Window Header

Just because it was that way doesn't mean it was right, I'd have thought sense would dictate putting in a pressed steel lintel or some such, they don't cost much. and will probably make the job easier.
If you are working in the basement be carefull not to fall up to goundlevel and hurt yourself, take care to strap everything down (joke)..
Dunno where you are, but I just googled 'steel block wall lintel' and got plenty of supplies for cavity wall and block wall lintels in the UK.
Del

I don't think this answer is OT. And I have voted thusly. Since you didn't know which hemisphere the OP is in, it is conceivable that you could fall, "up".

Now which window are we really trying to sort out ?

IF the sill plate was double (or triple) thickness and had sufficient strength, the opening may not require an additional header. BUT, do you really want to take the chance that this enlarged opening may be structurally unsound? Suggest you get the opinion of a professional and have the work inspected by your local building authority. If NOT to code and you have a problem, your insurance will probably not cover subsequent damage.

Some good advice would be to have it looked at by a structural engineer. Steel lintels are good, we have also used masonary block lintels at our plant. The big issue is weight bearing , and continuation of that weight bearing load to the footings. Good Luck.

If your close to the sill plate they have the ELB "Engineered laminated beam" that are great for this application, we used one in my basement when we refinished it. We were required to add a egress door or window. I chose the window with a well (see below) to allow natural light. and I'm glad I did. if you need the cad drawing of this email me

Jim C

light inside.

May I request for the CAD drawing of the egress window that you used for your basement reno? Thanks