Patio Doors

[Bubbauk]

Hey everyone, I am looking to fit patio doors in my living room where there is already a window, guy in works think its a pretty straight forward as he has done it before, he says there should already be a lintel in place so I dont have to worry about this but am not 100% sure.

My window frams are metal, not where the glass goes into but where the actual window fram is attached to is metal and this goes all the way around the window (see picture)

How can I check for a lintel, I am getting the room replastered so can I just chisel away a bit of plaster and look?

Is there anything I should be aware of when doing something like this? Where is the best place to get patio doors, I am hoping for 2nd hand ones to reduce cost so already checking free ads and gumtree etc but wouldnt mind getting some prices for new ones.

Picture of window frame
http://img443.imageshack.us/img443/8131/image574.jpg

Thanks for any help or advice

 

[ajrobb]

Is there anything I should be aware of when doing something like this?

I think you need planning permission to open up a new external door.

 

[Bubbauk]

Is there anything I should be aware of when doing something like this?

I think you need planning permission to open up a new external door.

Thanks for the reply, how do I go about doing this as I have never done it before.

David

 

[ajrobb]

Thanks for the reply, how do I go about doing this as I have never done it before.

Pop in or ring up your local council and ask to see a planning officer. I'd take along photos of the outside from various angles and from the inside showing neighbouring properties.

I think that building control will need to be informed too. Double glazing companies belong to Fensa and can certify their own work. If you do the work yourself, building control might want to inspect it at various stages and there could be a charge.

It's a pain going through the all legal stuff but it could pay back when you sell.

 

[Bubbauk]

Hi, does anyone have any ideas on the best way to check for a header?

Cheers.
David