Carpentry and Woodworking - cutting a hole in wall for window

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tuckerdarla
02-03-04, 07:59 PM
Hi,
I put a hole in my wall to build a window or opening in the wall between my kitchen and livingroom to open up the place alittle. I have 2 studs in the middle on this window or "hole in the wall" as i put it. I have an upstairs and was told I needed to use some kind of support if I am going to cut the studs out. Any one know how to do this or if I am in to wrong forum which one I should be in?

tia,
darla

Furniture Bldr
02-04-04, 04:24 AM
Um, If its a bearing wall, it wouldnt be very wise to mess with it. If you do, it's not persay a DIYer project unless you know what you're doing. You could be taking the loosening up the wall that is the main support to the upper floor. I wouldn't advise you do it until you contact the vilage or city inspectors/someone who knows about the construction of your home and whats feseible.
socalcc
02-04-04, 04:38 PM
Because it's a baring wall, you need a header beam to help support the weight. To make sure there is no sagging, you need to add additional studs on each side of your window opening, then install a 4x8 or 4x10 (depending on building code where you live) header beam above the opening. If you're not an experienced wood worker or framer, I would suggest not trying to do it yourself. If it's not done correctly, the wall could sag and you could be in real trouble.