It's a good idea to install windows in the basement.
If your basement window is in need of an update, remove the frame and replace it with a new one.To waterproof a window, install a new window that fits the space and caulk around the frame.If you have to install a new window in a concrete wall, you should cut a hole large enough to hold the window.Push the window in place with a custom frame.
Step 1: The wood frame and sash or metal buck frame must be removed.
Use a pry bar to remove the frame and sash from the window.Cut between the wall studs and the frame with a reciprocating saw.If the window frame is rusted, you need to know if it was screwed or riveted in place.If you can, use a drill to remove the rivets.Remove the metal frame from the concrete.A metal frame is also called a buck.If the metal frame is not rusted, you can just replace the window pieces.
Step 2: Measure the window frame to make sure you get the right size.
Measure the width and height of the window frame.Since some window sills are sloped, use the inside measurements instead of the outside ones.Measure the height and width of the metal window frame.You can measure the size of the window if you didn't take the frame out.You can fill in the small window with mortar if you can't get an exact size.
Step 3: Remove the ridges of mortar from the window opening.
Dust and debris can be sucked up from the window opening with a bucket vacuum.If you have a brick opening, look for ridges that will make it hard to install the new window.To chip away the excess mortar, use a hammer and chisel.If you don't want to install a window over the ridge, you can buy a smaller one.
Step 4: The window should be placed in the frame and drill into it.
To get to the screw holes, take out the sash and screen from the new window.Push the window into the opening.The window should be put in place with screws.If you want to screw the window into concrete, you'll have to use a hammer drill.If your replacement window came with screw cover plugs, you should put them on.
Step 5: Between the window and the foundation, fill in the gaps.
If the window is flush with the foundation, it's time to replace it.If there are gaps, you'll need to use a filling.For the sides or top of the frame, consider using Mortar, brick or stone, or Urethane spray foam.
Step 6: The window sash and screen should be put back in.
Put the window parts back in place.To smooth the mortar or caulk after it's completely dry, use a smooth trowel.Read the package to find out how long it will take to dry.It may take a few hours to dry, depending on the product.
Step 7: The primer should be applied to the window's bare parts.
If you're replacing a wooden window, you need to protect it from the elements.Put a coat of primer on the wood and let it dry according to the instructions.If you want to paint the wooden frame to match your home's trim, you have to make a decision after the primer is dry.
Step 8: You need a permit to measure the size of your window.
If you want a basement window that complies with egress codes, it needs to be at least 5.7 square feet.The window has to be at least 50 cm wide and 24 cm high.To get a building permit, you need to take a sketch of your window to the building inspector's office.The window cannot be more than 44 in from the floor.The window can be used as an emergency entrance or exit.
Step 9: You can mark the outline of the window by choosing a location.
It is possible to put a window on the wall that will give the best light and look best from the outside.If you face obstacles when installing the window, pay attention to them.Measure the window on the wall using masking tape once you're happy with where to put it.Make the outline wider and higher to account for the wooden frame.Obstacles for installation include buried utilities, plants growing on the exterior, and wiring for the house.If you don't know if you have buried utilities or wiring, call your utility company.
Step 10: Additional support should be built for a temporary wall.
A 2 x 4 ft (60 x 120 cm) support wall should be built if the joists are not parallel to the wall.In front of the wall you're cutting into, make a 3 ft wall.The support wall must be firmly put in place at the top and bottom.If the window is less than 48 inches wide, you can skip this step.
Step 11: Dust can be caught by stapling plastic to the temporary wall.
Attach the plastic sheeting from the temporary wall with a staple gun.Cut a slit in the plastic so you can staple it.The plastic will make it easier to clean up.
Step 12: Attach the cutting lines and drill through the pilot holes.
Measure and mark the window's dimensions with masking tape.To drill pilot holes through the middle of the bottom cutting line, use a hammer drill and a long bit.To get through the wall, you'll need to drill level holes at the corners of the window.To mark the window accurately, use a level.When you drill, use the measuring lines to guide you.
Step 13: Cut the interior and exterior outline of the window using a concrete saw.
To cut the outline of the window from the inside and outside, use a concrete saw with a diamond blade.The cut should be 1/2 in (1.3 cm) deep.To make a 1/2 in deep cut the second time, you'll need to go around the outline twice with the saw.The blade should be wet if the saw is making too much dust.
Step 14: Take out the concrete and smooth it.
Take a sledgehammer and hit the concrete near the window's center.Hit the center edges of the window.The concrete will fall from the wall.Small bits of concrete can be removed with a brick chisel.You can check to make sure the rough frame and window will fit the opening you just made.
Step 15: Newspaper and concrete are used to fill the exposed wall blocks.
crumple the newspapersPut them in the concrete blocks.Use a cement trowel to fill the blocks with concrete and cover them with plastic sheeting.The concrete won't fall through the blocks if the newspapers are used.Water from the concrete can cause the window frame to warp.
Step 16: Put the frame in place.
Attach the wood to the concrete with deck screws.Then screw it to the floor joists.Put the frame sides in place tightly.There are screws through the frame sides.The sides of the frame will support the header.
Step 17: The frame should be anchored and caulked around.
The frame needs to be secured with concrete screws to the block wall.There are gaps between the frame and concrete that can be filled with caulk.Countersink the screws to make sure they don't extend past the frame.If the gaps are larger than 1/6 in, install a foam backer rod.Then apply the caulking.
Step 18: Attach the window to the frame by caulking it.
Help hold up the new window and put it in place.You can caulk around the wood frame after removing the window.Make sure the window is level by putting it back in place.The window needs to be secured with drill screws.Check to see if the nailed fin is screwed in place.
Step 19: Allow the window to dry for 2 to 3 days after the removal of the temporary wall.
Take down the temporary support wall after you remove the plastic sheeting that was installed to contain dust.Before painting or using the window, leave the new window to set and dry.If your basement is damp or humid, it may take longer for your window to set.