Cutting in a new window All manner of questions and solutions to problems and issues surrounding the subject of brickwork, blockwork and stonework

[peterwg]

I have a small bathroom with no window, and plan to insert a 400mm W x 300mm H double glazed hard timber framed window. The window will be in the middle of a large exterior cavity wall. I plan to add one row of decorative bricks above the window to match the other windows.

Casual opinion is that the window can just slot in, with cavity moisture drainage protection as described on this site.

Q. I do not want to make a much larger hole to put in a lintel if I can avoid it, and if the wall WILL take it. What do you advise, Please?

[john60wales]

You really should use a lintel. Its up to you of course & I suppose it depends on how many courses of bricks/blocks are above the window - the more there are the heavier they'll be. Some walls are built with 'rat runs' - every so often a brick is placed acrross the gap between the courses. This [as well as supposedly making it difficult for rats] give the walls added strength.
Personally I'd put in a lintel & forgo the fancy stuff..
Cheers
John

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