enlarge basement window

I have a window in the basement that I would like to enlarge. Exsisting, we have a standard basement window opening. The width will stay the same. The height will increase x2. Does anyone have suggestion how to approach this project? Block foundation with exsisting window well outside,

 

If you are considering going through all the work, make sure the new window qualifies as an egress window, so the space can qualify as living space. - Big resale benefit!!

You will be going down, so you will need a deeper well for access/egress. Consider the wrinkled tin wells or retaining wall block to give you the opening. Make sure you provide drainage since deep wells can collect a lot of water.

Dick

 

In addition to what Dick stated, you need to make sure that your structural framing on the first floor will accomidate and enlarged opening. With the proper in floor header spanning the opening you will have no problem. Depending on which direction the floor joists are running, you have a 50/50 chance of the project being a bit "simpler". Even if it's not the joist end wall you are putting the window in, you will still have to consider what's going on in the first floor walls above. Windows, doors with headers/cripples and the load transfering down onto that block wall you are going to remove. In rare cases, even things in the second floor and roof even transfer load down.

I'm not saying get crazy and involve a structural engineer or architect but just a good look over as to what is going on above and taking it all into consideration prior to tearing out that block. If there is something, there's always a way to adapt and overcome.

 

guys. This helps. How about help with tricks on the new rough opening. I would like to keep it as clean as possible. Will I have to dig for a new well? Should I consider additional water proofing? Should I rent a saw made for cutting concrete? What type of framing is best? Who has the best windows for this application? Ect., ect.

 

If you increasing the height, you probably have to change the opening.

Since you have block, I would suggest getting a masonry contractor to saw cut the new opening and remove the block and finish the opening for window installation.

You could try it yourself if you feel comfortable with masonry. After the removal, there is not much masonry woork.

I assume you will also have to get a new well and provide drainage from the new well.

Don't forget to look into installing a legal egress window (probably slightly wider) since you are going to a lot of work for just a higher window.

Dick

 

Can you recommend a source that has a system for this application?