doors that open into the home
-
Outswing thresholds: Used for doors that open outward
4. What are ADA thresholds?
ADA thresholds comply with accessibility standards:
-
Maximum height: 1/2" (or up to 3/4" if beveled at a 1:2 slope)
-
Minimum clear width: 32"
These are designed for wheelchair and mobility access
5. What materials are used in exterior door thresholds?
Thresholds can be made from:
-
Wood
-
Aluminum
-
Composite materials
-
Brass or bronze
Our thresholds feature:
-
Aluminum construction
-
Composite bottoms and caps
-
Available in mill (silver) or anodized bronze finishes
6. How do you adjust the height of the composite cap?
Steps:
-
Remove the cap by lifting it out of the channel
-
Turn it upside down to access adjustment screws
-
Use a manual screwdriver to adjust evenly
-
Snap the cap back into place
-
Repeat as needed until desired height is reached
Tip: Avoid using a drill to prevent damage
7. Are threshold extenders available?
Yes, but only for Endura inswing and outswing thresholds (5 5/8" width).
Details:
-
Not compatible with other sizes or brands
-
Available extension sizes: 1 3/16", 2", 3", 4 3/8", 6 3/8"
-
Attach to the aluminum edge to increase width
8. What sizes are available?
Inswing thresholds:
-
Lengths: 36", 60", 72"
-
Widths: 4 9/16", 5 5/8", 7 13/16"
Outswing thresholds:
-
Lengths: 36", 72"
-
Width: 5 5/8"
9. Are listed lengths the actual sizes?
No—thresholds are shipped slightly oversized for a better fit:
-
36" thresholds: ~36.5"–37"
-
72" thresholds: ~73"–74"
They can be trimmed to fit your doorway
10. What types of thresholds are available at Hartford Building Products?
-
Typically sloped design
Adjustable Aluminum Thresholds
-
Available in mill or anodized bronze finishes
-
Widths: 5 5/8" and 7 13/16"
-
Extendable up to 12" wide
-
Adjustable cap height: 1 3/8" to 1 5/8"
-
Max height: 1/2"
-
Designed for accessibility compliance
11. What if I need a size between 36" and 72"?
Purchase the longer threshold and cut it down to your required size using a blade suitable for aluminum