WierdWebDevIs this a load bearing 2x4?
It’s hard to tell, but that looks like an old scab for that opening.
Someone took a spare 2x4 and added to that opening to add more strength to that area. However it looks like it was poorly done. Regardless, the 2x4 is compromised and the red-wood 2x4 isn’t fully nailed into the footer.
I am not a carpenter, but if I were you, I’d build a proper frame for whatever you’re trying to install in that opening.
Found this good example of what I’m talking about:
[rogueengineer.com/installing-a-window-in-a-blank-…]
Installing a Window in a Blank Wall » Rogue Engineer
Who in their right mind would cut a giant hole in the side of a brand new house? This was possibly one of the more gut wrenching projects I have taken on (and I'm the one that build the house). The stairwell that leads to our basement never had a window in it and the entire side of the house was always dark as a result. The basement, mudroom and stairwell always needed to have the lights on when in use. After walking by it one day, I said to Jamie, "Why didn't we put a window in that wall?" And the rest was history.
The red 2x4 is the one I want to move/remove. I just need to get in that opening to insulate (was half done/ poorly done / very old). I know framing that hole would be the proper way, and I may, but I'm not trying to add more to my list right now.
The one 2x4 that’s notched might be connected to the other webs that form the truss? If that’s the case I wouldn’t be removing that one. It’s hard to say what the red one is doing, is it directly below a roof joist that makes up part of that flat roof section? You could pull it out (the building won’t fall down) run another plate on the top about 30" long and add two new boards 24" apart and that would be sufficient.
Yeah, my assumption is the notched one is part of the original build and that the red one might have been added when the roof was last done (I just bought the house this year, not sure of history but I know the roof is overdue to replace). Why add another top plate?