Hello to all,
I am in the processes of submitting a bid for a small bath remodel. The bath tub area here has a 2’x3′ window in it.
The home owner has asked for a bid that covers the window with a new fiberglass insert. Home owner does not want to worry about the cost of framing sheathing and vinyl siding on the exterior.
I told him that I would look into it, but the idea is not siiting right with me. My main business desire is to be known in my area as a “best practices” company and our philosopy is to do things right the first time.
Wanted to get thoughts and input from others in the industry.
Thanks
Replies
It's not clear what exactly you're talking about, but keep in mind that code pretty much everywhere requires either an "operable" window or a suitably sized vent fan in any bathroom.
I agree
It seems like a bad idea. No ventilation and a hit to resale value. I presume it is the only window in the room?
Back in the days of installing custom whole house a/v systems, I had a client who wanted a crt TV hung above his bath tub. Both the wife and interior desecrator were down on the idea, which only made the guy dig in his heels more.
I didn't want to tell him no, but I wanted the job. After consultation with my boss, I told him, 'We will do the job, but only if you, your wife and your attorney sign off on a waiver'.
"A 13" tv can't be that heavy. What's the damn big deal?"
I explained that any crt TV had about 100,00 volts at the picture tube. He would be electrocuted before he could say ouch if the thing fell.
"Oh."
That was the end of the bath tub tv conversation and the DW and ID were all smiles.
Sometimes, educating the client is the biggest challenge.
Good luck.
The customer is almost always right. I've done this and seen it done by others. Just saw an HD shower install last month where they went over the window. A window or a fan is a code requirement but I always go for the fan anyway. I've never seen a window in a shower that would even open.
Hi there,
I would absolutely insist on removing the window and patching the exterior correctly. I would tell your client what you told us, that you want to give your customers the best job you can. What would leaving the window save your client? Maybe 5% of the total job cost? You are talking about $50 of material and an hour or 2 of labor. Call that $200 total. Not knowing what the job cost is doesn't matter to me really. That seems like a simple sell. Closing up the window and losing the ventilation wouldn't be a factor for me. Code in my area says every bathroom regardless of size, needs an exhaust fan regardless of whether or not there is a window. Also if you left the window would you insulate between it and the shower surround? Looking through the window from outside sue would be hideous too. Maybe you could remove the window and tell you client he can store it as a backup it one of the same size is elsewhere in the house, or talk him into a shed and use it there!