ArcaMax

Is a wall in your home in a tight spot where light is needed? The small eight-sided window, with a strong resemblance to a stop sign, is a specialty unit that can solve that problem because it’s ideal in a wall where a ray of daylight is needed to brighten a dark space. You’ll see it frequently used to add light in an entry foyer, at the top of a staircase landing or in a small bathroom, all places where it can add architectural interest to an otherwise blank wall. If ventilation is needed to circulate air, an opening octagon window is a good choice.

You’ll find octagons sold at window, lumber and home centers as fixed and opening units made of wood, aluminum and vinyl. A carpenter will charge $981, which includes labor and material, to install a 24-inch opening vinyl-clad unit with insulated glass. A handy homeowner with carpentry tools and experience can buy the unit for $645, install it and save 34%. But don’t tackle this job unless you are competent because it requires cutting a hole in the siding of your house; and don’t even think about doing it yourself if the house is made of brick or stone; definitely hire a contractor who has the tools and experience.

The unit should be positioned between wall studs, so you’ll need an electronic stud finder to locate them. The job involves cutting a rough opening, positioning and adjusting the unit with wooden shims so that it’s level, then fastening the unit to the studs with screws and caulking around the interior trim and siding.

Pro Cost: $981 — DIY Cost: $645 — Pro time: 7.4
DIY Time: 14.0 — DIY Savings: $336 — Percent Saved: 34%

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To find more DIY project costs and to post comments and questions, visit www.diyornot.com and m.diyornot.com on smartphones.

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