Project Difficulty:
Easy Estimated
Project Time: 2 hours or more, depending on the number of coats of sealer, and drying time
Tools and Materials:
Chalk-line box
Safety goggles
Hearing protectors
Work gloves
Dust mask, as needed
Circular saw
Paintbrush
Sealer
Door shoe
Hacksaw
Measuring tape
Drill
Pencil
Screwdriver
Screws
Exposure to the weather sometimes can cause extensive rot along the bottom edge of an exterior wood door. If this has happened to your door, you can repair the damage and install a door shoe. This is similar to a door sweep but is U-shaped and slides onto the bottom of the door. Not only does a door shoe protect the bottom edge, it also features a weatherstripping seal to prevent drafts.
Below are guidelines on how to install an aluminum door shoe on a wooden door. You'll need to remove the door before starting this project.
1.
Cut Off Damaged Areas
Snap a chalk line just above the damaged base of the door (Fig. 1).
Then cut off the damage along that line, using a circular saw. Be sure to wear hearing protectors and safety goggles when using the saw. Work gloves and a dust mask are also recommended. (Fig. 2)
2.
Apply Sealer
Apply at least one coat of sealer to the raw wood along the bottom edge of the door. Let each coat dry before continuing. (Fig. 3)
3.
Cut and Drill Shoe
Wearing work gloves and safety goggles, cut the extruded aluminum shoe to length with a hacksaw.
The shoe will have predrilled holes for the fasteners. Set the shoe onto the trimmed base of the door (Fig. 4). Use a pencil to mark on the door the location of each predrilled hole.
Remove the shoe; then drill pilot holes at the marks you made on the door.
4.
Fasten Shoe to Door
Place the shoe back on the door, aligning the holes on the shoe with the holes you drilled on the door. Fasten the shoe with screws. (Fig. 5)
