Basement windows (replace)
#1
10-08-03, 09:54 AM
Basement windows (replace)
I've have seen this question asked elsewhere and never seen a full detailed answer.....so here goes...I have a 1960 ranch house with 4 basement windows...they are rectangular hopper type windows that tilt into the basement. The previous owner has placed plate glass with plumbers putty to hold them into the frame. The frames are the old metal frames that are cemented into the foundation (I have block foundation)...How would one go about replacing these windows...I know that I will have to pry the frame and hacksaw one side and then pry the rest of the way to get it out...then chip away the mortar that was holding it into the foundation.....what is the prep work required for the new window?...are there windows that just get placed into the opening and fasteners driven into the concrete? or do you have to frame out the opening with 1X6 or other approriate size lumber????....if framing with lumber how do you protect the wood framing???....looking at putting in either hopper style or slider type basement windows. A detailed approach to installation after removal of old window would be very much appreciated.
#3
10-08-03, 06:26 PM
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I would just take a sawsall, with a metal blade, and cut around the window. About 1 minute to take out the window. If you new window is the same size, just attach to the opening with concrete screws, and calk on both sides. If your new window is smaller line the opening with green treated lumber and attach your new window with screws. Good Luck
#4
10-13-03, 08:29 AM
HE'S RIGHT, I JUST REPLACED ONE IN MY BASEMENT AND I TRIED TO LEAVE THE STEEL FRAME IN , BUT BEING SO OLD, THE MORTAR JUST GAVE AND CRACKED IN SOME PLACES CAUSING ME TO BUILD IT UP WITH NEW CONCRETE. AT LEAST I WAS ABLE TO PUT A BIGGER WINDOW IN NOW. LIKE 31X18
BUT FOR ALL THE WORK I HAD TO DO, I'LL SIMPLY CUT THE FRAME ON THE OTHER 3 WINDOWS WHEN IM READY.
GOODLUCK
BUT FOR ALL THE WORK I HAD TO DO, I'LL SIMPLY CUT THE FRAME ON THE OTHER 3 WINDOWS WHEN IM READY.
GOODLUCK
#5
10-14-03, 02:35 PM
You actually don't have to cut all around the window. Take the sash out first just leaving the frame. Then beat a pry bar under the edge of the frame at some point ( I generally pry down from the top....most of them have the top set right under the wood sill plate). Once you have a section bent into the center somewhat, saw with a sawsall or hacksaw and cut the frame all the way thru.
Once you have it cut at some point, you can pry the rest of it out quickly. There is only a small flange set back into the mortar or block.
I use custom made vinyl replacement sliders. Measure each hole carefully if doing more than one because they will often vary. Most are in the 32 wide by 17-18" high range. Measure inside and out also IF you have brick.....sometimes the opening varies in that case.
When installing, I run two screws up thru the frame of the new window into the wood sill. That alone is enough to hold it once you caulk the inside and outside tight. If YOU ain't comfortable with that, run a couple of blue Tapcon screws thru the sides of the frame near the bottom. Most vinyls have holes predilled in the sides for installation.
Easy job.....I did 6 in a house yesterday.
Once you have it cut at some point, you can pry the rest of it out quickly. There is only a small flange set back into the mortar or block.
I use custom made vinyl replacement sliders. Measure each hole carefully if doing more than one because they will often vary. Most are in the 32 wide by 17-18" high range. Measure inside and out also IF you have brick.....sometimes the opening varies in that case.
When installing, I run two screws up thru the frame of the new window into the wood sill. That alone is enough to hold it once you caulk the inside and outside tight. If YOU ain't comfortable with that, run a couple of blue Tapcon screws thru the sides of the frame near the bottom. Most vinyls have holes predilled in the sides for installation.
Easy job.....I did 6 in a house yesterday.
#6
10-15-03, 12:41 PM
THANKS
Thanks for everyone's help....the bit about lining the cement opening with wood was what concerned me....with exposure to the elements...in a normal window that would be covered by housewrap and self adhesive builders felt/tarp and siding....I guess best bet would to be to try and get an "exact fit" as one had stated and just caulk around the metal/vinyl frame. Thanks again for all your help
#7
10-15-03, 02:21 PM
You can get 'em to fit exact IF you order replacement windows.....most companies will build to at least the nearest 1/4" and many will build to an 1/8".
Just be sure to measure several points around the opening and make sure you go with the smallest measurement, or you'll be doing some chipping.
Just be sure to measure several points around the opening and make sure you go with the smallest measurement, or you'll be doing some chipping.
