Do it Yourself: [DIY] 2nd story window replacement [2 Attachments]

05 March 2016

[DIY] 2nd story window replacement [2 Attachments]

[Attachment(s) from oakridgefarm@gmail.com included below]

This is the window on the front of the house/barn on the second level. The glass measures 36x48", double pane. It's 4' off the floor so you can see out, but can't see down to the area around the front door, even by standing right next to it. My first choice would be French type doors, that open onto a small balcony so we could at least step out and see who is at the front door. My second choice is to remove this window, install a longer one over a window seat. We'll keep the antique leaded glass panel at the top, and could do a fixed panel over a regular size door/window.

The second picture shows part of the antique "bar back" unit. It's 13' wide, base is the original cabinets but they added a new top. The base isn't attached and the pillars are just sitting on top of the counter. The old mirrors on each side are hung separate. I don't know if the window was put in first and they added the bar around it, or if it was sized to fit the bar. I love the old bar back, from 1900, and would like to work around it if possible. We can remove the center section of the base, leaving room to install a door - leaving it basically the same. There is a wide area of trim around the window and we could move the mirrors further apart if necessary. We have an identical window at the other end, which is the bedroom, and I want to do the same thing there. Remove the window and replace it with a sliding door, plenty of room there. We need air circulation in that room and would add a small deck at that end.

They install windows in 2nd story homes all the time, and someone installed this one so it can be done. I don't think the contractor wants to handle it, so who do I call? I know it's a big job and will cost some money, but how much? What are some problems we can anticipate? What questions do I need to ask when contacting someone? Thanks for any thoughts and/or advice.