How to Replace a Kick-Down Doorstop

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Introduction

This guide explains how to replace a worn or loose kick-down doorstop for an interior wooden door. You may need to replace it if it becomes too damaged to hold the door open. If you are concerned about damaging the floor or making a mess, use a plastic or canvas drop cloth beneath the area you're working. Try to get a paint color that is as similar as possible to your door's current color. A shade too light or dark will make the project much more noticeable. Once your new kick-down doorstop is in place, test it to ensure it is fully operational and ready for use.

What you need

Step 1 Kick-down Doorstop

How to Replace a Kick-Down Doorstop, Kick-down Doorstop: step 1, image 1 of 3

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How to Replace a Kick-Down Doorstop, Kick-down Doorstop: step 1, image 3 of 3

Place a drop cloth on the floor beneath your work area to keep the area clean.
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws securing the old doorstop to the door.
Remove the old doorstop.
Measure the old doorstop to ensure you have purchased the right size for your replacement.

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Step 2

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Use a plastic putty knife to apply a small amount of wood filler over the old screw holes.
Spread the filler in both vertical and horizontal directions until the holes are completely filled.
Gently scrape the plastic putty knife over the surface to remove any excess wood filler from the door surface.
Let the wood putty set for at least 20 minutes to dry.

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Step 3

Use a paintbrush to cover the area with paint matching the door.
Place one coat of paint over the holes left by the old kick stop.
Let the paint dry for approximately 15-30 minutes.
In the photograph, white wood paint is applied. Use a wood paint color that most closely matches your door's current color.

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Step 4

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Place the new kick-down doorstop against the door.
Open the door to about 90 degrees, then adjust it to the position where the doorstop will hold the door securely in the open position.
Use a pencil to mark where the screws will be inserted into the door.

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Step 5

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Turn the screwdriver clockwise to install the kick-down doorstop screws, starting at the bottom and working upward.
Drive the screws in firmly, but do not fully tighten them at this stage.

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Step 6

Once you have all three screws into the door about two-thirds of the way, turn your screwdriver clockwise and tighten them completely.
Do not overtighten the screws. This can strip the wood and make the screws come loose.

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Step 7

Check that your new doorstop works.
Push the door back 90 degrees and set the kick-down doorstop down against the floor.
If the door stays open and the doorstop rests firmly on the floor, the installation is successful.
You're all finished! Admire your work and enjoy your new doorstop.