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Header
A header is a beam over a window or door opening that carries loads to the sides of the opening.
Why it matters
If the header is undersized, openings can shift and doors can stick.
Where people get this wrong
Trim is not structure. Header size depends on span and load.
Real-world example
A window starts binding and you blame the window. The real issue can be the framing settling because the header is not doing its job.
Where this hits your build
This shows up during framing. Once walls are up and covered, you lose access. The pre-drywall walkthrough is your window to verify.
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See how HouseChalk helps with the decisions behind terms like this