Jamb

The vertical side members of a door frame that support the door and house the hinges and strike plates. The hinge jamb carries the door’s weight, while the strike jamb receives the latch and deadbolt.

Commercial hollow metal jambs are typically 16 or 14 gauge steel, with 12 gauge for high-security applications. Standard jamb depths match wall thicknesses: 4-7/8″ for 2×4 stud walls with drywall, 6-7/8″ for 2×6 construction. Jambs may be welded to the frame head or use knock-down construction for field assembly.

Jamb anchoring methods include masonry anchors (T-anchors, wire anchors), steel stud anchors, and wood stud anchors. Fire-rated frames require continuous intumescent strips or smoke seals in jamb rabbets. For security applications, jamb reinforcement kits with extended strike plates distribute force across multiple studs. Related terms: threshold, lintel, door frame. Shop hollow metal frames.