While basic in function and installation, having the correct transition from floor to floor can make or break the overall finish, feel, and appearance of your floor.
The Challenge
This flooring situation involved a laminate floor installed at a higher level than the hardwood. It required a custom transition to achieve the professional finish the customer desired.
We checked various flooring suppliers and lumber distributors and found nothing that we thought would complete the floor to our liking. When off-the-shelf solutions don't meet our standards, we make our own.
The Process
Starting with Raw Oak
With an idea of what we thought should be our final product, we started with just a simple 1x3x6ft piece of oak.
Creating the Rabbet
We then rabbeted 7/16" x 3/4" out of one side, allowing the transition to sit over the edge of the laminate flooring.
Beveling the Edges
Then we beveled each side to a vertical 14.5 degree angle. This creates the smooth, gradual slope that makes for a comfortable and safe transition underfoot.
Sanding, Staining & Finishing
We then sanded, stained, and finished the piece to match the existing hardwood floor perfectly.
The Finished Result
The installed custom transition provides a seamless, professional connection between the laminate and hardwood floors, exactly what the customer envisioned.
The Takeaway
Sometimes the right solution doesn't exist on a shelf. When standard transitions can't deliver the quality finish your floor deserves, custom fabrication is the answer. It's this attention to detail that separates a good floor job from a great one.