What is a jack stud?

A jack stud is a vertical framing member that supports a header or beam in a framed opening such as a door or window. Jack studs are typically smaller in size than the full-height studs in a wall and are placed on either side of the opening to provide additional support for the header or beam. They help distribute the weight of the structure above the opening down to the floor or foundation, ensuring the structural integrity of the wall. Jack studs are usually cut to fit snugly between the header and the sole plate or top plate of the wall. They are an important component of the framing of door and window openings in residential and commercial construction projects.