Will be installing window in masonry unit basement wall. Floor joists run parallel to wall. One course of masonry unit to be left above between sill plate and window. Suggestions on how to remove units and type of window to install are appreciated. Will be using 3 1/2 inch angle 1/4 inch thick as on preexisting openings.
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Few people understand it. Nobody agrees what it is, how to learn about it, or who's responsible for it. It has never been more important
Featured Video
Video: Build a Fireplace, Brick by BrickHighlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
If the window is in a basement bedroom, then code will almost certainly require it to be a larger "egress" window similar to the following requirements:
http://www.wdm-ia.com/userdocs/forms/egress.PDF
Here is one approach:
http://www.improvenet.com/HomeOwner/adviceandresources/articleslibrary/popularmechanics/basement_window.html
Billy
If you can hire out the block cutting the hole will be clean (both in dust created and opening left for window. A water saw and vac should keep the mess to a minumum. Have them send one guy, you operate the vac. They will cut the mortar joint horizontally below what you want to leave. Concrete cutter will then overcut the verticals, you install the lentil, they cut the horizontal at the bottom of your window opening. Make an opening through the block in the middle and carefull remove pcs toward that opening.
If you want to do it yourself, follow the same proceedure. I've never seen a large, hand held (partner saw like) masonry water saw available for rental (that you can raise over your head).
You can use an angle grinder to cut the mortar joint for the lentil and to score the block enough to maybe chisel out a good opening. Another way (time consuming) is to drill a series of holes in a line, and bust out the block. Layout the opening according to the vertical and horizontal mortar joints so you drill or cut as few block as possible. Type of window to install ? Use the advice of the above as per means of egress etc. You might want to install one made of fibreglass or vinyl. Wood frame window, eventho clad might be a poor choice in that damp window well. Best of luck.
Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
Quittin' Time