O.T.---Adding basment door

Jiles · Jan 8, 2010

I have a single level home with an unusually tall crawlspace. The home should have had a basement but this is a good storage area.
I would like to add a 32" door to an exterior wall that is under a large porch. The wall is constructed with 8" concrete blocks and there is enough head room to leave the two top rows of blocks above the door.
My concern is the weight over the opening and would a lintel be necessary or could a metal framed door be used as the lintel?
Also, would it be advised to support the floor joist while cutting the opening?

omahagreg · Jan 8, 2010

A lintel is always a good idea, and you should support the joists until the lintel is installed. Greg

8N'r--WI · Jan 8, 2010

Jiles----you write...."My concern is the weight over the opening and would a lintel be necessary or could a metal framed door be used as the lintel?

Also, would it be advised to support the floor joist while cutting the opening?"

You nailed the correct "concern". It all depends on what is being supported above the door opening. One thing I would NOT do is to plan on using a metal door frame as the lintel.

The most economical and efficient way would be to frame above the door with a wooden "header" built from 2X8 lumber. Sandwich a couple of pieces of plywood between the 2X8"s and you will be able to drive a truck over it....

I would support the floor joists while you are framing the door out, too.

Tim

TractormanNC · Jan 8, 2010

Hey Jiles,
I know 32" is a good match for cement blocks and bricks but go to a 36" door. Don't ask how I know this.

O.T.---Adding basment door

Jiles

Well-known Member

omahagreg

Well-known Member

8N'r--WI

Member

TractormanNC

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