Basement Window Installs

[eeboater]

Hey Everyone,

I am thinking about replacing my old, wood, single pane basement windows and installing new Vinyl Double-pane ThermaStar by Pella windows instead.

Has anyone ever done a basement window install? It looks REALLY straightforward but I am looking for some guidance on the proper method. The part I'm not 100% clear on is how to physically attach the window to the house. Do I need to drill pilot holes into the concrete block?

Thanks in advance.
-EE

 

[BuzzStPoint]

Re: Basement Window Installs

I need to do that same here's how I was going to tackle it

Remove window and all framing.
Cut and check fit of all new framing. Pre-drill holes, and add anchors.
Apply a good amount of construction adhesive around the opening. and place the framing in place. Screw into place.
Set windows into frame and screw in.
Apply any expansion foam if needed.
Apply a good quality silicone sealant around the window, inside and outside.

 

[eeboater]

Re: Basement Window Installs

I read that some people are using tapcons to secure their windows to the concrete... is that what you are going to use?

Also, do you know if there are pre-drilled holes in the side of the windows? I'm concerned about losing their "weatherproofness" by punching a hole in the side!

 

[dockwrecker]

Re: Basement Window Installs

Tapcons will work for most windows and are infinitely easier than trying to drill anchors and then set the window. Some windows may not clear the hex head, check that first or use the pan type (which are a pain to screw in without stripping) The drawback is you get to look at blue screw heads for the rest of your life unless of course you paint them! Foam the frame in if needed, caulk and you're done.

 

[solmate]

Re: Basement Window Installs

When you order your windows ask for screw cover plugs. Usually on a good vinyl window you drill carefully the the inner casing (double casing with air pocket) with a 3/8" paddle bit or a #10 countersink & then when installed put plugs in. They will be nearly flush with the casing so no looking at ugly blue screw heads. As Dockwrecker stated use the hex heads or chance stripping out the phillips head & fighting to get it out or set.

 

[greenbush future]

Re: Basement Window Installs

Just replaced the junk that came with my second home (4 windows total) I researched what the box stores offer for doing this, then called the guys who do this for a living. The quotes I received for tearing out the old, configuring the new, (I ended up going glass block for security and looks) and installing was a no brainer to hire it out. I needed to be able to open my windows and allow for drier vents and such to exit through these openings. The glass blocks have inserts for all of my needs and provided the security I wanted for this home. I think I got all 4 windows done for about $500.00 and they did everything in about 2-3 hours. My heat bills went down big time and the look is awesome. If this is an option for you, take a look and get a few quotes, you won?t be disappointed.

 

[Gun Dog]

Re: Basement Window Installs

Use a low expanding foam with any window application. Tapcon's are great and accepted by code in many areas so you know your good. Fast Cap makes self adhesive vinyl hole covers.

 

[eeboater]

Re: Basement Window Installs

OK, here's my plan - let me know what you guys think.

Buying the standard, off the shelf 32x15 Pella Basement hopper style windows fit perfectly into the spot where my old windows are located. Pella reccomends that you put a nice piece of 1x4 or 1x6 in the frame but if I go that route there won't be enough space for the window (I'd have to special order them).

So:

1. Tear out old windows and clean up window the area that the new window will be placed.

2. Install the windows into their final location.

3. New windows have four holes in the sides for screws to be screwed into the side of the window well. The bottom half of the window is in Concrete block and the top half is in the Wood Joists. So, mark the two spots on the concrete block where the holes are in the window.

4. Remove the new window.

4. Drill an 1/8" hole for the tapcons. I don't care about the blue bolt heads, I won't see them where these windows are anyway.

5. Put the window back in place, plum and level the window with shims.

6. Put shims behind the four holes that will hold the window in place.

7. Drill the bottom tapcons into the holes and concrete block.

8. Drill standard wood screws to hold the top of the window to the joists.

9. Use "Great Stuff" Expandable foam to fill in around the window

10. Caulk the rest of the window to seal the window from the outside elements.

11. Sit back and admire the fact that I just saved $200 on that window.



What do you guys think?

- EE

 

[solmate]

Re: Basement Window Installs

when you're shimming your window also make sure is operates freely & squarely, that's a big part of the install, if it's shimmed too tight it will be a nightmare to operate. Also try to find a foam (other than great stuff, it's sticky & doesn't clean up & can over-expand) there's a foam that comes in a blue can that's low expanding can be cleaned up with water.... can't remember the brand. And remember to take your time, when you rush is when mistakes happen.

 

[Gun Dog]

Re: Basement Window Installs

Do not use screws in the header (top) of the window and sill (bottom part of window) fasteners only go into the sides. Four screws are fine. Low expanding foam only.

 

[jimbo_jwc]

Re: Basement Window Installs

Glass Block is my choice on both places and get a couple with vent I was pleased with results .