Modifying Poured Concrete Foundation

[Transient1]

I'm looking at buying a home with an unfinished basement and somewhere along the line it would seem nice to put full size windows in the basement. Putting the windows in would involve cutting out a larger section below the existing windows (small basement windows ~36''long x 10'' wide) However, my initial feeling is that this either cannot work or is a very bad idea. The house is a single floor ranch with attic. Any thoughts or input would be appreciated.

 

[rday]

It's done all the time. Nearly every basement finish of older homes requires enlarging windows to meet current egress requirements.

 

[msquared48]

You may need to put in a window well of some sort to keep the earth back, but it should be able to be done.

Mike McCann
MMC Engineering

 

[Transient1]

Thanks for the responses. Do you know if there are any concerns with seriously damaging the foundation while cutting out the larger area (such as starting a horizontal crack which could propogate across the entire wall)?

 

[ishvaaag]

Damage to foundation itself is unlikely if a reinforced concrete wall and foundation and care in following the geometry is taken. Use better rotary cut than percussion to avoid minor cracking. The biggest issue is support of the first floor, have it studied all along the process, as in the final state as well.