Installing a Floor Transition Strip in 5 Easy Steps

Choose your flooring transition strip

Flooring transition strips come in many varieties of materials (wood, metal, plastic, etc.) and installation types (self-adhesive, glue-down, nail-down, etc.), but most fall into three categories: thresholds, reducers, and T-moldings.

• Thresholds, sometimes referred to as baby thresholds or endcaps, are used at doorways between rooms with flooring of the same height, creating a smooth, low-profile transition. They’re commonly used around sliding doors, fireplaces, and other spaces where a clean edge is needed.
• T-molding transition strips (shaped like the letter “T”) are used when two flooring surfaces of the same height meet. They are perfect when flooring runs in different directions or between different materials of the same thickness.
• Reducer molding is used when transitioning between two floors of different heights, creating a smooth, ramp-like transition from a higher floor to a lower one to prevent tripping hazards.

Choosing the right transition strip in the correct color is crucial to the success of your floor project.

Determine the length

With a measuring tape, determine the length of the area where the transition strip will be installed. Whether a doorway or a room opening, you want a nice fit without a gap at either end when installed.

Cut the transition strip

Mark your transition strip at the predetermined measurement of your opening. Use a pencil to mark the length on the transition piece so you can easily erase it before installing. Use a Speed square to ensure the line of your measurement is square.

Cut it to length using a miter saw (or hand saw) with the appropriate blade for the transition strip material. When cutting, use a sacrificial piece of wood to support the plastic transition strips.

If your transition strip consists of two plastic parts, a top cap and a channel, it is best to cut them together at the same time. To do this safely and effectively, tape them together using painter’s tape, making sure the top cap and the channel don’t slip out of place when cutting. Remove the tape after cutting and before installing.

Dry-fit the transition strip

Dry-fit the transition strip into place to ensure it looks good and seats nicely. This step is especially crucial if your recommended installation method uses adhesive, and it will avoid a mess if you need to cut more off for a good fit.

If your transition strip is installed in a doorway, you’ll want it to be centered directly underneath the closed door. That said, moving it forward or backward so it is centered might require notching the transition strip around the door stop with a jigsaw or undercutting the door stop with a multitool. If the door won’t clear the new transition height, you may need to trim the bottom of the door.

Install the transition strip

Install the transition strip using the manufacturer’s recommended fasteners, adhesive, or screws/nails depending on your installation type.

For adhesive installation, apply a continuous bead of flooring adhesive along the bottom of the transition strip channel. Then, gently slide the transition strip into position, ensuring it is flush with the surrounding floor surfaces. Maintain a 1/4-inch expansion gap between the flooring and the adhered part of the transition strip.

For screw or nail installation, pre-drill pilot holes if needed and fasten according to the manufacturer’s specifications. For two-piece transition strips, install the channel first, then snap the top piece into place. Use a wet rag to wipe off any excess adhesive that may have squeezed out along the sides or end of the transition strip before it sets and dries.

Allow the adhesive to dry for the recommended time before walking on it.

FAQ

Do you need transition strips between rooms with the same flooring?

No, you don’t need transition strips between rooms with the same flooring, using them anyway is often recommended to allow for expansion and contraction of the flooring.

Are there transition strips for tile?

Yes, there are transition strips for tile.  Most tile transition strips are made of metal and must be installed at the time the tile installer places the last tiles that will land on the opening. Tile transition strips are usually embedded under the tile floor and secured with the same mastic used to secure the tiles. Be sure to do your research and follow manufacturer’s suggestions for transitions strips at the time of purchasing your tiles.

Do all transition strips come in two parts? A channel and a top cap?

No, some transition strips come in two parts: a channel (Base) and a top cap. Some transition strips come as one piece. Two-part transition strips tend to be more expensive, more durable and are easier to change out without damaging the channel.

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