Move a wall stud

dcav

Hi,

I'm not trying to do this to my home, but doing it for an installation video. But I have a few concerns about moving wall studs. I was told that I can remove part of (yes part) a wall stud and move it to where I need it to go...as long as I make a bridge. (???) Does this meet code? I'm in CA, but if it does meet code in CA, what about every where else in the US? I hope this makes sense. I have added a picture so I can show you what I'm talking about. I need help on this. I don't want to inform others if this is very wrong.


Thanks,
D

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Ron6519

The item you have marked, "bridge " is called a header. It's a horizontal support that takes the place of a vertical stud or studs. It varies in size depending on how many studs are removed. The load of of the wall needs to be carried down to the load bearing beams below.
That being said, you're not qualified to make a how to video until you learn a lot more then you've demonstrated by this post.
Ron.

Maintenance 6

I hope the picture didn't come from your video. A few things look wrong.

Termite

As Ron eluded to, there isn't a one size fits all way to do this. Advising people that a header can be installed isn't going to hold true in all circumstances. Sometimes it'll take a 2x6, sometimes a 2x10, sometimes a giant hunk of steel, sometimes it just can't happen.

drtbk4ever

I am trying to be open minded here and not go off on a rant...

So first off, share with us what kind of "installation video" you are making.

It is clear you have little experience with basic construction so for you to give instructions to others in this area is disturbing. The blind leading the blind so to speak.

Perhaps some good liability insurance would be wise.

dcav

All I'm asking for help. I didn't specify what kind of installation video I was doing. I'm not a contractor, but I do know it doesn't look right.

On the other hand unfortunately yes this image is from part of our video. I was told that this was the way to do things. Now, I do as I'm told, but I don't like sending out wrong information. That's why I come to all of you for help. I'm just looking for some positive helpful advise, like some of you have gave. There is no need on telling me I'm not qualified to make a video. I'm just the editor.

So what other things look wrong Maintenance 6?

Thanks thekctermite, for the advise. I will note it down.

dcav

Yes you are right, I don't even know basic construction. But to me while doing this video I don't even want it in the picture, but unfortunately it is. It's a bathroom remodel. The person that hired me to do the video likes to do his own thing and most of the time not the correct way. But in my opinion I don't want to show other people they can do this to their bathroom if it can't even happen.

drtbk4ever

Dcav, thanks for sharing that with us. We at least now know where you are coming from and your intentions are good. It sounds like you are stuck between a rock and a hard place.

I look forward to hearing the input from the experts.

Good luck with the video.

dcav

Thanks drtbk4ever. Yes I'm stuck in a bad position. Hopefully I do get some great and helpful advise, plus...I hope I can not show it in the video too much, but so far...it doesn't look that way.

Maintenance 6

Well first thing is: what is the small chunk of 2x4 hanging down at the second stud?
Second: It looks like the king stud on the left side of the window opening doesn't run completely to the top plate.
Finally: It looks like the jack stud at the right side of the opening isn't a full 2x4. (although that could be the quality of the picture)

Although it may not be required, I've always considered it good practice to place trimmers from the header to the top plate along side of the king studs. You've already been given the low down on header sizing.

dcav

The small chunk of 2x4 on the left is for a shampoo shelf for a shower. The original stud was in the same area the shampoo shelf had to go, so he placed the new king stud next to it. I don't believe it reaches the top, but that's due to poor construction.

You are also correct about the right side. I'm not exactly sure what he was thinking. He just started cutting studs and putting new ones in.

He says he wants to do a new another video, but show that header laying flat instead. I'm just afraid by showing this, it will cause problems to home owners.

So on another note....can cutting the studs be ok as long as you replace a new king stud next to it?

Thanks for the help

Maintenance 6

A few inches one way or the other isn't usually a deal breaker when it comes to shifting a stud. PROVIDED that there isn't a joint in the top plate directly above that stud. Another thing to keep in mind is that all of the header talk has to do with load bearing walls, not necessarily partition walls.