Hey all. I am attempting to remove a window and replace it with a door into my backyard. The sizes of everything line up, and it seemed straightforward in the abstract. But I came across two things I didn't expect and I wanted to put it out to the group for advice. (pics attached for clarity)
A - There are two windows side by side, and I would have expected vertical studs between them. But no - in the picture, there is just empty space behind the letter 'A'. Looks like both windows were framed in one big rectangle.
B - At the ground level where the door would sit, there's a rocky, cement-like substance between the studs. Based on what I'm seeing in the basement, I don't believe this could be the foundation. Maybe some kind of fire-block?
Anyone get around problems like these before? Any advice? I imagine I need to add studs between the two windows, which means cutting the horizontal studs underneath the window.
The cement I'm not sure what to do. Put the door right over it? Chisel it out? Level it? Thanks in advance.