Replacing a box sash bay window with a door? how easy?

Hi, I have a box sash window in my kitchen but no exterior door. I would like to replace this window with a door. Thing is the box sash is in a small bay, one large window at the front two small at the sides, looks like one complete frame, ie there is no gap at the corners between side and front windows. There is plaster on the walls inside and brick outside, no cavity (victorian house) , the window frames reaches to the top of the bay, the bay at the window measures 91" high 48" wide, the bay has its own little roof. the window is on the first floor and looks out onto a flat roof terrace, I want to get out there! Whats the verdict, possible, easy, could be done oneself or def a builder job? Funds are tight so hoping for diy advice really. Thank you . Pigeon feeder

Public Comments

1. This is probably not a project for a beginner, unless you can rope someone with a little carpentry experience into assisting. But since you want diy advice here goes. determine the best way to temove the sash' the part that contains the glass. Remove the rest of window frame. In general, the wall space below the window, inside at least, should come out without much problem. Take this wall out to the first full stud on each side. Measure to the center of this 4' opening. I would recommend a 36" door complete with frame and threshold, and outside brickmold. Rough Opening for a door this size is about 39". Check your door to be sure. Measure out from center point 1/2 width of rough opening each way. this will show you where wall framing starts on both sides. Transfer this point to the bricks. take at least 2" more on both sides so brick mold will fit. measure down from top of brick to floor. transfer this to the brick. Now, you have to remove the brick from this wall by cutting lines made on both sides, and horizontally. Install new wall framing and outside sheathing. Now install door to manufacturers directions.Measure distance to lower roof from door threshold. you must have a step for every 7 1/2 inches or less drop. If it's more than one step, you may need a landing built on top of the roof. I've left out a few steps to simplify this answer, but you get the idea.
2. I would say a beginner could do the job, but how long will it take him? Nothing brings on a panic more than seeing the sun go down and there you are with a big hole in your house. You will probably find that the section of frame between the centre one and the two wing frames has four heavy lumps of cast iron hanging waiting to slam down onto the fingers of the unwary. Also in my experience box sashes are usually half filled with the dust and soot of years, ready to fill your eyes, nose and mouth, and ruin the decorating right through the house - you will of course have left the doors open to help the soot blow about. I'd say call in a joiner. And keep away when he makes a start. Let him have all the muck, when its settled, then go in and help.