Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 5/24/2011

Question
Hi Bruce ~  thanks for being available!
I am hanging a single, sliding  1/2" TH frameless glass door using KT Glass Expert hardware from Klein USA, Inc. but they don't give me specific structural requirements needed for the header.  I am framing out using steel studs and the track needs to get screwed into top structure (not side) but I don't know how much structure I need for hanging a 400 lb door (door itself is only about 112 lbs but up to 400 lbs includes weight of person who may lean on it to get in and out of tub shower).  Can you help?
Thank you!!

Answer
Hi Lekha, a standard header header requirement for a 5 foot opening is a double 2x6 or a 4x6.  But since you are using steel stud framing you can use a steel stud for the header.  When using a steel stud for a header you turn it so that the flat side is down and use a 20 gauge or thicker stud..this would be at least a 33mil thickness. I don't know how you are doing the framing above the header or what type of studs you are using but that is important as well.  But for that span a 20 ga./ 33mil. stud should be okay.  I hope this information helps please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com