A header is a horizontal structural member that supports the weight of a load above it. The span of a header refers to the distance between the two supports it rests upon. The load bearing capacity of a header indicates the amount of weight it can safely support without failing.
Determining the appropriate header size for a specific application requires consideration of several factors:
Wood:
Steel:
Concrete:
Span | 2x6 | 2x8 | 2x10 |
---|---|---|---|
2 feet | 1,600 lbs | 2,000 lbs | 2,400 lbs |
4 feet | 1,200 lbs | 1,500 lbs | 1,800 lbs |
6 feet | 900 lbs | 1,125 lbs | 1,350 lbs |
8 feet | 700 lbs | 875 lbs | 1,050 lbs |
10 feet | 560 lbs | 700 lbs | 840 lbs |
Span | W8x24 | W10x30 | W12x35 |
---|---|---|---|
10 feet | 8,000 lbs | 12,000 lbs | 16,000 lbs |
15 feet | 6,000 lbs | 9,000 lbs | 12,000 lbs |
20 feet | 4,800 lbs | 7,200 lbs | 9,600 lbs |
25 feet | 4,000 lbs | 6,000 lbs | 8,000 lbs |
30 feet | 3,200 lbs | 4,800 lbs | 6,400 lbs |
Span | 6x12 | 8x14 | 12x18 |
---|---|---|---|
5 feet | 9,000 lbs | 12,000 lbs | 18,000 lbs |
7 feet | 7,200 lbs | 9,600 lbs | 14,400 lbs |
9 feet | 5,800 lbs | 7,700 lbs | 11,600 lbs |
11 feet | 4,800 lbs | 6,400 lbs | 9,600 lbs |
13 feet | 4,000 lbs | 5,300 lbs | 8,000 lbs |
Story 1:
A homeowner decided to build a deck without consulting a professional. He chose a header that was too small for the span, resulting in the deck collapsing under his guests' weight. The lesson learned: never take shortcuts when it comes to structural integrity.
Story 2:
A contractor installed a steel header without properly bolting it to the framing. When the roof was finished, the header failed, causing the ceiling to collapse. The lesson learned: always follow proper installation instructions to ensure safety.
Story 3:
A carpenter accidentally cut a hole in a header during installation. Rather than replace the header, he simply patched the hole with a piece of wood. The weakened header eventually failed, leading to a serious structural problem. The lesson learned: never compromise on the integrity of structural components.
Wood:
Pros:
- Readily available
- Easy to work with
- Cost-effective
Cons:
- Lower load bearing capacity than steel or concrete
- Susceptible to rot and insects
Steel:
Pros:
- High load bearing capacity
- Durable and resistant to fire and rot
- Can span long distances
Cons:
- More expensive than wood or concrete
- Requires specialized equipment for installation
Concrete:
Pros:
- Very high load bearing capacity
- Durable and fire-resistant
- Can be used in seismic areas
Cons:
- Heavy and difficult to install
- Requires time to cure
If you are planning to install a header, it is crucial to do so correctly using the appropriate size and material for your specific application. Consult with a professional if you have any doubts or need assistance with the installation process. By following these guidelines, you can ensure the structural integrity and safety of your building.
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