How to Support a Rotten Window Header
The window header is part of the supporting framework above the window opening. The header rests on top of the trimming, or jack, stud ends and is flanked at either end by the king studs. The king and trimming studs run vertically on either side of the window opening while the header runs horizontally above the window opening. The header typically consists of two lengths of framing lumber that are sandwiched together to form the required thickness for the window opening. You can support and replace a rotted window header by replacing one rotted portion of the header at a time.
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- Pry bar
- Hammer
- Framing lumber, same dimensions as the header
- Miter saw
- Framing nails
Instructions
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1
Measure the length and width of the rotten header boards on either side of the window opening with a tape measure.
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2
Slide the pry bar between the two header boards along the bottom edge and pry one loose from the window opening. Set the rotten header board aside. Pull out the nails with the claw end of a hammer
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3
Lay a framing board on the table with the miter saw. Measure the board to the length of the header boards and mark it with a pencil. Slide the board along the miter saw until the pencil mark lines up with the edge of the saw blade.
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4
Squeeze the trigger on the miter saw and guide it down through the framing board and back to the start position then release the trigger.
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5
Fit the framing board into the space between the trimming studs where you removed the first header board. Hammer four evenly spaced framing nails at a 45-degree angle through the ends of the framing board into the trimming studs.
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6
Remove the remaining rotted header board with a pry bar and repeat Steps 3 through 5 to install the second header board. Fasten the two replacement header boards together every 4 to 6 inches with framing nails.
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Tips & Warnings
Inspect the framing boards around the header to be sure that other boards around the window opening are not rotten.
Wear eye protection when supporting and replacing rotten window headers.
