Install a Kickplate

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-129 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Figure A
Home repair expert Henry Harrison helps a homeowner cover an unattractive door with a brass kickplate (figure A). He shows her how to make a template to cut a piece of brass to fit around the door's decorative molding. On his elbow grease scale of one to four, Harrison gives this job a two.

Tools:

work bench
straight edge
clamps
jigsaw
power drill
Phillips-head screwdriver
scissors
carpenters pencil
file
felt-tip pen
safety glasses
kickplate

Steps:


  1. Cut a piece of cardboard to the same size as the kickplate.

  2. Position the cardboard in the area of the door where you want to install the kickplate.
PHOTO

Figure B
PHOTO

Figure C
PHOTO

Figure D
PHOTO

Figure E
  • Press the cardboard against the contour of the door and use the pencil to trace an outline of the molding on the cardboard (figure B).

  • Trim the cardboard to fit the molding, then double-check it against the door and make any necessary adjustments.

  • Place the cardboard template on top of the kickplate and draw a line on the kickplate where the to match the cardboard cutout (figure C).

  • Secure the kickplate to a work bench or solid surface with clamps. Use a metal cutting blade on a jigsaw to carefully cut along the line (figure D). Be sure to wear appropriate safety glasses.

  • Position the kickplate against the door, and drill pilot holes through the holes where the screws go into the door (figure E).

  • Drive the screws into the pilot holes (if the screws are brass, use a hand screwdriver so as to not mar the head of the screws).
    • Also in this Episode
    Help Around the House : Episode ARH-129
    •Replace A Tile Border
    •Install a Kickplate
    •Un-Stick A Water Valve
    •Toolbox: Hand Drills