I had my house stick built in 1992. I have Anderson Windows in the basement (my house is in northern lower Michigan where we get lots of snow). They were made of soft white pine. The open inward from the bottom. Over the last several years I have painted them with a good latex paint, both inside and out. I also have one of those plastic shields placed over the window well to keep out as much weather as possible.

Because these window frames are made of such soft wood, they have rotted out on me in the last couple of years, to the point where I am getting an occasional mouse in the house. I have applied as a temporary fix a gob of that foam spray stuff that dries hard more or less. This seems to have kept both the creatures and weather out for now.

My question is this. How difficult is it to replace these windows myself? What should a replacement window cost? What brand would you recommend?

I am seeing ads in my local paper saying a guy will install new windows for $295.00. He doesn't specify a brand. And based on ads I see in the Home Depot etc., flyers, it seems these windows won't be inexpensive to buy. I am inclined to do it myself if it is not too difficult. But I need to decide soon before summer runs out.

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks.

 

As much as I like Andersen windows, basement windows need vinyl, or something that won't rot or rust. That is probably the worst enviornment for windows. Replacing them is usually not too difficult, but it may depend on the construction. Need more info on your construction. Most windows simply fit into the opening and are screwed thru the sides into the foundation walls, sometimes into the header above.
Vinyl basement type windows(hopper or awning style) usually run about $125, double glass, no frills. Installation can be variable, as I mentioned above.

 

We get a lot of snow, too. For our basement windows, I removed the tight covers and made what amounts to a vented roof somewhat wider than the window well and pitched to run off the snow and rain. This has worked very well. It keeps the window well dry and ventilated. When we moved in the window wells were like terrariums. Not any more!

Gary