Replacing Basement Windows: About Replacing Basement Windows

About Replacing Basement Windows

By The Home Renovator

Replacing basement windows can be quite a job if you're not sure how to do it correctly ...

Over the years basement windows may become worn or damaged and need to be replace. Homeowners may also decide to remodel and replacing basement windows becomes part of the process as the wall may expand during the project or they maybe need to fit into the room’s new design. Regardless of the reason, replacing basement windows can be a job if the person is not sure how to do it correctly.

Typically, there are two types of windows installed in basements, one of the most common are casement windows, which are placed into grooves in cement blocks during construction. The other are fitted into the hole for the window and are installed after the basement walls have been constructed. These present the easiest time replacing basement windows. If the fastening nails or screws can be located, they must be removed and then the window can be pried out of the open, starting at the bottom.

First, remove the window glass and frame holding it in place. Making two cuts in the windowsill, one on each side, allows for the center of the sill to be pried out of the opening. The sides can then be pried out and the top of the frame usually comes with it.

Casement Windows Can be Tougher To Change

With casement windows, replacing basement windows can be a little tougher as the outer edges of the frame are sealed into the concrete blocks. Similar to the other style of window, remove the window frame and glass and then make two cuts on the windowsill, one of edge end and pry up on the frame. This will be difficult as there will be a lip on the frame, fitted into the block, but prying it up will remove the frame.

Once the old window has been removed, in either style, you will want to frame the opening with wood, usually three-quarter-inch thick and at least as wide as the wall is thick. If remodeling the basement and padding the walls, when replacing basement windows the width of the wood will need to be as wide as the opening, plus the extra width being added.

When the new windows were ordered, the size of the new frame should have been considered. Place them into the new frame, and push insulation into the gap around the window to block any air that may leak in. Keeping the window level, attached the new window frame to the wood attached to the inside of the window opening. Shims may be needed on one side or the other as well as the bottom of the frame to make the window level and square in the opening. Check to insure east operation and seal the sides before adding trim.

Next article: Adding Light Below The Grade With Basement Window Wells

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For more information about Home Renovation-related resources, see our Home Improvements resources section, subscribe to our Home Improvements Newsletter containing news, updates and insider tips, or go to more articles about Replacing Basement Windows.

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