Hello All,
I will attempt to install an egresswindow in my basement in place of the small existing window.I have the hole dug out and wood walls buillt to form the well. Should I attempt to cut a straight line down through the block or would following the mortar lines down in a zig zag pattern,and then replacing the blocks with finish face blockswork better? Does a mason blade in a circular saw suffice or should I get a gas driven job from the rental place?
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Replies
Use a diamond blade and cut out the hole straight. Those abrasive masonry blades aren't worth a flip... A gas unit would be much better partially because they usually have a 14" blade.
What about the lintel above the window opening?
Matt,
The window will go all the way to the top of the block where there is a floor
joist running paralell to the block. How do I finish the blocks after they have been cut?
JOhn
>> The window will go all the way to the top of the block where there is a floor joist running paralell to the block. <<
You still need a double rim joist above the window.
>> How do I finish the blocks after they have been cut? << with mortar. Since you are not a pro it make likely take to "coats" of the mortar with dry time between. Dampen the block before applying the first coat.
One thing you can do is to first cut it with a circular saw and a diamond blade. The diamond blades aren't that expensive. After you have cut as much as you can with your saw and blade go rent the gas powered one to deepen the cut.
That way you can take your time with your saw and lay it out right where you want to. The gas powered saw will follow your saw cuts kind of like a pilot hole for a drill bit.
Don't bother with a masonry abrasive type blade. There are some decent diamond masonry blades to fit your circ saw for thirty bucks or so now.
Since this is block, that is all you will need unless they filled cores and added rebar and ladder wythe for re-inforcement.
Not sure what you mean about using wood to form up - but there is a preformed with steps out window well made for this sort of situation. All you have to do is attach it and backfill. Maybe somebody else knows the name of it. Maybe by Bilco....
found it myself - I think...
http://www.bilco.com/foundations/store/shopdetail.asp?product=1WW%2D3
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If you already have the forms in place, you are going to find it harder by far to cut your block. Not real sure what stage you are at....
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I have the wood walls for the well assembled but not down in the hole.
I will drop them in there after I get the window in . Since I am not making the window any wider only lower I thought the existing joist is o.k. (32" wide casement window).
I know the block will be rough when it is cut and I guess the answer is applying mortar in a couple coats to make it look right .
Thanks, John
Yes, overcut an inch or so than the RO for the window so you ccan refill to it with mud.I'm thinking you do not need more framing above as well
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