Header Sizing Explained: What Every Framer Needs to Know
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Sizing headers correctly is one of the most important skills in residential framing, and one of the most misunderstood. In this video, we break down exactly how to determine header size based on span, load, and what the code book allows.
We cover three of the most common ways to build a header: standard plied lumber, insulated box headers, and LVL headers flush to the double top plate, along with the pros and cons of each from a load transfer standpoint. We also go over how to determine the correct number of jack studs and king studs for different opening widths and load conditions.
From basic window openings to wide patio doors carrying multiple floors of load, this video walks through real job site examples so you can see how these decisions are actually made in the field.
Topics include: reading the header sizing table, 2x10 and 2x12 headers, LVL headers, box headers with insulation, jack stud and trimmer counts, interior vs exterior headers, load-bearing vs non-load-bearing walls, and when to call an engineer.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction — What Header Sizing Covers
00:26 3 Ways to Build a Header
00:41 Method 1: Standard Plied Header
01:33 Method 2: Insulated Box Header
02:27 Method 3: LVL Flush to Top Plate
03:56 Why LVLs Have Fewer Connections (and Why That Matters)
06:12 What Headers Are Actually Doing (Load Basics)
07:54 Reading the Structure: Gable Ends vs Load Bearing Walls
10:38 The Two Variables That Size Every Header
12:26 Jack Studs: How Many and Why
13:55 Snow Load and How It Affects Header Size
15:31 Codebook Walkthrough: Example 1 (Roof Only, Single Story)
15:47 Using the IRC Header Span Chart
20:09 Codebook Walkthrough: Example 2 (Two Story, Center Bearing Floor)
22:33 How We Build a Cut List During Layout
25:01 Real Job Site Examples: Basement Headers
26:39 Interior Headers: Load Bearing vs Non-Load Bearing
27:51 Wide Openings and When You Need an Engineer
29:35 Wrapping Up