Do I need an architect or drafter?

12 years ago

We are moving into a new (to us) home and would like to make some substantial changes to a window wall. We are starting with this:

and would like to change to something like this:

traditional family room design by cincinnati architect Richard Taylor Architects

We plan on removing the current window "blob" and will put in three windows at floor level in the middle of the wall, put transoms over them and put a small decorative window in the peak.

I am currently waiting on quotes from contractors. I'm not sure if they are going to include drawings in their quotes ( no one mentioned it), do their own drawing or just wing it. Does it seem to be a job that a competent contractor can do or do we need to get some drawings? Thanks.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (3)

lannie59
12 years ago
You will need an Architect and a stamped set of drawings. Structure to hold up the ridge and stability of compromised gable wall will have to be addressed. Without a plan it would be very hard to get an accurate bid.
renovator8
12 years ago
If a stamp is needed it will be from an engineer. Start by showing the original permit drawings (on file at the building department) to an architect or engineer. The end wall may act as a truss to support a ridge beam since there is obviously no vertical post in the window system.

If the structure doesn't need to be altered, it might be possible to get a drafter to draw the new windows but if you do that, be sure the installer knows how to weather seal the windows and insulate the wall to code standards and currently accepted practice.
Related Professionals
Frankfort Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Piedmont Kitchen & Bathroom Designers · Apex Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers · Charlottesville Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers · Newberg Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers · Phoenix Kitchen & Bathroom Remodelers · Ames General Contractors · Browns Mills General Contractors · Champaign General Contractors · Coffeyville General Contractors · Longview General Contractors · Maple Heights General Contractors · Marysville General Contractors · Murrysville General Contractors · Sterling General Contractors
deegw
Original Author
12 years ago
Thanks for the excellent advice and suggestions. We were able to get a set of plans from the designer/builder and speak with him. The original plan called for the windows to actually be at floor level and the owner wanted them raised up at the last minute. So thankfully we won't need any major structural changes.