When laying indoor floors, you usually need some edge strips to cover the gaps between the floors, especially where there are height differences. Floor transition reducers are the ideal solution to solve these height difference problems. So, do you know how to install them?
This article provides a detailed explanation of the specific installation process and offers guidance for your DIY installation.
When you begin installing them, it's best to prepare the tools in advance to ensure a smooth and quick project completion. Here is a list of some of the tools you need to prepare:
Tools | Purpose |
Tape measure | Measure the width of the doorway or joint and the length you need to cut |
Pencil | Mark cutting lines and installation locations |
Utility knife | Suitable for cutting small PVC floor transition reducers |
Hand saw or special cutting equipment | For cutting thicker PVC floor reducers or metal floor reducers |
Electric drill | Use when punching holes is required (some floor transition reducers come with slots/expansion tubes for fixing) |
Electric screwdriver | For tightening screws or expansion screws |
Rubber hammer | Tap the fixing strip to ensure a snug fit |
Adhesive | For the floor transition reducer fixed with adhesive installation |
Expansion tube, screw | Suitable for floor transition reducers fixed with expansion screws |
Cleaning tools | Vacuum cleaner, broom, rag |
Protective tools | Goggles, gloves, earmuffs |
Once the tools are ready, you can follow the steps below:
1. First, clean the installation area and make sure there is no dust or debris on the floor.
2. Measure the length of the installation area (if you need to install the floor reducer at the threshold, use a tape measure to accurately measure the length of the threshold and keep a record).
3. Measure the length of the floor reducer that needs to be cut and mark it in advance with a pencil (if the reducer is equipped with a base, you also need to measure and cut the base).
4. Use a cutting tool (hand saw or metal cutter) to make precise cuts along the mark, and use sandpaper to smooth it after cutting.
5. Apply structural glue evenly on the bottom of the reducer base, install it at the threshold, and apply appropriate pressure to stabilize it.
If the base is fixed with screws, drill holes along the grooves of the base with an electric drill and then install the screws.
6. Lay the floor on the wider side of the base and gently tamp it with a rubber hammer.
7. Clamp the floor reducer into the base and tamp it again with a rubber hammer to ensure that it is not easy to loosen.
8. Finally, use a cleaning tool to clean the construction area.
Regular cleaning and proper maintenance are the guarantee to ensure that the floor transition reducer maintains its exquisite appearance for a long time. Therefore, you can follow the following cleaning and maintenance tips:
1. Regularly use a feather blanket or broom to clean the dust on the surface or in the gaps of the reducer.
2. Prepare mild cleaning water, wet the cleaning water with a soft towel and wring it out, then gently wipe the surface of the reducer.
3. Regularly check whether its surface is damaged, and repair or replace it in time.
4. Avoid contact with strong acid and alkali liquids to avoid damaging its surface.
5. Avoid touching the surface with sharp objects to avoid scratches.