How do I remove this lower part of an exterior door?

Question

The lower 4" of our exterior door frame has rotted out. I would like to replace all the rotten wood (the lower 4 inches or so), but how do I remove the "kick" (think that is what it is called) without having to remove the door threshold and framing above the thershold? Any tips? Here is a link with a picture of what I am trying to take out - http://www.flickr.com/photos/27942262@N02/2783315287/

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

It looks to me like the door post (set in concrete) isn't rotted. That's a good thing. The 4" area below the threshold is the part that's rotted, so...

1. Use a reciprocating saw such as a Milwaukee Sawzall (http://www.tylertool.com/misa.html) or the cordless Firestorm FS18RS (http://www.firestormtools.com/ProductDet... to cut away the rotted wood.

2.Depending on what is behind the offending wooden kick plate, you may have to secure a 2 X 2 to the threshold and/or the base as a backer.

Drill pilot holes (3) in the backer(s) and using 2 1/2 " deck screws secure the backer to the threshold.

3. If the kick plate is wider than 3 5/8", then cut a 2 X 6 to the proper width, creating an exact replacement. Using more deck screws, s***w the new kick plate to the backer(s).

4. Follow the workman's rules: "Cut to spec, trim to fit, paint to match"

Answer 2

river2run02 -

It's difficult sometimes to give advice from just the pic, because, for example, you can't tell what's behind the kick.  I would start by getting a reciprocating saw (widely used in remodeling and cutting wood).  then you can cut the exterior door frame right above the bad area.  When you replace the bad wood with a piece of new, treated lumber, cut the board to a length where it is slightly above the concrete.  This will allow water to run down and prevent the bottom edge of the wood from standing in water.  Don't make too large of a gap, just enough to avoid the board standing on the concrete.  

As for the kick, I honestly would begin by taking off the strip of wood on the inside frame, and pull up the threshold.  I would do this for two reasons:  First you will be able to inspect the area on the otherside to determine if there is any rot water damage that you can't otherwise see.  Second, assuming you want the job done to highest standard, this will enable you to remove the kick easily, and then replace it properly.  Then replace the threshold and trim.  It really isn't that tough of a job once you start in on it.  I think you'll be surprised at the difference it will make in the overall effort and time you expend, as opposed to trying to cut out the bottom, etc.,

good luck

Answer 3

You could try drilling some holes in the kickplate and then cutting from hole to hole with a saw.  Then pull the peices out.  Replacement peice should be screwed in instead of hammering.  On the door frame, cut above the rot and replace with another peice.  Wood putty would hide all the cracks and s***w heads.