Old Cabin Remodel 13: A Major Problem

Uncovering a sagging header in an old cabin, and how I'll fix it.

[@mikemadeja7642]

There is another way support your ceiling by the window. 1.) Cut your king studs into jack studs. 2.) install new king studs on either side of your jack studs. 3.) cut out out your old header and install your new header. 4.) Cut your upright jack above your new header and put everything back together. I have been doing remodeling and building for 30 years. This is possible the safest, and quickest way possible for one person.

[@claytonwebb1999]

Was going to give same advise. Relatively easy repair.

[@doone5303]

Exactly what I was thinking and I've never done anything like this

[@falllineridge]

Didn't even think of this fix, thanks! This is probably the route I'll go.

[@David-fv7zg]

Oh Mnan, Ya snooze ya lose I guess, I was just going to say the same thing. You guys are on the ball. The one comment I would have is, be prepared to replace the window. The sag may not come out and you wont be able to get over it, or.....stuff happens with all those tools and wood moving about. If you try to correct the window, that may be the end of it.

[@rsttimberworks]

This is exactly what I was going to recommend. As a framer this is the route I would go it will save you time and money and accomplish the same thing. Glad you didn’t find any termite issues this time around.

[@peteanderson1714]

If your going to fix it do it right. option one IMHO. I'd also pull the window..

[@charlpohlmann4237]

Anything worth doing is worth doing right. Option 1.

[@EYALAVRAHAMI]

It's funny how we never have the time to do things right but we ALWAYS have the time to do things twice 😂.... You know you should be doing it the right way and I trust you will...

[@jenniferhendricksen7859]

A former supervisor of mine always used to say "why is there time to do things over but never time to do things right?"....do.what you know to be right and then you will be able to feel a better sense of accomplishment!

[@monicareid8858]

Definitely redo the header the right way. Using true 2x6’s is likely fine, but for an 8’ stretch I’d consider 2x8’s. Best!

[@approots]

Well, we don't know how much roof is supported. Could look at a span table based on supported roof length and local snow loads. But if a flat 2x4 almost worked then...

[@rickharper1497]

I agree with 2x8, make now stud a jack and run new king.

[@jimmowers7675]

Good evening Wes. I believe your first idea is more than likely the best solution. Thanks for sharing.

[@jesperandersen260]

sits and laughs quietly inside🙂 for you to answer your own question😉 Do the right thing, do it right👍👍👍

[@mikelskelley]

Love your videos, I’m of the opinion fix it properly and then you will never have to worry again, take care

[@jjudy5869]

While fixing the framing on that wall, I would go look at double-pane windows at the local lumber yard. Instead of one huge window, look at two smaller windows with a stud in between them to fill that space. You would still have a wall of windows, but in manageable sizes, and plenty of support for the roof in the middle of the opening.

[@bobbybarker662]

Young man enjoy watching your daily journey providing for your family.

[@flatbedhaulingwithscottn6111]

Hey buddy I’ve ran up on this particular issue before. I would replace the bottom 2x4 with a 2x6 and take 4 thread all rods and counter sink the holes to receive washers. Run the thread all robs through to the upper 2x4. I know it sounds a little strange but it works extremely well. Of course use stainless steel nuts and washers. I hope this helps. Great videos has always! Thanks.

[@Plrbear98]

The first fix is my vote. Place a new stud to the right of the current one, then you can cut the current one off for the jack stud. Of course, reverse that on the other side. Jack up the top plate at the middle of the window and support that while you remove and replace all the stuff above the window. Should make it easier to get everything out and built correctly. Eagerly awaiting that video!

[@richardeustice1010]

Do it the right way now, you will sleep better and have no regrets, Jack stud for sure!

[@cleokey]

Take it apart and do what's right. It's a great show as always... from California 😊😊

[@donaldtrabeaux5235]

I learned the hard way by keeping old things, if I was you I would replace everything insulation, window, wood. Trust me on this it will save you in the long run.

[@adamsoutdoors]

Fix it right and not have to worry about again later. First idea is best option. Great video, can wait to see the fix for it.

[@jackkrauser7940]

I agree your first plan is the correct solution for it using the jack and king method soap, and 22 by sixes and push cripple. Smack in on top of it.

[@mikewatson4644]

When replacing an old window, I discovered the same construction method in my house. As others have suggested, I turned the king studs into jack studs with new kings next to them. That allowed me to install a proper header. Rule of thumb, for every foot of opening, your header should be an inch tall. So a 6 foot opening should be 2x6 header, 8 foot opening should be 2x8 header, etc. In your case, since a 2x4 laying flat has worked (poorly) a 2x6 sandwich should work, but a 2x8 would be better. Thanks for bringing us along. Good luck. I hope the Christmas tree sales are going beyond expectation.

[@buddyreed2623]

Hi Wes. Like everything you do, you will have a solution. That's another funny idea your son came up with for nail protection. Have good days!

[@harveystephens6115]

Option 1 is my vote! Your son is a hoot and so creative!!!

[@ronnielloyd4514]

You do whatever you feel is the best way

[@60sfoley]

Option 1 with the 6x2’s is definitely the best. If you need to replace the window (I think you should) you could add 1 no 2x4s crippler studs either side and install the 6x2s (8x2s would be better). This would make the window opening smaller but reduce the overall impacted works area reducing the impact on your family and cost etc.

[@robandnell4305]

Sif your local post office has a post board, you might post a copy of it and someone might know. Like watching you and your boy.

[@cvmikeray2]

Wes, when you build the header put a piece of plywood between the 2x6 and put some preload into the boards by putting them on two blocks and put weight in the middle before you nail the 3 together. Where the weighted middle is the bottom of the header. This creates a small crown that will help prevent the sagging.

[@cvmikeray2]

Also if that is a single pain window, replace it with dual pain.

[@fabianlabiche417]

At the end of the day you have to be happy with your decision. Go with your gut. You are doing a wonderful job. God bless you and your family.

[@jonnyoates1986]

Just a little tip I've picked up through my demolition experience. When using your pry bar i find rolling the bar is more effective than levering it. When stripping ply and the top or bottom row of nails don't quite lift, feed a length of 3x2 as close to the stubborn row of nails that you can and close it back up, it will force them off your studwork 👍🏼 happy stripping 😁

[@robertlangford1749]

Your first option will be the best I would double stud beside the stud on the side of the window

[@brucewelty7684]

I was hoping for a Family Christmas tree decorating party.

[@davidhuffine5084]

Your wood looks real nice . I like the grain inn the pieces your putting up . I don't half way solutions , Fix the wall right .

[@lanniemoore200]

Depends on the weather coming your way. Option 1 is the best

[@bluethunder1951]

Interesting problem, lots of solutions for sure, from my perspective I would change the window to two separate double pain windows that can open for summer cooling, and install king post in the middle to support the roof, but hey sometimes you work with what you have.

[@kingbird4925]

I was in a similar situation with much newer house Wes. And I agree with most of the others. I doubt you’ll be able to save that window and it’s probably not worth saving anyway. A new one will improve the energy efficiency a bunch. Pull the window and reframe the opening properly to accommodate whatever size windows that are readily available. Don’t be afraid to put two or three smaller windows side by side to fit the opening and preserve the view. You can put a 4x4 between each window and it’ll look great. That will also eliminate the need for a massive header. A simple doubled 2x4 header is appropriate for up to a 4 foot opening. God bless and Merry Christmas Brother!❤

[@frankcherry3810]

All the pine i get here in Thailand is from Russia. Looks great

[@piledriver141]

Hey Wes, you know the answer. I’m not going to go there. Hope you get a deer 🦌 soon. Tis tha season!!

[@peteroliver3408]

I'd lean to re-framing the wall, you might find deficiencies in the upper plate of the wall too. You might be able to save the window by beefing up the top of the wall to transfer all of the load around the window but likely any option will require replacing the window so in might be best to re-frame for a standard size or measure for a custom size once everything is done.

[@nightsailor1]

Solution A is best. Temporary columns/posts/studs and header before tear out and re-build will be great content.

[@cathybenson5119]

Some of the terminology you used went straight over my head. Lol. Never mind.

[@samvalentine3206]

A quick google refreshed my memory as to the types of studs and terminology...

[@stevedahl3689]

Do it the right way, Wes! That is the only way.

[@JerryGiesler09]

I’d definitely go with Option One. Pull everything out and replace with your milled 2x? lumbers. ;)

[@wileycoyotesr8623]

Really like your bust-it attitude toward wood that's difficult to remove. Sometimes the lumber has to be shown who's boss. I think the burned house may have belonged to Al and Ellie. Their house burned down around 1975. I'll ask them next time we get together and let you know if the house was theirs. Good luck with the bowed window. I say leave it alone. It adds character. Wait until it cracks to fix it. 👍👍👍

[@Mr.Innovator961]

Definitely remove everything above the old window. What was likely saving this window for years was the OSB you removed was acting as a shear wall diaphragm or in simpler terms a box beam effect. I’m guessing this is a bearing wall, reframing a new header with 2x8 dimensional lumber and a plywood sandwiched between the two would still be over span if that’s an 8’-0” or more opening. Your best solution for this span would be a double or triple LVL (Laminated Veneer Lumber) glued together and LVL’s bolted together. Supported by double trimmers and double king studs on both ends. Since you do have potential termite activity I’d frame any structural replacement studs with pressure treated lumber. If LVL’s are too expensive and not immediately available you could also build a 14”or 16” tall x 3-1/2 thick or 5-1/2” thick (depending on wall thickness) x whatever length-plywood box beam header ( all constructed of PT material of course.) consult an engineer or engineering specs for how to build it properly. (It’s simple,easy, and lightweight compared to other replacement header options of this size and span.) Good move for wanting to do it right.

[@frankcherry3810]

This reminds me of home so much. Been in North Thailand for 10 years. From Hickory NC Same table saw I have What I would give for a Lowes with dry, finished lumber. Everything os rough sawn 1" and you have to plane everything

[@rogerr1296]

If you're on pier and beam up front, make sure you've got the proper support underneath the jack studs while you're at it.... if you haven't already that is.

[@horticultureandhomes]

Do it right and up to code. Yes use 2x8 header for that span. I'm amazed the window is still mostly in tact. Good thing the termites weren't in that wall. Better get that boy a hard hat for falling nails😂.

[@StandForFreedom1776]

Your first option is the correct option. That is what I would do. It will also go faster because you are starting from Scratch.

[@homesteadingtasmania9770]

Hey. Love your videos ! From Tasmania -Australia 😊

[@curtcourt1570]

I would just do it right and go with option 1 even though it is more work you'll be much more satisfied with the end result

[@JimPeachley]

Turn the king studs into jack studs, add new king studs and a double 2by header. Only you know how much weight bears down above the window and whether a 2x6 header feels sufficient.

[@Markam248]

If it’s worth doing it’s worth doing right. Turn the existing outside studs into a jack stud. Add new king studs and a new header. Good luck

[@taftamick54]

Might as well yank it all out at this point and do it right.... Nice Christmas gift you just uncovered for yourself...😅.... Merry Christmas to you and the family...

[@droy3886]

Please go with option one and fix it properly. God Bless, Daryl

[@russellgayhart106]

Cut the existing studs off to make your jack studs. Sister a king to the outside of them. Build your header and put it up. Would be minimal tear out I’d think.

[@relevantusername3342]

Well look at you with a nice intro. Somones been studyin cinematography.

[@tomrorer5288]

Option 1 would be the proper way to fix in my opinion. Big limbs falling on the roof or other damage most likely wouldn’t cause significant damage. Good luck, Merry Christmas!

[@gregbrimer9144]

I enjoyed the video. Do the window right and not halfway. Can't ever go wrong with that.

[@bobbimcintyre9527]

Here’s my 2cents. I would take it all out, replace it with the correct Jack studs and double headers.

[@stevesilsby5288]

That whole window looks so structurally weak. Looks like if someone fell or even leaned upon it they'd go right through. Plus it's single pane -- not very good insulating value. I'd replace the whole thing with a sound modern double pane picture window. Perhaps three or four such units that side-by-side would approcimate the sice of that tired old one. You have to re-frame that wall anyway; just frame it up right from scratch for the brand new window(s) and be done with it. P.S.: That room is looking great!

[@09FLTRMM77]

MM77 Approved 👍🏼👍🏼……………………………………………………………………..I’d go with number 1.

[@samvalentine3206]

While it's best to "do it right" from the start, as you know, one has to shift gears and figure out how to deal with the terrain. I like your second idea as I think it would work fine. Cut out the 2x4 with a sawsall through the toe nails, free up that 2x4, take it out with the supports above, come in with a double 2x6 and pop in some new supports, get rid of the diagonals and put up some new insulation. Hopefully the window will straighten up (we can see the bowing) without cracking any panes. Good luck, Wes! Thanks for the video and sharing your top-notch sidekick!

[@falllineridge]

Thanks! I'm hoping the window recovers too.

[@ronatwell5379]

Your permanent home? Go the best way possible. All comments that suggest turning the king stud into the jack stud are the best. Just in case it hasn't been mentioned, you construct a header by sandwiching a piece of 1/2 plywood between the 2by's. This gives you the necessary 3 1/2 framed thickness. Use some construction adhesive and lots of nails. It'll support anything you'll ever put on it. Just sayin' because so many don't know how to build a proper header.

[@dalet6250]

"Probably should cover it, but, you know..." Yep, I sure do 😂

[@robandnell4305]

I would go with taking the studs Outland putting ingredients new studs and jack studs for the header to sit on. If you just put the header up higher, you still will have not much support. I'm no carpenter but you or your son wouldn't have to worry about it in the future.

[@jamesreardon8585]

OPTION #1 MATE

[@markgramlin105]

Rip it out and do it right. That needs jack studs.i like to laminate 2 lsl or lvl slabs together for a header. I run them through the planer to correct the thickness.

[@ezrhino1803]

YAnk it all out start over. jack studs on both ends. header on top double 2x8 for that span. consider going with two spearate windows with a center king stud.if you go with 2x6 header. Wall is supporting lots of weight above it. My two cents

[@wadeprunty]

Option 1 with double 2x6s. Do it right the first time.

[@randydobson1863]

hello Wes it's is randy and i like yours video is cool thanks Wes friends randy

[@Dave-ty2qp]

There is no way around the header problem,. For a span that long I would recommend you using 2x8's. Another issue is the window itself. I know you might have emotional attachment to the window, but a single pane window really isn't very effective against thermal transfer. I would highly reccomend that you replace it also.

[@deniscarter6613]

Do what is the shortest and the most time saving and safe

[@stromxtc2033]

I know you have your framing planned out. I just want to know about the replacement windows? Multiple double pane windows put together (prefer sashless). Like last time? Looking forward to the conclusion, as your wife is also 😉.

[@kenoinarizona8077]

New sub-enjoying your videos ❤👍

[@almonjacob3496]

I agree with mikemadeja7642 use you existing stud turning it into a jack stud and back it up with a new king stud. Then 2 x 6 header.

[@sharonromer6606]

❤❤❤❤

[@ethanwanzek2603]

If you re frame the walll id consider just doing a glass slidder get a bigger opening and allow air movment

[@miketabback2635]

I say fix it correctly and remove it all from both sides of the window. Don`t leave it for your son to fix when he inherits the house. Mike a 73-year-old carpenter from NJ

[@donclay3511]

What about replacing the horizontal stud immediately above the window and then putting short studs from there up to the ceiling?

[@scottquigley3887]

On the window, option A for sure.

[@terryeason4319]

Option #1 is the way i would go.

[@jackgreen412]

Don't take short-cuts while you're this close to being where you should be. Take your time and do it right.

[@stigmartinrnning6751]

Fixing it correctly is more work, but the way to go i think

[@lakebum6211]

Yank it out and do it right. You'll never worry about or regret it.

[@evelyndole4618]

I would take everything out you might find some other problem. I would rather be safe than sorry. I have an 84 year old farm house and every time I start a project I😊😊find a new problem! It is just the way it is with old houses.

[@danielbohannon302]

I think your best bet is to rip it out and start over whatever you feel comfortable

[@frankcherry3810]

Window - replace everything above it and frame it correctly

[@vdsgw52]

It looks like the window needs to be replaced. Once its out the new header will be easy.

[@GoneBattyBats]

Don’t shoot me but you would be best to replace the window and property install me support header. Maybe not one huge window but 2 or 3 smaller ones. Wishing you all the best.

[@davidclauson5256]

Go ahead and do it right. Then you won’t have to worry about it again. More work but worth it.

[@chuckgorman6315]

I would say option one is your best bet fix it right the first time

[@justintime2277]

👍FROM CADILLAC MICHIGAN

[@paulclifford9696]

Option 1 my friend, it’s where you and your family live.

[@geraldmcmahon6421]

First option is right way and less headachs

[@johnwood7372]

Your going to fix it right, get rid of that ugly window and replace with new!

[@egypt0]

Do it right once and for all, the first solution is the way to go.

[@linwoodwilson7219]

You can't go wrong doing it right.

[@timhockersmith3934]

With 8 ft to span, I’d go with option one.

[@jimmieburleigh9549]

You got it open just do it right. Want take much more time to take it all out even the window and reframe it from the floor up.

[@barrytarakoff3204]

Do it they right way while you can.

[@edblough4134]

Do you if you can straighten the window? First idea doing it right is the only way to go. My concern is the window you may need to replace it.

[@stevengunter2843]

Do it right I have watched you for to long to think you want!!

[@roberta.brokaw3829]

Wes - Do it right the first time and it will last a lifetime - don't skimp on something like that - it will only go bad it you do it the easy way (wrong way). Just my opinion. Stay safe.