4x4 as a header?

no...

Sure.

If you want to be a hack.

Didn't take long to wrap this one up.

what about and 4x6?

if this is the 'outer' wall that carries the weight of the roof, do it right-that's how character is born

CJ21 said:

what about and 4x6?

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I've seen Larry Haun do that in the video. As long as at can carry the load properly.

CJ21 said:

I am wondering could you use a 4x4 as header for a window or door for 2x4 outside garage wall?

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CJ21 said:

what about and 4x6?

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4x4 as a header...absolutely under the right conditions.

4x6 will work also, under the right conditions....

Come on CJ, you've been around long enough to know better than ask a loaded question like this....

Yes I know but what, I am trying to avoid using 2 2x6's with 1/2'' OSB between them.

griz said:

4x4 as a header...absolutely under the right conditions. 4x6 will work also, under the right conditions.... Come on CJ, you've been around long enough to know better than ask a loaded question like this....

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This is correct, however it just looks hackish to me to see a 4x4 up there. Lol

In a pinch, I might even do it on my own project, but I doubt I would on a job for someone else.

It is speced out (in DF), in some Cali work.

CJ21 said:

Yes I know but what, I am trying to avoid using 2 2x6's with 1/2'' OSB between them.

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Why?

That's more work and more lumber I got to buy.

CJ21 said:

That's more work and more lumber I got to buy.

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There are other ways to save money and improve efficiency. It takes very little time to build headers. Its basic framing. I don't mean this to sound harsh..just reality IMHO.

They do make headers in 3.5 inch and 5.5 inch thickness that have an insulated core that are rated for use as headers. They would save you time but not material costs.

I have found that if you do it right there are no other options..imop..

I don't see why not, as long as it's a short span. The rule of thumb in the old days was 4'-4x4, 6'-4x6, 8'-4x8, etc. before that I think it was a flat 2x4. I've never really understood the idea that every exterior header be a 2x12.

Bearded Wonder said:

This is correct, however it just looks hackish to me to see a 4x4 up there. Lol

In a pinch, I might even do it on my own project, but I doubt I would on a job for someone else.

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I've been on more than one job where a 4x4 was called out as a header.

those larry haun videos are roughly 20 years old.. and those codes are too.. dont risk it go with a bigger header.. if i use 2x6 based on headroom i do 3 ply sometimes 4 ply

woodworkbykirk said:

those larry haun videos are roughly 20 years old.. and those codes are too.. dont risk it go with a bigger header.. if i use 2x6 based on headroom i do 3 ply sometimes 4 ply

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?????..... 3 ply or 4 ply of what

Absolutely you can use a 4x4 or 2-2x4s for headers.

depends on the span of course and the width of the house and what it is carrying.

You are in Alabama, so no snow load of course, and house is about 28 feet in width. You are allowed to go about 42" for a man door let's say. Or if the house is wider, then about 35" for a door.

Personally I like the 4x4 because of the ease of install but I actually preferred to make the header out of 2x4 with Ply. no glue, 16d sinkers top & bottom oh, 6" o.c.


Andy.