Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 4/17/2009

Question
Hi Bruce,
I have a home built with 4X8X16 Block.  I want to install a window 5'w X 6't in my wall. I went to my city planing office and they want me to show a detailed drawing on how I will frame in that window opening to hold the load of my roof.  I think they said that it must hold 350lbs per lin foot.  He said if I use steel "L" lentle that I must use (2)
3 X 3 X 1/4" angle iron to sandwich the block wall and bolt them together outside to inside for that window.  He said I could use a wood frame structure but I would have to do a drawing to show how I intend to do it.  Do you have a way that I could use lumber instead of the steel to support that 5 ft opening that would be easier and I would not have the ugly bolts sticking out the outside wall which are hard to hide?  Also he wants a drawing showing a water barrier for that opening..  Any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thanks Eric

Answer
Hi Eric, I have found over the years when dealing with building departments it is usually better to do what they want.   The angle is probably the best way to do this header.  I'm not sure how this can detrimentally affect your project.  Is there no siding on the exterior or furred out walls on the interior that will cover the header bolts?  You might be able to talk them into alllowing you to use tapcons to hold the angles in place in lieu of the bolts.  You might want to contact a local engineer to discuss other alternatives.  As far as wood goes, I suppose you could install a pressure treated header but without seeing the wall and how it is constructed I really can't suggest a wood fix for this.  I would have proposed an angle myself.  If you use a carriage bolt and have the head located on the outside you really won't have a bolt, per se, sticking out of the wall.  I hope this information helps feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com