How To Frame A Header For A Sliding Glass Door

Cut the door header.

How to frame a header for a sliding glass door.

When in doubt build a double 2 12 header sandwich like we explain next. This is the actual thickness of a 2x4. Also be aware double or triple jack studs may be required based on the opening width and the load the header carries. You can access a free copy of the 2012 international building code here.

When installing a sliding door the frame is going to require the most attention. Wide a common patio door width. Non load bearing windows and doors do not require a structural header. A 36 door has a rough opening width of 38 so your header is cut at 41.

Measure the width of your door frame. Section r502 5 shares allowable girder and header spans. For instance in the basement remodel all the doors have simple 2 4 framing around them. You will need to add 1 2 of plywood between the 2x4 s to get the right wall thickness of 3 1 2.

Wide window and door openings and in most situations be code compliant for openings up to 6 ft. To make the door header the top of the door frame cut two 2x4s to the same length as the width of the original opening and nail them securely together. In all but the most bizarre situations they ll easily carry the weight for 4 ft. Most door frames that are 4 feet wide or less require a 2 by 6 header.

Between 4 and 5 feet the header should be built 2 inches wide and 8 inches long while a larger opening needs a header that is 2 by 12. The steps to frame a sliding door and the tools required for the job are listed below.