Jamb vs. Reveal: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
A jamb is the side post or vertical framing of a doorway or window, while reveal is the side of an opening for a door or window between a frame and the outer surface of a wall.
Key Differences
A jamb is a structural element forming the side of a door or window frame, providing support and defining its edges. A reveal, in contrast, is the surface area between the frame of a door or window and the wall, often visible as a distinct portion of the wall.
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Nov 25, 2023
The jamb serves a functional purpose, holding the door or window in place and supporting the structure. The reveal, however, is more about the aesthetic and finishing aspect, providing a transition between the frame and the wall.
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Nov 25, 2023
Jambs are typically made of durable materials like wood, metal, or stone, as they need to withstand constant use. Reveals, being less subjected to wear and tear, can be finished with a variety of materials like plaster or paint for aesthetic appeal.
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Nov 25, 2023
The design of a jamb is often straightforward, prioritizing structural integrity and alignment. The reveal, however, can be designed to create visual interest, with variations in depth and finishing contributing to the overall style of the doorway or window.
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Nov 25, 2023
Installing a jamb is a crucial part of door or window installation, requiring precision for proper functioning. Reveals may require less technical installation but can involve detailed work for a polished appearance and may need maintenance to keep up appearances.
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Nov 25, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Function
Structural support for doors/windows.
Aesthetic transition between frame and wall.
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Nov 25, 2023
Location
Vertical sides of a window or door frame.
Side area of an opening between frame and wall.
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Nov 25, 2023
Material
Typically made of wood, metal, or stone.
Finished with plaster, paint, or other materials.
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Nov 25, 2023
Design Focus
Structural integrity and alignment.
Aesthetic appeal and style.
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Nov 25, 2023
Installation
Integral to door/window installation.
Finishing detail, less structurally crucial.
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Nov 25, 2023
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Jamb and Reveal Definitions
Jamb
The structural element forming the side of a fireplace.
The antique clock was placed on the jamb of the fireplace.
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Nov 13, 2023
Reveal
The visible part of the wall surface in an opening.
We added decorative trim to the reveal for a finished look.
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Nov 13, 2023
Jamb
Part of a frame that holds a window or door in place.
We painted the window jambs the same color as the walls.
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Nov 13, 2023
Reveal
The side of an opening between a frame and wall.
The reveal between the window frame and the wall was painted white.
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Nov 13, 2023
Jamb
Vertical side of a doorway or window frame.
The door wouldn't close properly because the jamb was not aligned.
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Nov 13, 2023
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Reveal
A design feature used to add depth or contour around openings.
The architect used varying reveal sizes to create visual interest.
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Nov 13, 2023
Jamb
Side posts of a structure like an archway.
The intricate carvings on the archway's jambs caught everyone's attention.
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Nov 13, 2023
Reveal
To make known (something concealed or unknown)
She revealed that she was pregnant. The study revealed the toxic effects of the pollutant.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
The vertical components of a framing system in construction.
The contractor checked the jambs for level before proceeding.
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Nov 13, 2023
Reveal
To cause to be seen; show
The curtains parted, revealing a ballerina. The x-ray revealed a broken bone.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
One of a pair of vertical posts or pieces that together form the sides of an opening, as for a door, window, or fireplace.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
To make known by supernatural or divine means
"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven" (Romans 1:18).
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
The making known of an important, secret, or salient occurrence, such as the revealing of a major development, plot twist, or visual effect in a movie
"Seeing [the Wiz] in human form in the first act diminishes the power of the reveal in the second" (Bob Verini).
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
Either of the vertical components that form the side of an opening in a wall, such as that of a door frame, window frame, or fireplace.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
The part of the side of a window or door opening that is between the outer surface of a wall and the window or door frame.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
(mining) Any thick mass of rock that prevents miners from following the lode or vein.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
The vertical side of any opening, as a door or fireplace; hence, less properly, any narrow vertical surface of wall, as the of a chimney-breast or of a pier, as distinguished from its face.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
A revelation; an uncovering of what was hidden in the scene or story.
The comedian had been telling us about his sleep being disturbed by noise. Then came the reveal: he was sleeping on a bed in a department store.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
Any thick mass of rock which prevents miners from following the lode or vein.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
(transitive) To communicate that which could not be known or discovered without divine or supernatural instruction.
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Oct 19, 2023
Jamb
Upright consisting of a vertical side member of a door or window frame
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
To make known (that which has been concealed or kept secret); to unveil; to disclose; to show.
Light was the wound, the prince's care unknown,She might not, would not, yet reveal her own.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
Specifically, to communicate (that which could not be known or discovered without divine or supernatural instruction or agency).
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
The side of an opening for a window, doorway, or the like, between the door frame or window frame and the outer surface of the wall; or, where the opening is not filled with a door, etc., the whole thickness of the wall; the jamb.
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
Make visible;
Summer brings out bright clothes
He brings out the best in her
The newspaper uncovered the President's illegal dealings
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
Make known to the public information that was previously known only to a few people or that was meant to be kept a secret;
The auction house would not disclose the price at which the van Gogh had sold
The actress won't reveal how old she is
Bring out the truth
He broke the news to her
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
Make clear and visible;
The article revealed the policies of the government
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
Disclose directly or through prophets;
God rarely reveal his plans for Mankind
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Oct 19, 2023
Reveal
The gap or space between a frame and the adjacent wall surface.
Adjusting the reveal helped the door fit better.
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Nov 13, 2023
Reveal
The exposed portion of a wall or frame, creating a visual effect.
The contrasting color on the reveal accentuated the window's appearance.
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Nov 13, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Is jamb installation complex?
It requires precision, as alignment is crucial for functionality.
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Nov 25, 2023
Are jambs only used for doors?
No, they are also used for windows and other framed openings.
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Nov 25, 2023
What role does reveal play in window installation?
It provides a transition and finishing touch between the frame and wall.
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Nov 25, 2023
Can reveal be decorative?
Yes, reveals can be designed for decorative purposes.
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Nov 25, 2023
Does reveal affect insulation?
Properly finished reveals can improve insulation around openings.
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Nov 25, 2023
What materials are used for jambs?
Wood, metal, stone, or composite materials.
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Nov 25, 2023
How do reveals contribute to design?
They add depth and contour, enhancing the overall look.
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Nov 25, 2023
Do jambs support weight?
Yes, they are load-bearing elements in a structure.
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Nov 25, 2023
Can reveals be of different depths?
Yes, varying the depth can create different visual effects.
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Nov 25, 2023
How do jambs affect door functionality?
Properly installed jambs ensure smooth operation of doors.
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Nov 25, 2023
Does the reveal color matter?
Color choice can impact the aesthetic appeal of the opening.
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Nov 25, 2023
Is it common to decorate the reveal?
Yes, it's often used for additional decorative touches.
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Nov 25, 2023
Are jambs visible after installation?
Yes, they form the visible sides of the door or window frame.
Shumaila Saeed
Nov 25, 2023
Can reveals be adjusted during construction?
Yes, adjustments can be made for a better fit and finish.
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Nov 25, 2023
What happens if a jamb is not level?
It can lead to issues with door or window operation.
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Nov 25, 2023
How does reveal affect the perception of space?
A well-designed reveal can enhance the perception of depth and space around openings.
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Nov 25, 2023
Can a jamb be part of an archway?
Yes, in archways, jambs are the vertical supporting sides.
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Nov 25, 2023
Can jambs be replaced?
Yes, but it requires careful work to maintain structural integrity.
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Nov 25, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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