Door styles have changed a lot over the years. However, the function of separating one area from another remains. One of the key components of a door is the door jamb. This component allows a door to open and close properly. Here’s what to know about door jambs:

What is a Door Jamb?

There are many types of doors, but every door needs a door jamb. This is the part of the door that allows it to open and close properly and securely. It is part of the vertical door frame. The jamb is placed perpendicular to the wall and is secured to the framing of the wall. This gives the door a secure foundation.

Door jambs come in a variety of materials. These include wood, aluminum, vinyl, and composite materials like fiberglass. The material you need will depend on factors like weather conditions, cost, and the type of door you are using.

3 Types of Door Jambs

There are two main types of door jambs and a qualification of interior vs exterior door jambs.. These are pre-hung and split and both can be manufactured for exterior use.

1. Pre-Hung Door Jambs

Pre-hung door jambs are one complete unit, including the door, the frame, and the hinges. Pre-hung door jambs are typically used in new construction or a complete replacement of a door.

2. Split Jambs

A split jamb is used in repairs or replacements of the door frame. A split jamb has two vertical sections that are joined together by hinges.

3. Exterior Door Jambs

Exterior door jambs are made of much sturdier materials to hold up to harsher conditions. They also provide more security. Using exterior door jambs when you replace patio doors can help increase your patio door security.

Check out the time-lapse video below to see the Zephyr Thomas team installing new patio doors for this homeowner!

5 Components of a Door Jamb

There are a few parts to a door jamb:

1. Casing

The casing is the decorative part of the door and is the molding that frames a door. It also hides the gap between the jamb and the wall.

2. Threshold

This is the bottom part of the door jamb. The threshold creates a seal between the inside and exterior spaces and allows the door to transition between the floors on either side.

3. Hinge Mortise

This part of the door jamb is the cutouts in the jamb that hold the hinges. This allows the door to swing open and shut.

4. Strike Plate Mortise

This is an indented part of the jamb that holds the strike plate. The strike plate is the metal plate where the latch of the door lock meets when the door is closed.

5. Stop

This piece of wood keeps the door from swinging through the opening. This prevents the door from hitting the wall. The stop can be adjusted to control how far the door can open if desired.

Take a look at the time-lapse video below to see the Zephyr Thomas team installing a new entry door with some window options for entry doors for this homeowner!

4 Functions of Door Jambs

Door jambs are essential to any door frame and offer many functions.

1. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency can be improved as the door jamb is installed properly and is one of the reasons to replace your doors. Door jambs help to prevent air leaks and decrease energy loss. This can help lower energy bills.

2. Security

They can also offer security. Door jambs keep the door securely in place and prevent it from being forced open. The strike plate also offers a secure attachment for the door lock. If you want to improve front door security, assess your door jamb and replace it if it seems weak or broken.

3. Structural Support

Structural support is another function of door jambs. They give support to the door frame and help to evenly distribute the door’s weight.

4. Aesthetic Appeal

The casing and stop molding on the door jamb can add to the aesthetic appeal as it is customizable. This can enhance the look of the door and match the interior design of the room.

Check out this video to see Zephyr Thomas installing French doors for this homeowner!

How to Choose the Right Door Jamb

When choosing a door jamb, you need to think about factors such as aesthetics, durability, and the materials you want. You also need to think about the climate you are in.

If you live in an area with high humidity or extreme temperatures, you should choose a material such as vinyl or metal. These materials tend to be much more weather-resistant than others. This is especially important for an exterior door jamb when paired with the best types of entry doors.

You should also choose a style that matches or complements the rest of the room or your home. You don’t want a new door jamb to look out of place. These are also some tips for choosing the best front door color. This will help your home feel aesthetically pleasing and cohesive.

Upgrade Your Doors With Zephyr Thomas

This is just an overview of what to know about door jambs. If you’re thinking about new doors for your home give Zephyr Thomas a call at (717) 399-4708 to start the conversation and get a free quote for your project!

Take a look at this video to watch Zephyr Thomas replace the front door and screen door for this homeowner!