Doors and Windows - basement window
Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.View Full Version : basement window
firstshack
05-22-09, 09:11 PM
Hi, I purchased a house about 4 years ago and one of the basement windows was removed, sealed and boarded up. Now the repair is showing some wear on both the inside and outside...At first I was just going to reseal it but now I think I'd prefer to add a new window. Is there anything I should be looking for other than measuring, framing and installing...I am quite handy and believe in doing a job right but have no expereince with this am worried about opeing a can of worms...any tips would be great!
lefty
05-22-09, 09:30 PM
Is this window above grade, or below it?
If it's below, you'll need not only the window well but it'll also have to have proper drainage.
The window itself is not a big thing really. What kind of framing do you have to attach it to? (Concrete wall? Wood framing?) Make sure you get a window that fits the opening properly and get it sealed well.
If it's below, you'll need not only the window well but it'll also have to have proper drainage.
The window itself is not a big thing really. What kind of framing do you have to attach it to? (Concrete wall? Wood framing?) Make sure you get a window that fits the opening properly and get it sealed well.
firstshack
05-23-09, 02:22 PM
It is below grade and just has the cement wall for framing at the moment. It looks like they removed all the framing to seal it up.
dannylyons
05-25-09, 08:08 PM
If you add a window make sure to measure it to 1/8 of an inch, not a quarter or a half. This means less caulking. The biggest issue here is water and insects. Make sure the window is sealed properly or this could be a disaster.
chandler
05-26-09, 04:47 AM
Firstshack, like Mike said, being below grade, you may have to consider installing a window well and drainage system for it. It is possibly why it was removed in the first place.
firstshack
05-26-09, 09:31 PM
Yes, I will have to add a window well and the correct drainage...I'm aware of that, was more concerned about building the frame and measurements...thanks for the tips
chandler
05-27-09, 05:31 AM
I would frame it in 2x lumber, then either order or purchase a window for the size opening. The reason I say special order, you will have to stand on your head and tap your toes three times to get an ill fitting window in the opening. A special order will fit, may cost a little more, but it will fit. Then trim it normally after you seal and insulate it. We were concerned with water flow. It is your worst enemy, and sometimes DIY'ers put it off until it is too late, and the water damages their fine work.