Picture this: I'm buying a 3 family house that faces a large river. At one time the side facing the river had

Question

covered porches on the first and second floor. The owner whose father built the house had them closed in to make an extension to their rather small but average for an apartment living room. He had two small windows added facing the river but up to high to appreciate the view. I want to keep the living space but replace the windows with a series of larger windows that surround the former porch area so that I can have a view. Now, the space here is only 8' wide and there is a step down into it from the living room. The owner uses it for his den, I want to use it primarily for the view. Any ideas on how I can utilize the space? Also, the house is sided with that old asbestos siding, will I be able to have it removed where I want the windows to be replaced and use whatever I need again without having to reside the entire building. The siding is in good shape.

Answer 1

Go for the plan with the view. Put out a bistro table and chairs.

The siding can be removed, the best way is to use end cut pliers to cut the nail heads off and then remove the siding for re-use. This keeps the siding from shattering.

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Answer 2

On the siding.  I've had the same siding on my homes back some years ago.  I don't know if its considered dangerous or not.  What I would do is remove it carefully, don't break it.  It is pretty easy to remove by someone skilled. Put that siding up and use it again where needed.  I don't know where you can buy the siding.

Answer 3

Truthfully i would find the window you want then have someone put it in. You might do more harm than Good.

Answer 4

I would suggest calling a qualified contractor to do the work, so that it would be up to code, as they know the rules in your area of dealing with  asbestos siding -and can tell you if it really is that.  But if you are doing the work yourself, or friends, be sure to cover up when tearing out the siding in that area. I would want to cover all of it up personally. As to the room with a view, having chairs or a sofa facing the windows would give you a place to relax & unwind enjoying the view. Sort of a sunken nature viewing room. You didn't say which direction it was facing. A big project but you will improve the house in the long run.

Answer 5

I would make it into a mini bar area....haha!