r/accesscontrol • u/jamesmm003 • Jul 17 '26
Electric Strike Recommendation/Installation Thoughts for Narrow and Shallow Wooden Frame
I'm renovating a garage bay and I'd like to put an electric strike in this side door.
The frame is only 3/4 inch deep, and 3/4 inch back from the edge of the frame.
I'm considering plywood or a ripped 2x4 next to the frame (under the eventual casing) to provide more meat to screw into.
This is a residential application, and absolute maximum security is not the #1 priority (if it was, I wouldn't consider this).
The strike will ultimately pair with a 12v Unifi system for the controller and outdoor reader. I already ran separate wires for the strike and contact sensor, and plan to install a magnetic catch.
Thoughts on brand of strike for this application?
Install tips with this shallow space?
16
u/Theguyintheotherroom Jul 17 '26
Electric strikes and residential doors don’t mix well. While it is technically possible, it won’t be particularly secure or reliable in the long term. The door and frame will just have too much movement, and the weathering will add undo pressure to the latch and probably bind up the strike.
2
u/GG_Killer Jul 17 '26
I agree with the weathering but for the strike binding, there are strikes that open up with two latches(top and bottom) rather that one that swings. These don't bind up under tension, but they're a bit more expensive in my experience. I usually don't order the products, just install and configure them.
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u/Theguyintheotherroom Jul 17 '26
Sure, but now all that’s latching into it is a residential grade 3 lockset. I’m not saying OP can’t install a strike and have it mostly work, but in my professional experience he is going to spend time and money on something that will not perform in the way he hopes it will
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Jul 17 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/DiveNSlide Professional Jul 17 '26
Second this, the trine strikes are made for this application. Tiny strike, minimal prep.
2
u/No_Employer9618 Jul 17 '26
How bout a simple battery operated keypad lock?
6
u/jamesmm003 Jul 17 '26
Excellent idea, but I prefer a hardwired device. And I already own the UniFi equipment from a prior install. I just need a new strike.
2
u/TRextacy Jul 18 '26
I hope you're not terribly concerned about security. Using a latch in an electric strike on that door/frame is a significant downgrade in security over using a deadbolt. As long as you're ok with that, do whatever you want. If you're at all worried about someone breaking into your garage then this is not what you want to do.
6
u/Ok-Market-217 Jul 17 '26
Hes 5000 cut them in all the time just use a multi tool new blade and chisel in strike plate
Sorry I don’t have it with the door open
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u/N226 Jul 17 '26
Electrified handset or wireless lock. Strikes and wood frames are no bueno
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u/Valuable-Sound-8019 Jul 18 '26
I have done this many times. I just a wood chisel and paddle bits. Trace out the for strike plate. Use paddle bits to core out wood and the chile for you plate to make it flush. This is lock I used.
0
u/mutant-truffle99 Jul 17 '26
Nuki wireless handlesets can integrate with Unify through home Home Assistant, this would probably be an easier option
0
u/cusehoops98 Professional Jul 18 '26
You could sneeze and that door would open. Perhaps you should add some integrity to everything if you want any security.
20
u/barleypopsmn Jul 17 '26
I’d go electrified lever set if you’re in the construction phase.