Feel a draft sneaking under your front door? Before you assume you need weatherstripping or a new door, check the threshold. Most modern exterior door thresholds are adjustable, and raising them takes about five minutes with a screwdriver.
Step 1: Find the adjustment screws
Look along the top of the threshold for a row of three to five screws, often hidden under small plastic caps. These are usually Phillips-head or 4mm hex.
Step 2: Raise the threshold evenly
Turn each screw counterclockwise a full turn, then close the door and check the gap. Repeat until the door sweep compresses lightly against the threshold. Adjust each screw the same amount so the threshold rises evenly.
Step 3: Test the seal
Close the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull it out with no resistance, raise the threshold a bit more. If the door drags or won’t latch, back the screws off a quarter turn.
If adjusting the threshold doesn’t stop the draft, the problem is usually a worn door sweep, warped slab, or a frame that’s out of square, and that’s when it’s worth talking about replacement. Mr. Rogers Windows installs energy-efficient entry and patio doors built for our coastal Virginia climate. Contact us for a free consultation.
