How to Rip a Door Jamb

The table saw is ideal for ripping a door jamb.

The door jamb is the vertical section of the door frame to which the hinges are attached on one side of the door and the metal strike plate on the other. Most door jambs are 2 inches wide to fit 2-by-4 wall studs. The exception is the split jamb, which is used to fit framing deeper than 4 inches. Ripping is the process of cutting with the grain pattern of a piece of wood.

Things You'll Need

• Table saw

Instructions

1. Adjust the rip fence to the desired with, usually 4 inches. Lock it in place according to manufacturer instructions.

2. Lay the board on the table and against the rip fence while standing behind the saw. Start the saw.

3. Guide the board into the saw blade by hand. Push the board forward until you have cut the length of the board.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear eye protection when cutting wood.

• Cut with the grain because cutting against the grain can cause the board to kick back into your body.

References

• The Complete Guide to Home Carpentry; Black and Decker
• Framing; Fine Homebuilding