Non-load bearing window header in exterior wall

timelyirony

Hello DIY Forum Goers! I'm replacing a small basement window with a larger, code-approved egress window. The basement foundation is older and made of brick and the window opening is spanned by a brick arch. Because the arch carries the load of the wall above, the existing window has no need of a header. However, I am wondering if I am required by code to put a header above the new window even though it will not bear any load. I understand codes vary across regions but was wondering if any other DIY'ers have come up against this problem before. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

By the way, the new window is the same width as the old one--but it's quite a bit taller--so the arch will continue to bear it's load in the same way it has for the past century.

Cole

Where are you located?

You can also call your local Building Department.

Oh and Welcome to the site!

timelyirony

Hi Cole

Thanks for the reply and the welcome. I'm in Denver. Unfortunately, I forgot to call the building department before the weekend and I'm cutting the hole on Monday...

XSleeper

I would highly doubt it needs a header provided you are not changing the width of the opening. But calling the building dept Monday morning would still be a good idea.