Header replacement
#1
11-21-06, 03:59 AM
Header replacement
I am in the process of installing a 10 ft casement window in a 12 ft opening. I framed the opening to fit the window but what I discovered was the header has splits in two places and there were 2x4's under these splits but I took them out for the new window. Can I nail gusset plates on the splits or should I replace the header to make it one piece? I live in New England and sometimes we get a lot of snow. The existing header is 8.5". Must have been a ripped 2x10. Also, it's a 1 story ranch with a trussed roof.
#2
11-21-06, 06:38 AM
Group Moderator
8.5" sounds quite small for a 12' wide opening. You would need to have a structural engineer check it out for sure, so as to take all your loads into account and get the proper sizing.
I would "think" that a 3.5" x 9.5" x 12' LVL or Glulam would be sufficient for a common load, but again, this isn't something a guy can guess at sight unseen. But in answer to your questions, no- plates will not help a header that is split. And yes, if the splits compromise the strength of the header, the header should be replaced.
I say 9.5" LVL with the idea that there is enough room for a standard width header (since you removed 2x4's) otherwise the window R.O. could be lowered to allow for it.
I would "think" that a 3.5" x 9.5" x 12' LVL or Glulam would be sufficient for a common load, but again, this isn't something a guy can guess at sight unseen. But in answer to your questions, no- plates will not help a header that is split. And yes, if the splits compromise the strength of the header, the header should be replaced.
I say 9.5" LVL with the idea that there is enough room for a standard width header (since you removed 2x4's) otherwise the window R.O. could be lowered to allow for it.
