Can I turn my door into a window?

The decision to transform a door into a window is often born of the need to adapt a space. Whether it’s a kitchen crying out for additional workspace or a lounge that would benefit from more room to accommodate furniture, this transformation offers a practical solution. By repurposing a door into a window, not only is space reconfigured, but the overall feel and use of the area undergo a substantial and effective change. This is work that should always be carried out by an experienced tradesperson – this isn’t generally DIY territory if you’d like it to look the part! So, what will a job like this require? Read on to find out.

Step 1: Assessment and Planning

The dimensions and design of the door and the desired window will need to be evaluated, with the height and width of the door measured to determine the ideal size of the window. Consider the aesthetic appeal and the purpose of the new window in the space.

Step 2: Removal of the Old Door Frame

The existing door, frame and treadboard will be carefully removed, ensuring minimal damage to the surrounding area. 

Step 3: Adjusting Brickwork

With the door frame removed, bricks can be laid to transform the aperture from a door-sized opening to a window. The external and internal brickwork will be measured to align with the new window dimensions, leaving a 10mm allowance for both height and width.

Step 4: Boarding Up and Preparing the Space

The top half of the newly created window space will be temporarily boarded to secure the area until the window is ready to be fitted.  It is usually prudent to take manufacturing sizes from the new opening once it is finished rather than working off plans. It’s much easier to get it right that way!

Step 5: Fitting the New Window

The new window frame will be installed into the exterior skin of the brickwork before being glazed.  An internal window board will be fitted on top of the internal brickwork to complete the installation.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

The interior brickwork will usually need to be plastered to smooth the surface and create a seamless transition from brick to window. Silicone sealant will be used to properly seal the window, preventing any water ingress or drafts.

Step 7: Quality Check and Final Adjustments

Your builder/window installer will perform a thorough inspection of the installed window, ensuring it aligns well, opens and closes smoothly, and is securely sealed.

Converting a door into a window offers a versatile solution to space constraints. It can help to optimise layouts in your home, enabling better use of space and accommodating larger furniture. Beyond practicality, it visually expands the area and can change the overall aesthetic of the space without having to do too much work. Ultimately it’s a transformative way to maximise space and revitalise the ambiance of any space.