Comments on: Insulated Door & Window Headers

By: Todd

Todd — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 17:34:33 +0000

Jeff – All good questions. We’ve used several variations in the past, on the outside, in the middle and on the inside. In this case the pre-fabricated wall panels came with it on in the inside. That’s fairly standard unless we request it differently because that leaves the “meat” of the header to the outside of the wall so it can be “tied” together with the sheathing.

The dew point is an interesting comment and one I hadn’t given much thought to. From that point of view the exterior position is probably best.

This particular header application has very light loads and we probably could have used a single 2x for additional insulation value.

On larger headers the issue of having nailing surfaces certainly comes into play both inside and out.

By: jeff_williams

jeff_williams — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:50:01 +0000

Todd, in the video it shows that the insulation is to the inside of the header. Is the load on an exterior wall carried evenly on the whole wall or to one side? Could you move the insulation to the outside plane of the header just to keep the dew point somewhere within the foam? Or did you need the wood for a nailer for the window/door trim?

By: Green Construction Tips - BrawnHumus

Green Construction Tips - BrawnHumus — Sun, 06 Feb 2011 15:04:21 +0000

[...] less framing in headers, corners, and interior wall [...]

By: Matt

Matt — Sat, 03 Jul 2010 15:16:47 +0000

In replay to above suggestion, if you’re framing on 24″ centers, use 2×6 studs rather than 2x4s

By: Mark Florence

Mark Florence — Fri, 14 May 2010 23:41:10 +0000

Todd,

Relevant article, especially considering the renewed focus on energy efficiency and green building techniques. When it comes to framing methods, the following is a list of techniques that should be considered when building a new home:

1) Frame 24″ on center rather than 16″ on center.
2) Use less framing and more insulation in corners and wall intersections.
3) Use insulated sheathing under the exterior siding/brick.

Because safety is the top priority in any building project, the local building inspector should be consulted prior to using any of the listed methods.

Hope this helps.