hi guys,

Im having to replace some of the door jambs (hinge jambs) to my interior doors.

House is 100 years old and doors are solid oak, and are of course heavy. The original jambs are also oak and are 7/8".

Problem is, I dont have a planer and cant seem to find any wood that is 7/8"...everything seems to be 3/4" now

Is 3/4" fine to hold these heavier doors? And I was hoping to use pine to save on cost, and it'll all be painted anyways...pine strong enough to hold?

If 3/4" isn't enough, could I maybe glue a 3/8" piece to a
1/2" piece to make a 7/8" piece?

Thanks in advance!

Paul

 

The difference in thickness should not make a difference, provided the jamb is shimmed well and nailed securely. The difference in thickness will mean that it will be important to set the face of the jamb in the same location, not 1/8" farther back, which would move the door 1/8" away from the latch side. The hinge mortises would be the normal depth, equal to the thickness of the hinge. You will especially want to shim the jamb directly behind the hinges and install at least one 3" long screw through each hinge to secure it to the stud, which will help support the weight of the door.

You are right that 3/4" pine is not as strong as 7/8" oak, but this will not matter if you shim the jamb well, make sure it is straight, nail it often, and use the long screws to secure the hinges to the framing.

 

thanks again Xsleeper!

Paul