How to Build a Wall Header

One of the most complex calculations in home construction involves the proper header size for a door or window opening in a framed wall. Many variables, including the building width, the length of the opening and the type of wood used for framing the header, must be assessed before calculating the appropriate header size. You can contact your local building code for assistance. A simple method some carpenters use is to overbuild the header with large pieces of lumber. This process creates headers that meet the building code requirements in most situations.

Tape measure
Pencil
Two 2-by-12s
Circular saw
Plywood
Hammer
16d nails

Instructions

- 1
  Take a tape measure and measure the length of the opening in the wall. Use the tape measure and pencil to measure and mark a 2-by-12 board, making the marks 3 inches longer than the opening. Mark another 2-by-12 piece the exact same way.
- 2
  Use a circular saw to cut the two pieces of lumber to length using your marks. Take the tape measure and mark a 1/2-inch-thick panel of plywood the same length and width as the two 2-by-12s. Use the circular saw to cut the plywood to the correct dimensions.
- 3
  Place the piece of plywood between the two 2-by-12s. Use a hammer to drive three 16d nails across the width of the header at one end. The nails should pierce all three components.
- 4
  Hammer three nails across the width header every 16 inches working from one end of the header to the other.

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