Getting a new basement window can be one of the most cost effective remodeling moves you can make to boost your home’s value and energy efficiency. Installing a new basement window saves the homeowner thousands of dollars over the life of the window. Not only is it a great project to undertake, but also one of the best ways to increase the aesthetic value of the property.
If you want to know how to replace a basement window, here are some tips that will help get the job done right. Here are several basement window replacement options, from which you can choose the one that will work best for your situation:
How to Replace a Basement Window
There are basically two types of basement windows, ones with solid window frames securely embedded into concrete (sometimes called a frame-in-place windows) and ones with frame-outs instead that house separate window panes (known as glazing). Frame-ins used to be the most popular type of basement window replacement, but because of their expensive nature, many homeowners are now going with frame-outs for their own economic convenience.
Frame-outs are installed directly into the concrete, without any sort of external frame to support the glass. There are several advantages to this method, including very low installation cost, since there is no frame needed. However, frame-ins require a more extensive cleaning regimen, since they must be replaced on a regular basis.
The next basement window installation option is a popular choice among many homeowners, especially those who prefer to save money.
Basement window installation using new-construction sash windows can be done quickly and easily. In fact, these sash replacement windows are a great way to lower the cost of energy costs as well, since they offer the ideal way to insulate the room as well as providing better air quality. The downside to this kind of basement window installation is that it requires the same detailed cleaning regimen as frame-ins, so homeowners should invest in high-quality window washing chemicals to ensure longevity of the new windows.
How to replace a basement window with an existing one can be a bit tricky for those not familiar with home improvement techniques.
This is why it is important to hire a professional contractor to install your new window or have him do the job. Not only does a professional remove the old window and replace it with the new one, he or she also re-find the glass panes so that they are as flat and smooth as possible. The new windows must fit tightly against the existing frame. The old frame is often left in place so that he can repair any seals that were damaged during the old installation process.
The old glass pane may not always be removed completely when replacing a basement window.
If not, homeowners can use special tools to “lift” the entire window frame to get at the old glass. Lifting the whole window will allow homeowners to access the insides without having to deal with the glass panels. Once the old frame is replaced, homeowners can install the new window on the frame using special hardware provided by the installer.
Homeowners may also need to deal with issues such as ventilation and egress.
In a basement window installation, for example, the hole left by the opening in the window must be covered with a waterproof membrane. To provide adequate ventilation, holes must be drilled into the interior sides of the opening. Homeowners can cover these holes with either fiberglass mesh or cement sheeting. A door with a solid wood frame that slides open inwards or outwards will complete the ventilation and egress.
Many older homes lack an attic and basement, so extra care is required when looking for a basement window replacement.
In some cases, additional support may be needed to hold the new windows in place, especially when dealing with older windows that have large cracks. The installer will recommend the best solution for the particular situation. Some homeowners do not feel comfortable with these kinds of changes in their home structure and want to save money by doing the job themselves.
A typical DIY project includes removing old windows and installing new ones.
The old frame for the window must first be removed and the sash removed. The new window must then be installed onto the frame using the correct hardware. Installation instructions are usually included with the product. The homeowner then needs to start working with the replacement window, securing it in place using screw hooks or screws. Using expansion foam to fill in any gaps will help keep the window in place.
