VIDEO: I have never been a fan of cripples on top of the header.
When I design a wall I always look at how the wall transfers the weight from above then I look at the openings and how I can make them easier to work with when choosing windows and doors. If you know the width, you know header so place it under top plate

By Murray Wennerlund published 1-18-2023 updated 3-17-2023

When I design a wall I always look at how the wall transfers the weight from above then I look at the openings and how I can make them easier to work with when choosing windows and doors. If you know the width, you know header so place it under top plate.