I have used this method with success. Bridge all the involved vertical stud members with a 2x6 nailed flat in place above the position of the new header - the bridge extending past and nailed to uncut studs on both sides of the new opening. Support the bridge with several "deadmen" while the old header is removed and the properly sized, ready to install, new header is put in place. Existing header supports should provide a template for the new installation.
another option is to support the "ceiling" parallel to the opening using a built up temporary header and deadmen. This way give you more working room to slip the new header in...
I have always built a temp wall with single plates and studs directly under joists, about 24'' away from affected wall on both sides to give yourself plenty of room to work.
Yup, any time I have needed to replace a header I have just built temp. walls near the area. Just a couple things to remember - give yourself enough room to do what you need, and you can not have too much support in the temporary walls to support things.
The information provided is real good. Room to work and be sure that the floor that is supporting the temporary load can hold it.
Now for the fly in the ointment.
All load bearing walls follow a load path down to the foundation. If your closet door is becoming larger so more load is being carried by the new header, The new bearing points in which support
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the ends of the new beam must be located so the load is properly transferred to the foundation below. You simply cannot make a door opening larger without understanding what the new load path is going to be. And perhaps you already have, But cutting into structural walls is not as simple as it shows in the weekend DIY shows.
You do not say what state you live in, but I know of no state that allows this type of work without a permit. I would suggest at least you get an engineer report on design and header size to handle the new load presented both on it and the footings or supports below.
You want to be safe and having an issue after you removed the existing beam is not where you want to find yourself at.
to expand on woodbriges fine points....Squash Blocks!...these are solid wood or built up blocking that is used to transfer load to the lower structural elements. If the load path is directed to unsupported floor sheathing...then your going to have trouble in the future. As a remodeler and floor guy I have seen this many times...in some extreme cases where a bottom or sill plate was not used the studs had "punched" through the sub floor...needless to say it was a mess to fix.
Now for the fly in the ointment.
All load bearing walls follow a load path down to the foundation. If your closet door is becoming larger so more load is being carried by the new header, The new bearing points in which support ...»
You do not say what state you live in, but I know of no state that allows this type of work without a permit. I would suggest at least you get an engineer report on design and header size to handle the new load presented both on it and the footings or supports below.
You want to be safe and having an issue after you removed the existing beam is not where you want to find yourself at.
Dennis