How to Install a Parquet Flooring Transition

A parquet flooring transition is the small strip that covers the transition of flooring from one room to the next. Either from parquet to parquet, or parquet to carpet, vinyl, or tile. This transition strip will get a lot of traffic and abuse, so it is very important to make sure you install it correctly. Use this article as your guide to install a sturdy and durable transition strip.

Step 1 - Measure and Mark

The first step in installing a transition strip is to measure the opening or doorway where you will be using it. When purchasing the transition strip, make sure you buy a strip that gives you extra length to work with, that way you have some wiggle room for mistakes. Using your tape measure, measure the distance across the opening. Once you have your measurement, use the hacksaw to cut the metal rail to the specified length. Once the metal strip is cut, lay it into position. You should place the transition strip exactly equal between the two types of flooring. Now, with the metal strip in position, use the felt tip marker to mark the holes where your screws will go.

Step 2 - Drill and Anchor

Once you have marked the holes, remove the metal strip and get your drill. Your transition strip will come with screws and anchors included. Depending on the type of subfloor you have, you may need to use a wood or masonry drill bit to drill the holes for your anchors. The drill bit size and depth you should drill to will be included with the instructions for the transition strip. Each manufacturer has different specifications, so it would be impossible to list them all here in this article.

Following the directions, drill a hole for the anchors at each one of the screw holes marks you made. Once all of the holes are drilled, place anchors inside each of the holes and then place the metal rail over the anchors. Make sure the holes all line up. Next, insert a screw into each one of the anchors, and tighten them with a Phillips head drill bit.

Step 3 - Attach the Transition Strip

Measure the opening again, and mark this measurement on the transition strip itself. Then, using the hacksaw, cut the transition strip to size. You may want to run a little sandpaper over this edge to make sure it is smooth. If you are transitioning from parquet to carpet, cut and add an end cap to the transition strip. An end cap is a long square that simply snaps into the shorter ridge on the transition strip. This will help keep the carpet in place.

If you are transitioning from parquet to vinyl or tile, you need to add a reducer. A reducer is a thin, angled strip that will help provide a smooth angle from the parquet down to the vinyl or tile. This reducer will also fit into the short ridge on the transition strip. If you are transitioning from parquet to parquet in another room, you do not need to add anything to the transition strip. Finally, you install the transition strip by lining the bottom ridge of the strip with the metal rail, and simply pressing the transition strip into place.