How do I fix a split at the bottom of a load bearing 2×4 stud? The split is in the king stud for a window. It's a 9 in. long triangular shaped piece. It's 1/4 in. deep at the sole plate and expands to 1 in. at the top of the triangle. The piece is 5/8 in. wide on the narrow side of the stud. The stud next to it is ~5 in. away, so it's a tight space. Do I need to fix it? If so, what's the best way?
Sorry the pics not so great. The sole plate and bottom of the stud are in a "pocket" formed by the raised floor. I smeared the crack with Liquid Nails. There's also spray foam in the bottom of the pic, so it looks like a mess.I added arrows along the path of the crack. It split when I put the (now bent) nail in.
Best Answer
If you are concerned about it and have access to it (which you apparently do since you can see the split), just sister another stud onto the side of it.
This will share its load without the need to remove it. It should be fine even if it is in a load bearing wall.
Good luck!