Should I keep this window?

[Signor Bob]

Hello,

I am having the outer skin replaced on an old extension. They used the wrong size and colour bricks, and the masonry is horrible. If I kept it as is, it would need a full repointing job doing on it, which wouldn't be cheap. And it'd still look ****. So my builder will be replacing existing facing bricks with nice new ones. We will take the opportunity to fill the cavity with insulation bats and replace a stupid plastic fascia above the door with a lintel and bricks.

The purpose of the job is essentially an aesthetic improvement to better integrate the extension into the main house, although there will be some other benefits. Before anybody asks, no I don't want render as the extension is off to the side and will stick out even more.

Anyway... there is currently a small window in the side wall. It doesn't match the height of the nearest two windows, and is wider than the one opposite. This mismatch may detract from the whole objective, which is to improve the appearance. Changing the window to a taller one that matches the window opposite would be too costly really, bearing in mind I'd need a new window and to sort out lintels for the inside and out, plus fiddly blocking up, replastering, etc inside.

So I can either keep the current window and we will refit it into the new face, or we could just do away with this window.

Getting rid means a more straight forward build for the new outer skin, and the inside work wouldn't be too difficult - just block up the opening and plaster. It reduces the scope of potential arguments with building control since the current window, if refitted, is arguably too close to the leading corner of the structure. No need for a new lintel. I would have a more energy efficient building. And the window mismatch problem would disappear. The room in question, a lounge, has a very large door/window combo and that includes trickle vents. So wouldn't lose much in the way of ventilation and the window is above a couch, and always has its blinds drawn and is rarely opened - so not particularly valued.

Would you keep or lose the small window?

 

[aveatry]

I think you will greatly miss the light

 

[Signor Bob]

I think you will greatly miss the light

The window is on the darker side, facing north east and has another extension opposite. Also, the main door and window unit has a lot of glass - It is 2.5m wide.

 

[noseall]

Getting rid means a more straight forward build for the new outer skin

And it's not as if you'll miss the view either.

It reduces the scope of potential arguments with building control since the current window, if refitted, is arguably too close to the leading corner of the structure

Same applies to the patio set.

 

[Signor Bob]

And it's not as if you'll miss the view either.

Same applies to the patio set.

Same doesn't apply with the patio set as it will be left in situ for the job. My argument there will be that there hasn't been any change. The existing bricks will be replaced in stages around it. Up to each side and then underneath.

 

[noseall]

Same doesn't apply with the patio set

It does in regard to this...

is arguably too close to the leading corner of the structure

 

[Koolpc]

You don't need that window at all. Brick it up I say...

 

[Signor Bob]

It does in regard to this...

Not from an enforcement point of view because, as I've explained, the unit isn't moving. It is an approved item that stays put. The outer skin of bricks is replaced in stages up to the position of the patio. One side, then the other, then underneath. There is no change as far as the door unit itself is concerned.

I am not suggesting that, built from scratch, the distance to the corner wouldn't need to be greater.

I only made the point about the window because we obviously have to remove that to complete this task. It could then possibly be argued that there is a new wall and window installation (although the inner skin and opening would continue as they are so this may also be a grey area).

I am trying to reduce the scope of BC interference, hence thinking about these sorts of details.