Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 7/13/2009

Question
We're building a large garage (22x36'# with attic trusses #10/12 pitch# with a 16' x 8' garage door.  The material company gave us 2 - 2x12x17' LVL beams for the header beam.  We did 2x6 framing rather than 2x4 - how do we make up the additional 2 inches for the header?  Do we put a 2x12" in between, then glue & nail it all together or is it okay to just put spacers between the 2 LVL beams (not a solid piece between)?  I was worried that putting spacers between would reduce the strength - that it'd be stronger with the two lvl joined together solidly.  Thanks.

Answer
Hi Jenny, it is best to connect the two LVLs to each other and then furr out the remaining thickness with conventional framing.  Basically you can install two by fours flat and then put a half inch plywood sheathing to bring the beam to the proper thickness.  It is usually best to make the LVLs flush to the inside of the garage wall because if you are using a garage door opener etc. it will be best mounted solidly to the header.  Then furr out the outside and finish to match the house siding or whatever treatment you are planning. I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com