How to Repair a Split Door Jamb

In this video, This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains how to fix a door jamb.

Steps for repairing a split door jamb

1. Unscrew and remove the old metal storm-door frame from the doorway opening.
2. Carefully remove broken, split pieces of wood from bottom of the side jamb. Pull off any small splinters.
3. Apply carpenter’s glue to broken wood pieces and glue them back onto the jamb.
4. Hold scrap wood block over the repair and use a hammer to tap the glued pieces tight to the jamb. Repeat to repair damage at the top of the side jamb. Allow the glue to dry.
5. Sand smooth the repaired areas using 80-grit sandpaper.
6. Tape down a canvas drop cloth across the threshold.
7. Use two putty knives to thoroughly mix a large dollop of auto body filler.
8. Spread the auto body filler over the repaired areas with the 3-inch-wide putty knife.
9. Allow the putty to harden, then sand it smooth.

Tools