You guys are saying that split trimmers will make you fail a framing inspection, what about when the window height is lower so that your header is say at 81 3/4 when youre using 104 5/8 studs so you have to have cripples above the header? We do stuff like that quite a bit.

 

you have to have cripples above the header? We do stuff like that quite a bit.

Sounds "old school" to me.

The very last time I put the headers down at the top of the door RO was on a multi-family job where the doors got changed to metal framed from standard doors. Had to change out all the first floor unit entry door headers.
What a PITA.

Since then I put ALL headers up tight under the top plate and furr down to the door RO top. All my sills (doors and windows) get double plates...stiffens things up and provides a bit more wood for the trim man. Its a much easier way to change out openings...IF EVER REQUIRED.

 

I see no problem with split trimmers. I also see no one mentioned using a joist hanger.......Did you know you can use a joist hanger in place of a trimmer? It has to be the capable of the load but simpson makes anything you need.

 

Those are very cool for openings that are tight in between exposed columns like in the two Lindal's I have and am doing. They send out windows that fill the space between the posts, which leaves you very few header support options. Their primary method in the plans is to run MST 48 straps horizontally across the top and bottom edge of the header. I did the first one like that...what a pain for nailing / screwing the trim. You end up having to pre-drill through the trim and strap just to attach the trim to the house.

Look above the ocean side openings

I am doing another (when the snow lets up) and I am going to suggest the header saddle type. HUC I think.

 

You talking about inverted flange hangers?? Those are neat! As far as using for all the window headers.... I don't know about that!? The original post was about saving time and money! Are you talking about a single king stud and that's it?

 

A single trimmer stud bears the weight of the header. The king stud could also bear that weight if properly tranfered with the hardware. Given the cost of the hardware and the cost of a stud I dont know whats gained but it can be useful in remodeling.