Window installed tight, is expansion gap necessary?

[nuzuki]

I am building a porch and have a window butting up against the existing house wall and the new door frame. Should I allow a small gap for expansion or is it not required? I'm worried it might affect the rigidity although I shall be running a length of angle iron along the top inside from wall across window and to door frame to compensate.
I can remove the window if needed and take a few mm off the door frame?
I've attached a pic for reference
Thanks for your advice

 

[blup]

The usual expansion gap is 5-10 mm. The ribs can be cut down but more than that can affect the structural integrity of the frame.

 

[catlad]

Looking at how little masonry you have, I would say, definitely.

 

[noseall]

I am building a porch and have a window butting up against the existing house wall and the new door frame. Should I allow a small gap for expansion or is it not required? I'm worried it might affect the rigidity although I shall be running a length of angle iron along the top inside from wall across window and to door frame to compensate.
I can remove the window if needed and take a few mm off the door frame?
I've attached a pic for reference
Thanks for your advice

Windows and doors don't put pressure on the masonry, in that respect. The make up of the frames usually takes up any movement. Besides which, any expansion gaps get filled siliconed or wedged.

 

[noseall]

Looking at how little masonry you have, I would say, definitely.

That slender pier looks vulnerable.

 

[nuzuki]

The pier is filled with concrete and 2 bits of 12mm rebar. Pier side is where the hinges shall be. Other side is latch and lock.

 

[Kitser]

hi. There is really no expansion with white upvc windows of that size. Is the door frame wood? That may want space for expansion if south facing. If so, adding extra fixings through frame into wall will prevent it from bellying outwards. The windows cant support the roof at all. Its doubtful that the outer frame are reinforced at all. The roof finish doesnt look a walk in the park. I hope you have it all figured out

 

[nuzuki]

I shall be putting in lintels and a apex roof. Probably another 3 courses of bricks above the window frame. The door frame is made of wood but is north facing so I guess that works in my favour. I shall improve the expansion gap and go from there.

Thanks for your help

 

[^woody^]

Timber door frames don't expand. It's the timber door in it that might.