Exterior Door Threshold Types: What You Need to Know

There are several exterior door threshold types available, and each is designed for different applications. Understanding the differences can help you determine which threshold is right for your commercial door opening.

What Is an Exterior Door Threshold?

A door threshold is installed at the bottom of a doorway and helps close the gap between the bottom of the door and the floor.

Thresholds are commonly made with materials such as aluminum, brass, bronze, and stainless steel.

Choosing the right threshold can help create a better seal between the door and floor, helping reduce air and moisture from entering the opening.

Here are four common exterior door threshold types and what you should know about each one:

(photos from NGP)

A saddle threshold is a versatile choice for many standard commercial openings, while a bumper seal threshold can provide additional weather resistance. Thermal break thresholds are designed to reduce temperature transfer, and heavy-duty thresholds are built for openings exposed to heavier loads and demanding traffic.

What Should You Consider When Choosing a Threshold?

When selecting an exterior door threshold, consider the conditions and requirements of the opening. The type of door, weather exposure, floor conditions, traffic, and accessibility requirements can all affect which threshold is appropriate.

The right threshold depends on the needs of the individual opening. Understanding the differences between each type can help you narrow down your options and choose a threshold that works for your application.

Beacon Commercial Door & Lock offers commercial thresholds and other door hardware for a variety of applications. If you're unsure which threshold is right for your opening, our team can help you find an option that meets the needs of your project.