Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 3/11/2011

Question
I was wondering what i should do about my kitchen addition I wanted to add off of my original kitchen that is right next to my bathroom. I have a one basement window directly below my kitchen and bathroom. Right where i want to put my outside wall is where the window is and i don't know if i can build right over the top of the window so my wall would be splitting the basement window? And if so could i bored that window up so i just have my dryer vent coming out of it?

Answer
Hi Chad, it shouldn't matter if there is a window below or not.  The window below should have a header over it making it like a solid bearing wall below. And yes you eliminate the window and enclose it for your dryer vent. Just make sure you protect the framing of the window opening with a proper sleeve so that the heat from the dryer vent doesn't cause a potential fire hazard.  A sleeve with a backdraft damper is about ten dollars and can be purchased at most lumber yards or big box stores like Home Depot or Lowes..I hope this information helps please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsutling.com