How To Install New Storefronts

The method is quite simple, actually. Choose a blank wall, draw a door and a window with chalk on the wall, and call the pros. It worked for us, and it can work for you!

Step One
Remove the tin ceiling from the area where the brick wall will be cut. This is a job that's well suited to a retired teacher.



Step Two
Shore up the main floor in the basement, and every level above that. This is just two of many jacks that were used.



Step Three
Drill several holes in the wall above the location of the header beam. Each hole should be from 8 to 12 inches in diameter. That's not a coffee can, that's the drill bit!



Step Four
Gently slip needle beams into the holes, and shore them up on each side of the wall.



Step Five
Once all the shoring is in place, rev up the saw and cut a slot for the support beam. At this point, the cuts are not showing on the interior side yet.



Step Six
Remove the brick from the outside wall, leaving a layer of brick inside for support.


Step Seven
Place the beam on the elevator, being careful to align it with the opening.



Step Eight
With the beam securely aboard, crank the elevator up to the opening.



Step Nine
Carefully slide the beam into the slot, but be careful not to push too hard.



Step Ten

Finally, remove the final layer of brick on the interior. Tweak the installation as needed to level and plumb the beam.