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Rough Opening too large.

FR | Posted in Construction Techniques on January 12, 2009 12:55pm

Guys,

We’re replacing a large window overlooking our deck with french doors. The doors we’ve selected are smaller than the window (about a foot narrower and a foot shorter). We can get doors to fit the rough opening but they would be very large for the room. Is there any real problem with building down the rough opening and using the smaller doors? I’ve replaced doors, but not with this large a gap in the rough opening. I realize I have to frame, sheath, flash and drywall the opening down to size. I’m not sure if building down an existing rough opening usually causes problems (door slams leading to leaks, drywall pops, etc.). If so, should I just get the larger doors?

Thanks for the input.

FR

Reply

Replies

  1. User avater
    Jeff_Clarke | Jan 12, 2009 12:57am | #1

    Why don't you do a 12" transom window over the doors?

    Jeff

  2. Framer | Jan 12, 2009 01:01am | #2

    There are no problems at all doing this. This is done every day. You can also do like Jeff said about using a Transom. There are 9' and 10' walls being framed everywhere.

    With new work some framers put the headers up to the top plate and frame down to the window and door height exactly like what you want to do. Some framers like myself will put the header at the correct window and door height if there 100% sure of what window and door they are using.

     

    Joe Carola
  3. JTC1 | Jan 12, 2009 01:08am | #3

    Your choice - get bigger doors / transom window / side light (s), etc.

    OR just fill in the opening like you already have in mind.

    Usually the hardest part is getting the exterior finish to look good - like it was "always that way".

    Just pay attention to the alignment and fastening of your filler material - needs to be rigidly fastened to avoid having the wall flex (ever so slightly) in the vicinity of the door or at the new-to-old framing joint.

    I generally prefer GRK screws - and plenty of them - at these joints.

    Jim

    Never underestimate the value of a sharp pencil or good light.
  4. danno7x | Jan 12, 2009 01:08am | #4

    Like was said its done all the time.  The inside is easy the only issues come up are with siding and making it blend in.  What kind you got?  Foot skinier you could make center it and use large trim, but the top?  Structurally you wont have any problems its just fixing the in and outside holes.

    1. FR | Jan 12, 2009 06:02am | #5

      Thanks Guys. I'll build down from the existing header. We're using an Andersen french outswing door and did not like the look of the 12 inch transom. We like the 18 inch transom, but that would not fit under the existing header. The outside is just vinyl siding. I have some extra siding, so I can patch it together until we enclose the deck with a screen porch (which is phase two of the project). FR

  5. Riversong | Jan 12, 2009 07:32am | #6

    Yes, as others have said, you can frame the opening smaller, but first make sure that the existing header is adequate for the existing span and tributary loads. If not, then build down with a new structural header sized for the new span.

     

     
    Riversong HouseWright
    Design *  * Build *  * Renovate *  * Consult
    Solar & Super-Insulated Healthy Homes
  6. wood4rd | Jan 12, 2009 02:54pm | #7

    While your doing the framing/door install, it might be a good time to upgrade the electrical with switch, lights, outlet, for the deck if needed.  

    1. FR | Jan 12, 2009 06:27pm | #8

      Will do.  Thanks Guys.

      FR

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