The vertical sides of a door and window openings are commonly known as jambs.
Understanding Jambs
Jambs are a fundamental component of any door or window opening within a wall. They provide the structural support and finished surface for installing the door or window frame.
Door Jambs
As referenced, the door jamb serves two primary roles:
- It is the vertical wall face of a door opening that provides support for the door frame itself.
- Within the door frame, the jamb is the vertical portion where the door is secured.
The reference highlights the importance of the door jamb, stating, "If you want to open and lock your door properly, door jamb is important." This underscores their crucial role in the functionality and security of a doorway.
- Location: The jambs are the side pieces of the door frame. There are typically two jambs for each door opening.
- Function: They support the door frame, allow for the attachment of hinges on one side (the hinge jamb) and the strike plate for the latch/lock on the other side (the strike jamb).
- Material: Jambs can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or composite materials, depending on the application and desired finish.
Window Jambs
Similarly, window openings also have jambs.
- Location: These are the vertical sides of the window frame or opening in the wall.
- Function: Window jambs support the weight of the window sash and frame, provide a surface for weatherstripping, and allow for the installation of the window unit securely into the wall opening.
In essence, whether for a door or a window, the jambs are the essential vertical elements that define the side boundaries of the opening and provide the necessary structure for installing the corresponding frame and operating mechanism.
