Your front door is more than just an entrance; it’s a gateway that welcomes guests and protects your home. While we often focus on the aesthetic aspects of our doors, one functional element that is sometimes overlooked is the kick plate.
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What is a Kick Plate?
A kick plate is a metal or other durable material that is installed horizontally at the bottom of a door. It serves as a protective barrier against scuffs, scratches, and other damage that can occur from everyday use. While often chosen for their practical benefits, kick plates can also add a touch of style to your entryway.
Practical Benefits:
- Protection Against Damage: The primary purpose of a kick plate is to protect your door from damage caused by regular use. As people enter and exit your home, they may unintentionally kick or scuff the bottom of the door. A kick plate acts as a shield, preventing these everyday occurrences from leaving lasting marks.
- Enhanced Durability: Doors, especially those in high-traffic areas, are susceptible to wear and tear. Adding a kick plate can significantly extend the lifespan of your door by providing an additional layer of protection. This is especially important for doors made of materials that are prone to damage, such as wood or painted surfaces.
- Easy Maintenance: Kick plates are easy to clean and maintain. Unlike a door that might require repainting or refinishing due to scuff marks, a kick plate can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. This makes it a practical and cost-effective solution for preserving the appearance of your front door.
Aesthetic Considerations:
- Customization: Kick plates come in a variety of materials, finishes, and designs, allowing you to customize the look of your front door. Whether you prefer a sleek modern appearance or a more traditional style, there’s a kick plate option to complement your door and overall home aesthetic.
- Coordinated Design: Choosing a kick plate that matches other elements of your entryway, such as hardware or house numbers, can create a cohesive and polished look. It’s a subtle detail that contributes to the overall visual appeal of your home’s exterior.
Does My Front Door Need a Kick Plate?
While not strictly necessary, a kick plate on your front door can provide several practical benefits. It serves as a protective barrier, preventing damage from frequent kicks, scratches, or other forms of wear and tear that may occur over time.
Additionally, a kick plate can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your door, adding a decorative element and complementing the overall design of your entryway. The choice to install a kick plate ultimately depends on your preferences, the level of foot traffic your door receives, and your desire for added durability and visual appeal.
Kick Plate Installation and Measurement
Adding a kick plate to your door is a straightforward process. Begin by taking accurate measurements, considering the door’s width with it open. Leave about an inch of space on each side and position the kick plate just over half an inch above the door’s bottom. Temporarily secure it with tape or adhesive, ensuring it is level, before permanently attaching it with screws.
You have the option of buying doors with preinstalled kick plates or purchasing them separately for later installation. If you choose the latter, be sure to review the door’s warranty to ensure compatibility.
Check the Warranty On Your Current Door
Before making any modifications to your door, which is a significant investment, carefully examine the warranty terms. If the warranty has expired, feel free to proceed with adding the kick plate.
However, if the warranty is still valid, it might be wise to postpone installing the kick plate. Certain manufacturers have specific warranty conditions, and adhering to them is advisable in case you need to file a claim for a different issue in the future.
Buying Kick Plates
You have various options for buying kick plates for your front door, including online speciality stores, the vendors that sold you the door, or other home improvement stores. With a wide range of choices available, you’re likely to discover the ideal kick plate that complements your door.
Door Kick Plate Alternatives
If you’re looking for alternatives to traditional door kick plates, there are several creative options to consider:
- Decorative Adhesives or Decals: Instead of a metal kick plate, you can opt for decorative adhesives or decals. These can be customized to your liking, adding a touch of personality to your door. They come in various patterns, designs, and materials, allowing you to choose something that suits your style.
- Wooden Molding: Wooden moulding can serve as an elegant and functional alternative. It not only protects the lower part of your door but also adds a decorative element. Choose a moulding that complements your door’s design and finish for a seamless look.
- Vinyl Kick Plates: Vinyl kick plates are lightweight, durable, and come in various finishes. They are easy to install and offer protection against scratches and scuffs. Vinyl kick plates are a cost-effective alternative that can mimic the appearance of more expensive materials.
- Brass or Copper Tape: For a touch of metallic flair without a full kick plate, consider using brass or copper tape. These thin metal strips can be affixed to the bottom of the door, providing a stylish and protective accent. They’re especially suitable for doors with a classic or rustic aesthetic.
- Rubber or Silicone Bumpers: Bumpers made of rubber or silicone can be strategically placed along the bottom of the door to absorb impact and prevent damage. While not a traditional kick plate, they are effective in safeguarding your door and are inconspicuous.
- DIY Painted Kick Plate: Get creative with paint! You can create your own “kick plate” design by using durable paint in a contrasting colour. This allows you to add a protective layer while also expressing your artistic side.
- Inset Rugs or Mats: Placing a durable, weather-resistant rug or mat at the entrance can act as a protective barrier for your door. It adds a welcoming touch and prevents debris from scratching the door surface.
When choosing an alternative to a traditional kick plate, consider both the functional and aesthetic aspects to ensure that it complements your door’s style while providing the necessary protection.
FAQs
Do fire doors need kick plates?
Fire doors typically do not require kick plates as they can hinder the door’s ability to self-close, compromising their fire-resistant properties.
Where do you put a door kick plate?
Door kick plates are typically installed on the lower part of a door, horizontally, to protect it from scuff marks and damage caused by foot traffic.
Are door kick plates out of style?
Door kick plates can be considered a timeless and functional addition, but like any design element, their popularity may vary with evolving trends.
Can you put a kick plate on the inside of a door?
While kick plates are commonly installed on the exterior side of doors, it is possible to install them on the inside for added protection against wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas.
