Framing
Trimmer Stud
A shortened stud that runs from the bottom plate to the underside of a header, supporting the header on each side of a door or window opening.
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In the Field
Trimmer studs (also called jack studs) carry the header load. The number of trimmers required increases with header span and load. Missing or improperly installed trimmers are common framing deficiencies caught during inspection.
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Rule of Thumb
A single trimmer stud is sufficient up to about a 4-foot opening. Wider openings or heavy loads above typically require double trimmers — check the structural drawings.