How to Frame an Open Doorway

The framing for an open doorway, an opening without a door that opens and closes, is basically identical to the common door construction techniques. The frame defines and provides the support for the opening and is composed of a beam or header that supports the opening and studs that support the header. These components are covered by the wall sheathing material to finish the open doorway.

2-by-8 lumber
1/2-inch plywood
16d nails

Instructions

- 1
  Determine the width and height of the open doorway. Because it doesn’t have to fit a door, the open doorway can be wider and higher than other doors within the building.
- 2
  Construct a header for the doorway. This constructed beam is 3 inches longer than the width of the door. Cut two 2-by-8-boards to length. Place a 1/2-inch piece of plywood between the boards and nail together using 16d nails.
- 3
  Place the header between two wall studs. Position the header so its bottom is equal to the planned height of the open doorway. Nail in place using 16d nails through the wall stud into the end of the header.
- 4
  Cut two jack studs, a short stud that supports the header, to the height of planned door opening. Nail the jack studs to the wall studs below the header.
- 5
  Place cripples, short studs between the top of the header and the top plate, every 16 inches to support the wall's sheathing or drywall. Cripples are not necessary if the height of the open doorway is high enough that the header reaches the top plate of the wall.

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