Replies

1. 
   Gene_Davis | May 02, 2006 02:53pm | #1

   Go to the TrusJoist MacMillan site and download the engineers' and specifiers' guide for their Microlam LVL products.  It is a .pdf file of the document, quite a few pages.

   You will need to know what your design roof loading is, but your local code official can tell you what to figure for if you don't know.

   The TrusJoist guide will tell you everything you want to know about sizing the beam.

2. 
   Frankie | May 02, 2006 03:10pm | #2

   This is cause for concern.

   See, you are embarking on a project which is primarily structural in nature and therefore a serious undertaking.

   You state that you "have the framing down but need header size and material recommendations."

   However, by asking for the header spec without offering the determining factors required for spec'ing a header suggests that you DON'T "have the framing down." You may feel comfortable in the stud framing because you are going to mimic what is already there, but this is not enough.

   I grant you this isn't rocket science and it is basic enough that given the proper information, you can handle it. My concern is your overconfidence of your knowledge base.

   By your profile, I see this is your first post. Relax. Don't try to imply or impress us with any level of knowledge. It will be easier for us to guide you, we will focus and offer more information than you even considered you needed, and everyone will learn and have fun in the process.

   BTW - the info required for spec'ing a header is its SPAN and the LOAD. above.

   Span = the width of the opening.

   Load = What is above the opening - a second story, a gabled roof...

   Hope to hear from you soon,

   Frankie

   >Pfont color=#61B2E0B/B/font—Hunter S. Thompson

   from Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas