Hey everyone! I'm embarking on a new project and could use some advice. I'm planning to install an exterior door in my garage, right beside the garage door on the wall behind my red toolbox. This will require cutting through the brick, which is new territory for me. While I consider myself handy and have plenty of time, I've never really done carpentry like this before. I found a fantastic insulated glass pane door at Habitat Restore for just $55, despite its few signs of wear. I know many folks might suggest going for a brand new pre-hung door, but I'm eager to build a custom frame and jamb for it instead.
At the moment, I don't have specific questions, but I'm sure they'll come up as I dive into the project. I would really appreciate recommendations for videos or websites that explain door frames and jambs, as I want to make sure I do it right. My house is 30 years old and was custom built, so I'm trying to learn from the existing high-quality frames. Thanks in advance for your advice! I'll keep you updated on my progress.
3 Answers
This is definitely a project for someone handy! If you want a quick way to assess the structural loads, I've been developing a tool that could help with that. You can upload your plans, mark walls, and get basic load calculations. It's still in early development but functional and free to use here: https://load-take-down.vercel.app. Would love your feedback!
First things first, make sure you have a header above the opening. It needs to be correctly sized to handle the live and dead loads as per your local codes, especially since you're working with brick.
I can't see the pictures, but a heads-up: you absolutely need a lintel over the door to support the brick above it. Brick can be heavy!
Thanks for the reminder! I should have the pictures accessible now.
Just so you know, the bricks only go up about 3 feet; then it's wood framing from there.
Thanks! I'll check it out. Is there any subscription needed for the tool?