What Is the Metal Piece on a Door Opposite a Strike Plate?
The strike plate (or striker plate) is a piece of metal mounted on the door jamb. Its purpose is to engage the striker, or bolt, that extends from the doorknob or door lock. Does this Spark an idea?
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The Striker
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What looks like a separate piece of metal screwed into the door (usually with a top and a bottom Phillips head screw) is actually part of the striker assembly. If you are changing the doorknob or door lock, this metal plate will be removed with the lock or knob assembly.
The Striker Plate
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You do not need to replace the striker plate when replacing door hardware, unless it is so worn, bent or otherwise damaged that the striker cannot engage properly.
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Installation
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Properly installed, the strike plate and the metal facing of the striker--also referred to as the strike guide--should be facing each other, almost touching.
Maintenance
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The striker and strike plate should need no maintenance. If they become loose or wobbly, it's a good idea to check the tightness of the Phillips head screws.
Adjustment
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Most doorknobs and door locks will have a way to adjust the length of the part of the striker that engages the strike plate. In older houses, this is particularly important for a good, tight installation, since the door jamb may have settled or warped over time.
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