So last weekend I looked at my front door and thought, damn that doorm looks rough. Like a zombie chewed on it or something. Decided to swap it out and figured I’d share how it went. Found this new one online and prayed it wouldn’t be a headache install.
Step 1: Yank the Old Monster Off
Started by kicking off the disgusting old thing. Didn’t even need tools – just grabbed the corner and pulled like I was starting a lawnmower. Felt like peeling dried glue off concrete. When it finally came loose, dust and dead bugs flew everywhere. Gross, but satisfying.
Step 2: Scratch & Sweep Dance
Underneath looked nasty. Concrete was crusty with leftover adhesive chunks. Took my putty knife and went scrape scrape scrape until my arm got sore. Swept up those nasty bits with my shop broom. Didn’t wanna leave any crumbs before laying down the new mat.
Step 3: Plop & Position
Unrolled the new doorm right on the clean spot. Way fancier than the old one – had patterns and everything. Had to adjust it three times ’cause it kept sitting crooked. Stepped back, squinted, kicked it left… finally got it centered under the door.
Step 4: Spikes Down!
This part actually mattered. The underside has these tiny plastic spikes to prevent sliding. Almost put it upside-down like an idiot. Caught myself and flipped it, spikes facing concrete. Pressed down hard with both feet – felt like stomping grapes.
Step 5: Smash & Test
Did the stomp dance all over that thing to lock it in. Jumped front, back, diagonal like playing hopscotch. Then tested by dragging my shoe across it – didn’t budge an inch. Last touch: poured some dirt on it intentionally to see the pattern show up. Looked slick.
Took maybe 20 minutes total. Honestly expected worse. Key things I learned: clean that nasty floor good, check spike direction twice, and don’t skip the stomping part. Now when neighbors walk by they actually compliment it. Might even wash the door next week… maybe.
