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    DonBigelow's Avatar
    DonBigelow Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Mar 10, 2011, 10:27 PM
    how do I make a header to span about 8' where I want to take out a load bearing wall?
    Title: Header to replace a load bearing wall

    I want to make a header, 2x10, 1/2" plywood, 2x10, 1/2" plywood, 2x10, nailed and glued together to span about 8'where I wish to remove a load bearing wall. Will the header support the weight?
    creahands's Avatar
    creahands Posts: 2,854, Reputation: 195
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    #2

    Mar 11, 2011, 03:31 AM

    This is a question answered by the building dept or architect/construction engineer.

    Need to know where the load is going to.

    What is above the header? One floor, 2 floors? More.
    What type of roof?

    All these things need to be known in order to give a correct answer.


    Chuck
    DonBigelow's Avatar
    DonBigelow Posts: 2, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Mar 11, 2011, 06:03 AM

    Chuck,
    Thanks for responding.

    This header will be in a wall that supports a second story wall, attic floor and roof rafters above that. There is also an addition on the other side of the wall that is just one story. Joists for both sides run perpendicular to wall. Roof is A framed with asphalt shingles.

    Don
    creahands's Avatar
    creahands Posts: 2,854, Reputation: 195
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    #4

    Mar 11, 2011, 08:57 AM

    I am not an engineer. But would recommend going to 2x12's. Also continue supports(studs and jack studs) to foundation.

    Submit a copy of your plan to building dept for approval. Once u have building permit u will be good to go.

    Good luck

    Chuck
    ma0641's Avatar
    ma0641 Posts: 15,675, Reputation: 1012
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    #5

    Mar 12, 2011, 02:06 PM
    What is the framing pattern on the wall you wish to remove? Many framing designs are based on a size to span ration that is based on 1 and 2 story homes. Residential Carpentry by Reed shows for a 2 story house and roof, 7-8' span 2X10 and 8-9' span 2X12. I'd go for the 2X12 and plywood. I build a lot of habitat for Humanity houses and we use 2 2X12 with a 1/2 ply spacer for all our openings, load and non load bearing, 1 and 2 story. 3 2x/s + ply will give you a strange wall unless you can hide the thickness.
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