Edinburgh Napier University

  A portal frame, for example a door or window, comprising at least one header 20, at least a first column 30 and at least one frame connector 50 for rigidly connecting the first column to the header. The connector comprises a lateral header connector portion and a column connecting portion, preferably in an L shape and preferably made from sheet metal. Fastening means are used to secure the connector to the column and header. Preferably two frame connectors 50 51 are used to secure the header to the column, an inner and an outer. The columns are preferably formed of wood or a wood-based/wood-derived material. The columns may be formed from a vertical stud 33 and two facing panels 31. The header may be part of a pre-existing building and may be a solid wooden beam (21 Fig 3b) with a wood based panel (22 Fig 3b). A further connector 70 may be used to secure the base of the column to the foundations or supporting surface.