I'm looking to replace an exterior window with a taller one, extending downwards—not upwards. It's for an old house that has a non-standard window size, so I can't just pick one up from a store like Home Depot. Should I call an architect, a carpenter, or some other kind of professional? Also, do I need to order the window myself first and then hire a contractor?
4 Answers
A handyman might be your best bet! Just ask around for recommendations in your area and make sure they’re licensed and insured. You’ll definitely need to get a custom window ordered, but managing that shouldn’t be much trouble for a competent handyman. Bigger companies usually aren't interested in single window replacements and will likely charge a premium for it.
Your carpenter can guide you on the window size to order based on your preferences. He can either order it himself or you can do it. It's best to have him take care of all the materials needed, as you’ll likely need some lumber too.
I had a similar situation where we replaced a window with a sliding door, and the window company handled it for us. It worked out well, so don’t hesitate to check with local window specialists.
Just a heads up: if you're making the opening bigger, it might cost more than making it smaller since it typically involves re-framing. But if you're just extending down, that should be a minor adjustment!
Got it, that's helpful to know!