Adjustable Door Sills / Thresholds
- Outlook Homes
- Dec 23, 2025
- 1 min read
Most modern swing doors are built with adjustable door sills—a feature designed to improve energy efficiency (minimizing air leakage), comfort, and durability. Outlook Homes uses almost exclusively adjustable door thresholds. Over time, with normal use and seasonal changes, the sill may need a little attention to maintain a proper seal.
Why Adjustment is Needed
The bottom of your door relies on the sill and weatherstripping to keep out drafts, moisture, and pests. As the door and frame settle or expand with humidity and temperature changes, the seal at the bottom of the door can loosen. This can allow small gaps to form, reducing efficiency and comfort.
The Adjustment Process
Fortunately, adjustable sills are designed to be easy to maintain:
Locate the adjustment screws – You’ll see a series of small screws across the top of the sill cap (the part the door closes against).
Raise the sill – Turn the screws clockwise to lift the sill cap and tighten the seal against the door’s weatherstrip.
Lower the sill – Turn the screws counterclockwise to drop the sill cap and reduce pressure if the door is hard to close.
Check the fit – Close the door after adjustments. The ideal fit is snug enough to stop light and air but not so tight that it makes the door difficult to latch.
Regular Maintenance
Checking your door sill once or twice a year is a simple way to extend the life of your door and maintain energy efficiency. With just a screwdriver and a few minutes of time, you can keep your door performing as it should.
