Adjustable width frame member for wall openings

Abstract

This invention is an adjustable frame member or jamb for a wall opening and a method for making it. It consists of two side-by-side jamb members, a spring and a stop. The stop is attached to one jamb member in an overhanging or step-like relationship. The spring is inserted into the back of this member so that an elongated portion defines a slot with the overhanging portion of the stop. Narrow kerfs are appropriately let into the back of the jamb and the door stop for anchoring the arm portions of the spring. The second jamb member is slid into the slot defined by the stop and spring, where it is firmly gripped by the spring. By forming one mounting point for the spring in the back of the stop, a short lever arm is maintained to better resist any prying or dislodging forces applied against the spring caused by the other jamb member. The artical can conveniently be made by first attaching one edge of the stop to a jamb of the narrowest width expected in use. The jamb is severed into two pieces and the kerfs are simultaneously cut. An inlet zone into the jamb members in the area of the spring enables the assembly to have a flat back for rigid mounting against a framing stud.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.