Renovating a period home is all about preserving its unique charm while modernising it for today’s living. One common challenge that many homeowners face is managing the transition between different types of flooring. If your Victorian hallway boasts beautiful original floorboards that run into a newly renovated bathroom where you’d like to install tiles, you’ll need to find a way to create a level threshold between the two surfaces. Here, we’ll explore some practical and stylish options to help you achieve a seamless transition and maintain the character of your period home.
1. Recessed Subfloor for Tiling
To minimise the height difference between the hallway floorboards and bathroom tiles, consider creating a recessed subfloor. By lowering the level of the subfloor beneath the tiles, you can reduce the overall thickness of the tiled floor. This involves removing the existing floorboards in the bathroom and replacing them with a thinner layer of plywood or cement backer board. This way, the final level of the tiled floor is much closer to that of the original hallway boards.
Tip: Make sure the recessed subfloor is properly waterproofed and strong enough to support the weight of the tiles (and any heavy sanitary ware/ furniture).
2. Choose a Thinner Tile Backer Board
If lowering the subfloor isn’t an option, you can still minimise the level difference by choosing a thinner tile backer board, such as 6mm hardi-backer board (or other similar moisture resistant cement board). Opting for a 6mm board instead of the standard 10-12mm can significantly reduce the height build-up. With the thinner board and tiles combined, the difference in floor height becomes less noticeable, making it easier to create a smooth transition.
3. Use a Self-Levelling Compound
For a slight height difference between the floors, a self-levelling compound can be a great solution. This compound creates a gentle slope from the hallway to the bathroom, ensuring a smooth transition without a noticeable step. It’s ideal for small differences in height and works best when combined with other subtle solutions like a thin threshold strip.
4. Install a Threshold Strip
A threshold strip is a classic and practical way to bridge the gap between two different floor levels. Depending on the height difference, there are several types of threshold strips to consider:
- Flat Threshold Strips: Perfect for minor differences up to 4-5mm, providing a nearly seamless look.
- Ramp Threshold Strips: Ideal for larger differences (6mm and above), creating a gentle slope between the two floors.
- T-Profile Thresholds: Suitable for very small differences and act as a stylish separator between hallway and bathroom flooring.
Available in various materials like brass, aluminum, wood, or color-matched PVC, threshold strips can be both functional and stylish, complementing the overall design of your home.
6. Go for a Custom Carpentry Solution
For a truly bespoke finish that matches the period character of a Victorian home, consider having a custom-made tapered wooden threshold. Crafted to bridge the gap between the hallway and bathroom floor, this option allows for a unique design that can be stained or painted to match the existing floors, adding a personalised touch to your renovation.
7. Consider Reducing Floorboard Thickness
If you’re up for a more intensive solution, consider reducing the thickness of the original Victorian floorboards near the threshold. This can involve planing down the boards to achieve a lower level that aligns more closely with the bathroom floor. While this option requires a bit more effort and expertise, it can provide a seamless transition without any added materials.
Note: This approach should be handled carefully, ideally by a professional familiar with period flooring.
8. Installing a Small Step or Riser
If the height difference is substantial, and you want to avoid a harsh transition, a small step or riser could be the best solution. This option can be particularly fitting in period homes, where a step can be designed as an intentional architectural feature.
Final Thoughts
Creating a seamless transition between the hallway floorboards and bathroom tiles in a Victorian home is a balancing act between practicality and aesthetics. Whether you opt for a recessed subfloor, a clever threshold strip, or a custom carpentry solution, the right choice will depend on your specific floor heights, design preferences, and the overall look you’re aiming to achieve.
Remember, the goal is to blend modern functionality with the charm of a period home, ensuring that every part of your renovation enhances the original character of your Victorian property.
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