Replies

1. 
   DanH | Sep 13, 2014 05:38pm | #1

   If that were a solid sheet of plywood across the full span that would make a substantial header.  But it's hard to say how the plywood is run from the picture.

1. 
   user-3532547 | Sep 13, 2014 07:00pm | #2

   Plywood? Are you speaking about the header? It is two 2x4s alone, no plywood between. The room is sheathed in t1-11 siding at this point.

2. 
   deadnuts | Sep 13, 2014 07:46pm | #3

   Simple

   Renovating an unfinished addition? I don't believe such a project can be legally persued.

   If this is an additional to a dwelling, then I believe it needs to be permited. If it needs to be permitted, then chances are, after 25 years, that permit has long expired. The longest duration I have been able to retain a building permit (to improvement on one of my personal properties) was 6 years. And that was a logistical hassel and costly nightmare. My advice is that if you want to build professionaly, then renew your permit and build it according to plan. If you are not capable of detailing a set of plans which can secure a building permit, then hire someone that can. It's that simple.

   BTW: Hammer taping is not legitimate structural analysis. It's only....well, hammer tapping. Get with the program.

1. 
   user-3532547 | Sep 14, 2014 12:20am | #4

   I accept your point in regards to seeking proper permits and the benefits of such. Yet, I am not a professional and am perfectly within my purview, legally and in skill, to renovate my own home's addition by updating the windows and throwing up wallboard and trim. 

   My question was specifically in regards to the framing. If it is safe and stable as it was built some time ago, or should I seek, permitted or professionally or not, to improve or change the current framing.

   I of course know that hammer tapping isn't "structural analysis" but I was simply trying to provide an accurate picture of the situation in hopes of receiving helpful advice. I felt the hammer tap, however basic, was relevant. 

   I appreciate your time and consideration nonetheless

1. 
   deadnuts | Sep 14, 2014 09:00am | #6

   Sorry; I believe you're dead wrong.

   Jon,

   With all due respect, you did not begin your discussion with questions strictly related to windows, throwing up wallboard and installing trim. You are asking about making structural modifications to your home including, but perhaps not limited to,  structural changes to door or window headers.  You are not within your legal perview to perform that type of work without a building permit whether you have a professional contractor do the work or do the work yourself.

   If your addition (that was built 25 years ago) was not permited, built to approved plan, inspected, and finaled, then you have a non-conforming, illegal structure built on your property. You may not think so, but the law will rule otherwise.  Sure, you can perform cosmetic and repair work on your illegal structure, but that doesn't change the legal status of your improvements.

   Again, if you are currently considering structural changes (and you admitted as much in this forum), then you are legally obligated to obtain a building permit. That building permit with have to contain structural direction as to the header you are going to modify. Asking asking for specific advice on that issue in this forum is ((IMO) largely irrelevant *. Additionally, anyone that responds to your inquiry for structural advice without formally becoming an engineer of record for your project is unprofessional and (IMO) an idiot.

   Cheers!

   *particuarly since you believe "hammer tapping" is accurate structural analysis and no posted replies in this forum will, in and of itself, qualify as an "engineer of record" advice.

3. 
   catmandeux | Sep 14, 2014 08:27am | #5

   Headers are not correct, should be fixed.

   That is not the correct way to frame headers over doors or windows. It wasn't to code when it was built and it has not improved with age ( I think that only works with wine) . Just because it hasn't failed yet, doesn't mean it is a good or acceptable situation.

   If you have everything in the open already, why not just fix it?

1. 
   DanH | Sep 14, 2014 09:05am | #7

   Yeah, it would be one thing if there were complications -- not enough headroom, other structure in the way, etc.  But if it's as open as it appears in the photo it could be fixed in an hour.  No reason not to do it right.

4. 
   wmheinz | Sep 14, 2014 10:26am | #8

   Of course you should correct it...

   The mere fact you are writing into this blog tells me that you already know the right answer.  Otherwise, you would have moved on with the work.  You need to change the header out to meet the code and common sense.  I always put myself in the next owners position and what I would think if I uncovered this situation....  "If he built this header this way, what other shortcuts had this guy done??"....Make the change and move on....do the right thing..  Oh, also....get a permit...it will provide all the guidance you need...

5. 
   sapwood | Sep 14, 2014 01:18pm | #9

   What is above this room? Those look like floor joists above, that are supported by hangers nailed to.... what? Is that the header? If it isn't, then I'll agree with others who say to change the framing: add proper headers and king studs. 

   If you are going to add insulation, wiring, sheetrock, etc than you will most likely need a permit. You would here in my area, anyway. At least the permit boys would say so. Would I get one? Well, that depends...... For sure, I'd get electrical which is seperate in my area. 

6. 
   AndyEngel | Sep 17, 2014 10:20am | #10

   Rim Joist as Header

   It looks to me that the rim joist is acting as your header. Assuming it's continuous and there's a continuous load path below, it's entirely possible that the rim can carry the load over 3ft. doors or windows.