Cutting Window Openings In Block

HemiMan2500HD

I went on an estimate this weekensd with a rather unusual request. The homeowner had bought windows and now wants to install them in the first floor of the house. the entire first floor is regular 2 or 3 core block. I have never been asked to do this. I know how to cut the holes but my question is what sort of bracing above the window is needed. Could I cut a notch in the block to slip a piece of angle iron in or do I need to cut out more above the window and install concrete lintels. I am in Jersey and I want to know what the protocol is. I am more than capable of doing the work but I want to know the best way to make sure the job lasts.

concretemasonry

Since you may be making a hole in a bearing wall you will need some kind of lintel just as you need a header over a window in a frame wall.

Depending on the size of the openings and the wall, you may need to get someone design a lintel or detail for the inspector. More trouble than cost, but it should be done right since you have a lot hanging out there in case of a problem.

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Dick

Engineer, designer and consultant recently active domestically and internationally on construction and design in about 35 countries.

HemiMan2500HD

Yeah they are bearing walls. They want 5 openeings on the same wall. I assume an architect should be consulted. This is a two story, two family house. These peopel are going to die when they get the price. I think that they assume you just cut the hole and put them in.

I love it when i tell people about that stuff and they tell me not to worry about it. One lady told me that I was just trying to jack up the price by talking about all of that stuff. Needless to say I told her to have a nice day and left

Same Old

You can talk to an architect and they will draw you a pretty picture of the finished project with people and trees.

But if you want to know how to build it, find a structural engineer.

Teetorbilt

Go with Same Old's idea. We do a lot in CBS here and usually go with precast lintel's.

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mdshunk

Go for split lintels for old work. Half in one side, and half from the other side. Bust out one side of the block at a time. The lintel suppliers often have engineer's of their own that can seal a lintel detail print for you. I know the one in my area does.

Tscarborough

If they are less than 48" wide with more than 2 courses above them, just sawcut the top of the window (4 inch oversize on each side), bang in a 3x4x1/4 angle, then finish cutting and wrecking the window (cutting both sides or all the way through, of course). You could use angle on both sides if it made you nervous, but unless there is no bond beam above the window there is no need. If the windows are larger than that, or closer together than their width, get an engineer.