Carpentry and Woodworking - Build a Framing Header

What size framing material should I use to build a framing header 16 feet long above a garage door?? :confused:

It depends on whether the header will be bearing the roof loads or upper stories or not.

If it is a bearing wall (rafters and/or 2nd floor bearing walls terminate over the header), only and engineered beam will work for that span.

For non bearing walls (gable end) you "might" be able to use doubled 2x8s or larger especially if they are stronger lumber species.

You need to consult your local code enforcement office for what is allowable given your circumstances.

Like manhattan if it is not load bearing you can use a sandwich header. But, for that length, I believe I would opt for 2x10's with an internal sandwich of 1/2" plywood for lateral strength. 16' is a long span, and you don't want it sagging. In addition, use a triple 2x4 jack rafter tie from the top of the header fastened with truss plates, and tie it into the peak where the rafters come together with the truss plates as well. This will give you a warm and fuzzy feeling and will help with any possible sagging.

Why anyone would use anything smaller than a 2x12 header would be beyond me. As pointed out, if it's load bearing, an engineered LVL would be the answer. The height of the beam would be determined by an engineer based on the load and would need to be approved by your local building inspector.

Drive through some housing additions that are 20-40 years old and look at all the sagging garage door openings. If I built a house of my own, it would have engineered headers throughout.

When in doubt, use a 2x12...

When in doubt, use a 2x12...


I agree :thumbup:

Bigger is always better. More expensive, but better. LVL or Paralam is even betterer.