Garage Door Opener Header Bracket



Question:
I am attempting to install a garage door opener in a new garage. The instruction manual states that the header bracket must be installed with 2" clearance from the max height of the garage door. When i measure the header for the 2" distance it ends up being exactly even with the top edge of the garage door header. This is the point where the drywall starts. I have pictures from when the garage was being built that show there is a 2x4 running right on top of the header and then a stud directly above in the center of the door opening. I was wondering if i need to cut the drywall away to mount directly to the supports or if i can screw through the dry wall into the supports. Also, if i should cut a longer section of drywall out, and run a 2x4 across a couple studs at the top of the header. Thanks for any help!

Answer:
The install instructions that I have seen say the header should be fastened directly to studs, not over existing drywall. When I did mine, I cut out the drywall and ran the header across 2 or three studs. You might get away with going over the drywall, but for the small additonal work, I'd do it the right way. Interesting question, what have pro installers done for those that used them?





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