Assemble Header Resolution For Free

Assuming you're using a species of wood at least as strong as No. 2 Douglas fir, a doubled 2-by-4 (4-by-4) is adequate for a load-bearing opening of 48 inches or less. The required header size increases as the span gets wider.

Measure the width of your door frame. Most door frames that are 4 feet wide or less require a 2-by-6 header. Between 4 and 5 feet, the header should be built 2 inches wide and 8 inches long while a larger opening needs a header that is 2-by-12. When in doubt, use 2-by-12-inch headers.

It went like this: Measure the span in feet and add 2 to that number. The sum will be the height of your double header in inches. For example, if the span is 4 feet, add 2 to 4 for a sum of 6. Therefore, the header would need to be made from doubled 2x6s.

It went like this: Measure the span in feet and add 2 to that number. The sum will be the height of your double header in inches. For example, if the span is 4 feet, add 2 to 4 for a sum of 6. Therefore, the header would need to be made from doubled 2x6s.

So if you're on the top floor, you can use 2 2x4's (unless the building is 36' wide, in which case you'll need 2 2x6's). If you have a floor above, you'll need 2 2x6's (unless the building is 36' wide, in which case you'll need 2 2x8's).

Common Window Header Sizes Like other pieces used in wall systems, window header thickness is limited by the depth of the wall. Most wall systems use two-by-fours, which are actually 3-1/2 inches wide.But this is not possible in walls since the walls always have to maintain that 3-1/2-inch depth.

If you are putting in an opening between 4 and 5 feet wide, then you'll need two 2-by-8 headers. If the opening will be 5 to 6 feet wide, such as for double doors, then you will need two 2-by-10 headers. For an opening 6 to 7 feet wide, you will need two 2-by-12 headers.

1 Answer. A header of that size should be double 2x10, or at least 2x8. Sag is a concern (you don't want your windows to bind), but lateral stability is also.

2-by-4-inch Header For an interior door, make a header with two 2-by-4s laid flat together, on the 4-inch faces (which actually are 3 1/2 inches but match the studs on either side). This double header goes between the king studs at the proper height for the top of the rough frame, nailed to the king studs on each side.

Synopsis: Double 2×12 headers are still the standard for window and door openings, even though the IRC lists other options for headers that save lumber, minimize thermal bridging, and save space for insulation.