Tread plates - under door draught stroppers

A tread plate, also known as a threshold plate, or a door threshold plate is an important component of draught proofing.  Draught proofing, or draft stopping, is a process used to reduce the amount of air that enters or escapes through gaps in and around doors, windows, vents and chimneys.  

Specifically, a threshold plate is installed at the base of a door to close the gap between the door and the floor. It creates a seal that prevents draughts, dust, insects, rodents and pollen from entering a room.  In essence, a threshold plate is a highly effective solution for keeping homes warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient while reducing heating bills and enhancing indoor air quality. 

Tread plates can be fitted to a wide range of door types, sizes, and styles.  So which treadplates do we use and why?   ecoMaster has been working in the thermal energy efficiency area since 2003.  We have tested over one thousand products during that time and have developed a set of our “favourites”.  To be a “favourite,” the product needs to be robust, long lasting and effective.   These are all the features that you want when draught proofing your home – because absolutely no one wants to have to continuously revisit something because the product quality was poor, didn’t fix the problem or just didn’t work. 

So what are our favourite tread plates? 

What is an RP4B Threshold Plate?

The RP4B is an 11 millimetre high threshold plate that comes in either Silver or Bronze. 

under door draught stopper - treadplates

Why do we specifically need an RP4B? 

  1. To straighten up a threshold that has a dip in the middle – a smiling door step!. It can be straightened up with a threshold plate so that the draught excluder can work perfectly well on the bottom of your door.   It is important to pack out underneath the treadplate so it is supported all the way along the plate. 
  1. The second reason is if the gap between your door and your threshold is so large that an automatic draught excluder won’t work, then the threshold plate can reduce that gap so that the automatic draught excluder has a better chance of working perfectly.

What is an RP95 Threshold Plate?  

The RP95 is an aluminium threshold plate that you can use for straightening up a threshold that’s not flat.  The RP 95 is only 3 millimetres thick, so that means that it’s not going to become a trip hazard and it does not reduce the gap between the door step and the door. 

The RP 95 comes with its own fixings, but not fixing holes. You’ll have to provide your own fixng holes.  For a successful installation, remember to pilot through into the hardwood threshold before screwing down the RP95.

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People Also Ask: 

⇒ Where can I learn more about this from an industry expert?

ecoMaster has been working in the energy efficiency / retrofit arena for over 20 years.  During that time we learnt an enormous amount about diagnosing issues, distinctions on various products as well as developing the best installation practices.  We have done the research, so you don’t have to. All that information has now been condensed into a series of ecoMasterClasses.  Click here to gain access.

⇒ What is a treadplate or threshold plate?

A treadplate or threshold plate is an aluminum or steel plate that is used at the bottom of a door to protect the floor from damage and to provide a smooth, level surface for the door to rest on.

⇒ How does a treadplate or threshold plate help with draught proofing?

A treadplate or threshold plate can help to reduce draughts by creating a seal between the bottom of the door and the floor. This can prevent cold air from entering the room and warm air from escaping.

⇒ What materials are commonly used to make treadplates and threshold plates?

The best quality treadplates and threshold plates are commonly made from aluminum or steel because they are durable and resistant to wear and tear. 

⇒ How are treadplates and threshold plates installed?

Treadplates and threshold plates are typically installed by screwing them to the floor using screws or bolts. They are often recessed into the floor to create a flush fit.

⇒ What are some other benefits of using a treadplate or threshold plate?

In addition to draught proofing, treadplates and threshold plates can also help to reduce noise pollution by providing a solid barrier between the inside and outside of a building. They can also be decorative and add a stylish touch to a door.

What’s Next?

We hope this article has helped you learn how to use simple ways to save on your utility bill. This in turn will help you on your energy and thermal efficiency retrofit journey to make your home more comfortable all year round, and reduce your costs and carbon emissions.  

Next, explore An Energy Efficient Door is a Beautiful Door.

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ecoMaster suggests

Upgrade your safety,

durability and thermal energy

efficiency with our tread plates. 

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