I have a block foundation. I want to move a window opening over and up. I am looking for suggestions what method to use. On the outside the window is only a few inches above the ground level of a driveway. The height of the window is almost the minimum req'd for building codes. The window needs to move over because it will intersect a new closet wall. I would like more light in the basement also.
I think my options are:
1. remove the cement lintel over the new window and locate it right under the rim joist. Add a wood beam flush with the rim joist and joist hangers to hold up the floor joist above.
2. wide and narrow window with lintel above.
The thing I am wondering about is why was a lintel used on the top course of concrete blocks and not a wood beam in the first place? Is there some benefit to the cement lintel vs a beam? Anyone done this before?
I think my options are:
1. remove the cement lintel over the new window and locate it right under the rim joist. Add a wood beam flush with the rim joist and joist hangers to hold up the floor joist above.
2. wide and narrow window with lintel above.
The thing I am wondering about is why was a lintel used on the top course of concrete blocks and not a wood beam in the first place? Is there some benefit to the cement lintel vs a beam? Anyone done this before?