hey construction guys!

Nice job!

So, this wall divides the full basement from the crawlspace, right?

And it's 8" thick, right?

Is that a remaining piece of rebar in the "door" opening?

It's not load bearing. Cut whatever size hole you want. Knock out those blocks above the doorway while you are at it, before they fall on your head.

I doubt you will need a masonry saw, but you will need patience. I'd score it with a 4 1/2" grinder with a masonry blade for a clean edge, then work it out with a sledge and chisel. Masonry saw rental will cost you about $60 per day, and a diamond blade will cost almost as much. But it will do very little for you- it will cut the lines, but not break through the concrete. You can buy a grinder for half that price if you don't already own one. Then you can use it on your next Challenge car.

Don't try to beat the crap out of the wall. The wall will win. Repeated medium blows in the same spot until it gives. Break the pieces into the existing hole. Rinse and repeat.

If you don't have the patience for a sledge hammer, rent a hammer drill. That is more the tool for the job, but not necessary.

You can cut the rebar with the grinder too.

So my trusty 4 inch grinder is the tool for the job???

I also own a hammer drill, but it's 3/8 chuck. Im sure that isn't what you're talking about.

Thanks for the feedback guys.

And yes, that's a chunk of rebar in the opening. Caught myself from falling with it many times.

Wall is into the crawl.

Im really just looking at enlarging the opening by one full block in width and three rows down.

Yes, your grinder will work to score the cut. Buy a masonry blade.

After you score the cut, the rest is just patience and sweat. A hand sledge and a good sized cold chisel would be useful.

Your hammer drill may even work. A bigger one would be better, but I don't think this job is gonna need it. You use it like a little jackhammer to encourage cracks where you want them.

Good luck.

You can also buy a 7" diamond blade for a skilsaw.

Paul etc are right, it's not load bearing. Have at it (within reason!). Scoring and hammering the block will take a few hours and be tedious/dirty but not a huge deal. Hey, can I stash some of my crap there?

In reply to Curmudgeon:

Sure! Just make sure that it fits what I own, or plan to.

Thanks guys. Kind of excited to get started on this.

I admire your effort to respond to this from a SAFETY perspective, not just convenience.

I know you are motivated by your recent experience with your Dad, but we too often blow off crap like this until it's too late.

I'd bet 80% of the folks on this site have a ladder in their possession in unacceptable condition, or do work regularly without safety glasses, welding shields, or other PPE.

Good job!

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Got it cut today. Thanks guys!

And if there is interest, I'll do a build thread on the shop.