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Windows Building a Home

How big can new window/door opening be?

3 years ago

I'd like to create an external doorway in our 90s built single storey rear extension. It is 2m wide and currently has no door or window. What size door could I get out here without having to get structural plans/building control. If only a small door allowed (i.e. not french or sliding) could I also get a window put in? Thank you!

Comments (4)

PRO
OnePlan
3 years ago
You need to pose this question to your relevant planning person, local to you. As factors that we wouldn’t know about might affect the answer ... most do a pre pre planning meeting for very early stage Q&A on request. They should be able to help ! Good luck 😉
Rowland
3 years ago
hi Rhian,

there are a number of considerations in choosing a lintel for a window or door opening:

size of opening
what is the loss bearing capacity of the existing wall.
is it in good condition.
what does it need to support.
is it a solid or cavity wall.
what are your future plans as far as extending.
are the foundations able to take the additional load imposed.

these are second nature to a structural engineer, who will have insurance to back any mistakes in selection. if you rely on a choice from someone, you have no recourse if you get problems.

any alterations to a building require building control approval to ensure the work does not ruin the building stock of the country this is generally why our ageing building stock is still standing. the planning side may be ok of you arent opening onto a side which will create an overlooking situation with a neighbour. Again you should check, as if this is installed without the correct approval you could cause problems when you are looking to sell the property and move on.

sorry to seem so harsh,but professionals spend a lot of years getting qualified to resolve problems. some builders have no qualifications, or a single trade qualification together with experience, which is no bad thing. The thing they do require is direction or mistakes are made,which can be costly for the homeowner.

A structural engineer will cost a couple of hundred pounds and will provide peace of mind!! give your building control/ planning dept a call and check.

best

Rowland

you should use a professional and ensure you use the right
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Rhian Foley
Original Author
3 years ago
Really useful, thanks Rowland. We are in the process of getting the loft converted and have already had the structural plans done for this so was hoping we wouldn't have to get them back in for this as trying to save every penny. But in the long run not worth cutting corners!
Rowland
3 years ago
If they have visited you shouldn't have a second visit to carry out the calculations. it should be easy for them to provide details. The work can be checked with the building control visits during the work to the loft, so you will reduce your overall cost for both parts.

best

Rowland

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