Obstructed/Blocked Window - Remove and Seal?

Hi All,

I live in NYC where there is constant development and the Condo I just purchased currently has a window that is blocked off by a new adjacent building.

I doubt there will be any airflow or precipitation issues as my building is 4 floors high and I am on the 3rd floor.

Wanted some informed opinions since I want to reclaim that space!

1. Just dry-wall over it and extend the existing wall (is this against code?)

2. Remove window and seal it? (brick?)

Thanks! I spend so much time reading and searching as a new home owner!

 

stave08,

Welcome to DoItYourself.com and the Door & Window forum.

Your first stop needs to be at the bldg. dept. There could well be some light and ventilation issues that would prevent you from removing, or at least covering up the window. If they say you can't, then you don't.

Assuming that you can get rid of the window, then I would say just cover it up inside with sheetrock -- leave the window frame AND ITS GLASS in place. The frame is sealed in the siding, and at 3 stories up, you DO NOT want to try removing the framd and making a watertight seal in the siding of the building. Also, it's a pretty safe guess that you don't own the building. Your landlord may get just a bit PO'ed if you did something like that. One little water leak could EASILY cost him $30K or $40K to fix!!

 

Thanks Lefty! Everyone's contributions are much appreciated!