Replacing Windows

[JoelBo]

Our basement windows are original (1941) and are metal with single panes of glass. The metal frame is mortared into the openings. The basement is cement block, I think, possibly poured concrete, I’m not sure. But the windows are mostly inoperable or unlockable and more than a little leaky. Also, the cement sills on most of them are cracked and separating from the blocks underneath them They are still solidly attached, but the cracks are close to a half inch and very irregular.

Anyway, I think I have two options. One is two chisel away the cement holding the steel frames in place and use new cement to even out the openings. I’d then frame the openings with PT wood and install the new windows in the framed openings. The other option is to leave the steel frames in place and frame around them. This would entail cutting the wood I use to conform to the angles of the mortar. And of course I’d just be covering the cracking sill mortar.

Are there other options? Am I analyzing the situation correctly? Thoughts? Thanks in advance,

Joel
Bayside, NY

[the_tow_guy]

Might want to check the building codes before you start. Wouldn't want to do the work and THEN find out it's not to code. Often repair work on older buildings entails bringing the item/area up to current codes.

[JoelBo]

Thanks. But I'm new to the intricacies of the building code. I found the NYC building code online and it's HUGE! Give me a hint - in which section(s) should I be looking? Egress? Foundations and supporting structures? I didn't see one for replacing basement windows! ;^) What issues might the relevant codes be dealing with? These would help me navigate.

Thanks in advance,

Joel
Bayside, NY

[majakdragon]

Egress is probably where you will find what you need to know. Most of the codes I have seen have basements almost exclusively in egress. Good luck.