Thresholds for Vinyl Plank Flooring: What They Are and Why You Need Them

Ever walked from one room to another and felt a little “bump” or noticed a neat piece of trim under your feet? That’s a threshold—sometimes called a transition strip—and if you’re installing vinyl plank flooring (also known as LVP), it’s a small detail that makes a big difference. Not sure what it does, when to use one, or how to pick the right style? You’re in the right place!

What is a Threshold in Flooring?

A threshold is a trim piece that covers the gap between two different types of flooring (say, vinyl plank in your living room and tile in your kitchen), or between two rooms with the same floor but a doorway in between. It smooths out transitions, hides expansion gaps, and keeps everything looking tidy.

Think of it as the finishing touch—like a neat border on a painting or a ribbon on a gift. It’s small, but it holds the look (and function) of your floor together.

Why Do Vinyl Plank Floors Need Thresholds?

Covers Expansion Gaps: Vinyl plank flooring needs a small gap around the edges and at transitions to let it expand and contract as the weather changes. A threshold covers that gap and keeps it hidden from view.
Prevents Tripping: A threshold gives a smooth transition, so you don’t trip moving between rooms—especially helpful where floors are slightly different heights.
Keeps Out Dirt and Moisture: It can help block debris or moisture from sneaking under your new floor, especially at entryways.
Adds a Finished Look: Thresholds complete the professional, clean look of your flooring project. No raw edges or awkward seams!

Types of Thresholds for Vinyl Plank Flooring

Here are the most common types you’ll find at hardware stores like Lowe’s, Home Depot, or specialty flooring shops:

T-Molding: Shaped like a “T” when viewed from the end. This style bridges the gap between two floors of the same height (like vinyl plank to tile or laminate).
Reducer Strip: Used when you’re transitioning from vinyl plank to a lower floor, such as sheet vinyl or concrete. The sloped edge prevents tripping.
End Cap (Square Nose or Baby Threshold): Used where your vinyl plank ends at a sliding door, fireplace, or carpet. It neatly finishes the edge.
Threshold (aka Saddle): Slightly higher in the middle, these are used under doorways between two different types of flooring or at an exterior door.
Stair Nose: For finishing stair edges where LVP is used on steps.

How to Choose the Right Threshold for Your Project

Measure Your Gap:

Measure the space between your floors or the width of your doorway. Thresholds come in various lengths—usually 36″, 48″, or 72″—and can be trimmed to fit.
Check Floor Heights:

Are the two floors even, or is one a little taller? T-moldings are for even heights; reducers are for uneven transitions.
Match Your Floor Color:

Most vinyl plank brands offer matching transition pieces. If not, pick something that complements your plank or goes with your trim.
Choose the Right Material:

Thresholds come in real wood, vinyl, laminate, and metal. Vinyl or laminate types are often best for LVP—they’re flexible, affordable, and usually a perfect color match.

Installing a Threshold for Vinyl Plank Flooring

Installation is usually straightforward—most DIYers can handle it with basic tools. Here’s a quick rundown:

Clean the Area: Make sure both floors are level, clean, and dry before you start.
Cut the Threshold: Use a handsaw or fine-tooth saw to trim the piece to fit your doorway or transition.
Attach the Track (if needed): Some thresholds use a metal track you screw into the subfloor, and the threshold “snaps” into place.
Set in Place: Press the threshold into the track, or glue/nail it in place according to the instructions.
Check for Stability: Make sure it’s snug and not rocking—no one likes a wobbly threshold!

Always follow the instructions that come with your transition piece—each brand might be a little different. And if you’re stuck, the flooring pros at stores like Lowe’s are happy to help.

Where to Buy Thresholds for Vinyl Plank Flooring

Lowe’s and Home Depot: Both have a wide selection in stock, usually near the flooring or trim aisles. Look for matching options from the same brands as your flooring—Style Selections, SMARTCORE, Shaw, etc.
Flooring Specialty Stores: Many carry a broader range of colors, sizes, and materials.
Online: Most major brands have matching thresholds available online, if you can’t find them in-store.

Quick Tips for Success

Always measure before you buy—thresholds that are too short or too long just look awkward.
If in doubt, bring a sample of your flooring with you to match colors and heights.
Don’t forget to account for any underlayment or subfloor differences that might affect the finished height.
If you have pets or kids, choose a threshold style that won’t catch little toes or paws!

Wrapping Up: Thresholds Make Your LVP Project Look (and Work) Right

It’s tempting to focus on the big stuff—plank colors, patterns, installation—but it’s those little details, like a perfectly placed threshold, that make a floor look truly finished. Take your time, match your styles, and ask for help if you need it. Your new vinyl plank flooring will look better, last longer, and feel smoother underfoot—no bumps, no gaps, no problem.

Still have questions about thresholds or installation? The folks at your local flooring store (or the pro desk at Lowe’s) have seen every floor scenario there is—don’t hesitate to ask!