remove structural brickwork
5/2/2011 at 7:09:55 AM
My house is a 1921 brick semi. I have a window that I would like to change to a door. The rough opening is wide enough however the height is too short. I will need to remove the exterior cement window sill and 2 full layers of brick below it. This will leave 2 layers of brick before the brick arch above my basement window.
Do I have to install a new steel baseplate when I remove the brick? Can I removed the brick without causing structural problems. Please help!.
Thanks
5/2/2011 at 4:14:12 PM
Rick,
Just from the information available in the picture, It looks like you will be Ok with just removing the brick to the extent needed to insert a new, solid threshold strip, with drip flashing below and a good amount of caulking. Measure the door and frame many times before starting in. Being sure is much more fun than being sorry. Insulate the door frame sides with low expansion foam. Make sure the door is in closed with toonies inserted between the door and frame before you foam it up. The toonies will keep the foam from expanding so much that the frame is now too small for the door, preventing it from closing.
Seal the outside of the door and frame right away, moisture will also make it expand.
All the best,
Andrew
5/2/2011 at 6:06:48 PM
That is awesome information. Thank you for your time and expertise!
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