How to....add a new window to a wall?

[gar1976]

Hey all. Got a small 1/2 bath, and want to add a window for ventilation/light. It's currently 3'x5', and the window would be small, but is large enough to spread accross a stud or two.

Just wondering how to go about doing this. The siding is ol' mdf from the 60's, the inside is just drywall. Do I just carve out the dimensions I need with a saw, build a fram with 2x6's on the inside of the wall, and pop the window in and frame around it? Is it that simple?

Thanks.

[cj2112]

more or less you got it, make sure your window is in level and is plumb, you may need a permit to do this work, so check w/ the city or county first.

[kazoo]

Studs are typically on 16" centers for any residential construction newer than 1950. If you're going to cut off a stud, you're obligated to install a header and jackstuds to transfer the compressive load from the cut off stud to the sill plate. A rough sill completes the bottom of the opening. Size the opening ~ ½" greater than the actual window dimension-the window may specify the rough opening dimensions on the build sheet. Take time to get the RO plumb, level, and true. Install one of the self-adhering rubberized window seal membranes over the nailer flange on the outside before you reinstall the siding. If you're in a rainy climate, a proper head flashing is in order, too. Detail all cuts in the tarpaper to ensure that the wall sheds water the way it should.

[edmos1]

Kazoo, wrapped that up pretty well

[clavus]

I got one word for ya - "Sawzall"
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Kazoo - nice post, man.

[gar1976]

Got the window in, and am finishing framing it tomorrow. Thanks all.