Expert: Dave Johnson - 12/27/2007

Question
I want to add a door where there was none before. the particular wall it will go into is in my basement. this wall is finished on both sides. I want to put in a regular 30 in. door. the door frame will certainly fit ok between the studs after I cut an opening with a recip. saw BUT I'm wondering if I need to double the studs on each side like a regular door installation? also, do I need to worry about "load bearing" at all? (this huge I beam that must be supporting the house runs parallel to the wall only a couple feet away)

Answer
Hi ken,
Sounds like the beam is taking care of the load, so you shouldn't need a header. But ideally there should be at least a double 2"x4" over the door and on either side. This is to keep the door from "wiggling" the framing when used.
Cut the hole 4" wider and 4" higher than the new door
frame. Then pit in (2) 2"x4" on edge, apply a 2"x4" under each side of these and make sure you add sheathing.
P.S. If your walls are 2"x6"..adjust accordingly.
Best of luck, Dave
Happy New Year!