How can I fill the gap by the door left after installing new flooring without using quarter round?
Asked by Vladimir Popović 
1 month ago
Last Updated: October 21, 2024
Seeking advice! Currently in the process of updating my home and just had new flooring put in. Any suggestions on how to fill the gap by the door? Not feeling like quarter round is the right solution. Thanks in advance! (P.S. Please ignore the unattractive door casing – that will be addressed soon!)
If you had professionals install the flooring, they should have taken care of the finishes. If you did it yourself, there are various termination straps available for that edge. You could use a piece of oak or another hardwood for a nice finish, but you can also opt for a more affordable metal strip.
Use the same moldings as the other side and extend the quarter round beyond the vertical trim for a perfect finish.
If the wood didn’t go under the threshold, don’t worry – it’s a chance to learn. And if you hired someone, just ask them to come back and fix it.
I believe a transition strip could be a good solution. Look for one in a lovely bronze color if you can’t find a match for the wood.
An alternative approach could be the old school method of packing it with rope.
If your laughter reaction indicates that you didn’t think this was a real thing
https://www.reddit.com/r/centuryhomes/comments/utevij/started_filling_up_some_floorboard_gaps_with_oakum/
Oh wow! I totally didn’t believe you! This is a first for me – not a terrible idea! Haha
I recommend applying a smooth and consistent line of brown caulk.
You should consider adding a vapor barrier underneath the sill. Use a flexible seal and caulking to seal the area beneath the sill, along with a molding that can withstand some movement in the flooring.
I decided to cut a transition strip in half lengthwise and secure it with caulk. Remember, it should still be able to move to accommodate any expansion, so avoid filling the gap completely or using a non-flexible glue.
Thank you so much! Are you referring to the metal ones? Or the wooden ones? Or does it not make a difference?
A participant who wishes to remain anonymous mentioned that they have used wood or plastic.
How about using a flexible clear caulk to fill the gap first? Then, add some white quarter round trim to match the walls. You may also consider painting the brown part under the door white to blend in.
I have quarter round by the door on mine, and it works well.
That’s the setup we went with, and we’re really happy with how it turned out.
You could consider trimming a piece of that plank to fit the mini threshold and allow for expansion, following the manufacturer’s guidelines.
A thin, flat trim piece placed under the door flush against the wood will not only cover the crack but also give it a more polished look.