Altering the window size when renovating the bathroom interior is a good way to restyle and add more functionality to this place.
Can I Make My Bathroom Window Smaller? You can make the bathroom window smaller by putting bricks in the rough opening if you have a brick wall and installing plywood or lumber strips and boards to cover the extra area. It is necessary if the larger window interrupts the cabinets, bathtub, or shelves installed in this place. It can cost $300 to$700 to make the opening smaller and select a new window for this place.
Changing the window opening size to fit a smaller one is a complex task that needs expertise and skills because it can affect the wall structure, especially if it is a load-bearing wall.
How can you make your bathroom window smaller?
You can make this window smaller by altering the large opening into a small one. The following two methods can help you to do this task.
Add bricks
You can reduce the opening size by laying more bricks there if the bathroom has a brick wall. Bricklaying can minimize the hole size as much as you want, but it needs special skills and experience to reinstall the window in the smaller opening and laying brick after removing the old one.
You can use cement or other construction material for this project. Place the brick one on the other with cement between the layers and smooth it with the plumber’s knife to have a uniform appearance and accurate level.
You can use sealant, masonry screws, and a drill machine to secure the wooden frame into the wall. However, it is better to waterproof the opening using fiberglass insulation and foam expansion to fill the gaps.
You can install window flashing, house wrap, and other waterproof materials to insulate the window. Then, frame the rough opening to the exact size of the new window or check the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct size needed to fit it.
It is better to check the rough opening and the window frame to ensure they are leveled and can fit in the hole without any gaps. Now, install the new window flange using a nail gun.
You can also consult with the working staff of window companies, and they can help you with this project.
Installing plywood or lumber boards and strips
You can add lumber and plywood boards or strips to fill the extra area and adjust the smaller window to the same opening size.
For example, you can install half inch plywood strip if you want to reduce the opening size by half an inch from every side. Similarly, place more plywood strips to reduce the opening size by more than half an inch.
I have made a plywood frame by joining the wooden strips into the frame shape and installing it into the rough opening.
You can add more strips if you notice that the window frame is smaller than this opening and cannot fit accurately into this rough opening.
Take a caulk gun and apply a smooth bead of construction sealant or glue along the filler board or the plywood frame perimeter to make a watertight seal around it.
You can use an exterior-grade sealant, which provides excellent flexibility and does not shrink over time. Moreover, it offers better waterproof sealing and stability of the wooden frame inside the rough opening.
Secure the plywood strips and frame in their position using a nail gun and install the window in this altered opening with a proper level from each side.
Why would you make your bathroom windows smaller?
You can make the window size smaller because of many reasons, such as if the large opening interferes with the wall-mounted bench, shelf, or cabinets.
I want to install a new bathtub, which is slightly larger than the old bathtub and requires more space near the wall to fit accurately.
The only problem with placing the new bathtub is that the window on this wall interferes with the bathtub placement next to it, and it restricts the window from opening fully for ventilation.
I also want to install a shelf on this wall to place different products or bathrobes, but the larger opening does not allow any extra space to install it.
Moreover, the larger opening will allow a clear view from outside and disturb the user’s privacy. Cutting the opening into a smaller size and slightly away from the bathtub can retain privacy, and you can enjoy the bath.
Therefore, I made the opening smaller to adjust a bathtub and a shelf on this wall. Some people alter its size to add a small, stylish window while renovating the bathroom interior.
How much does it cost to make the bathroom windows smaller?
The cost to reduce bathroom window size depends on different factors, as it can cost more if you hire a professional because it includes the labor cost.
The professional can charge more if the alteration is exhausting and takes more time. However, you can save labor costs if you have the skills to do this task without any help from a professional.
Making a window smaller costs less because it does not involve structural changes in the wall. The average cost for replacing it can range between $300 to $800, depending on the type of window, the plywood, and the material required for this project.
You can add an additional $200-$300 if you hire a professional. The labor costs vary depending on the difficulty of installing it and the time taken to complete this project.
What is the minimum size for the bathroom windows?
The bathroom windows are usually smaller than other windows in the house because a larger opening can disturb the user’s privacy and takes up more wall space.
Bathrooms have less square footage than the living room and bedroom. Therefore, the windows in this place are smaller than the bedroom and living room. You should know the standard size of bathroom windows.
They range from 36-84 inches wide and 24-60 inches high, so the minimum size for the bathroom window is 36×24 inches depending on the window type. Therefore, the minimum square footage for the window required by the building codes is three sq. ft.
You should have at least one window inside the bathroom to allow a healthy environment and remove moisture and mold from this place.
Which type of window is best for smaller bathrooms?
Casement and sliding windows are best for small bathrooms, as they allow proper ventilation and take up less wall space.
The casement windows open outward and cover less inside space. They look stylish and offer better sunlight and airflow inside the bathroom.
They are tall and make the small places look spacious. You can replace the double-hung windows with the casement ones if you have a space problem in this place.
Sliding windows are also popular in small bathrooms, as they can slide into the wall and not take up any space for opening. The only space they require is inside the wall where they are installed.
You can select different sizes in sliding and casement windows for small bathrooms, as they can increase functionality and take up less space on the wall. In addition, you can install a bathtub, toilet, and shower area near it for good ventilation and airflow.
Related Articles:
