Define header.

Define header.

• A. The supporting structure over an interior opening.
• B. A decorative crown molding.
• C. A type of door frame.
• D. A ceiling beam.

Answer: (A)

The header is the horizontal structural member that sits above an opening and carries the load from the wall or structure above down to the sides. In interior openings like a doorway, the header spans the opening and ties into the surrounding studs to keep the wall supported and stable. It’s a key load-bearing piece, not decorative or cosmetic. This differs from decorative crown molding (trim), a door frame (the surrounding jambs and trim of the doorway), or a ceiling beam (a beam running across the ceiling). Therefore, the header’s role is the structural support over the opening.

The header is the horizontal structural member that sits above an opening and carries the load from the wall or structure above down to the sides. In interior openings like a doorway, the header spans the opening and ties into the surrounding studs to keep the wall supported and stable. It’s a key load-bearing piece, not decorative or cosmetic. This differs from decorative crown molding (trim), a door frame (the surrounding jambs and trim of the doorway), or a ceiling beam (a beam running across the ceiling). Therefore, the header’s role is the structural support over the opening.