replacing existing window with a wider window!
#1
06-27-08, 06:56 AM
replacing existing window with a wider window!
Hello, i am removing an old damage window and as long as i am replacing, i would like to increase the size from 36" to a 48" . . it just happens that Lowes has a 48" wide window .. anyway, as this is load bearing wall, should i be concern that i am increasing the size by 14 incheas? what is the Max i can increase without having to worry about the weight of the wall .. thanks.
#2
06-27-08, 07:09 AM
Super Moderator
If you are ready to remove sheetrock/plaster, open up the exterior wall, build a temporary support, move any wires encountered, reframe, increase the size of the header, install the window, re-sheetrock/plaster, then no, there shouldnt be any problem.
Lotta work for not much gain.
Lotta work for not much gain.
#3
06-27-08, 07:17 AM
yes, i have no problem removing the walls and framing, and redoing the inside and outside. However, i do have a question regarding the temporary support .. correct me if i am wrong, windows are not used to bare any loads, are they? I mean once the new window is put in place and the temporary support is moved, what is happening to the load? is the winodw supporting anything!
#4
06-27-08, 07:33 AM
Super Moderator
No, windows are only set into the opening, the king and jack studs transfer the weight down to the foundation. The weight above is supported by the header and from there to the side framing members.
Thats why you may need to increase the height as well as the width of the header. With a longer span you may need more support. Not an engineer or architect, so can't answer whether it needs to be larger or not.
Thats why you may need to increase the height as well as the width of the header. With a longer span you may need more support. Not an engineer or architect, so can't answer whether it needs to be larger or not.
