Building Homes or Extensions/header or no header

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Expert: - 1/25/2009


Question
We want to open up an existing opening from 32" to 7 1/2' in an interior load bearing wall. This is a 1947 cape cod style house. Can we get by without a header? If not what kind do we need?

Answer
Hi nathan, most cape cod homes have a main bearing wall down the center or close to it.  This wall supports the floor joists for the upstairs.  A header is needed to make sure the floor above doesn't begin to sag.  A seven and a half foot opening requires a 4x8 header or a double 2x8 header, minimum..I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com

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Bruce E. Johnson

Expertise

I can answer any construction related question in regards to carpentry, concrete, drywall, masonry, structural elements of any type of building, residential or commercial. Interior or exterior.

Experience

Custom Commercial and residential buildings. Churches, theaters, schools and auditoriums. Most recently I am working with the Catholic Church on several design build committees. I have a website related to scheduling and project supervision. Although my expertise is more related to multimillion dollar commercial, educational and theatrical projects my generous credentials in residential and remodelling construction make me a viable source of information regarding all forms of building questions.

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