Header Size Calculator

What size header do I need?

ft
Ground snow load
Building width
Header carries

Use a

2-2x8header

From the North Carolina supplemental span table for No. 2 Southern pine in exterior bearing walls. Other species and grades differ. Use the next wider building width when yours falls between. Confirm against your local code or a licensed professional.

2-2x8 header5 ft opening1 jack stud each end
Maximum span for this header5 ft 2 in
Jack studs each end1
Opening5 ft
Ground snow30 psf
Building width28 ft

Look up a header for an exterior bearing wall in the published table for No. 2 Southern pine.

How it works

This reads the table for your snow load, building width and load, then picks the smallest listed header that clears your opening.

Before you order

  • Species and grade matter, so confirm the lumber you are buying.
  • Add king studs at both sides of the opening.
  • Long openings or point loads need a licensed professional.

Common questions

What size header for a 6 foot opening?

It depends on loads. A 28 foot wide building at 30 psf ground snow needs a 3-2x10 or a 2-2x12 for this table.

Why does building width matter?

A wider building puts more roof on each wall, so the same header spans less.