A door stop rebate is the stepped recess or ledge in a door or window frame against which the door or window closes. It prevents the door or window from swinging through the frame and creates a tight seal against draughts, water, and noise.
How does a door stop rebate work?
A frame without a rebate would be nothing more than an open rectangle. The rebate forms a narrow, raised surface on the inside of the frame. When the door or window closes, it rests against this ledge. This serves several purposes:
- Sealing — the door or window closes tightly against the rebate, keeping out draughts and moisture
- Positioning — the rebate determines the exact closed position of the door or window within the frame
- Security — a door closing against a rebate is harder to prise open than one without
- Sound reduction — the contact surface between door and rebate, often fitted with a rubber draught strip, reduces noise transmission
Types of rebate
There are two main types:
Single rebate
The door or window closes against a single stepped ledge. This is the most common construction for internal doors and simple windows.
Double rebate
Both the frame and the door have a stepped profile that interlock. This provides a superior seal and is commonly used on external doors and windows.
Application
When building or fitting a frame, the rebate is an essential detail:
1. Machining — the rebate is routed or machined into the frame or the door itself
2. Dimensions — a typical rebate is 10-15 mm wide and 10-15 mm deep
3. Draught sealing — a rubber or silicone draught strip is fitted to the rebate for an airtight closure
4. Hinge selection — the type of rebate determines which hinge is appropriate (butt hinge or concealed hinge)
Related terms
- Door frame
- Rebate
- Door
- Window
- Draught strip
- Hinge
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