On the gable end of my house there was a breeze-way that became an additional room. I would like to open up that wall from the doorway to about a 10′ opening. The code only requires a flat 2×4 header for a maximum width 8′ opening, but says nothing about a wider opening. What is generally advised in this situation?
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Replies
#1 do you know that your header will not have any vertical load? 10' is not a small span- the rim joist may have a joint, roof bearing points may travel through your opening, etc.
#2 is there interior space on both sides of this opening? So no wind loads?
I would consider a double 2x6 or 2x8 on edge (like a conventional header) or a two or three ply 2x4 on the flat. One of the concerns is how your header will handle lateral pressure. There may not be much, but without seeing the area in question it would be hard to say.
Thanks for the reply. It’s a simple cape cod. The joist joints and support beam do not run near this section of the wall. I have simple rafters as well. The only wind load is half of the gable wall that peaks above the addition (basically a triangle area)
what does the addition roof look like?
Does it rest on the wall you are opening up?