The Ultimate Header Span Load Bearing Header Size Chart: A Guide to Selecting the Right Header for Your Project

Spanning a wide opening in a wall or ceiling requires careful consideration of the type of header used and its ability to carry the load. A header is a horizontal structural member that supports the weight above it, including the weight of the wall or ceiling itself, as well as any additional loads such as cabinetry, appliances, or lighting fixtures. Choosing the correct header size is essential to ensure the structural integrity of your project.

Header Span Load Bearing Header Size Chart

The following table provides a general guideline for header span load bearing header size selection based on the span length and the load it is required to support.

Understanding Header Terminology

• Span: The distance between the two supports of the header.
• Load: The total weight that the header must support, including the weight of the wall or ceiling and any additional loads.
• Allowable Load: The maximum load that the header is designed to carry safely.

Types of Headers

There are several types of headers available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:

• Solid Headers: Made from a single piece of lumber, solid headers are economical and easy to install. However, they are not as strong as other types of headers and are limited in the span lengths they can support.
• Laminated Headers: Made from two or more pieces of lumber that are glued together, laminated headers are stronger than solid headers and can support longer spans. They are also more expensive and require more time to install.
• Engineered Headers: Made from a combination of wood and steel, engineered headers are the strongest type of header and can support the longest spans. They are also the most expensive and require specialized installation.

Choosing the Right Header

The type and size of header required for your project will depend on the following factors:

• Span Length: The length of the opening that the header will be supporting.
• Load: The total weight that the header will be supporting.
• Building Code Requirements: Local building codes may specify the minimum header size requirements for different types of construction.
• Cost: The cost of the header will vary depending on the type and size of header required.

Header Installation

Header installation is a critical step in ensuring the structural integrity of your project. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation. Some general guidelines for header installation include:

• The header should be supported by at least two studs on each end.
• The header should be level and flush with the surrounding framing.
• The header should be fastened securely to the studs using nails or screws.
• The opening below the header should be framed with cripples to support the weight of the wall or ceiling.

Benefits of Using the Correct Header

Using the correct header for your project provides numerous benefits:

• Structural Integrity: A properly sized header ensures that the wall or ceiling will be able to support the weight above it without sagging or failing.
• Safety: A header that is too small may not be able to support the load, which could lead to a collapse.
• Code Compliance: Using the correct header size is important for code compliance and ensures that your project meets the minimum safety requirements.

Humorous Stories: Lessons Learned

• A homeowner decided to save money by using a smaller header than recommended for a large opening in their kitchen. After a few months, the header began to sag, causing the kitchen island to crack and the cabinets to pull away from the wall. The homeowner had to hire a contractor to replace the header and repair the damage, which ended up costing them more than if they had used the correct header in the first place.

  

• A contractor was installing a new garage door and decided to use a solid header instead of a laminated header. When the garage door was installed, it was too heavy for the solid header and caused it to snap. The contractor had to replace the header and the garage door, adding significant time and expense to the project.

• A homeowner was building a deck and decided to use a header that was too short for the span. As a result, the deck sagged and became unsafe. The homeowner had to tear down the deck and rebuild it with a longer header.

  

Lessons Learned:

• Saving money by using a smaller header is not worth the risk of structural failure.
• Using the correct type of header is important for the safety of your project.
• Following the manufacturer's instructions for header installation is essential to ensure proper performance.

Tips and Tricks

• If you are not sure what size header to use, consult with a structural engineer.
• Use pressure-treated lumber for headers that will be exposed to the elements.
• Toenail the header to the studs for added strength.
• Install a header support bracket to help support the header and prevent sagging.

FAQs

1. What is the recommended span for a 2x6 header?
   - Up to 6 feet

2. What type of header is best for supporting a heavy load?
   - Engineered header

3. Can I use a smaller header if I add additional support?
   - No, it is not recommended to use a smaller header even with additional support.

4. How do I determine the load that a header must support?
   - Calculate the weight of the wall or ceiling and any additional loads, such as cabinetry, appliances, or lighting fixtures.

5. What are the consequences of using a header that is too small?
   - Sagging, cracking, and collapse of the wall or ceiling.

6. Is it okay to cut a hole in a header for plumbing or electrical?
   - Yes, but it is important to consult with a structural engineer to ensure that the hole does not compromise the strength of the header.

7. How much weight can a 2x8 header support?
   - 600 pounds

8. What is the best way to install a header?
   - Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.