How To Build A Garage Door Header

How to Build a Garage Door Header

A garage door header is a crucial structural component that supports the weight of your garage door and the wall above it. Building a header correctly is essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of your garage. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to build a garage door header:

Step 1: Determine the Header Size

The size of the header will depend on the width of your garage door and the weight it needs to support. Use a header calculator to determine the appropriate header size based on these factors. The header should extend at least 12 inches beyond the sides of the garage door opening.

Step 2: Gather the Materials

You will need the following materials for building the header:

Header (size determined in Step 1)
2x6 or 2x8 header joists
Structural screws (3 inches or longer)
Simpson strong-ties or hurricane ties
Framing nails
Level
Tape measure
Circular saw

Step 3: Install the Header Joists

Cut the header joists to the required length. Place the joists parallel to and on both sides of the garage door opening, 16 inches on center. Secure them to the top plate of the wall framing using framing nails. Use Simpson strong-ties or hurricane ties to reinforce the joints between the joists and the top plate.

Step 4: Install the Header

Place the header on top of the header joists and center it over the garage door opening. Secure the header to the joists using structural screws. The screws should be spaced 6 inches apart and penetrate the header and joists by at least 2 inches.

Step 5: Install the Jack Studs

Jack studs are vertical studs that support the header in the center. Cut two jack studs to the height of the garage door opening minus the thickness of the header. Place the jack studs on both sides of the header, centered under the header joists. Secure the jack studs to the header and the header joists using framing nails.

Step 6: Install the Cripple Studs

Cripple studs are short studs that fill the space between the jack studs and the wall framing. Cut the cripple studs to the required length and place them on both sides of the jack studs, 16 inches on center. Secure them to the header joists and the top plate of the wall framing using framing nails.

Step 7: Check the Level

Once all the components are installed, check the level of the header and make any necessary adjustments. Use shims between the header and the jack studs or cripple studs to level the header.

Step 8: Reinforce the Header

To ensure the header is strong enough to support the weight, install a row of blocking between the header joists, centered under the header. The blocking should be cut to the length of the header joists and should be made from the same material as the joists. Secure the blocking to the header joists using structural screws.

Building a garage door header requires proper planning, accurate measurements, and careful installation. By following these steps, you can ensure a strong and durable header that will support your garage door and protect your property.