Having natural light stream in from a window can change the whole feel if a room. It brightens it up and can help keep the house fresh. But if there is a space that is lacking this brightens, can you add a window to an existing brick wall?
Adding a new window to an existing brick wall is possible with correct measuring and fittings. It is important to know what is behind the wall before cutting the window space. Some windows may require a lintel to maintain support in the wall structure. This is a fairly simple process that you can do.
Let’s talk all the important things to know about adding a window to an existing wall.
Is it possible to add a window to an existing brick wall?
It is possible to add a window to an existing brick wall to brighten up a room. This is a renovation that is often completed on older homes to modernize them and can help increase a house’s value.
This can be a big job, but the end result will be worth the work.
The first thing to do is figure out where you want to put the window and whether the wall is load-bearing or not. A load-bearing wall will make this task a lot harder, but not impossible. We’ll talk about this more soon. Also, find out what is between the interior and exterior wall. You don’t want to start cutting out the hole for a window only to find pipes or wires in the way.
Once you have found your desired window spot, measure out the window size, including the room for the window frame and supports. It’s important to get these measurements right when cutting into a wall. Mark the window size on interior and exterior walls so that you have a guide to cut through the wall.
You will need to make sure you have the best tools for cutting through your house walls. To cut through bricks, a diamond saw blade is a great option.
If you can get the measurements and cut right, fitting the window should be the easy part. Add in the window supports, frame and glass. Secure it safely and there you have it!
So, it is definitely possible to add a window to an existing brick wall. But what about load-bearing walls?
Can you put a window in a load-bearing brick wall?
Adding a window to a wall seems easy enough, but a load-bearing wall is a supportive structure to your house. So, adding a window to a load-bearing wall is more of a challenge. It’s important that you find a spot that won’t require you to cut any beams within the wall. It will also be harder to navigate internal wires.
If you do add a window to a load-bearing wall, you will need to add a load-bearing lintel above the window frame. This makes up for the potential loss of support when the space for the window was cut out. The window frame is very important in a load-bearing wall to help maintain as much support as possible.
It’s a good idea to hire a contractor if you desire to add a window to a load-bearing wall. Any mistake can be serious and risk damaging your house structure.
The next big question on everyone’s minds, then—cost.
How much does it cost to add a window to a brick wall?
As with any project like this, the cost is going to vary wildly between circumstances. There are quite a few things to take into account, so let’s try and give you the best overview.
Assuming you’re carrying out the labour yourself, the total for the price for materials should be somewhere in the region of $1,500-$7,000. This takes into account framing, insulation and the window installation. Also, other factors that may come into play such as rerouting cables and pipes, trim repair, siding repair, and drywall insulation. Another factor to add into your cost is the type of window you choose. Every window will have a different price to consider, such as awning or sliding windows. The price of the window itself can be a few hundred dollars.
There is also the option of hiring a labourer to add a window to an existing brick wall. Doing this project yourself is possible. You will most likely have to pay by the hour for a labourer, as well as the cost of the project itself. A labourer will likely be upwards of $50 an hour. But the cost will be worth it to know that your window will be installed properly.
All this said, is it actually a good idea to do this?
Could you DIY a new window to an existing brick wall?
As we mentioned, you can certainly add a new window to an existing brick wall yourself. You will need to make sure that you learn everything you can about the structure, plumbing, and wiring of your house. You will also want to invest in quality brick cutting tools. The last thing you want is to botch the job by using whatever you can find in your shed that could be worn down or not right for the job.
If you do intend to DIY the job, the most important thing is that measurements are exact. This is where non-professionals tend to most often run into problems. If there is even the slightest mismatch, you’re going to end up with a hole in your wall. But if you are confident in your measuring skills, it is possible to add a window to a wall yourself.
This being said, it is always recommended to at least get a professional to assess the situation before you attempt any renovation.
Is adding a new window to your home a good idea?
Windows in homes are one of the best ways to increase their value. Adding natural light as well as views outdoors to otherwise dark and cloistered rooms is bound to be a good choice. Just from the standpoint of your own quality of life, it’s a great idea—assuming it is viable.
The most important thing is to assess whether or not your desired wall can support a window, as well as the house structure. Adding a window to a diamond saw blade is an example of a time when it might not be the best idea. This is because you have a higher risk of messing up the structural support of that wall.
But adding a new window to an existing brick wall can really brighten up a room, offer you a nice view, and adds extra ventilation to your home. Plus, it increases the market value of a house if you ever decide to sell. This project can be just the thing needed to transform a room and give it a fresh look!
When it comes to any renovation with brick, you want to make sure you have quality bricklaying, grinding and cutting tools. Check out our top products at Paragon Tools Australia. Looking for more renovation inspiration? Check out our other articles such as ‘can you brick a weatherboard house?’
