Header
A horizontal structural member installed above a door, window, or other opening in a framed wall to transfer the weight from above around the opening to the jack studs.
In-Depth Explanation
Headers are essential structural components that bridge openings in load-bearing walls, redirecting loads that would normally be carried by the removed studs. Common header construction methods include doubled dimensional lumber, engineered lumber products like LVL, and glulam beams for larger openings. The required header size depends on span, loads being carried, and local building codes. In non-load-bearing walls, headers are often just flat 2x4s, but in load-bearing walls properly sized headers are critical for structural integrity. Headers sit on jack studs that transfer the concentrated load down to the foundation.
Usage Example
The framer built the garage door header from a 3-1/2 by 11-7/8 inch LVL beam to span the 16-foot opening without intermediate posts.