Could I replace a kitchen backsplash with a window?

[Sam7]

Hello! I want to install a window in my kitchen, below the cupboards. Currently there is an acrylic backsplash which I hate, it's going anyway and I'll be tiling instead, but I was wondering if adding a long thin window was also an option. I have no idea what I'm doing, but it would increase light into my kitchen, and also increase visibility outside to watch my kids play. 

My question is/are: in a brick house is this possible? If I were to seek a professional what trade would this be? And also has anyone done it and have a rough idea of costing? 

Picture for reference (ignore the mess!) , the bench top of 3.5m long so the window would be smaller than that and about 30cm high.

[JacobZ]

Hi @Sam7,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

It is likely possible but would require the assistance of an engineer and a builder who specialises in brick construction.

I'd suggest you start by calling your local council to enquire about whether you require building approval for this renovation. Windows are structural elements, and it's possible you'll have to submit engineered plans for this kind of renovation.

The reason for this is that windows require a load-bearing member, known as a lintel, to be installed above them to transfer the weight directly above the window sideways and down through the surrounding bricks. Just as an example, this Galintel 75mm x 10mm x 1500mm Galvanised Flat Lintel Flat Bar is similar to what would be used.

An engineer will design the plans, a builder will be able to cut the opening, install the lintel, refinish the brickwork and organise a glazier to install the window.

It's hard to say what the cost of a project like this would be, but you can always ask a few different builders for quotes.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

[JacobZ]

Hi @Sam7,

I forgot to tag @Nailbag whose Formal entrance created using single car garage has some similarity to your project.

He may be able to share some wisdom with you.

Jacob

[Nailbag]

Hi @Sam7 

These windows look fantastic, I have one myself. However as @JacobZ has highlighted there is a structural element to it as well as many other factors such as heating rating distances for the glass due to the cooktop. It would be an extremely expensive exercise requiring the overhead cabinets to be removed, the brick wall opened up and supported by a steel lintel or similar. A custom window made ($$$$) and installed and cabinets reinstated. Then there is the issue of how the external wall is finished cosmetically as the brickwork would not have been laid out to accomodate a window finish. It's all most likely doable, but as I said it won't come cheap. 

First step would be to contact a local draftsperson to find out if it's possible. And if so then find a builder who does renovations.

Nailbag

[Sam7]

Ahhh thank you for your advice! Probably a dream reno project for another time then! Thanks for your thoughts- p.s. checked out the link above from Jacob and your project looks amazing! 

[Sam7]

Thank you for your advice! Bit more too it than I anticipated, grateful for this community for the help and advice!