Should window headers be set against the top plate or at rough opening height?

Question

I've been building load bearing walls with the header located at the top of the desired window or door opening, but have had a couple people comment on how I should be putting the header directly below the top plate to save time. I find it actually takes more time to come back later and toenail a horizontal 2x6 exactly where I want the window or door opening to be and then later curse myself when I want to attach j channel or 5/4 trim on the top portion of the window since the window flange uses up most of the 2x6 I have used for the opening.

It seems this doesn't matter in terms of structural support as long as people put in the cripples below the plate and above the header to connect the load transfer.

Is there any other reason I should consider keeping the headers at the very top of the walls? I did read that span ratings vary if the header is connected to the top plate vs only connected to the king stud and cripples.

Ed Beal · Answer

I was taught to put them slightly above the opening and blocking between the header and top plate. But have seen others do it at the top. For a small opening I doubt that it matters but for larger windows I would want my header close to the window for stability especially in a windy area.

Answered by Ed Beal on June 22, 2021

isherwood · Answer

This is entirely a matter of personal preference in most cases, coming down to your workflow and jobsite conditions.

Potential benefits to low headers:

Better lateral stability for long openings (wind flex, door slam wiggle)
Better backing for curtains, etc.
Easier wall lifting (lower center of gravity)
Less lumber used (long openings call for doubled plates at top of R.O. if header is high)

Potential benefits to high headers:

Flexibility in rough-opening size and height when specs aren't yet known
Better lateral stability (and therefore higher load limits) due to anchorage into floor or roof system

StayOnTarget · Answer

Another potential benefit to a higher header is greater ease if you ever need to change the window under it. If you're doing temporary work or just know that down the line you might have other plans for the space.
Raising a header would be much more work than adjusting some jack studs.

Should window headers be set against the top plate or at rough opening height?

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