Is it necessary to notch the side door jambs for setting the header piece?

Question

I need to make my own door jambs from 1x lumber because I have a salvaged antique transom (the whole door is actually restored antique) and couldn’t find pre-made ones at Lowes/HD that are long enough. I did notice that the regular sized ones had a notch on each side jamb to set the header piece. I was wondering what the advantage of that is over simply laying the header piece on top of the side pieces. I can probably make notches in my homemade jamb but it would be easier to avoid the trouble and just set it on top of the side jambs.

Can anyone elaborate on the need to make the notches?

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Can anyone elaborate on the need to make the notches?

HerrBag · Accepted Answer

The rabbet joint you refer to is done for strength, its a mini jack/king, where the side jambs support the head jamb.

Your plan for a butt joint will be sufficient.

user126231 · Answer

You can skip the Dado in the side jambs in my opinion even though its not as strong of a connection. I do recommend you put the head piece in between the legs. My reasoning is there should be absolutely no weight coming down on the head piece as that is handled by the framing but there will be side pressure from the door hanging on the jamb
Guy Outeast const

Is it necessary to notch the side door jambs for setting the header piece?

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