Cut the door header.
How to frame a header for a sliding glass door.
Between 4 and 5 feet the header should be built 2 inches wide and 8 inches long while a larger opening needs a header that is 2 by 12.
When installing a sliding door the frame is going to require the most attention.
In all but the most bizarre situations they ll easily carry the weight for 4 ft.
You will need to add 1 2 of plywood between the 2x4 s to get the right wall thickness of 3 1 2.
A 36 door has a rough opening width of 38 so your header is cut at 41.
If the door is not framed correctly the door will not stay in place.
This is the actual thickness of a 2x4.
To make the door header the top of the door frame cut two 2x4s to the same length as the width of the original opening and nail them securely together.
You can access a free copy of the 2012 international building code here.
Non load bearing windows and doors do not require a structural header.
Wide window and door openings and in most situations be code compliant for openings up to 6 ft.
Most door frames that are 4 feet wide or less require a 2 by 6 header.
Measure the width of your door frame.
When in doubt build a double 2 12 header sandwich like we explain next.
Also be aware double or triple jack studs may be required based on the opening width and the load the header carries.
When in doubt use 2 by 12 inch headers.
Be sure to check code requirements prior to framing.
Wide a common patio door width.